10 Best Mp 3 Player Player 2025 in the United States

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 is a premium MP3 player designed for serious music listeners who value high-resolution audio quality. It offers a generous 128GB of internal storage, which can be expanded with an SD card, allowing you to carry a large music library on the go. The device supports advanced audio formats, including native DSD files, and uses Sony's S-Master HX amplifier to deliver clear, detailed sound that stands out from typical players. Battery life is strong, supporting extended listening sessions without frequent recharging. The 5-inch screen and wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi make it convenient to download or stream music directly. Its aluminum frame adds durability, though the player is a bit heavier and larger compared to simpler, more compact MP3 players, so it might not be ideal if ultimate portability or pocketability is your priority.

The user interface and controls are designed to be straightforward, but given its advanced features, there can be a slight learning curve for casual users. Additional features like DSEE Ultimate upscaling help improve sound quality for compressed music files. This model suits audiophiles or anyone who wants top-tier sound and file support in a portable player, but it may feel like overkill if you just want something small and simple for everyday casual use.

The FiiO M21 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a premium portable music player with excellent sound quality. It has 64GB of storage, which is plenty to hold thousands of songs, and runs on Android 13 for smooth use of popular music apps. Its battery life is designed to last well during long listening sessions, helped by a unique Desktop Mode that preserves battery health when plugged in.

Sound quality stands out thanks to four high-end DAC chips and a balanced amplification system, delivering clear, detailed audio that audiophiles will appreciate. It supports multiple output ports including 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone jacks plus digital outputs, making it versatile for different headphones and audio setups. The 4.7-inch screen offers a comfortable size for navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity adds wireless convenience.

On the downside, it weighs around 15.8 ounces, which is a bit heavier than some ultra-portable players, and it requires a 9V battery included in the package, which might not be as convenient as built-in rechargeable batteries for some users. The M21 is ideal for music lovers who want a powerful player with excellent sound and flexible connectivity, though it may feel slightly bulky for those prioritizing ultra-light portability.

The FiiO M17 is a high-end MP3 player designed for serious music lovers who want top-quality sound on the go. It features a powerful desktop-class DAC and headphone amplifier, delivering very clear, distortion-free audio and easily driving demanding headphones. It supports many high-resolution formats, including DSD512 and MQA, making it suitable for audiophiles seeking detailed sound. The player has 4GB of built-in storage, which is limited, but it supports external storage via microSD cards, allowing expansion as needed. Battery life is around 10 hours during regular use, which is decent but not exceptional considering its size and power.

The M17 is relatively bulky and heavy for a portable device, partly due to its solid aluminum body and built-in cooling system to handle heat from its powerful components. The large 5.99-inch touchscreen runs Android 10, allowing installation of apps, and the interface is generally user-friendly, with Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connections. Its multiple output options (3.5mm, 6.3mm, 2.5mm, 4.4mm balanced) and USB ports make it very versatile for connecting to various audio gear.

Additional features like customizable RGB lighting and a cooling fan add flair but may not be essential for everyone. If you prioritize sound quality and flexibility over compactness and long battery life, the FiiO M17 is an excellent choice. However, for those who prefer something lightweight and with longer battery life, this player might feel too big and power-hungry.