10 Best Music Player Like Ipod 2026 in the United States

The FiiO M21 is a solid choice if you're looking for a portable music player similar to an iPod but with more modern tech. It offers 64GB of storage, which should hold plenty of music, and runs on Android 13, meaning you can use popular music apps smoothly thanks to its Snapdragon 680 processor. Battery life is improved with a special Desktop Mode that protects the battery when plugged in. Audio quality is one of its strongest points—quad CS43198 DAC chips and a 2-stage amplifier deliver clear, detailed sound with low noise, making it great for audiophiles who want rich and dynamic music.

The device supports multiple headphone outputs (3.5mm and 4.4mm) plus SPDIF and USB audio outputs, offering flexibility for different headphones or home setups. Connectivity options include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so streaming and wireless listening are easy. The 4.7-inch screen should make navigation straightforward, and the Android interface adds familiarity and versatility.

It weighs about 15 ounces, a bit heavier than some simpler players, which might affect pocket portability. It also uses a 9V battery included in the package, which may require replacement differently than standard rechargeable batteries. The FiiO M21 blends powerful sound performance with smart features and good storage, suited for listeners who want a mix of high-res audio and app use on the go, but it may be a bit bulkier than ultra-compact players.

The JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 is a high-quality music player designed for those who want more than just basic MP3 playback. It comes with 32GB of storage, which is decent for storing a good number of songs, though you might want to add a microSD card for more space. Its standout feature is the audio quality, thanks to dual flagship DACs that provide powerful and clear sound, capable of driving larger headphones easily. This makes it a great choice if you care about rich, detailed music.

The battery life of about 12.5 hours means you can enjoy music almost all day without recharging, which is quite convenient for long outings or daily use. Weighing only 156 grams and being very thin, it’s comfortable to hold and highly portable. The user interface runs on a customized Android 13 system, which lets you install popular streaming apps like Spotify or Apple Music, giving you a familiar and flexible experience. Connectivity includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so you can easily connect wireless headphones or access online content.

The interface might be a little more complex than simple click-wheel players, and the 32GB internal storage might feel limited for some users unless expanded. It requires a 9V battery which may not be as convenient as built-in rechargeable batteries found in other players. For those seeking a premium sound experience with smart features and good portability, the JM21 is a fitting choice. However, if simplicity and very long battery life without managing external batteries are priorities, this player might be less suitable.

The FiiO M11S is a high-quality music player designed for serious music listeners who want excellent sound and versatile playback options. It features a powerful Snapdragon 660 processor running Android 10, offering a smooth and familiar interface that supports popular streaming apps like Apple Music and Tidal without losing audio quality. The dual ES9038Q2M DAC setup ensures rich, clear sound capable of handling high-resolution files up to 384kHz and DSD256, which is impressive for audiophiles. Multiple headphone outputs (2.5mm, 3.5mm, 4.4mm) and strong Bluetooth connectivity with two-way LDAC support allow for wireless or wired listening with minimal compromise.

The 5300mAh battery offers long playback times and quick charging, although the device weighs about 1.3 pounds, making it less pocket-friendly than simpler players. Storage is limited to 3GB onboard but expands via micro SD cards, which is beneficial for large music collections. The Android-based user interface is flexible but may be more complex than traditional iPod-like players for users who prefer something simpler. The FiiO M11S is well-suited for users who prioritize top-notch audio quality and streaming flexibility and are comfortable with a slightly bulkier device that requires a learning curve.