(Jun 22, 2009)
Donald Bell
Senior Editor
Portable video players (aka PVPs or portable media players) are the video equivalent of portable MP3 players. In fact, they are MP3 players at heart, with the additional capability to play back video on a larger (2.5 inches or more) color screen. PVPs come in all sizes and shapes, and some have more features than others. Three of the biggest features to look for in a PVP are screen size, file compatibility, and storage capacity. Don't be fooled into thinking bigger is always better. With its 800x480 resolution, the 4.3-inch screen on the Archos 605 WiFi will look much better than the 480x234 resolution of the Blue Raven MediaMate's 7-inch screen.
Also consider that while some PVPs offer as much as 160GB of storage space, a lighter, cheaper, lower-capacity PVP like the 8GB Cowon O2 will let you swap out content using small SD flash memory cards.
Archos 605 WiFi (30GB)
The Archos 605 WiFi portable video player is one of the best mobile distractions money can buy.
Price: $146.36 - $154.87 (check prices)
Review date: Aug 30, 2007
Excellent
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Apple iPod Touch (second generation, 8GB)
The second-generation iPod Touch includes features that are light-years ahead of the competition, its design has improved, and its price has finally come down to earth.
Price: $214.00 - $239.99 (check prices)
Review date: Sep 11, 2008
Outstanding
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Cowon A3 (60GB)
The Cowon A3 portable video player is a fantastic value when judged on the merits of its file support and integrated video-recording capabilities. If you've got nimble fingers and an eclectic assortment of audio and video formats, the Cowon A3 should be at the top of your list.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Jan 25, 2008
Very good
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Cowon O2 (8GB, white)
The Cowon O2 isn't flashy, but it's an incredible value for a convenient way to take your video library on the go without the hassle of converting files.
Price: $179.95 - $189.99 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 30, 2008
Very good
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Archos 5 (60GB)
The Archos 5 boasts an improved screen size, image resolution, and sound quality over its predecessor, but its Web browser and Flash media playback are disappointing for a product marketed on the strength of its Internet media capabilities.
Price: $269.00 - $349.99 (check prices)
Review date: Sep 25, 2008
Very good
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Samsung P3 (32GB, black)
The Samsung P3 is an excellent multimedia device that packs a grand amount of features into an impressively compact package with one of the best screens available. Plus, it sounds superb, making this a top contender for audio enthusiasts.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: Apr 7, 2009
Excellent
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Cowon S9 (16GB)
The Cowon S9 is a sexy-looking gadget with exceptional audio and video quality, but its construction quality and user interface pale in comparison to the competition.
Price: $200.99 - $205.99 (check prices)
Review date: Jan 20, 2009
Very good
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