Character grade doesn't exist in actually grading of wood floors. It has no industry accepted definition, other than it may be #2 and below boards. You would need to contact the specific manufacturer to ask about what definition they give to the term. http://www.nwfa.org/nofma-grade-photos.aspx

Prosource is correct. "Character" means plenty of knots and more of a "country" look...less formal and lower price. Select grade probably means (some use "premium" or #1 grade) means higher end...limited knots...lower grain. This is something you would associate with a higher priced product.

Some companies will use the word "character" to mean the floor boards are non-uniform width/lengths. Some will mean "rough" texture or even factory seconds. Other companies mean the appearance has plenty of knots but everything else is "normal"...no factory seconds, no bent boards, etc.

"Character" is a buzz word which has no real meaning behind it. If you see character grade but you WANT a clean wood floor without knots and with low grain...don't buy it. You will be disappointed. If you are LOOKING for a floor with plenty of knots, like it was about to be used for barn siding but was turned into a floor instead (many people want this look) then "character" is for you.

what is the most popular look in hardwood floors?