Samsung Galaxy Player 4.0

Pros: GPS, Camera with flash, FM radio, size

Cons: Learning curve, lack of accessories

Summary: Like the cnet review I will base my views mainly on my experience with the 5.0, the main reason being that the cnet review seems to have a huge bias and simply does not make a fair comparison with similar devices, and there needed to be some review to counter this one. When the inclusion of a GPS is seen as a negative because of possible privacy issues for your child, and features like the inclusion of an FM radio are not even mentioned, then there is something seriously wrong with the review.

First off, I am not some Apple hater that purchased my device because it simply wasn't an Apple product, in fact I still actively use my 4th generation iPod touch, and enjoy it a lot. The reason I purchased my device is because it had the following features that the similarly priced iPod touch doesn't:

An FM radio, a feature I very much missed from my non iPod mp3 players.
A GPS chip, which is nice for those apps which use location services that I could never use on my iPod.
A Larger screen, which is great for someone with larger hands and fingers.
A better camera with flash, which is nice for those times I don't have my point and shoot, but would like to take more then a VGA resolution photo with whatever I have handy, plus the flash makes a great flashlight with the right app.
Expandable memory, as someone with a lot of music I own the 32GB iPod touch, which cost me $299, I bought by galaxy player on sale for $180, and then popped in a 32gb Micro-SD card that I purchased for $35, which gave me a 40gb device with more features then my iPod touch for $215, or $85 less then my iPod. Even without the sale price, expandable memory makes this device fair nicely with the iPod in price.

This device simply can't be compared to a tablet as it fulfills a different need. It is exactly like the iPod touch in function, in that it is a pocket-able personal media player with access to smartphone like features and Apps without the need for a smartphone. I still have a messaging phone as I am usually in an area with WiFi, and I just never saw the need to get an expensive Smartphone plan if I'd spend most of the time using it on WiFi anyways. I also prefer to keep my media use separate from my cell phone, as having my phone available is necessary for those times when my boss or family need to contact me in an emergency. A dedicated media player can be used to listen to music, play games, etc, until the battery is completely dead without negative repercussions, and again, can be stored in your pocket unlike a tablet. As such I think the only thing this should be compared to is devices like the iPod touch, and on that front, the device compares pretty well.

The galaxy player wins in additional features, which can be seen above, the iPod touch wins in compatibility with accessories, better screen resolution, and in overall ease of use, although once mastered widgets have made mt galaxy player easier to use then my iPod. The galaxy is a bit clunky in size though, taking up more pocket space then my iPod touch with it's Otter Box case, and the lack of a good iTunes like software to interface with can be annoying. Overall though it's a great device, as is the iPod touch, and your choice in devices should be based on what are the most important features to you.