The SureStore T4 is a great performer with very intuitive software, but its SCSI interface makes it a more expensive prospect for most home users. Therefore, given its price, accessible software bundle, speedy throughput, and reliable track record, I would recommend the Seagate TapeStor 8000 as the best overall drive. One of the first things you will notice is that the media's cost per megabyte is inordinately higher than tape media. This is the price you pay for being able to access the stored files at will. Storage speeds vary from not too far above floppy disks to near-hard drive levels.
Media formats tend to be exclusive to their respective drives.
A SyQuest 1GB cartridge will not work in a Jaz 1GB drive. For instance, the Zip format, at a lowly 100MB, will probably never be incorporated into future, larger-capacity Iomega models. This is not to say that there are no alternatives. But because of its prohibitive price point, MO was never an option except for the highest-end users. However, CD-RAM has most likely missed the boat for computer applications.