SanDisk, Lexar announce high-end memory cards

Both Lexar and SanDisk are using the PMA expo to debut several new high-end memory products. Lexar's offerings come in the form of the Platinum II "prosumer" line, with a 4GB CompactFlash card, and 2GB and 4GB versions of the Memory Stick PRO Duo. Lexar says these will be available later in the month, though the 2GB version appears to already be in stock at Adorama for $55.

SanDisk, meanwhile, has launched two new cards in its Extreme III professional line. The 4GB SDHC is the predominant one, since it not only has a 20MB/s transfer rate, but an included MicroMate card reader that plugs directly into a USB port. The other card is another 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, whicn only has a speed of 18MB/s, and does not come with a reader. Each card will be out in April, with the SDHC model actually costing less at $140, while the MSPD card will run $180.