The main types of spectrometers currently used for XAFS measurements are described: energy-scanning and energy-dispersive spectrometers. The main characteristics and operation modes of each are provided. A critical assessment of their performance is also made with the aim of providing guidelines for the non-expert user, so that for a given scientific application, and depending on the specific technical requirements (energy resolution, time resolution etc.), an informed choice of the most appropriate spectrometer can be made.