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September 16, 2023


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The Best MP3 Players for 2023

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Screenless Spotify method

The days of standalone MP3 players dominating pop culture are gone. Nowadays, most people use their iPhones or Android phones to listen to music with registered music programs like Spotify, Apple Music, and more. These services offer access to almost every popular song ever recorded for a monthly subscription fee. Plus, you can download music for offline listening. However, if you have your own library of MP3 files or unique tracks that are not available in streaming services, or if you prefer having a dedicated music device, there are still options for MP3 players. Here are my recommendations for the best MP3 players in 2023, two decades after the release of the iPod.

iPhone SE
Patrick Holland/CNET

The iPod Touch, which was the last dedicated music player in Apple’s lineup, has been discontinued. However, if you still prefer the iTunes library and want a device specifically for music, you can use your iPhone to sync music files or consider the iPhone SE. It has ample storage space and compatibility with iTunes. Android phones can also play music files that you upload to them. But, if you want a dedicated MP3 player, there are options available that I can recommend in 2023.

apple-watch-se.png
Sarah Tew/CNET

If you prefer wearing your music on your wrist, the Apple Watch SE is a great option. It has ample storage for music and is compatible with Apple Music. Alternatively, any old smartphone can also serve as an MP3 player. Simply load your music files onto the phone and use it as a dedicated music device. You can consider a budget-friendly option like the Samsung Galaxy A03S, which offers expandable storage via a microSD card.

Other MP3 players

If the previous recommendations didn’t suit your needs, there are other options available. If you’re looking for a waterproof MP3 player, you can try the Aftershockz OpenSwim, which uses bone conduction technology. If you’re on a budget, you can repurpose an old smartphone without cellular service and use it as an MP3 player. For audiophiles, there are high-quality options like the Sony Walkman and Astell & Kern players that support lossless file formats. Additionally, services like YouTube Music and iTunes Match allow you to upload your own music for streaming. Remember to have a local backup of your files.

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