Big memory cards keep getting cheaper; get the best deals at discount stores and online

The average price of 1GB or larger memory cards decreased 33 percent from 2006 to 2007, according to data released last week from the 2008 PMA U.S. Digital Imaging Survey. The survey indicates that the average price for 1GB and larger cards was $32 in 2007, down from $48 in 2006. Prices for 128MB and 256MB cards, on the other hand, actually increased during that period of time, with the average price of a 256MB card being higher than the price of a 1GB-plus card (possibly due to rebates being offered on the larger cards).

Think twice before buying your cards at your local Staples or Office Depot, though: Average prices declined the least in office supply stores (which actually saw a slight increase in 2007, though there had been a substantial price decrease in 2006). The biggest decreases were at discount stories (a whopping 62 percent decline) and online stores (35 percent), so it might not be a bad idea to shop for your next card at Wal-Mart!