iPod Nano or Creative Zen Micro?

Face it, if this were two years ago, you wouldn't even be considering which mp3 player you were going to purchase, but things have changed. While Apple's dominance in the field has yet to be truly threatened, there are a number of other companies that are producing mp3 players that are not only of equal quality but some are better. Name's in the mp3 player business that can rival Apple are few, but Creative Zen immediately comes to mind. While not as wildly popular as Apple, Creative Zen has proven that they can produce excellent players that can surpass the Ipod.

In the mid-size category Apple fielded the wildly successful Ipod Nano, a sleek and super thin player that could be placed virtually anywhere. The latest generation of Nanos can be purchased in 1, 2, 4, or 8 gigs making it perfect for customers that are looking for a flexible amount of space without moving up into the higher price range that includes the 30 and 60 gig iPods. The nano is smaller than the average mouse in length and is thinner in the smallest of magazines which takes sheer aesthetics out of the question for the attractive player. Apple's superiority allows for assumptions that are easily filled; the iPod's compatibility is easy and it will accept most files with those not being accepted easily being adapted with the use of Itunes. There are also a host of accessories available as with everyone iPod that is available, so customizing your Nano is never a problem, whether you're doing it once or trying to do it for an entire wardrobe.

One of the iPod's rivals by Creative Zen is the Micro. Basically a miniature version of Creative Zen's larger player, the Micro lends its namesake from the fact that it is indeed smaller, but not small enough to be pushed down two classes. As with most competitors of the iPod, a host of features were added in order to make the player more marketable. The Micro boasts a calendar and task manager, voice recorder, photo viewer, along with the venerable FM tuner and several other features. Aesthetically, the Micro isn't quite as attractive as the iPod Nano, but it isn't an ugly beast either. Coming in an array of 10 colors, there's a bit of something for everyone available.

The logistics match up fairly well, with the Micro having a slight edge (one hour) in estimated battery life and the proper files being supported. When it comes down to it, those looking for a feature-laden player should check out the Micro while those looking for an iPod should clearly go for the Nano. Overall, the Micro has an edge up on its competitor.