In 2008 more than 20 million digital photo frames were sold. They were undoubtedly the gift of choice during the Christmas period – and it’s easy to see 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 short videos and play music as well. 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 choice of finishes available. 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 gadget.

On the subject of cost, prices have fallen dramatically over the last year, initially due to material cost reductions and latterly due to aggressive competition between the big manufacturers.

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