MP4 Player Buying Guide

Here are some useful hints and tips to consider when choosing an MP4 player.

How to Choose an MP4 Player: Introduction

Like MP3, MP4 is a type of computer file, with the main difference being that MP3 is used for music and MP4 for video. MP4 players are usually compact in size, with a colour screen for viewing and menu functions. Similar in appearance to their MP3 counterparts, MP4 players can also store music, short film clips and television programmes, as well as still images and photographs.

Although there are other types of portable video player available, including the portable DVD player, the advantage of MP4 players is that their size is not dictated by the need to hold large discs. MP4 players can typically hold around 25 - 100 films, with some models holding up to 250 films.

MP4 players can come with either a hard drive or solid-state memory - the larger capacity models use a hard drive. As you would expect, the price of MP4 players will increase according to memory size.

Although solid state memory players will usually have less memory, they have the advantage of containing no moving parts, and can be built to a more lightweight and compact design.

Your MP4 player will usually come with software for your computer, so you can transfer video and music files to your MP4 player. Some models of MP4 player can transfer video files from video cameras, and many online stores sell downloadable video content.

Features To Look For When You Buy an MP4 Player

The features and specifications of an MP4 player determine what it can be used for. Here are some of the main features and specifications to consider when choosing an MP4 player:

Capacity - Although solid-state memory is skip-free and easier to maintain, most MP4 players on the market use a hard drive, for greater storage capacity. To store a reasonable amount of films, music and photographs, you should consider a model with at least 30 GB of storage.
Video Formats - The main video formats used with MP4 players are MPEG-4, DivX, Xvid, WMV and Real Video. Make sure that your MP4 player plays a video format available for the types of video and music that you will use it for.
Music and Image Formats - Other formats supported by MP4 players for playing music and viewing images include: MP3, WMA, WAV, BMP, JPEG and PNG. Some models can store PDF files for viewing documents.
Battery - MP4 players usually run on a rechargeable battery. As more power is needed to play movies than music, battery life varies according to how you use your MP4 player. A typical 30 GB MP4 player will be able to play 16 hours of music or 5 hours of video before the battery needs to be recharged.
Screen - MP4 players come with a colour screen, usually an LCD. The size of the screen will be an important factor if you are planning to watch a lot of video. A bigger screen will mean a bigger MP4 player, but shop around, as many larger screen models are incredibly slim. Aim for at least a 2.5-inch screen - some screens can be over 4 inches.
Microphone - Some models of MP4 player come with a built-in microphone, transforming the MP4 player into a sleek, easy to use dictating machine - ideal for recording notes and ideas when you can't find a pen!
TV recording - MP4 players can include a TV recording function, which is a great way to store your favourite television programmes for viewing at a time and place that suits you.
Earphones/Speakers - MP4 players are designed for personal use, and usually come with a pair of quality earphones. Some models may also include a built-in speaker.

Do I Need To Buy an Extended MP4 Player Warranty?

Before choosing your MP4 player, find out what warranty is offered by the manufacturer or retailer. Warranties can vary, so it's worth shopping around - you might find a better type of warranty for a similar model of MP4 player. If you have bought an expensive model of MP4 player, it may well be worth paying for an extended warranty.

It's a good idea to set a limit on the amount of money that you are prepared to spend on your new MP4 player, and not to pay more for models with features that you won't need.

By browsing online, comparing prices between different MP4 retailers and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you may be able get a better model of MP4 player for your money.