10 Best Portable Music Players 2026 in the United States

The Sony NW-WM1AM2 Hi-Res 128GB Walkman is a robust choice for portable music enthusiasts who prioritize high audio quality. One of its standout features is its compatibility with High-Resolution Audio and native DSD file support, ensuring that you get pure and detailed sound. The inclusion of the S-Master HX digital amplifier further enhances audio clarity. With a 128GB storage capacity and an SD card slot, it offers ample space for a vast music library.

The battery life is impressive, allowing for extended listening sessions without frequent recharges, which is a crucial aspect for portable music players. Wi-Fi compatibility for downloading and streaming adds modern convenience, allowing users to access music easily from various online sources. The aluminum frame and sleek design make it portable and durable, though it might be on the heavier side at 1.08 pounds. The user interface, displayed on a 5-inch screen, is intuitive and straightforward, making navigation simple.

Some users might find the price point higher compared to other models with similar features. Connectivity options include wireless technology, making it versatile for different listening preferences. For those who seek an audiophile-grade music player with strong features, the Sony NW-WM1AM2 is a worthy consideration, despite its heavier weight and higher price.

The FiiO M21 is a well-rounded portable music player that impresses with strong audio performance and modern features. It comes with a 64GB storage capacity, which should be ample for a large music collection without needing extra cards. Powered by a Snapdragon 680 processor and running Android 13, the device offers smooth operation and compatibility with various popular music apps, making navigation and playback simple.

The standout feature is its high-quality audio output, thanks to four CS43198 DAC chips and a sophisticated two-stage amplifier that provide clear, detailed sound with low noise. It supports hi-res audio and multiple output options, including dual headphone jacks and SPDIF, which is great if you want to connect to other high-end audio equipment. Battery life benefits from an innovative Desktop Mode that preserves battery health during extended use on external power. The 4.7-inch IPS display is a reasonable size for portability and ease of use, with a stylish titanium gold finish making it visually appealing. Connectivity includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing wireless streaming and downloads.

The product requires a 9V battery, which might be less convenient compared to built-in rechargeable batteries on some competitors. The user interface is generally user-friendly with Android 13, though those unfamiliar with Android devices might face a learning curve. This player is well suited for audiophiles and music lovers who value high-quality sound and versatile connectivity in a portable design, while users prioritizing maximum battery length or simpler interfaces might want to consider alternatives.

The HIFI WALKER H2-128GB is a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact, high-quality portable music player. It stands out with excellent audio performance thanks to its advanced ESS DAC supporting high-resolution formats like FLAC, DSD128, and others, ensuring you get clear, detailed sound. Its 70mW output can comfortably drive high-impedance headphones, which is a plus if you want richer audio experiences. Storage-wise, it comes with a generous 128GB microSD card pre-installed and can be expanded by another 256GB, letting you carry thousands of songs in one device. Battery life ranges between 8 to 10 hours, which is decent for daily use but might require regular charging for extended trips.

The device features Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX for wireless listening and supports two-way Bluetooth, meaning it can send or receive audio, a handy feature for flexible setups. For the best sound quality, wired headphones via the 3.5mm jack are recommended. Navigation is user-friendly with a tactile ALPS scroll wheel and a small but clear 2-inch screen housed in a sturdy zinc alloy body, making it portable and durable for daily use. It also doubles as a USB DAC for enhanced computer audio output.

On the downside, the screen is quite small, which might make browsing large music libraries less comfortable. Also, while battery life is respectable, it’s not standout compared to some competitors. The HIFI WALKER H2 brings great sound quality and versatile connectivity in a compact design, making it suitable for music lovers who want a high-res player with expandable storage and wireless options without complicated controls.