When you’re looking for a device that lets you be a musician and perhaps also watch videos while you’re on the go, the hardest thing is most likely figuring out which to buy. There are so many different digital media player models available that it’s simple to get confused. Then there’s also the question of whether you want an MP3, MP4 or MP5 player. And what’s the difference between them anyway?

MP3 players have been in existence for quite some time now, so you have probably used one at some point, or played MP3 music files on your computer or cellphone. MP3 is a file format for audio files, which could also be played on media devices designed for later file formats. Portable Audio players continue to be very popular, and are available as standalone devices or incorporated in cell phones, laptops and tablets, and even sunglasses, headsets, watches, pendants and many other items.

Like several media players, portable MP3 devices are provided with various storage capacities. The tiniest versions come with a memory chip, while there are models that let you store your whole music collection of, say, 30 gigabytes, with an internal hard disk. However, a tiny 1GB player has room for 500 tracks, plus some of your favorite photos too.

MP4 is also a file format, properly named MPEG-4 Part 14, and is employed for storing and playing videos. An MP4 player is thus a significant upgrade in the previous version as it can play not just audio files but also movies and videos. In addition, most models will even play files in other formats for example AVI, WMA and WAV.

The LCD screen is usually larger than on an MP3 player, for that obvious reason why you need to be in a position to view videos comfortably. A lot of MP4 multimedia players sold these days also let you play games, pay attention to FM radio and read ebooks, in addition to taking photos and shooting video with an onboard DV camera. Some also allow you to upload a number of external apps for a truly multifunctional experience.

Now that you may also buy MP5 players you may be wondering what the specs are and be it worth getting one. Something you should know is the fact that there isn’t any MP5 file format – it’s just a trade name which is used by Chinese manufacturers to show that these tend to be more advanced than MP4 players. You’ll also see some products sold as MP4/5 players – a few of these are simply MP4 devices with a few extra features, while others are in fact “true” MP5 players.

The overall definition of an MP5 media player is one that supports a wide range of video and audio file types. This means the consumer doesn’t have to transform the file to an easily playable format, the way in which he would having a previous-generation player if he wish to play something recorded in RM, RMVB, Divx, 3GP, ASF, DAF, FLAC or APE, for instance. As there is no official definition, it certainly is a good idea to check the exact product specification before you buy, however. Many MP5s do pack in many other extras such as enhanced sound quality, though, so you’ll likely be amazed at how much you get for the money.

Whichever type of portable media player you opt for, make certain you’ve considered your needs first. Should you would like to have the ability to listen to music while you go jogging or work in the yard, a little MP3 player that clips onto your belt or hangs around your neck might be ideal. However, if you like the thought of watching movies, reading or doing offers while you are on the train or just relaxing in your own home, you will need an MP4 or MP5 player. Remember that they all include earphones, and that most may also be connected to external speakers, to allow them to truly be used in a number of situations.