Best MP3 players that use AAA batteries

While most people are happy with the built-in rechargeable batteries found in most MP3 players, there are some people who really need the convenience of quickly replacing their MP3 player's battery with a common, off-the-shelf alkaline AAA. We often get questions about disposable-battery MP3 players from campers or people who enjoy traveling to remote corners of the world. After all, who wants to be stuck halfway up Mount Everest looking for a USB port?

Cheap, battery-powered MP3 players can be purchased online by the fistful. The trick is to actually find one that's any good. Usually, these tiny players are plagued by horrible interface design, unreadable displays, and maddening menu navigation.

The following are our chosen few AAA-powered MP3 players that really strike a great balance between battery life, usability, features, format support, and sound quality. The Creative Zen Nano Plus, especially, is the closest you can get to an inexpensive, battery-powered audio Swiss Army Knife. Also, just because these players use AAA batteries doesn't mean they have to be disposable batteries. Rechargeable AAA batteries are cheaper than ever and are much more convenient than shopping for new batteries each week.