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While most people just use their phone to listen to music, there are many situations where that's not ideal. For one, streaming music uses a lot of data, and sometimes you're in an area where there's no cell service anyway. Or maybe you just want to skip streaming altogether and actually own your music again. No matter the reason, a digital audio player, aka an MP3 player, aka what were once called "iPods" are alive and well. Personally, I use these devices while hiking and for international travel including on planes. Here are the best options in 2025.
What's the best MP3 player overall?
Generally speaking, the Shanling M0s is the best MP3 player overall because it's small, simple, and inexpensive. However, if you're looking for something with a more powerful output and a bigger screen, then the Android-based HiBy R4 would work better for you.
Read more: Best Stores for Buying Digital Music You Can Keep Forever
Geoffrey Morrison/CNET Photo Gallery 1/5 Geoffrey Morrison/CNET Best budget MP3 player Shanling M0s Pros Tiny
High-res audio compatible
MicroSD and USB-C Cons No button lock
Not for fumbly fingers
Occasionally laggy menus The M0s is an inexpensive hi-res audio player that allows you to enjoy your downloaded music without the distraction or annoyance of an internet connection. The M0s feels well made and has a surprisingly nice design for something small and inexpensive. It's easy enough to put all your music, even high-res lossless audio formats up to 384 kHz at 32-bit, on a high-capacity microSD card so you don't lose quality on the music playback. Its interface is simple and it has plenty of power for big headphones. Why I like it: If you remember the iPod Shuffle it's like that but with a touchscreen. It's tiny and thanks to its MicroSD card slot, can store tons of music. Who is this for? Anyone looking for a simple music player. Who shouldn’t buy it The tiny screen is a little difficult to use if you don't have very dexterous fingers. I wouldn't give this to an older person who might have trouble using the screen.
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