Portable CD Players

How to Choose and Buy a Portable CD Player

Here are some hints and tips about some of the things to consider when choosing and buying a portable CD player:

Features

Check the product descriptions carefully to ensure that the personal CD player that you are considering has all the features that you want. Here are some of the features that you may want to look for:

MP3 File Compatibility: The ability to play MP3 files will open up a whole new way of listening to music, and you will be able to store an amount of songs which will dwarf the standard 75 minutes of music of a regular CD album.
CD-R and CD-W Compatibility: If you are likely to want to play CD-Rs and CD-RWs as well as standard CDs, make sure that the product description of the model that you are considering states that it can play these.
Bass Boost: If you are a fan of bass, then look for a model of portable CD player with this handy function
Anti-shock Protection: Also sometimes called an anti-jog feature, this will ensure that your personal CD player won’t skip if you knock it.. This will help to protect your CD from scratches and damages, and ensure that your listening pleasure isn’t affected on a bumpy journey. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to listen to their personal CD player whilst driving or exercising.
Remote Control: Many models of personal CD player now have remote controls, which are attached to the headphones, so you can change the track that you’re listening to or turn the volume up and down without having to remove your CD player from your rucksack or bag.

Accessories

Headphones: All personal CD players will come with a set of headphones, but you’ll get what you pay for. If you buy a cheap CD player, and are planning to use it a lot, it may be worth investing in a quality set of headphones. Even if you are happy with the headphones provided with your CD player, you might want to buy a spare set in case your original headphones get damaged or lost.
Carry Cases: Some personal CD players come with protective sleeves or carry cases to stop them becoming scratched or damaged. If the model that you’re buying doesn’t, then it’s worth ordering one at the same time. If you are planning to take your personal CD player to the gym, or use it when jogging, it’s worth looking for a model that comes with a belt to keep it secure.
Car Kits: If you plan to use your portable CD player in the car, then look for a model that comes with a car kit, or make sure that you buy a car kit at the same time, so that you can start enjoying your CD player as soon as it arrives.

Cost

With all purchases you make, it’s wise to set a budget and stick to it. Nowadays portable CD players are widely available very cheaply, but it’s still worth shopping around online, as you may be able to get a bargain. Check out our Where to Buy pages for details of some of the leading online retailers.

Warranty

Check the product description of any model that you are considering to make sure that you are happy with the terms of the manufacturer’s guarantee, as the warranty length can vary depending on the brand and model that you choose.

Further Information

For details of some of the leading brands and models of personal CD player available, visit our Brands section and our Top Models page.

To find out where you can get some great deals on personal CD players by shopping online, visit our Where to Buy section.