MP3 players with Wi-Fi connectivity

We've come a long way since the 5GB iPod. Today, you can find pocket-size video players, MP3 players with tiny flash drives offering up to 32GB capacities, even digital audio players built into sunglasses. But one of the most advanced features you can find in today's MP3 players is wireless capability. This is generally split into two categories: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is the subject here, and the devices that incorporate it represent the cutting edge in MP3 players.

Although every device listed here incorporates 802.11b/g connectivity, not all of them use this functionality in the same way. For an unmatched Web browsing experience, we have the Apple iPod touch--its touchscreen is perfect for the task. You can also download apps, stream Internet radio, and purchase songs from the iTunes music store. The Archos 5 offers a similar experience, but adds compatibility with video download sites such as Cinema Now for true on-the-go visual entertainment.

Then there's the Sony X-Series Walkman, which includes a direct YouTube connection for video content. Taking a different track is the Creative Zen X-Fi, which lets you hop on any Wi-Fi signal in order to access a centralized content library (it also throws in chat capability for good measure).

Click here for a feature comparison table.

	1.	Cowon Q5W (60GB)   CNET Asia rating: 7 out of 10 The good: Boasts robust video features; high-quality audio playback; includes a Wi-Fi-enabled Internet browser; Bluetooth audio streaming; component and composite video output; MSN Messenger; built-in speakers. The bad: Heavy; expensive; awkward to navigate; difficult to configure for wireless Internet. The bottom line: The Cowon Q5W aims to do everything a gadget-aholic may want in a portable video player. Unfortunately, its confusing dual interface and high price hold it back from greatness. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	2.	Archos 5 (250GB)   CNET Asia rating: 7 out of 10 The good: Large, high-resolution touch-screen display; Wi-Fi; music playback, photos, Flash video and game compatibility; PDF reader; Mac and PC compatibility; built-in speaker; integrated kickstand; optional DVR, GPS, and 3G capabilities. The bad: Requires a proprietary USB cable for charging and transferring content; glossy design is quickly marred with fingerprints; older Archos accessories are incompatible; some applications are still in beta, and you'll need to pay extra to activate many of the player's more desirable features. The bottom line: The Archos 5 boasts an improved screen size, image resolution, and sound quality over its predecessor, but its Web browser and Flash media playback are disappointing for a product marketed on the strength of its Internet media capabilities. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	3.	Creative Zen X-Fi (32GB; Wi-Fi)       CNET Asia rating: 7.7 out of 10 The good: Incredible value given its low price and laundry list of features; an FM radio and voice recorder; an SD card expansion slot; Wi-Fi capability; multiple EQ settings; X-Fi sound enhancement technology; bundled EP-830 earphones; top-notch sound quality; good screen and battery life. The bad: Plastic construction does not feel high-quality; SD card content does not get integrated into the general libraries; videos need to be transcoded through the included software; button pad can be confusing at first. The bottom line: The Creative Zen X-Fi's plastic design leaves a little to be desired, but that doesn't detract from the fact that the player is an incredible value overall: For an extremely competitive price you get a boatload of features and great sound quality. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	4.	Apple iPod touch (32GB; second generation)          CNET Asia rating: 9 out of 10 The good: Has it all: Music, videos, photos, podcasts, email, Web browsing, Internet radio, games, Nike+, Wi-Fi music downloads, and an App Store for adding thousands of custom features. The bad: May be overwhelming to users looking for a simple music player; audio quality is average; iTunes software is required. The bottom line: The second-generation iPod touch includes features that are light-years ahead of the competition, its design has improved, and its price has finally come down to earth. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	5.	Sony NWZ-X1050 (16GB)   CNET Asia rating: 7.5 out of 10 The good: Excellent touchscreen; OLED display looks brilliant; good sound quality; noise cancelling mode; physical buttons for main functions; Wi-Fi. The bad: Noise cancelling works only with supplied in-ear headphones; Internet browser is slow; text input can get cumbersome with phone-style entry; album art browsing is useful only if your music collection contains album art. The bottom line: Sony's new offering has a brilliant display, good sound quality and an immense feature set. What's not to like? Review | See full specs | Rate this