I was on the market for a new MP3 player, but I didn’t want to spend tons of money on something from Apple. I was just going to be using it at the gym, and sometimes at work, so it didn’t need to be fancy. I checked BestBuy.com and looked through the reviews to narrow down a few choices, but waited till I went to the store to make my final decision.
I wanted something small, easy to navigate, and something that would hold at least 8GB. I wanted something where I could add my music through “dragging and dropping,” but it wouldn’t be a deal breaker. I was willing to spend $60, but was searching for something cheaper.
While in the store, I was drawn to the SanDisk Sansa Clip+, mostly because of the price. It was on sale for $34.99, definitely on the lower end of my pricing spectrum, which was fine by me. But what I didn’t like was that it was only 4GB. I had seen some 8GB online around $60, but none in the store. Then I noticed that the Sansa Clip+ had a MicroSD slot, and I happened to have a spare 8GB MicroSD at home leftover from a phone, so I was sold. I chose the black model and headed home to set it up.
Out of the box, it had nearly a full charge. Included was the MP3 player, a pair of ear buds (which actually stay in my ears, rare), USB cable, owner’s manual and set-up guide with CD, and a voucher for 35 free songs from Rhapsody. It was very easy to set up, just plug into my computer using the provided USB cord. To my surprise, I was able to add my songs by “dragging and dropping!” Also very handy, when connected to my computer, I can view both the internal and MicroSD memory in separate folders, but without having to remove the MicroSD card and add songs to that separately.
I added my music, then began exploring the Sansa and checking out its features. The sound quality is great, and the menus are very easy to navigate through. It comes equipped with a built-in FM radio tuner, which works well. Radio stations came in crystal clear. Also, it has a microphone built-in to record voice, and can also record radio clips. The battery life is great. I’ve had this MP3 player for almost two weeks and have only charged it once. The device itself is tiny, just over half an inch thick and slightly over two inches tall. It weights practically nothing and easily slips into your pocket or purse. I like that it has a built-in clip on the back, so I don’t need an arm band to use it for exercising or running.
If you don’t have much of a personal music library, SanDisk sells MicroSD cards preloaded with music called slotRadio cards. Each card has 1000 pre-programmed songs arranged into playlists, so you insert the card and you’re ready for listening.
I have yet to come across any cons. The only thing that might turn people away is the small LCD screen, but it’s not an issue for me. All the information I need appears on screen when I need it, and the bright colors against a black background make it easy to see.
So for a great price, and with a little modification, I got more than I had hoped for- a 12GB MP3 player for a mere $34.99. I definitely recommend this MP3 player for anyone who doesn’t need anything fancy, just something inexpensive and durable that will play music.
Author: Maggie Thistleton works at Sunglass Warehouse, mixing organic marketing and fashion, while helping people find the best discount sunglasses. Off the clock, she enjoys experimenting with healthy new recipes, red wine, and absolutely anything to do with orangutans.