We recently purchased a 2GB USB flash drive to backup some of our data. After enjoying the drive for a few days, we realized that there are quite a few options out there and prices (as low as $25) are making these products even more desirable.

After going through the inventory of several major hardware retailers, we have narrowed down to a selection of what we feel are the best values on the market today. We focused on 2GB drives because they are the largest size drive you can buy for under $50. There are great affordable 1GB drives, but the cost to move up from to 2GB is very small.

Samsung 2GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive
$24.99*
* $49.99-$25.00 rebate (expires on 9/30/06)
– Read: 20MB/s
– Write: 10MB/s
Transcend JetFlash 2GB USB Flash Drive
$25.99*
* 45.99-$20.00 rebate (expires on 9/08/06)
Patriot 2GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive
$34.94*
* $44.94-$10.00 rebate (expires 9/15/06)
– Application included for Security Partition
– Dimensions: 73mm x 7mm x 17mm
– Read: 8MB/s
– Write: 5MB/s
Lexar 2GB JumpDrive FireFly USB Flash Drive
$38.00*
* $59.00-$21.00 rebate (expires 9/16/06)
A-Data PD10 2GB USB Flash Drive
$39.99
– Cool rotary/folding design
SANDISK 2GB Cruzer Micro with U3 Technology
$39.99
* $59.99-$20.00 rebate (expires 9/15/06)
– Loaded with the following U3 programs: CruzerSync synchronization tool, SignupShield password manager, SKYPE voice over IP software, AVAST Virus scan
– Dimensions: 57.15mm x 7.94mm x 20.6mm
Corsair 2GB Flash Drive
$41.99*
* $49.99-$8.00 rebate (expires 9/17/06)
– Security application creates password-protected partition
– Read: 19MB/sec
– Write: 13MB/sec

If you want to suggest others, please contact us and we will update this list.

Since many of you responded to our recent quick look at the Nokia E61 and E62, we wanted to provide more information on where you might find one. We know that Cingular is likely to release the E62 in the fall and at this time we do not have any news on T-Mobile‘s plans. Regardless, right now you can buy an unlocked Nokia E61 and use it with either provider.

Here are some of the stores and prices for the Nokia E61:

• TigerDirect.com – $399.99
• Amazon.com – $536.26 $389.99
• JR.com – $149.99 (with activation)
• Overstock – $569.95 – Try coupons: $15 off $125 (expires 8/31/06) and 12% off and $1 shipping (expires 8/31/06)
• SHOP.com – $569.95 (use coupon code SHOP25 for $25 off until 9/1/06)
• eBay – Various (Generally $300-$400)
• CompUSA – $599.99 (Free Shipping)

A few years ago, EA Sports ran a terrific print ad which summarized the Madden football series. The ad showed a sad woman with her head in her hands. The text said something like “Madden Football arrives in August, break it to her nicely”.

Yes, on Tuesday, August 22nd, Madden NFL 07 is finally out and millions will buy the game and spend the next month huddled around a TV, computer screen, laptop, or portable gaming device trying to show that they too can beat the Jets by the score of 84-7 (sorry Jets fans). Fan sites who tested/demoed that game have already issued their lists of complaints, but as always, once you play it for real for the first time, you’re hooked no matter how easy it is to score or beat up on 1972 Dolphins.

You can find the game at Amazon.com, Buy.com ($2 off), Toys R Us, Computers4Sure, J&R, Walmart, and others.

P.S. – Don’t forget to check for any coupons.