Zune HD (32GB, platinum)

Pros: HD radio, subscription service available, wireless sync

Cons: lack of meaningful apps; no custom EQ; no Youtube video for internet browser; have to use Zune software to manage music, video, pictures; poor battery life if you use wireless for a length of time

Summary: When I was looking for an mp3 player, I really wanted to buy the 32GB iPod Touch. However, the Zune was cheaper, and offered some features the iPod didn't. On the Zune, I like the ability to listen to radio, especially HD radio (where available). Perhaps the biggest advantage of the Zune is the subscription service, which is available for $15 a month. You can play an almost endless amount of music, although I noticed there are several artists that aren't available. Plus, you can browse, stream, and purchase the full songs through the wireless connection. In addition, you can sync your music, pictures, video through the wireless connection. You can't do that with the iPod. Like the iPod, you can add songs to a playlist and sync the playlist to the Zune.

I think the Zune sounds great, although it doesn't provide you with custom EQ settings. It only provides presets like rock, pop, jazz, etc. Another drawback of the Zune is the built-in Internet Explorer web browser. It seems to take quite a while to load, at times. Plus, it lacks Flash, Java, and other plug-ins. With this version of IE, you're better off sticking with the mobile versions of web sites. Plus, there aren't many apps available for Zune. There are Facebook, Twitter, a handful of games, and other utility apps available for it. That's about it. The Zune development team doesn't seem to be dedicating much energy toward developing new ones, either.

Overall, I am happy with my purchase of the Zune. At times, I do suffer from iPod envy though. But then I realize that Zune does have some advantages over the iPod.