Disadvantages of a Fake Memory Stick

It is one thing to spot a fake memory stick from Sony, but what really is its disadvantage from the real and authentic ones?

1. Capacity

When you compare the listed capacity of an original Sony memory stick with a fake one using a PC you get this.

For Genuine Memory Stick:

8GB – 7687MB or 7763MB

4GB – 3839 MB

2GB – 1909MB or 1910MB

1GB – 956MB

  

 (Fake or not? That is the question…) 

 

For Fake Memory Stick:

8GB – 7727MB or 7839MB

4GB – 3876 MB

2GB – 1937MB or  1956MB or 1959MB

1GB – 969MB

 

Now, when you just look at the numbers you see that the fake ones actually have more space by a few MB if not KB. However, if you actually transfer data to and from the memory stick? In most fake memory sticks, you just get half or less than half of the actual capacity.

Now that really is quite disturbing. You have to admit, that’s some kind of gamble. The only way to make sure to test your fake memory sticks real capacity? Transfer data to it and fill it up. After that read back data from the memory stick and see if it has no missing or corrupted files.

Now I did this with my friend’s fake memory card and I would have to admit, he only got about 1800MB in it.

 

2. Transfer Speed

Fake memory sticks have slower transfer speeds. Genuine hi-speed memory sticks transfer at 80mbps. Fake memory sticks can do only from 60mbps – 70mbps.

 

3. Warranty

This is one obvious disadvantage. I once went to a retail store to buy a memory stick only to find out it was fake. I asked the warranty and they said that it had a one week replacement warranty and three weeks repair warranty. One week? And how do you even repair a memory stick?!

Genuine Sony memory sticks have a 5 year warranty. This only proves how confident Sony is with its products.

I guess going cheap sometimes do have its disadvantages. But if you’re willing to accept the disadvantages mentioned above because of the price, go ahead. The important thing is, you were well informed.

 

If you’ve missed my other article on how to spot a fake Sony Memory Stick, I suggest you read it now or bookmark it for later reading.