The cheapest portable mp3 player is definitely obtainable for all. Today, it isn't surprising to find out that most of us are thinking about our budget when it comes to electronics. There are so many choices of good quality portable MP3 players that can be found at much cheaper than retail costs.

With an MP3 player, a consumer can create personalized music lists and carry thousands of their favorite songs wherever they go. Some people use the term iPod when referring to an MP3 player. But an iPod is Apple's version and isn't the cheapest MP3 player on the market. But with newer models coming out all the time, it is possible to find a used iPod at a discount.

An MP3 player is no more than a data-storage device with an embedded software application that allows users to transfer MP3 files to the player.

The MP3 player, in some cases, weighs less than one ounce. Portability is a large factor in the popularity of the MP3, considering the ease of transportation in comparison to a CD player. In addition, some devices provide additional technology, like video and photo viewing, alarm and calendar functions, and even cell phone and Internet service.

MP3 players come in as much variety as ice cream flavors. How you plan on using your player should help you figure out which of those bells and whistles you want and how much you can afford. The cheapest portable MP3 player can be yours but remember to consider which extras you can live without.

All portable MP3 players are battery operated. Most have a lithium battery that is rechargeable and can last between 10-28 hours. A lot of players come with AC adapters to be plugged into a home outlet and some have DC for cars.

Types of basic models of MP3 players include:

The flash memory is the smallest and lightest MP3 player. This would store fewer songs than a hard drive but is very portable. Due to the fact that it has no moving parts, it's ideal to use while exercising. Some have up to 8 GB which allows up to 2,000 songs.

The hard drive and mini hard drive MP3 players are usually larger than flash memory models. They do have more storage if memory is a concern.

For those looking for a player that can contain their entire music collection (up to 20,000 songs), photographs, data, and video and allow podcast recording, the hard drive is best. (The Apple iPod has models with 80GB).

You can find the cheapest portable MP3 players at deep discounts through auction sites such as eBay and by comparison shopping at one of the online pricing sites.