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10 Best Mp3 Players 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Sony NW-WM1ZM2 256GB Signature Series Premium Digital Music Player

The Sony NW-WM1ZM2 Signature Series Walkman stands out in the MP3 player category, particularly for audiophiles and those seeking a premium music experience. With a generous 256 GB storage capacity, it allows users to store a vast library of high-resolution audio files, ensuring music lovers have their favorite tracks readily available. The battery life is impressive, allowing for extended listening sessions without frequent recharging, which is a significant plus for on-the-go users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,197
Battery Life
Audio Quality
Additional Features

Most important from
17 reviews

Battery Life
Audio quality is outstanding, but the battery life could use some improvement, especially with high gain usage.
Audio Quality
The WM1ZM2 offers a warm and dynamic sound that handles various music genres effortlessly.
Additional Features
Although expensive, the WM1ZM2 delivers an exceptional digital audio player experience.
#2
9.4 score

FiiO M17 Portable Desktop-Class Music Player

The FiiO M17 Portable Desktop-Class Music Player is designed for audiophiles who seek exceptional audio quality and power. Featuring desktop-grade Dual ES9038PRO DACs and a THX 788+ headphone amp, it delivers superior sound resolution and minimal distortion, suitable for the most demanding listeners. The device offers numerous connectivity options, including various headphone outputs, USB ports, and coaxial ports, making it versatile for different audio setups.

Rating
9.4
Battery Life
Audio Quality
Portability

Most important from
56 reviews

Battery Life
The M17 is big! But it does fit into my 501’s front pocket. It’s a desktop DAC/Headphone Amp that’s portable with plenty of battery power.
Audio Quality
No other portable or transportable will beat this sound, to the best of my knowledge.
Portability
Big and heavy, not quite portable, but the sound and options for music make it a favorite DSP player.
User Interface
I had no trouble connecting with Bluetooth. This has connected quickly on every wireless device I have tried.
Additional Features
The M17 even has a setting for using hard-to-drive headphones; it requires using the power supply, turning it into a desktop player.
#3
9.4 score

Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman Digital MP3 Music Player

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman is a high-end MP3 player designed for audiophiles. It boasts 128GB of internal storage, which is ample for storing a large music library, and it also has an SD card slot for additional storage. This makes it excellent for users with extensive music collections. The audio quality is a standout feature, with support for high-resolution audio and DSD files, and the inclusion of the S-Master HX digital amplifier ensures clear and pure sound. The battery life is another strong point, allowing for long listening sessions without frequent recharges. Wi-Fi compatibility adds convenience for downloading and streaming music directly to the device, enhancing its usability.

Rating
9.4
Storage Capacity
Battery Life
Audio Quality

Most important from
92 reviews

Storage Capacity
Loading music onto the Walkman through the software can be a cumbersome process, often requiring multiple attempts.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive and does not suffer from discharge issues over time.
Audio Quality
The sound quality is exceptional, with complete separation of instruments and brilliant clarity.
User Interface
Lag when scrolling through album art and accessing large music libraries can be frustrating, especially given the high price point.

Top 10 Best Mp3 Players 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Sony NW-WM1ZM2 256GB Signature Series Premium Digital Music Player

Storage Capacity: 256 GB
Battery Life: impressive
Audio Quality: S-Master HX, Native DSD, high-res audio
Portability: compact and lightweight
User Interface: 5-inch LED, user-friendly
Additional Features: Wi-Fi, Kimber Kable, high polymer capacitors

Chosen by 1197 this week

FiiO M17 Portable Desktop-Class Music Player

Storage Capacity: 4 GB
Battery Life: 10 hours
Audio Quality: Dual ES9038PRO DACs, THX 788+ amp
Portability: 151g
User Interface: Android 10 OS
Additional Features: High Resolution, Portable, Desktop DAC

Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman Digital MP3 Music Player

