Best MP3 players that use AAA batteries

MP3 players powered by replaceable AAA batteries may seem archaic compared with the rechargeable models most of us use, but many people seek them out. For instance, if you're traveling to some remote corner of the globe (or a weekend camping trip), it's often much easier to come by a AAA battery than a USB charging station--especially if you stock up ahead of time.

Despite what you'd think, there's also an ecological argument to make for MP3 players powered by AAA batteries. The rechargeable batteries included in most MP3 players are not designed to be user-replaceable and they will eventually wear out. An MP3 player with a replaceable battery can theoretically last a lifetime, and there's nothing preventing you from using an off-the-shelf rechargeable AAA battery to further lessen your impact on the environment.

The following are our favorite AAA-powered MP3 players that strike a balance between battery life, usability, features, format support, and sound quality. The Creative Zen Nano Plus, in particular, is one of the best players on this list and the closest you can get to an inexpensive, battery-powered audio Swiss Army Knife. Unfortunately, the product is being phased out by the manufacturer, so grab one while you can.