Top-Notch Hi-Res MP3 Players 2025: Premium Portable Audio Devices for Every Wallet, Meticulously Reviewed by Our Specialists
Hey there! So you want to know about the best MP3 players available today? Well, buckle up! These devices have evolved far beyond your basic music player. They're now high-resolution audio players, featuring advanced digital-to-analog converters (DACs) for exceptional sound quality. Many come with Wi-Fi connectivity, letting you combine the best of both worlds - your local library and streaming access on the go.
Here's our guide to the best MP3 players of 2025. Every model in this guide has been tested by our team of expert audio enthusiasts, using our rigorous testing protocols to ensure they deliver where it counts - in sound quality, features, and everyday usability.
Modern MP3 players support a wide range of hi-res audio formats like FLAC, DSD, WAV, MQA, and ALAC. Whether you're streaming from services like Apple Music, Qobuz, or Tidal or loading up your favorite albums manually, these devices ensure you're getting the best possible audio experience. Most pair beautifully with the best wired headphones or best wired earbuds, and many also support Bluetooth for use with the best wireless headphones or earbuds.
MP3 players have undergone significant changes in recent years. For example, Astell & Kern has just launched a new model with a docking system we're hoping to test very soon. With nearly two decades of combined reviewing experience behind us, you can trust that if a player appears here, it's been thoroughly vetted - and if it doesn't pass the test, it doesn't make the list.
The quick list
Want to cut the lengthy explanations and just find out which digital audio players are the best? Here they are! You can also jump to a full review of each product, and click through to see the best deals on it.
- Activo P1 - Best overall
- Our expert review: This device delivers high-quality sound for a mid-range price, making it a top choice for most users. With the same amplification and ESS ES9219Q SABRE Dual-DAC as more expensive players, it performs like an A&K device for a fraction of the cost.
- FiiO JM21 - Best entry-level model
- Our expert review: Despite its affordable price, the FiiO JM21 delivers a confident sound, premium build, and features beyond expectations for an entry-level device. It's a great choice for those on a budget.
- A&norma SR35 - Best step-up model
- Our expert review: This stunning little A&K player is worth every penny if you can afford it. With impressive sound quality and high-end features, it's the perfect choice for those willing to invest in their audio experience.
- Fiio M23 - Best-priced elite player
- Our expert review: This high-end choice offers the best delicate yet muscular sound quality for the money. Although it's a bit big for your skinny jeans pocket, it's a great choice if you're looking for high-end sound without splashing out on expensive options.
- Sony NW-A306 - Best budget Sony buy
- Our expert review: This Sony player quickly became our go-to best option for value for money, thanks to its ability to support seriously high-end formats. It's an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Meet the team
Everyone on our team has years of experience testing the latest tech. But our audio tech team are particularly interested in the best headphones, best speakers, and best MP3 players. With decades of combined experience, our audio experts know exactly what to look for from the best MP3 players. They've put each and every device through rigorous testing and, importantly, know a great deal about the audio tech space to add much-needed context - which is essential when we're telling you why to buy one product over another.
Becky Scarrott is the Audio Editor at our platform and leads our platform's coverage of everything to do with audio and hi-fi. Before joining our platform, she spent more than three years at What Hi-Fi?, where she tested the latest audio technology, from budget-friendly earbuds to premium sound systems. Becky also holds an MA in journalism.
Matt Bolton is the Managing Editor for Entertainment at our platform. This means he oversees our platform's content on movies, TV shows, televisions, soundbars, headphones, and speakers. Matt has more than ten years of experience in tech journalism and joined our platform after being the editor at T3 magazine. His writing and reviews have also appeared in various publications, such as MacLife, PC Gamer, Digital Camera World, Edge, PC Plus, and MacFormat, among others.
Simon Lucas has spent almost 20 years writing about technology as a freelance journalist, with a particular focus on audio and video gear for the home. Simon was also the editor of What Hi-Fi? magazine and whathifi.com. His writing and tech reviews have also appeared in publications such as Wired, Metro, the Guardian, HiFi+, GQ, and others.
