by Christian Hill

Created on: October 28, 2009

When considering what to get that special someone or family member for the holidays, consider going with the most up to date technology craze there is - MP3 players. While most are perfectly capable of handling basic functions, one stands head and shoulders above the rest. The Apple iPod is the pinnacle of mp3 players, both because of the sheer size of the hard drives and the options that are available on the different sizes.

The third-generation model has received only a slight update, adding features like voice control, Genius Mixes and faster processor speeds for the 32 GB and 64 GB players. The iPod touch looks the same, and the new model has the same slim design and 3.5-inch touch screen as its predecessor. Experts say the interface is intuitive and easy to use, and other touch-screen MP3 players can't match the iPod when it comes to apps - the iTunes store boasts more than 75,000 individual apps for the iPod touch and iPhone.

Microsoft finally has a worthy competitor to the iPod touch. Although more experts prefer the touch overall, the Microsoft Zune HD is a great alternative for those who don't want an iPod or to be tied to iTunes. The Zune HD includes a 3.3-inch OLED touch screen and sleek design, and reviewers say the display is gorgeous, although it is susceptible to glare and reflections. Most critics say the touch screen is more responsive than that on the iPod touch, and sound quality is comparable between the two. The Zune HD also gets high marks for its HD radio. Where the Zune HD lags behind the iPod touch is web browsing and apps - Microsoft's mobile web browser is slow to load pages and the Zune HD has only a handful of apps, compared to the 75,000 available for the iPod touch.

Depending on your taste and which features you're looking for, both the Apple iPod line and Microsoft Zune provide ample choices for the upcoming holiday season. However, because Apple has been on the market for much longer one must notice that all of the other companies designs have begun to mirror the stylish iPod's looks, menu and feature designs and accessories. Hopefully this holiday season will be stress free in thanks to your research into the different types of MP3 players that will assure you that you've purchased the correct product for everyones needs.

Learn more about this author, Christian Hill.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.