How to Compare Zune and iPod MP3 Players
Apple's iPod and Microsoft's Zune are both portable media players capable of supporting the playback of audio and videos, but they differ widely when it comes to design, file support and other technical specifications. You can compare the iPod and the Zune to discover which portable player is best for you and your lifestyle.
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Instructions
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Check which operating systems work with the devices. The Apple iPod supports both Windows and Mac operating systems because its supporting software, iTunes, functions on both platforms. The Zune's software only runs on PCs with Windows. If you're a Mac user, this quickly rules out the Zune unless you're willing to install Windows on your Mac using the Mac's Boot Camp feature or by running a simulation program.
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Review the devices' storage capacity. The best device should be large enough to hold all your music. Apple's iPods hold anywhere from 2GB to 160GB, which Apple says can handle 500 to 40,000 songs, respectively. The Zune holds 8GB to 120GB, which Microsoft says is enough for 2,000 to 30,000 songs, respectively.
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Compare the weight of the devices. This makes a difference for people who need the lightest and most mobile device, such as runners or frequent travelers. The lightest iPod weighs 0.38 ounces and the heaviest iPod weighs 4.05 ounces. The lightest Zune weighs 1.7 ounces and the heaviest Zune weighs 4.5 ounces.
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Look for what types of digital files the devices support. If the device requires a different file type than what you're using, you'll have to convert your entire music collection. For music, the iPod supports MP3s, AACs and WAVs. The Zune can handle these files, plus WMAs.
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Contact the Microsoft Zune customer support line toll-free at 877-438-9863 or the Apple iPod customer service line at 800-275-2273 if you have any further questions about the iPod or Zune's technical specifications.
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