Wireless MP3 players

Jasmine France, Senior Associate Editor June 1, 2009

We've come a long way since the 5GB iPod. Today, you can find pocket-size video players, MP3 players with tiny flash drives offering up to 32GB capacities, even digital audio players built into sunglasses. But one of the most advanced features you can find in today's MP3 players is wireless capability. This is generally split into two categories: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is the subject here, and the devices that incorporate it represent the cutting edge in MP3 players.

Although every device listed here incorporates 802.11b/g connectivity, not all of them use this functionality in the same way. First up is the Microsoft Zune, which allows users within range of one another to share music. You can also sync content from your PC over a home wireless network as well as download music from the Zune Marketplace when connected to any hot spot. Slightly similar to this is the Haier America Ibiza Rhapsody, which allows Rhapsody subscribers to stream and download tracks wirelessly and lets any user access content from AOL Video and do some basic Web browsing. But for an unmatched Web browsing experience, we have the Apple iPod Touch--its touch-sensitive screen is perfect for the task. You can also download apps, stream Internet radio, and purchase songs from the iTunes music store. The Archos 5 offers a similar experience, but adds compatibility with video download sites such as Cinema Now for true on-the-go visual entertainment. Then there's the Sony X-Series Walkman, which includes integrated Slacker support for catching new music on-the-go as well as a direct YouTube connection for video content. Taking a different tack is the Creative Zen X-Fi, which lets you hop on any Wi-Fi signal in order to access a centralized content library (it also throws in chat capability for good measure).

More Resources

Editors' top MP3 players,

Editors' top headphones,

MP3 Insider,

MP3 players with Bluetooth