10 Best Mp 3 Players For Audio Books 2025 in the United States

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 is a high-end digital music player with excellent audio quality, thanks to its High-Resolution Audio compatibility, native DSD file support, and S-Master HX amplifier. For audio book listeners, this means clear and immersive sound, although such advanced sound features may be more than necessary for spoken word content. It offers a large 128GB storage capacity with an option to expand via an SD card, which is great for storing many hours of audio books without worrying about space. Battery life is noted as long, so you can expect extended listening sessions without frequent recharging.

The 5-inch screen and Wi-Fi connectivity allow easy downloading and streaming, but the player weighs over a pound and measures over 8 inches long, making it less portable and more cumbersome than smaller, simpler audiobook devices. Navigation should be fairly straightforward with its screen, but the advanced features could add complexity for users primarily interested in basic playback functions. The aluminum frame suggests strong durability, making it a solid choice if you want a premium build.

This Walkman is suited for those who value premium sound and large storage and don’t mind a heavier, more complex player. For users seeking an ultra-portable or simple device mainly for audiobook listening, there may be easier and lighter options available.

The FiiO M21 is a powerful portable music player that offers excellent audio quality, thanks to its quad CS43198 DAC chips and fully balanced amplification. This means you’ll get clear, detailed sound, which is great for enjoying audiobooks without distortion or background noise. It runs on Android 13 with a Snapdragon 680 processor, providing smooth operation and the ability to use popular audiobook apps easily. With 64GB of built-in storage, you can store a large collection of audiobooks without worrying about space.

The patented Desktop Mode helps preserve battery lifespan by using external power without charging the battery, which is useful if you listen at home. Since it uses a 9V battery (included), you might want to keep spares for longer trips. The 4.7-inch screen is big enough for easy navigation, and the player supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for wireless listening, adding convenience.

Portability is good, as it’s lightweight (6.8 ounces) and compact, making it easy to carry around. The device supports multiple headphone outputs (3.5mm and 4.4mm) and offers professional-grade SPDIF and USB audio output options, which are more advanced features than typical audiobook MP3 players. The player’s advanced features might be more than necessary if you’re only looking for something simple to play audiobooks. Also, running Android means it’s more like a mini smart device, which could be a bit overwhelming for users who prefer straightforward controls. This device is best suited for those who want a high-quality audio experience, plenty of storage, and flexibility to use streaming apps, while users seeking simplicity or longer battery runtime on a single charge might want to consider other options.

The JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 is a compact and stylish MP3 player tailored for high-quality audio experiences, including audiobooks. It boasts a strong battery life of about 12.5 hours, which is enough for a full day of listening without frequent recharging. With 32GB of built-in storage and support for expandable microSD cards, it offers plenty of space to hold large audiobook collections. The player runs on a customized Android 13 system, allowing easy installation of popular streaming apps, which adds flexibility beyond just local files.

Navigation is convenient through its 4.7-inch touchscreen, making it simple to browse through chapters or playlists, suitable for users who want an intuitive interface. The dual flagship DACs and advanced audio tech deliver clear, rich sound with enough power to drive various headphones, enhancing spoken-word clarity crucial for audiobooks. It’s also lightweight and slim, fitting comfortably in hand or pocket, which is great for portability. However, some users might find the 11.2-ounce weight a bit heavier compared to simpler audiobook players.

In terms of durability, while the build seems solid, the product does not explicitly highlight ruggedness or water resistance, so care may be needed during travel or outdoor use. The JM21 represents a capable choice for audiobook lovers who value sound quality and versatility but are willing to accommodate a slightly larger device.