We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Mp3 Players 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sony NW-WM1ZM2 256GB Signature Series Premium Digital Music Player

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,125
Battery Life
Audio Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
17 reviews

Battery Life
Audio quality is outstanding, but the battery life could use some improvement, especially with high gain usage.
Audio Quality
The WM1ZM2 offers a warm and dynamic sound that handles various music genres effortlessly.
Additional Features
Although expensive, the WM1ZM2 delivers an exceptional digital audio player experience.

The Sony NW-WM1ZM2 Signature Series Walkman stands out in the MP3 player category, particularly for audiophiles and those seeking a premium music experience. With a generous 256 GB storage capacity, it allows users to store a vast library of high-resolution audio files, ensuring music lovers have their favorite tracks readily available. The battery life is impressive, allowing for extended listening sessions without frequent recharging, which is a significant plus for on-the-go users.

Audio quality is where the WM1ZM2 truly shines. It features advanced S-Master HX digital amp technology, supporting high-resolution audio formats, including Native DSD. This means you can enjoy an immersive sound experience with remarkable clarity and depth. The inclusion of high-quality components, like the Kimber Kable and large solid high polymer capacitors, enhances audio performance by isolating sound from any external noise.

Portability is another strong point, as it retains a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. The 5-inch LED display is user-friendly, although some might find navigating through its features a bit complex due to its advanced capabilities. Potential drawbacks include its price point, which may be considered steep for casual listeners or those on a budget. Additionally, while the ability to download and stream music adds versatility, it also requires a Wi-Fi connection, which might not always be available or convenient for all users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,125
Battery Life
Audio Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
17 reviews

Battery Life
Audio quality is outstanding, but the battery life could use some improvement, especially with high gain usage.
Audio Quality
The WM1ZM2 offers a warm and dynamic sound that handles various music genres effortlessly.
Additional Features
Although expensive, the WM1ZM2 delivers an exceptional digital audio player experience.
#2

Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman Digital MP3 Music Player

Rating
8.8
Storage Capacity
Battery Life
Audio Quality

Most important from
93 reviews

Storage Capacity
Loading music onto the Walkman through the software can be a cumbersome process, often requiring multiple attempts.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive and does not suffer from discharge issues over time.
Audio Quality
The sound quality is exceptional, with complete separation of instruments and brilliant clarity.
User Interface
Lag when scrolling through album art and accessing large music libraries can be frustrating, especially given the high price point.

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman is a high-end MP3 player designed for audiophiles. It boasts 128GB of internal storage, which is ample for storing a large music library, and it also has an SD card slot for additional storage. This makes it excellent for users with extensive music collections. The audio quality is a standout feature, with support for high-resolution audio and DSD files, and the inclusion of the S-Master HX digital amplifier ensures clear and pure sound. The battery life is another strong point, allowing for long listening sessions without frequent recharges. Wi-Fi compatibility adds convenience for downloading and streaming music directly to the device, enhancing its usability.

However, the player is relatively bulky and weighs 1.08 pounds, which may impact its portability compared to lighter, more compact models. The 5-inch screen provides a good user interface, but the size and weight could be a drawback for users looking for a more pocket-friendly device. In terms of additional features, the aluminium frame and high-quality components suggest durability and a premium build, but these also contribute to the higher price point.

This MP3 player is best suited for serious music enthusiasts who prioritize audio quality and storage capacity over portability and cost.

Rating
8.8
Storage Capacity
Battery Life
Audio Quality

Most important from
93 reviews

Storage Capacity
Loading music onto the Walkman through the software can be a cumbersome process, often requiring multiple attempts.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive and does not suffer from discharge issues over time.
Audio Quality
The sound quality is exceptional, with complete separation of instruments and brilliant clarity.
User Interface
Lag when scrolling through album art and accessing large music libraries can be frustrating, especially given the high price point.
#3

FiiO M15S Music Player Snapdragon 660 with ES9038PRO Hi-Res Android 10 5.5inch MP3 Player WiFi/MQA/Bluetooth 5.0/Spotify/Tidal/Amazon Music Support

Rating
8.5
Battery Life
Audio Quality
Portability

Most important from
70 reviews

Battery Life
This device powers headphones effortlessly and has a battery life that outlasts extended listening sessions.
Audio Quality
The sound quality is exceptional, with detailed audio that surpasses even high-end home audio setups.
Portability
The build quality is solid and well-made, though the player is quite heavy and bulky.
User Interface
The Android interface is fast and reliable, making for a seamless user experience.
Additional Features
The included leather carry case is practical and adds to the premium feel of the device.

