10 Best Portable Music Players 2025 in the United States

The FiiO M15S is a high-end portable music player that stands out for its excellent audio quality and robust features. With a storage capacity of 64 GB, it offers ample space for a significant music collection, and the option to stream music from services like Spotify and Tidal adds even more versatility. The player boasts impressive audio quality, thanks to the ES9038PRO DAC chip, which ensures clear and high-resolution sound. It supports a wide range of audio formats, making it suitable for any audiophile's needs.

With the dual power supply feature, it can be used portably or as a desktop player, providing flexibility in usage. The 5.5-inch display and Android 10 interface make navigating your music collection simple and enjoyable, while the Snapdragon 660 processor ensures smooth performance. Connectivity options are plentiful, including Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and USB, allowing easy connection to various devices.

However, the player is somewhat bulky and weighs 2.42 pounds, which might be less convenient for on-the-go use. Additionally, it is on the pricier side, but the investment is justified by the high-quality sound and comprehensive features. This music player is best suited for serious audiophiles who value top-notch sound quality and advanced functionalities in their music devices.

The FiiO M17 Portable Desktop-Class Music Player is a powerhouse in the world of portable music players, delivering exceptional audio quality due to its desktop-class DAC and THX 788+ headphone amp. This results in superior resolution and minimal distortion, making it ideal for audiophiles. The extensive connectivity options, including multiple headphone outputs, USB ports, and Bluetooth 5.0, ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices and accessories.

The dual power supply system, which includes a massive 9200mAh battery, allows for up to 10 hours of playback, though the weight and size of the device may impact its portability for some users. Additionally, the Android 10 OS offers a smartphone-like experience, allowing the installation of third-party apps for added functionality. However, the high power consumption due to its advanced features necessitates effective heat dissipation, which is managed through innovative cooling technologies and a cooling stand.

While the device's storage capacity is limited to 4GB internally, it supports expandable storage through micro SD cards. The user interface is intuitive, but the large screen size may be a drawback for those seeking a more compact player. The FiiO M17 is best suited for users who prioritize audio quality and versatility over portability.

The FiiO M21 is a well-rounded portable music player that impresses with strong audio performance and modern features. It comes with a 64GB storage capacity, which should be ample for a large music collection without needing extra cards. Powered by a Snapdragon 680 processor and running Android 13, the device offers smooth operation and compatibility with various popular music apps, making navigation and playback simple.

The standout feature is its high-quality audio output, thanks to four CS43198 DAC chips and a sophisticated two-stage amplifier that provide clear, detailed sound with low noise. It supports hi-res audio and multiple output options, including dual headphone jacks and SPDIF, which is great if you want to connect to other high-end audio equipment. Battery life benefits from an innovative Desktop Mode that preserves battery health during extended use on external power. The 4.7-inch IPS display is a reasonable size for portability and ease of use, with a stylish titanium gold finish making it visually appealing. Connectivity includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing wireless streaming and downloads.

The product requires a 9V battery, which might be less convenient compared to built-in rechargeable batteries on some competitors. The user interface is generally user-friendly with Android 13, though those unfamiliar with Android devices might face a learning curve. This player is well suited for audiophiles and music lovers who value high-quality sound and versatile connectivity in a portable design, while users prioritizing maximum battery length or simpler interfaces might want to consider alternatives.