iPod or Not: Your Guide to Deciding Between an iPod or MP3 Player
March 04, 2010 Computers & Electronics 0 comments
The Apple iPod is by far the best selling and most prevalent of all portable media players, but is it the best? Here is an easy breakdown of what makes iPods different from other MP3 players.
iPOD: Apple tends to come out with new and innovative features for the iPod before other companies release anything for their MP3 players. Apple was the first to bring movies and television to an MP3 player and the first to widely distribute touch screen MP3 players with WiFi. If you like to be the first to try something new, consider buying an iPod. The downside to this, however, is that iPods also tend to be more expensive.
NOT: Whereas the iPod only has around ten to twenty hours of battery life, alternative MP3 players such as the Sony Walkman can have up to forty hours of playback. If you are shopping for an MP3 player to use on long trips, flights, or car rides, the iPod may not be the player for you.
iPOD: The iPod is extremely easy to use. With a vivid screen and easily marked controls, there is no question about how to use an iPod, making it ideal for the technologically challenged.
NOT: iPods lack a lot of features that come with other MP3 and portable audio players. Whereas some MP3 players offer opportunities to record audio, download television from DVR or music from the radio, or expand disc space with memory cards, iPods offer none of these features.
iPOD: Often those who buy iPods are purchasing them for status. From the white headphones to the recognizable design, owning an iPod is trendy. If you enjoy keeping up with fads or having the latest "in" thing, you probably want an iPod.
NOT: As mentioned previously, iPods are generally much more expensive than other MP3 players. Other players with similar amounts of memory cost much less. If you are paying for an iPod, you are paying for the Apple design and the Apple brand. For this reason, iPods may not be a smart choice for those looking to get the best value for their dollar.
iPOD: Apple is often praised for their superior designs. The iPod is no different. Light in feel and sleek in appearance, iPods are nothing short of pretty. If you are shopping for a media player that is the most visually appealing, buy an iPod.
NOT: One frequent complaint about iPods is that they are locked in to the iTunes store. Where other MP3 players support music files such as MP3 and WMA, iPod only supports MP3 and their own file system, AAC. Because of this, music purchased from the iTunes store can only be played on an iPod and music purchased elsewhere is likely not to work with an iPod. If you plan to continue to use an iPod, this is not so much of a problem, but if you ever want to switch devices you may have trouble.
The decision to purchase an iPod or other MP3 player ultimately comes down to the features you want on your system, the price you are willing to pay for it, and how long you intend to use it for. Find iPods and other portable media devices at Sears.com.
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