Storage Capacity: 128GB internal, SD card slot
Battery Life: Long
Audio Quality: High-res audio, DSD, S-Master HX
Portability: Relatively bulky, 1.08 pounds
User Interface: 5-inch screen
Additional Features: Wi-Fi, Aluminium frame, High-quality components

FiiO M21 Android 13 Portable Music Player MP3 Snapdragon 680 4* CS43198 DAC Chips Hi-Res Audio DSD Bluetooth LDAC (Titanium Gold)

Storage Capacity: 64GB
Audio Quality: Hi-Res Audio, 4 DAC chips, outputs
Portability: 4.7-inch screen, 14.9 oz
User Interface: Android 13
Additional Features: Desktop Mode, Snapdragon 680, Bluetooth

JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Music Player MP3 with Snapdragon 680, Bluetooth WiFi USB DAC 12.5H Playtime (Black)

Storage Capacity: 32GB
Battery Life: 12.5 hours
Audio Quality: Dual Cirrus Logic DACs, high power
Portability: Slim, lightweight, 13mm thick, 156g
User Interface: Touch screen
Additional Features: Snapdragon 680, Android 13, streaming apps

JadeAudio/FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Music Player MP3 with Snapdragon 680, Bluetooth WiFi USB DAC 12.5H Playtime (Sky Blue)

Storage Capacity: 32 GB
Battery Life: 12.5 hours
Audio Quality: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs
Portability: 156g, 13mm thick
User Interface: 4.7-inch IPS LCD touch screen
Additional Features: Touch Screen, Hi-Res Audio, Bluetooth
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Buying Guide for the Best Mp3 Players

Choosing the right MP3 player can enhance your music listening experience significantly. When selecting an MP3 player, it's important to consider various specifications that will affect the quality, convenience, and overall enjoyment of your device. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity refers to the amount of space available on the MP3 player to store your music files. This is important because it determines how many songs you can carry with you. Storage is usually measured in gigabytes (GB). If you have a large music library or prefer high-quality audio files, you might need more storage. For casual listeners with smaller libraries, a lower capacity might suffice. Typically, storage capacities range from 4GB to 128GB or more. Consider how much music you want to store and choose accordingly.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the MP3 player can operate before needing a recharge. This is crucial for uninterrupted listening, especially during long trips or workouts. Battery life can vary widely, from a few hours to several days. If you plan to use your MP3 player frequently and for extended periods, look for models with longer battery life. For occasional use, shorter battery life might be acceptable. Assess your usage patterns to determine the right battery life for you.
Audio QualityAudio quality refers to the clarity and fidelity of the sound produced by the MP3 player. This is important for a satisfying listening experience. Audio quality can be influenced by the supported file formats (like MP3, FLAC, AAC), the quality of the built-in DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), and the headphones you use. If you are an audiophile or someone who values high-quality sound, look for players that support lossless formats and have high-quality DACs. For general listening, standard audio quality might be sufficient.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size and weight of the MP3 player, which affects how easy it is to carry around. This is important for convenience, especially if you plan to use the player while exercising or traveling. MP3 players come in various sizes, from tiny clip-on models to larger ones with bigger screens. If you need something lightweight and unobtrusive, opt for smaller, more portable models. If you prefer a larger screen for easier navigation, you might choose a slightly bigger player.
User InterfaceThe user interface is the way you interact with the MP3 player, including the buttons, touchscreen, and menu navigation. A good user interface is important for ease of use and quick access to your music. Some players have simple button controls, while others offer touchscreens with more advanced navigation options. If you prefer straightforward controls, a basic interface might be best. If you enjoy more features and customization, look for players with advanced interfaces. Consider how you like to interact with your devices to choose the right user interface.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include things like Bluetooth connectivity, FM radio, voice recording, and more. These features can add extra functionality to your MP3 player and enhance your overall experience. Bluetooth is useful for wireless headphones, while FM radio can be great for listening to live broadcasts. Voice recording can be handy for taking notes or recording lectures. Think about which extra features might be useful to you and choose a player that offers them.

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