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About MP3/MP4 players
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What was a MP3/MP4 player?
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What MP3/MP4 players are available?
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What do you need to look for when buying a MP3/MP4 player?
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Power supply for MP3/MP4 players
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FAQs: The most common questions about MP3/MP4 players
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Bottom line: Find the right MP3/MP4 player
What was a MP3/MP4 player?
MP3/MP4 players are mobile audio or multimedia players designed primarily for playback of the MP3 audio file format. In addition, many MP3/MP4 players support additional audio and video file formats and can often display images. The files are usually transferred via USB from the laptop or desktop PC to the mobile device. Some devices also allow wireless data transfer via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
What MP3/MP4 players are available?
MP3 stick (USB)
These MP3 players are similar to the smaller USB sticks, which are usually used as mobile data storage devices. However, MP3 sticks also have a display, a headphone output, various control elements and their own power supply. Audio files can be transferred to the MP3 player without cables by connecting the stick directly to the corresponding interface of a laptop or desktop PC.
MP3 player
Conventional MP3 players differ only slightly from MP3 sticks in terms of functionality. However, the audio files are transferred from the PC to the mobile device via the provided USB cable.
MP4 player
MP4 players have a color display and can play videos and pictures in addition to audio files. They are therefore also referred to as multimedia players. Often additional functions can be used – for example small games, notes and voice recording or FM radio.
What do you need to be aware of when purchasing an MP3/MP4 player?
Technical specifications for MP3/MP4 players
- Memory capacity (can be extended partly via memory card)
- Compatibility with various file formats
- Power supply and battery power
Additional functions of the MP3/MP4 player
- FM radio
- Pedometers
- Video playback
- Voice recording (microphone)
Display of the MP3/MP4 player
- Size of the display
- Display resolution
- Touch display
Practical advice
The next generation of MP3/MP4 players rely on wireless data transfer via NFC (Near Field Communication) and Bluetooth. With NFC, for example, data can be transferred from another NFC-enabled device (e.g. Smartphone, tablet, laptop) to the MP3/MP4 player. The audio signal can be sent wirelessly via Bluetooth to a Bluetooth headset or to a portable Bluetooth speaker.
Power supply for MP3/MP4 players
Most MP3/MP4 players are powered by a built-in lithium polymer battery, which typically lasts more than 10 hours. If the battery is empty, it can be charged easily via the supplied cable at any USB interface (laptop, desktop PC). Usually, a corresponding USB power supply is also included in the delivery.
Older models – especially USB sticks – work in battery mode. This usually involves either a single AAA battery, which can be replaced if required, or a rechargeable AAA battery.
FAQs: The most common questions about MP3/MP4 players
What does the abbreviation MP3 stand for?
MP3 is a method for compressing digital audio data. The name refers to the corresponding file extension and stands for MPEG-1 Audio Layer III or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III. The development of the file format was a revolution in mobile music enjoyment: For the first time around the turn of the millennium mobile audio playback devices were offered that did not require physical data carriers such as cassette or audio CD. The music could be stored directly on the playback device.
What does the abbreviation MP4 stand for?
MP4 is a video container format developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) that supports multimedia content. MP4 files can include video and audio tracks, 3D graphics, 2D graphics, and subtitles.
Note: Not all so-called MP4 players can actually play MP4 files. It is well worth looking at the supported video formats.
What was the cost of an MP3 player?
Simple MP3 players and MP3 sticks are now very affordable: Almost all models cost significantly less than 100 euros. Devices in the lower price segment (under 50 euros) are also generally suitable for everyday use and long-lasting.
What was the cost of an MP4 player?
Some multimedia players are now sold for less than 100 euros. However, potential customers should first consult the manufacturer's product information on the technical specifications. For example, a relatively large display with a high resolution is an advantage for satisfactory video playback. For this, a powerful rechargeable battery has to be installed. All of this, of course, ultimately affects the price.
Bottom line: Find the right MP3/MP4 player
If you are looking for a device for the musical background of your sporting activities (cycling, running, etc.), you will usually decide for a conventional MP3 player or MP3 stick. Relevant criteria are the low weight and size, the robust design and the comparatively low price.
MP4 players or multimedia players are always used when videos and pictures are to be played along with different audio file formats. As a result, the devices are often larger and usually more expensive than conventional MP3 players.