10 Best Portable Cassette Players 2025 in the United States

The Retekess TR621 is a versatile portable cassette player combined with a CD player and AM/FM radio, making it a good choice for those who want multiple playback options in one device. It supports a range of disc formats including CDs and MP3s, and also plays tapes with easy-to-use fast forward and rewind functions. The sound quality is clear and pleasant thanks to its dual high-powered speakers, suitable for home or casual outdoor listening.

Portability is well addressed with a handle and a compact size of about 10 by 8.6 inches, and it weighs under 5 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around. Battery life is flexible since it can run on 6 D-size batteries or be plugged into AC power, though batteries might be bulky and costly over time. The playback features include a helpful LCD showing track info and a remote control for CD and USB music, though it can’t control cassette or radio playback remotely.

Connectivity options cover USB, micro SD card slot, and headphone jack, offering good flexibility but no Bluetooth, which limits wireless convenience. A notable plus is the tape recording feature, letting you record from CD, radio, or external sources onto cassette, a rare function nowadays. While the build seems sturdy enough for indoor use, it might not withstand rough outdoor conditions. This model is especially suited for users wanting a nostalgic mix of cassette and CD playback with modern extras, ideal for parents or grandparents who appreciate simple operation and vintage media.

The FiiO CP13 Cassette Player is a modern take on the nostalgic cassette player, crafted with a high-quality full aluminium alloy body for durability and aesthetics. It features large, easy-to-use oval buttons for playback controls and a sleek volume dial for precise volume adjustments. The sound quality is enhanced by the incorporation of the JRC5532 audiophile op-amp, providing a nuanced and familiar analog sound experience.

Portability is a key feature, with the player being relatively lightweight at 1.1 pounds and conveniently sized for travel. Battery life is impressive, thanks to the 1800mAh lithium battery, which offers over 13 hours of continuous playback and an outstanding standby time of over 268 days. The dual-mode power supply design, supporting both battery and Type-C charging, ensures you can keep the player powered up easily.

Despite these strengths, there are a few drawbacks. While the USB-C charging port is modern, the absence of wireless connectivity options might be a limitation for some users looking for more versatile playback methods. Additionally, while the device is durable, the lack of advanced playback features or recording capabilities might be a downside for those seeking a more feature-rich product. The CP13 is best suited for those who appreciate high-quality sound and a durable, portable design without the need for extensive connectivity or recording features.

The Greadio Boombox CD and Cassette Player is a versatile device that blends classic and modern audio options in one portable unit. It supports CDs, cassette tapes, Bluetooth streaming, AM/FM radio, USB, and AUX inputs, making it great for those who want multiple ways to enjoy music. The built-in dual stereo speakers deliver clear and decent sound quality, and the EQ settings let you adjust music styles to your liking. Its compact size and option to run on six C batteries or an AC adapter mean you can easily take it outdoors or use it at home. Battery life depends on the batteries you supply, but it offers flexibility for on-the-go listening.

Recording is possible from radio or other audio sources to cassette, although it cannot record voice via the built-in microphone. Playback features like repeat modes, programmable playlists, and remote control add convenience but may feel a bit basic compared to digital-only players. Connectivity is solid with Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless streaming and multiple wired options.

The build is reasonably durable for everyday use but may not withstand rough outdoor conditions. For those seeking a portable cassette player that also handles CDs, radio, and Bluetooth, this boombox is a practical choice, especially for users who enjoy a mix of old and new ways to listen to music.