In 2008 over than 20 million digital photo frames were sold. They were undoubtedly the gift of choice during the festive period – and it’s not difficult to understand why; they can be customised by loading them up with photos of family members, friends, pets etc. With very little hard work you will be giving the gift of memories with a one hundred percent unique present.

When it comes to features there is simply no contest between normal frames and digital picture frames . Digital frames can store thousands of photos on memory cards, which are becoming cheaper by the day, and most of them have the capability to display slideshow montages with many frames also able to display brief videos and play music also. Remote control, wireless connection, alarm clocks, weather stations, the ability to monitor your stocks and shares or read news feeds are just some of the high end features that are increasingly included on some of the more expensive frames.

Cosmetically, there is now a wider range of finishes on offer. Black and polished metal have always been popular but wooden frames and frames with removable surrounds which can be changed to suit the background decor are becoming more and more common as the frames are now in the mainstream consumer market rather than a high tech geek toy.

On the subject of cost, prices have dropped a lot over the last year, initially due to material cost savings and latterly due to aggressive competition between the main manufacturers.

Another consideration, which may be slightly less obvious, is that digital photo frames may actually be a little better for the environment. A lot will depend upon how many photos you develop or how many photos you print out on a regular basis of course. If you substitute a digital display for large numbers of printed photos then you may find that you are a little better off. You will be saving on paper, chemicals and ink – but you’ll need to offset the “cost” of the digital frames materials and the power taken to run it. A typical 7” frame will use approximately 9 Watts, that’s about the same as a very low powered energy saving light bulb. Don’t forget to turn your frame off at night and that should help a little (many of them now have timers to do this for you).