Most Popular MP3 players

  1. Apple iPod Touch (second generation, 8GB)
  2. Microsoft Zune 120GB (third generation, glossy black)
  3. Apple iPod Touch (first generation, 16GB)
  4. Sony NWZ-S738F Walkman (8GB, black)
  5. Apple iPod Touch (second generation, 16GB)
All Music »

Top Rated MP3 players

  1. Apple iPod Touch (second generation, 32GB)
  2. Apple iPod Touch (second generation, 16GB)
  3. Apple iPod Touch (second generation, 8GB)
  4. Archos 605 WiFi (80GB)
  5. Apple iPod Touch (first generation, 16GB)
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MP3 players Buying Guide

What you need to know, from the kind of user you are to current technologies.
MP3 players Buying Guide »
overview palm buttons pocket
overview palm buttons pocket

THE GOOD
The Microsoft Zune has very good playback performance of audio, video, and photos; intuitive and colorful interface; good FM radio with RDS; works well with Zune Marketplace software; integrated wireless allows sharing of songs (limited) and photos; many accessories available at launch.

THE BAD
The Microsoft Zune is not backward compatible with WMA-DRM9; weak native video support (cannot play protected content) and no video offerings from Zune Marketplace; cannot be used as a hard drive (and no UMS support); proprietary USB; cannot use Wi-Fi to sync, stream, or purchase content; minimal bundled accessories; no podcast directory; maximum capacity is 30GB.

THE BOTTOM LINE
The Microsoft Zune, with its intuitive interface and solid playback performance, will please most users. But lukewarm format support and the cool but limited Wi-Fi capability will have advanced users seeking more. The Zune is a very good start, though.

Go to the Full CNET Product Review »
Copyright © 2008 CNET Networks, Inc., a CBS Company. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
 
Average CNET Reader Rating: 7.0 out of 10

CNET Reader Reviews

  1. November 15, 2006 06:41

    4.0/5
    i purchased this item and am happy enough with it for basic mp3 listening but.. it really seems geared for the rock music community which is a shame because there's a whole market out there who use their MP3 player for podcasting or audio books or e...  read more »

    - astudios

  2. November 20, 2006 11:03

    4.5/5
    I purchased the Zune as my first MP3 player. It has been disappointing to read the negative feedback because I think it is an excellent MP3 player. Most of my friends have IPODs so I wanted to try a new product and I have been extremely happy. I ...  read more »

    - larsensa

  3. November 15, 2006 08:13

    4.0/5
    I've had the Zune for a day now so I don't have the full picture yet, but so far so good. I've owned a couple of iPods in the past and I was just looking for something else. Coming out of the box it was very easy to use as one would expect,no big ma...  read more »

    - emataj


All CNET Reader Reviews (67)

Where to Buy

Store In Stock Shipping Price
Amazon.com Yes

$249.99
Amazon.com Marketplace Yes

$249.47
Deep Discount.com Yes

$248.99
* Taxes and Shipping costs are estimates and may vary slightly from stores' exact taxes and shipping costs.

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