10 Best Portable Music Players 2026 in the United States

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman is a robust choice for portable music enthusiasts who prioritize high audio quality. One of its standout features is its compatibility with High-Resolution Audio and native DSD file support, ensuring that you get pure and detailed sound. The inclusion of the S-Master HX digital amplifier further enhances audio clarity. With a 128GB storage capacity and an SD card slot, it offers ample space for a vast music library.

The battery life is impressive, allowing for extended listening sessions without frequent recharges, which is a crucial aspect for portable music players. Wi-Fi compatibility for downloading and streaming adds modern convenience, allowing users to access music easily from various online sources. The aluminum frame and sleek design make it portable and durable, though it might be on the heavier side at 1.08 pounds. The user interface, displayed on a 5-inch screen, is intuitive and straightforward, making navigation simple.

Some users might find the price point higher compared to other models with similar features. Connectivity options include wireless technology, making it versatile for different listening preferences. For those who seek an audiophile-grade music player with strong features, the Sony NW-WM1AM2 is a worthy consideration, despite its heavier weight and higher price.

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.

The JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 is a feature-rich portable music player with several notable strengths. Its standout feature is the Snapdragon 680 processor, which ensures smooth performance and efficient power usage, making it responsive and easy to use. The device runs on a custom Android 13 system, allowing users to install and enjoy various streaming apps like Spotify and Apple Music, which adds to its versatility.

The audio quality is impressive, thanks to the dual CS43198 DACs and high-performance operational amplifiers that offer a powerful and clear sound suitable for both headphones and larger over-ear models. With a balanced output power and advanced audio purification system, this player maintains high-fidelity sound across different formats, including MP3, FLAC, WAV, and many others. It is also highly portable, weighing just 156g and being 13mm thin, making it easy to carry around.

The 12.5-hour battery life is sufficient for a full day of listening without frequent charging. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. With only 32GB of internal storage, users may need to rely heavily on external SD cards for more extensive music libraries. The screen size of 4.7 inches is adequate but may feel small for some users who prefer larger displays. Additionally, while the device supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, some users might find the connectivity options limited compared to other modern devices. Despite these minor issues, the JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 is a solid choice for audiophiles and music lovers looking for a high-quality portable music player with excellent sound performance and the flexibility of an Android system.