Microsoft Zune 120GB (third generation)

Anyone besides me remember when MP3 players first came out? I remember paying almost $300 for a slightly large MP3 player (can’t remember the brand) that only had 512M of memory! Compare that with today where you can get the Microsoft Zune (third generation) with a whopping 120GB for around the same price, maybe a little cheaper.

So, exactly how big is 120GB? For those non-geeks out there, here’s another way to put it. 120GB will equal Up to 30,000 songs, 25,000 pictures, or 375 hours of video. Yes, that’s a lot of content. The price for this unit is a little higher, but with that much storage, you’re sure to be using it for years to come. (Or at least until the newest MP3 player comes out. )

The third generation Zune from Microsoft also now has support for games and audiobooks. It’s also kept all the other great features that make the Zune an iPod contender – FM radio capability, WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.

The large (for an MP3 player) 3.2-inch glass LCD makes sure you can see your videos clearly, even if someone is looking over your shoulder trying to see.

Another cool feature is that if you’re listing to the FM radio and hear a song you like, you can tag it so that when you sync the MP3 player to your computer later, you can easily purchase the song you tagged.

In their quest to topple the iPod from the top of the charts, Microsoft has concentrated on the software experience in the third generation Zune. And it seems to have paid off.

As with the second generation 80G model, the Microsoft Zune 120GB measures 4.3 inches high by 2.4 inches wide by 0.5 inch deep.

However you look at it, if you’re looking for a top end MP3 player or an alternative to the iPod, the Microsoft Zune should be on your list.