What to Look for when Buying an MP3 Player Online

Due to the wide array of features and accessories included with MP3 players, purchasing the perfect MP3 player is difficult -- and sometimes costly. Evaluating your needs, your price range, and the MP3 player's capabilities with several subscription websites should minimize any issues, however. Here are several features to look for when buying an MP3 player online.

What to Look For: Evaluate What You Need First

The first step in any MP3 player purchase is to evaluate what you want out of the MP3 player. Do you want to watch videos and listen to podcasts? Do you only intend to use it to listen to music? Do you want numerous accessories or are you fine with minimal features? These are all questions you should be asking yourself. If it helps, write down what you want on a Post It note for future reference. There are numerous options available when buying an MP3 player online, but knowing what you really want helps narrow your search immensely.

Buying an MP3 Player: Price is Equally Important

The second step in your MP3 player purchase is evaluating your price range. MP3 players vary in price -- while the Apple iPod costs well over $100, several lesser known brands cost less than $40.00. Expect to pay more for bigger features, such as video capabilities and car plug-ins. If you only plan to use your MP3 player to listen to music, however, expect to save more on price. As a general guideline, expect to pay under $100 for minimum features, and prepare to pay more for video and accessory capabilities.

Pick the Right MP3 Subscription Service

Another important step when looking for an MP3 player is choosing the right MP3 subscription service. An MP3 subscription service allows you to legally download MP3 files and content to your MP3 player. Examples of MP3 subscription services are Rhapsody, iTunes, and eMusic. Each MP3 subscription service has its own restrictions and capabilities; for example, Apple's iTunes store offers restricted downloads for iPod players, and limits a person's ability to transfer or copy the file to avoid illegal distribution. Other services, such as eMusic, have lesser restrictions and allow downloaders to do whatever they wish with the downloaded music. Nearly all services have a monthly service cost, however, and some services make you pay for each download. If your only intent is to download music -- and a lot of it -- you should look for a subscription service that has a monthly fee. Charge per download services add up quickly.

Know What You Want? Now Search

Once you know what to look for when buying an MP3 player, searching for the perfect MP3 player online is very simple. Many websites offer comparisons and deals on otherwise expensive MP3 players, and online coupons may also be redeemed for additional savings. Although narrowing down your search is difficult, buying your dream MP3 player online is as quick as a click of a mouse.

Source:
Mark Harris, "Top 7 iPod & MP3 Player Accessories" (about.com)
Mark Harris, "Top 7 Digital Music Services" (about.com)