Before I even start this review I need to make a quick disclaimer: "the Zune HD is my second PMP, with the original 30GB Zune being my first. I selected the Zune over the iPod simply because of my disdain for iTunes, and I have to say i've yet to regret that decision."
- Why the Zune HD has trumped any other PMP on the Market(specifically the iPod Touch)
+ Design: it's simply the best built PMP on the planet. It's sleek in design and not overwhelming in size. Microsoft got it absolutely right this time.
+ Portability: The idea of portability for the Zune HD is simple. It's small enough and packed with so many features it makes it the most portable PMP on the
market.
+ Software: What's a PMP good for without stellar software to connect it with. Zune Software 4.0 is simply the best music software out there. It's organization
it 10 times ahead of iTunes 9, and it's not a computer hog. Zune Marketplace and Zune Pass just make it that much better.
+ Sound: The Zune line has always boasted stellar sound quality, and the Zune HD is no different. Music just sounds better while listening to a Zune HD over an
iPod Touch. It helps that it features HD Radio as a Nice perk as well.
+ Touch Screen/OLED: When the iPhone/iPod Touch was released it was the pinnacle of touch screen hardware. Developing the Multi-Touch feature was genious on
Apple's part. The Zune HD takes that technology and takes it the next step. It's the most responsive touch screen i've ever used(Nintendo DS is close), and
the Multi-touch is exceptional. Then to make the screen and OLED screen is just drool worthy. One word; AMAZING!!
+ Ease of Use/Layout: The area I find that i've enjoyed the most is the fact you know how to use this PMP from the get go. It's so straightforward it can be
unreal. There is no explanation involved. I used to think the iPod Touch layout was the way to go, but after using the Zune HD i'm sold.
+ Style: In some ways style goes a long with layout or even design, but if you let your Zune HD sit there and just watch it. I think you will understand why it
trumps any other PMP on the market in pure style.
- Areas the Zune HD can hopefully improve with updated firmware downloads
+ APPS: The Zune HD has an app section in the Marketplace, however, it is only populate by a handful. Now the Zune HD is relatively new to the market, and it
will take time for this to fill up. I think it is necessary on Microsofts part to make sure this is accessible for developers.
+ Internet: The Zune HD comes with the nifty little browser, however, it's hampered by no flash or silverlight support which makes it lack a lot of video
support. Hopefully with future firmware's this will be changed for the better.
+ Exposure: The Zune HD has a huge hill to climb if it really wants to threaten Apple's stranglehold on this market, but with the right exposure/advertising this
product is more capable than any other competitor. Not only is the Zune HD a threat to the iPod Touch, it's the real king and hopefully it will claim the
thrown where it belongs before to long.
This product review is quite simple. If you have been longing for a true alternative to the iPod Touch/iTunes, then wait no longer. The Zune HD is quite honestly the best PMP you will place your hands on. You will not regret this decision I promise you. To summarize this product review: Zune HD - Welcome to the TOP!!
| Brand Name | Microsoft |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.6 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 5.51 x 3.44 x 1.78 inches |
| Item model number | EHD-00001 |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Polymer batteries required. |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | Yes |
| Power Source Type | Battery Powered |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Wireless Comm Standard | 802.11b/g |
| Operating System | PC |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Model number | EHD-00001 |
