Can I use an IBM Microdrive?
Yes, the Microdrive can be inserted into the CF bay and used instantly. When reading/writing to the Microdrive there’s a small delay while the disk reaches full speed and the heads find the data, however the data transfer rate is faster than most CF cards. Obviously the spinning platern and moving heads will use more power and make some noise whereas a CF card is totally silent and instantly accessible. Dropping a Microdrive could also damage it whereas CF cards have been known to survive encounters with washing machines! Also since there are no moving parts in a CF card they are likely to last longer.