The FiiO M15S Music Player stands out with its high-end audio capabilities and versatile features. With a storage capacity of 64 GB, it offers ample space for a large music library, and the option to expand storage via microSD card is a big plus for music enthusiasts. The battery life, powered by a lithium-ion battery, supports extended listening sessions, though exact hours are not specified and could vary based on usage and settings.

Audio quality is a major highlight with the ES9038PRO DAC chip, ensuring high-resolution sound, making it ideal for audiophiles who demand superior sound performance. The device also supports various streaming services like Spotify and Tidal, adding to its versatility. Portability is somewhat impacted by its weight (2.42 pounds) and size (5.91 x 3.15 x 7.48 inches), making it a bit bulky compared to other MP3 players, but its ergonomic design and dual power supply (desktop/portable) modes offer some flexibility. The user interface is smooth and responsive, thanks to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor and Android 10 OS, making navigation and app usage efficient.

Additional features like Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, and high-res audio support enhance connectivity and user experience. Its price point and bulkiness may not appeal to casual users. This player is best suited for serious music lovers and audiophiles who prioritize audio quality and feature richness over compactness and budget-friendliness.

Rating
8.5
Battery Life
Audio Quality
Portability

Most important from
70 reviews

Battery Life
This device powers headphones effortlessly and has a battery life that outlasts extended listening sessions.
Audio Quality
The sound quality is exceptional, with detailed audio that surpasses even high-end home audio setups.
Portability
The build quality is solid and well-made, though the player is quite heavy and bulky.
User Interface
The Android interface is fast and reliable, making for a seamless user experience.
Additional Features
The included leather carry case is practical and adds to the premium feel of the device.

Buying Guide for the Best Mp3 Players

Choosing the right MP3 player can enhance your music listening experience significantly. When selecting an MP3 player, it's important to consider various specifications that will affect the quality, convenience, and overall enjoyment of your device. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of space available on the MP3 player to store your music files. This is important because it determines how many songs you can carry with you. Storage is usually measured in gigabytes (GB). If you have a large music library or prefer high-quality audio files, you might need more storage. For casual listeners with smaller libraries, a lower capacity might suffice. Typically, storage capacities range from 4GB to 128GB or more. Consider how much music you want to store and choose accordingly.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the MP3 player can operate before needing a recharge. This is crucial for uninterrupted listening, especially during long trips or workouts. Battery life can vary widely, from a few hours to several days. If you plan to use your MP3 player frequently and for extended periods, look for models with longer battery life. For occasional use, shorter battery life might be acceptable. Assess your usage patterns to determine the right battery life for you.
Audio QualityAudio quality refers to the clarity and fidelity of the sound produced by the MP3 player. This is important for a satisfying listening experience. Audio quality can be influenced by the supported file formats (like MP3, FLAC, AAC), the quality of the built-in DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), and the headphones you use. If you are an audiophile or someone who values high-quality sound, look for players that support lossless formats and have high-quality DACs. For general listening, standard audio quality might be sufficient.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size and weight of the MP3 player, which affects how easy it is to carry around. This is important for convenience, especially if you plan to use the player while exercising or traveling. MP3 players come in various sizes, from tiny clip-on models to larger ones with bigger screens. If you need something lightweight and unobtrusive, opt for smaller, more portable models. If you prefer a larger screen for easier navigation, you might choose a slightly bigger player.
User InterfaceThe user interface is the way you interact with the MP3 player, including the buttons, touchscreen, and menu navigation. A good user interface is important for ease of use and quick access to your music. Some players have simple button controls, while others offer touchscreens with more advanced navigation options. If you prefer straightforward controls, a basic interface might be best. If you enjoy more features and customization, look for players with advanced interfaces. Consider how you like to interact with your devices to choose the right user interface.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include things like Bluetooth connectivity, FM radio, voice recording, and more. These features can add extra functionality to your MP3 player and enhance your overall experience. Bluetooth is useful for wireless headphones, while FM radio can be great for listening to live broadcasts. Voice recording can be handy for taking notes or recording lectures. Think about which extra features might be useful to you and choose a player that offers them.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now