So, you are finally ready to buy an MP3 player. Maybe it's just for when you head to the gym, or maybe it's the first MP3 player you are trusting your 10 year old with; but either way there is a strong likelihood that this MP3 player will not stand the test of time and multiple droppings it will receive. You may just have better ways to spend you money,- either way you want an MP3 player that's not too expensive. An iPod shuffle, at the 1 gig size, is the cheapest iPod and it will run you about about 50 dollars
to buy. Don't look to Microsoft to help you alleviate your price problems because a basic Zune would run you about 120 dollars. A lot of people only look at those two options when they want an MP3 player, and that's a shame, because there are a lot of strong players out on the market that don't cost a bundle, but don't come from one of the two big players in the mobile media game. So, we are going to take a look at some of the best 'No Name' players on the market, each of them under 30 dollars, to get your music mobile without breaking the bank. 1. The Nextar 1GB MP3 PlayerThis model is small enough to fit in the watch pocket of your jeans, and has a clearly marked, iPod like control wheel with a play/pause button, fast forward, rewind and volume control. The display panel is simple but it still tells you the band, the artist and the track's length. It holds an average of 170 songs. In addition, it can double as an audio recorder or an FM radio. This model runs just under 25 dollars. Uses aaa batteries.2. The San Disk Sansa Shaker 512MBThis model is a little bit oddly shaped, but the controls are spread out around the device. If you think that you would have trouble with close set controls, then this may be the model for you. It also has a built in speaker, a feature most models skip, and two headphone jacks, so that you can listen with a friend. It runs about 24 dollars retail. Uses aaa batteries.3. The Creative Zen Stone 1GBThis model has a sleek rounded case design, and aesthetic appeal aside, this baby supports both MP3 and WMA file formats, has built in speakers, and can hold 250 songs. In addition, instead of running on aaa batteries like the other models we have discussed so far, this one runs on a rechargeable lithium ion battery, with a 20 hour battery life. It costs 28 dollars.4. The Phillips 1GB MP3 Player This one sneaks in just under the mark at 29 dollars, but like the Zen, it can hold multiple file formats. It also has a visual display with the track information. This model also boasts simplicity with one main button that acts as your power and play/pause. 5. The XO Vision 1GB Slicker MP3 Video Player The only video player to make the list; this little screened movie watcher will run you about 20 cents less than our 30 dollar maximum, but for that you get to watch videos. Fair
warning, the screen is only 1.8 inches wide, so you won't get a lot of detail, but it can store up to 4 hours of video or 500 songs for your enjoyment. That's your no fuss guide to getting yourself an MP3 player that won't cost you a fortune. Go out and enjoy your music!