Best large-capacity MP3 player. The iPod dominates the market among hard-drive players, and it's still an overwhelming favorite in reviews. The latest iPod plays both photos and video on its color screen, but reviews say the 2.5-inch screen is too small for extended viewing. If you don't need room for 7,500 songs, the iPod nano and Zen Micro Photo are smaller and lighter than the 4.8-ounce iPod. The Creative Zen Micro Photo doesn't have the iPod's easy interface, but the Zen Micro does have an FM tuner and voice recorder, and it's compatible with the latest music-subscription services The iPod has none of these features. A 60GB iPod sells for $400. The iPod is both Mac and Windows compatible.

Best MP3 player overall. The iPod nano is only about ¼-inch thick and weighs just 1.5 ounces. In reviews, the iPod nano tops all other MP3 players when it comes to style, sound quality and ease-of-use. Since it uses flash memory instead of a hard drive, it has no moving parts, making it a better choice for the gym than the full-size iPod; it even includes a lap counter. The 2GB nano, which stores about 500 songs, is PC and Mac compatible. Despite the universal raves for the iPod nano, reviews and owners say it scratches too easily, and that using a protective case is a necessity instead of an option.

Most features. The Zen Micro Photo, which comes in one of ten colors, is the best iPod alternative for those with Windows-centric music collections. It can play copy-protected WMA songs purchased from online stores like Napster, and it's compatible with the latest music subscription services, which let you 'rent' music for a monthly fee. The Zen has an FM tuner and a voice recorder, both missing on the iPod and iPod nano. The Zen, however, is heavier (4 ounces) and bulkier than the much-sleeker iPod nano, and it's not as easy to use as any of the iPod models. Sound quality, say reviews, is excellent. The Zen is only compatible with Windows XP.