You can still buy an MP3 player to listen to music, but these devices are less popular than they used to be. Most people use their phones or other devices to listen to music, but some still prefer a stand-alone MP3 player.
This post will explore if MP3 players are a thing and if people still use them. I’ll provide you with some insight into this topic and explain why you might want to consider using an MP3 player in certain situations.
Let’s get to it.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- MP3 players still exist. There just aren’t as many models currently available because their demand is limited.
- Most people listen to music on their smartphones or other devices these days, which makes having an MP3 player somewhat obsolete.
- If you want a music player and not a device that connects to WiFi or cellular signal, consider getting an MP3 player.
Are MP3 Players a Thing?
MP3 players were once the most popular way to listen to digital music. But just like many music-listening technologies, the popularity of these devices has faded, and they aren’t as common or readily available today.
But you can still get an MP3 player if you want or need one. They are still made by a handful of manufacturers, and there are several reasons why you might want to get your hands on one. Most likely, you probably don’t need one.
Despite having a much lower demand than when they were popular, MP3 players are still available. But since so many people use their smartphones to listen to music, most people do not need an MP3 player.
Still, an MP3 player has its place, especially if you are looking for a digital music player that doesn’t connect to the internet or WiFi.
Do People Still Use MP3 Players?
There aren’t that many people who use MP3 players today. For the average person, there isn’t much reason to do so. But these devices are still available to purchase, so there must be at least a limited market for them.
I don’t know anyone personally who still uses an MP3 player. But there are a few situations that might warrant using one, so let’s take a quick look at that here.
If you are part of a growing group of people looking for a way to slightly disconnect from the modern world while still enjoying some of its conveniences, getting an MP3 player might help you out.
An MP3 player has fewer functions than a smartphone, leading to fewer distractions. Sometimes just listening to music is all you need, especially if you are traveling somewhere with limited service anyways.
If you spend a lot of time off-grid or in transit, an MP3 player is an excellent way to still listen to music when you don’t want to use your phone. Or if you have a flip phone without all the functions of smartphones, an MP3 player can help you out.
Some athletes and active people could also want to use an MP3 player. Some of them are designed to work in water, making them a good option for swimmers. And an MP3 player is typically much smaller than a phone, so it’s easier to exercise or play sports while wearing one.
Why Don’t People Use MP3 Players Anymore?
The main reason why people don’t use MP3 players as much anymore is because there really isn’t much reason to have one. A smartphone is essentially a very fancy and capable MP3 player.
And since almost everyone has a smartphone, there’s no reason to get another device that allows you to listen to music. That just leads to more things you need to charge up or worry about during your daily activities.
The vast majority of people like to keep things simplified and enjoy all the conveniences that a smartphone provides. This makes having an MP3 player unnecessary.
Plenty of younger people probably don’t even know what an MP3 player is because they have fallen in popularity. So if you don’t even know what a device is, there’s no reason to start using one.
Is it Worth It to But an MP3 Player?
If you are considering purchasing an MP3 player, think about how much it costs and if you really need one. For most people, you only need your smartphone as a music-listening device.
But if you really want something to listen to music with that isn’t your phone, an MP3 player is a great option to explore. They are relatively affordable and allow you to store your favorite songs and listen to them whenever you want.
Keep in mind that since most currently available MP3 players don’t connect to WiFi or the cellular signal, these aren’t streaming devices. You need to download files onto the device and then listen to them.
If this sounds inconvenient or annoying, buying an MP3 player probably isn’t worth it. But if you just want to explore an older music-listening device or check out from the connected world for a bit, it might be worth it.
How to Choose an MP3 Player with Built-in Speaker
Storage Space
Since you’re going to store music files on your player, it’s important to make sure you have enough space! If your library is already digital, you can easily check iTunes or the folder where you keep your music to see how much storage you’ll need.
For those converting from CDs or cassettes, it might be more difficult to anticipate your needs. However, a good rule of thumb is to get as much storage as possible.
Device Size
Your device’s size can affect you in dramatically different ways. An athlete may desire a small and lightweight model, while an older person may struggle with tiny buttons and wish for something a bit more accessible.
It is always important to keep such situations in mind, especially if you’re buying the MP3 as a gift for someone else.
Operation
When you get an MP3 player, make sure it’s compatible with your computer. In addition, ask questions like, will you need to install any third-party applications? What file types will it support?
It’s also important to look at daily use, such as navigating through music and using the different features. Check for easily accessible menus and well-designed buttons. The goal is to pick something you’ll want to use regularly.
What’s the Best MP3 Player with Built-in Speaker?
Here are some top recommendations, along with a quick review of each option so you understand its pros and cons.
1. TIMMKOO MP3 Player with Bluetooth
If you’re looking for something reminiscent of an iPod touch that doesn’t come with the Apple price tag, check out the TIMMKOO MP3 player.
It has a full-screen display, supports 1080p video, uses a modern USB-C charger, and lasts for 30 hours of playtime without struggling.
It only comes with 8GB of storage, but you can buy an SD card up to 128GB in size to replace it if needed.
Pros:
- Full-screen design lets you use it as naturally as you would your phone
- Bluetooth support
- File types supported: AVI, MKV, MPG, MPEG, RM, RMVB, VOB, MOV, FLV, ASF, DAT, MP4, 3GP
Cons:
- Has an ebook reader, but it only reads .txt files.
2. MP3 Player 32GB
If you long for the days of the classic iPod buttons that give you that satisfying, tactile feeling, this MP3 player is a great choice for you. It’s easy to use, offers a simple interface for storing and accessing music, and comes with plenty of storage.
The SD card is also already inserted when you receive the device. This model comes with a pair of earbuds as well. If you don’t already have some, it won’t take long for you to start listening to music.
Pros:
- Physical buttons for navigation device menus
- Comes with earbuds
- 32GB storage card already inserted into the device
- 10 hours of battery life
- Supports the following file types: MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, WAV, AAC
Cons:
- Smaller screen than models without physical buttons
3. USB-C MP3 16GB Player
Combining modern elements like a sleek screen and Bluetooth support with classics like FM radio, the USB-C player is more than ready to take on your daily commute or workout.
With support for radio, video, ebooks, and voice recording, you’ll never need to worry about running out of content. This MP3 player uses USB-C instead of proprietary charging cords, which allows it to easily connect to modern computers and charging blocks.
Pros:
- Bluetooth support is great for people who want to listen to music on the go without worrying about earbud wires
- Available in four different colors
- Comes with a 16GB storage card
- File types supported: MP3/WAV/WMA/APE/FLAC
Cons:
- Flat buttons lack the satisfying tactile sensation when pressed and take up potential screen space
Other Useful Tips & Tricks
MP3 players aren’t necessarily just for music. A lot of people use them for audiobooks as well. Audiobooks are great for long commutes, road trips, or for those who simply struggle and don’t enjoy reading off a page.
One of the most common ways to get them is through a subscription with Amazon’s Audible, or similar programs. However, a lot of people don’t realize you can often get the same audiobooks for free from your local library.
While it varies by city, many libraries use an app called Overdrive. All you have to do is sign up for a card and you can digitally check out any titles you want. After that, just load them onto your MP3 player for hours of entertainment and a good story!
Final Thoughts
Even though MP3 players are a thing of the past, they are still available. There aren’t as many options as in the glory days of the iPod, and most people today like to use their smartphones as music-listening devices.
Chances are, you probably don’t need an MP3 player. But if you want one, they are pretty affordable and can be a great way to listen to music on the move.
Have you ever used an MP3 player? Do you still have one today? Let me know in the comments below.