Tom Bedford was the Deputy Phones Editor at our platform until late 2022, having worked his way up from staff writer. Now working for What To Watch, he still has a special interest in audio tech, including headphones and MP3 players.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Pairing one of the best MP3 players with the best wired headphones creates the ultimate portable music experience, which is perfect for road trips or high-fidelity listening on-the-move. But how do you choose the right one for you?A: Choose a player that matches your audio preferences and budget. Consider factors like sound quality, compatibility with hi-res audio formats, battery life, and portability. Always test devices before purchasing to ensure they meet your expectations.
Q: Is an MP3 player worth buying?A: If you value high-quality audio and portability, an MP3 player can be a worthwhile investment. Keep in mind that prices range from budget-friendly to high-end, so choosing the right device for your needs is essential.
Q: Is MP3 quality as good as CD?A: Modern MP3 players support hi-res audio formats, providing quality that surpasses CD audio. If you prioritize sound quality, consider devices that support hi-res formats like FLAC, DSD, WAV, MQA, and ALAC.
Q: Are hi-res audio players worth it?A: Yes, hi-res audio players provide a superior listening experience compared to standard MP3 players. If sound quality is important to you, consider investing in a hi-res audio player.
Q: What's the best way to get hi-res music files?A: To get hi-res music files, consider purchasing albums from online stores like Qobuz, Hi-Res Audio for PC, and HudsonMusic. Some streaming services like Tidal also offer hi-res audio content.
Q: What's DSD audio - and is it good?A: DSD (Direct Stream Digital) is a lossless audio format used for high-resolution audio. It's known for its natural, spacious, and smooth sound. If you're an audiophile seeking the highest-quality audio, DSD music files may be worth investigating.
Q: Can I listen to hi-res music players wirelessly?A: Many hi-res audio players offer both wired and wireless connectivity options. However, for the best possible sound quality, connecting your player to wired headphones is always recommended.
Q: Will listening with wired vs wireless headphones make a difference when listening to hi-res audio?A: Wired headphones typically provide a more stable connection, resulting in better sound quality compared to wireless headphones. If you value the highest-quality audio, opt for wired headphones.
Q: What kind of storage do hi-res audio players use, and how much do I need?A: Hi-res audio players use internal memory and/or expandable storage (such as microSD cards) for storing music files. Aim for at least 64GB of internal storage and consider adding additional storage through microSD cards if needed.
Q: Why do people still use MP3 players?A: Despite the rise of streaming services, many people continue to use MP3 players for their portability, offline access to music, and better control over their audio library. Additionally, some users prefer the higher-quality sound provided by hi-res audio players.
Q: What's the highest quality way to listen to music?A: To get the best possible sound quality, use a hi-res audio player with high-quality wired headphones and digital-to-analog converters (DACs). Play audio files in lossless formats like FLAC, DSD, or MQA for the best listening experience.
Q: What music players do audiophiles use?A: Audiophiles often opt for hi-res audio players from brands like Astell & Kern, Sony, FiiO, and HiBy. These players offer superior sound quality, extensive feature sets, and support for various hi-res audio formats.
Q: What's the difference between balanced and unbalanced output on hi-res players?A: Balanced output (XLR connector) is designed to reduce electronic noise and improve the overall sound quality by carrying a full-range signal with a differential voltage. Unbalanced output (RCA or 3.5mm connector) carries the audio signal using a single wire and can be more susceptible to noise. Balanced output is typically found in high-end audio equipment but may not be necessary for everyday use with budget devices.
[1] https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/sony-nw-a306-review[4] https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/astell-kern-anorma-sr35-review[5] https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/hi-by-r4-player-review
- The Activo P1, our top pick for the best overall MP3 player, delivers high-quality sound at a moderately priced range, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive players.
- Despite its budget-friendly price, the FiiO JM21 stands out as the best entry-level model, delivering a confident sound, premium build, and features that surpass expectations for an affordable device.
- For those seeking a high-end audio experience at an affordable price, the Fiio M23 offers an exceptional blend of delicate yet muscular sound quality, making it a great choice for those wanting high-end performance without breaking the bank.
