(Sep 07, 2008)
Donald Bell
Senior Editor
Today's hot, new players boast sweet, streamlined designs, tons of extra features, and price tags to match. Don't despair, all you penny-pinchers out there! There are oodles of deals to be had in all MP3 player categories. From flash players with expansion slots that cost less than $40, to 30GB monsters priced less than most 20GB hard-drive players, there are many solid models for the budget-conscious buyer.
Creative Zen V (2GB, black)
The Creative Zen V is a good choice for anyone looking for a compact flash MP3 player with recording features and great sound quality. However, the more feature-filled Zen V Plus is a better value.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jun 28, 2006
Excellent
Read full review
SanDisk Sansa Clip (1GB, sleek black)
The SanDisk Sansa Clip is an incredible value that's set to edge out the competition with a user-friendly interface, gym-worthy design, and great sound quality.
Price: $36.03 - $45.95 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 8, 2007
Very good
Read full review
Creative Zen Nano Plus (1GB, Dark Blue)
If you're looking for a feature-packed flash player but you don't want to spend a ton to get one, Creative's Zen Nano Plus is the device for you.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jun 5, 2006
Very good
Read full review
Creative Zen Stone (1GB, black)
The Creative Zen Stone is a fantastic choice as a secondary MP3 player or for first timers on a budget who want a simple, great-sounding device with limited features and a bargain basement price tag.
Price: $34.99 - $61.95 (check prices)
Review date: May 9, 2007
Very good
Read full review
SanDisk Sansa Express (1GB)
The SanDisk Sansa Express is a solid choice for those who need an ultraconvenient MP3 player with a decent smattering of features.
Price: $26.50 - $64.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 16, 2007
Good
Read full review
Apple iPod Shuffle (third generation, 1GB, silver)
If you like your music playback simple and your device nearly invisible, the third-generation iPod Shuffle will suit you well. But absentminded users should steer clear of this easy-to-misplace player.
Price: $48.00 - $50.00 (check prices)
Review date: Sep 12, 2007
Good
Read full review
