10 Best Portable Music Players 2025 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 M15S is a high-end portable music player that stands out for its excellent audio quality and robust features. With a storage capacity of 64 GB, it offers ample space for a significant music collection, and the option to stream music from services like Spotify and Tidal adds even more versatility. The player boasts impressive audio quality, thanks to the ES9038PRO DAC chip, which ensures clear and high-resolution sound. It supports a wide range of audio formats, making it suitable for any audiophile's needs.

With the dual power supply feature, it can be used portably or as a desktop player, providing flexibility in usage. The 5.5-inch display and Android 10 interface make navigating your music collection simple and enjoyable, while the Snapdragon 660 processor ensures smooth performance. Connectivity options are plentiful, including Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and USB, allowing easy connection to various devices.

However, the player is somewhat bulky and weighs 2.42 pounds, which might be less convenient for on-the-go use. Additionally, it is on the pricier side, but the investment is justified by the high-quality sound and comprehensive features. This music player is best suited for serious audiophiles who value top-notch sound quality and advanced functionalities in their music devices.

The FiiO M23 is a solid choice for music lovers who want high-quality sound on the go. It offers 64GB of built-in storage, which is decent for a large music collection but can be expanded via microSD for more space. The 5.5-inch screen and Android 10 operating system make navigation and app use straightforward, letting you easily stream from popular services like Apple Music, Tidal, and Amazon Music with full lossless quality.

Audio quality is a highlight here, thanks to the advanced AKM DAC chips that deliver a natural, balanced sound suitable for both casual listening and more critical audiophile experiences. It supports a wide range of audio formats, including lossless DSD and MQA, ensuring your music sounds as good as possible. Battery life is respectable and can be extended by switching to the desktop mode, which also improves sound performance for larger headphones. In terms of connectivity, it covers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB DAC, and even offers AirPlay, making it versatile for different setups.

The design is sturdy with an aluminum alloy finish, but at 1.46 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some other portable players, which might affect long-term carrying comfort. The controls and interface are user-friendly, with options to customize sound through global PEQ and all-to-DSD conversion. This makes the M23 well-suited for users who prioritize sound quality and streaming flexibility over ultra-lightweight portability.