The prospect of buying an MP3 Player can be daunting. MP3 players have flooded the market in recent years, leaving consumers faced with a vast and bewildering selection to choose from.

The most popular MP3 players are those in the Apple ipod range, and for most users their sleek design, simple operation and compatibility with the infamous itunes store prove to be irresistible. For many audiophiles and bargain hunters however, ipods are seen as more of an overpriced fashion statement than high quality audio devices.

For those prepared to do their research, there are a number of other MP3 players on the market which offer higher specifications for less money, and often you will find cheap MP3 players with functions above and beyond Apple's offerings. Sites like Moneysupermarket.com can then be used to compare prices from a number of retailers, ensuring you get the best deal on your chosen MP3 player.

Here are a few things to look for:

Supported formats:
Despite being widely known as 'MP3 players' not all audio files are MP3's. Other popular formats include WMA, OGG, WAV, MID & AAC. AAC is in fact the native format of iTunes music, perhaps better know as .M4A.

Storage:
MP3 players house either HDD or SSD storage. HDD is capable of providing the highest storage capacity, whilst SSD enables longer battery life. It is also worth noting that HDD storage features moving components, so such devices should not be used whilst exercising.

Screen size & Aesthetics:
Whilst an MP3 player is first and foremost designed to play music, manufacturers are battling to bring out the biggest screens

Radio facility:
With the advent of DAB, having a radio facility can provide a wide selection of fresh high definition music. Few devices have this, but its one to look out for.

Recording capability:
Some MP3 players have a recording facility, and this can be very useful either as a Dictaphone for students, or a simple recording device for budding musicians