ipod touch or zune 80? tell me your opinions. please

First off, the Zune isn't some puzzle like this guy claims it to be. It's rather easy to use. Plus, I doubt this guy even considered that the Zune 80 was coming out which will have a touch pad control system.

Now, I don't even understand how the iPod touch can even be considered practical. Sure, the screen is nice, but let's get our facts straight. It's lowest memory player is 8GB and that costs a whopping $300. The Zune 80 is 80GB and costs $250. Why would you shoot yourself in the foot just to get a fancy screen and capabilities better suited for a laptop. Plus, on the commute, I don't a wifi web browser and online music store downloads would be very useful. You're going to be using most of the time at home where you're better off with a computer that, you know, actually can run flash. Plus, you said that you have an iPod video. So I assume that you have a large music library. If so, then have fun carrying that around a low-capacity iPod touch.

Now, with the Zune 80, you have wifi syncing. Meaning that you can sync your music library with the player wirelessly. So, if you keep your computer on all the time, you can simply walk into your house and
have all your new content right onto your player. And remember that Microsoft is revamping the Zune software (both on the player and computer) so not only will you have access to more video codecs, but expect podcast support and a simpler interface.

So I say the Zune, mainly because it doesn't make sense to pay so much for such little memory. If that were not the case, the I'd say the iPod touch. But, oh well Apple.

Plus, on the commute, I *doubt* a wifi web browser and online music store downloads would be very useful. You're going to be using *those features* most of the time at home where you're better off with a computer that, you know, *can* actually run flash. Plus, you said that you have an iPod video. So I assume that you have a large music library. If so, then have fun carrying that around a low-capacity iPod touch.

like a Shuffle. I use it when I know I will need Wi-Fi, and I use the Video when I want to watch some of my movies on a trip or something. Call me a fanboy if you want, but I use stuff that works. Practical? Maybe not for some people, but for me, 16GB is plenty for all of my top music and a movie or two while "on-the-go".

The Zune is a dud. Microsoft entered an already dominated market. If you're not going with the Touch, wait for the Samsung YP-P2 which is going to have Bluetooth and some better features (in my opinion) than the Zune. Archos has some excellent stuff if you want high capacity players and quality, which rivals the Touch in many ways. I'd get one of those if I didn't have a Touch.

The iTMS is handy to take with you and web browsing can be useful in several ways. Flash isn't always needed for websites, like maybe... CNET?, and 16GB isn't that low. Get a Classic over the Zune if you are bent on 80GB though. Same price, better quality .

@Freeway: Maybe you haven't used Windows and OS X as much as I have, but when it comes down to it, Apple has always had the better quality products. I will admit that I'm a big 360 fan, but have you not heard of the three red rings and all of the hardware failures? Come on, the original Xbox never did this to most people. Microsoft is going to be overwhelmed be Apple in the next few years anyway . Fanboy... I'll try to take that as a complement even though it's an insult. I use both Macs and PCs everyday, and I feel that HP is the number one PC manufacturer. Your remarks need to have some more thought to them. I have experience in my comments, and I would hope you do too, though your profile says nothing about your expertise.
-BMF

yeah..i just cant decide if i want the auto sync with alot of memory or the web browser that MIGHT come in hand..ahh.. well i got till Christmas to decide.. thanks alot guys.

before the SDK goes out and a larger flash drive Touch will be around. Then I'll be upset for being an early adopter, "sniff". LOL, I'm happy with the 16GB right now.

If only Notes, Mail, editing iCal, and the good stuff were already available from Apple... then they would be approved to work correctly and everyone would quite complaining about their lacking all over the web.
Not too long of a wait though.
-BMF

Whoa, whoa...

First off, what's with this attack on the Zune's quality? I'm sorry, but the Zune has an excellent build quality. I've never heard of one person online or otherwise complain of hardware failures specific to the Zune. The only things I hear of are HDD failures which have afflicted the iPod since its release. It's COMPLETELY unfair to assume that based on a different product made by the company. Second, Apple doesn't make reliable hardware either. They make pretty hardware. Should I cite the condensation problem with Macs, or how about the dark screens of some iPod touches, or how about the lag issues with the iPod classic? I'm sorry to break it to you, but Apple isn't a messiah company. It's just like any other company. And there's no way in hell that their monopoly of the mp3 market means that they make the best mp3 players. They just make the most popular ones. And they're popular because they're sexy and attractive, and for no other reason. They don't make better products by any stretch of the imagination.

Seriously, to say that the iPods are the best option is the dumbest thing I've heard since the last thing Bush said.

Third, there is no reason at all to compare the 80GB Classic to the Zune 80. With the firmware revision, the Zune blows the Classic out of the water. Not only does the Zune have wifi capabilities, FM radio, more video codec support, and a larger screen, but it will have an improved interface, a nice touch pad control system, and an attractive and slimmer design. The Classic can't even compete. What will the Classic have that puts it above the Zune? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! Oh, and might I add that the Zune 80 will include premium headphones. That means that the music you listen to will actually sound as good as it's supposed to. And that's unlike the included iPod headphones which are plain crap and break down pretty quickly (quality you say).

Fourth, I'm not an active participant of this forum because I'm more interested in gaming blogs and such. So don't assess my expertise based on my cnet profile; I haven't even touched it. But I visit cnet everyday as part of a daily regimen. I've read the reviews on pretty much EVERY new mp3 player released since the video iPod first came out. So I know what I'm talking about, as opposed to you who only uses Apple products. I use Windows since I have it installed on my laptop and I use the iMac at school whenever I get the chance (the only computers with Firefox). So I know more than you think I know. And I know a LOT about both iPods and non-iPods. In fact, I've had 3 iPods in the past and am totally looking away from them in the future. iTunes never gets my album art right nor does it visually stun me. And BTW, I've owned a Creative Zen Nano, Samsung YH-840, Sony PSP, Mobiblu Cube, and have some pretty good experience with the Zune and Sandisk e200 series.

Fifth, 16GB is actually pretty low. Maybe for you, it's not that small. But for people who want the highest bit rate for their music and want to watch high quality video (especially full-length movies which take about a gig), 16GB will evaporate in no time. You're MUCH better off with 80GB. And flash is actually pretty important for an enjoyable internet experience. On my PSP, it was a nightmare.

Really, I'm surprised that you have a 360. Same here. And yes, as a gaming forum blogger, the RROD is very familiar to me, especially since I just got it a few days ago. Is it poor build quality? Yes. But MS is rectifying the situation with the recently released 65nm chips, the 3yr warranty, and free repair services. It's a total inconvenience, but it's better waiting a month for my 360 than waiting until next for the PS3 and Wii to get some good games. Plus, I'm a Halo 3 addict.

At least you're speaking my language with the Archos and P2. I'm considering the P2 because of it's broad codec support (which separates it from the Touch) and intriguing touch screen. But it comes in a max of 8GB at the same price of Zune 80. The Archos too is at a premium price. But hey, it can run flash, has 160 GB of memory, broad codec support, a touch screen, and good old Archos audiophile sound quality. I'm not sure if you if it's worth the price, but you sure do get a lot and it smashes the iPod touch.

why are you writing essays man?
anyway there as some cons of the Zune I must point out, some will not apply to the Zune 80, well find out when it comes out;
Proprietary Software
No Mass Storage support
practically useless WiFi
advertised as a PVP but: only plays WMV, and screen is low res/ low color

Proprietary software:
Yes, the Zune does have that. But so does the iPod. Plus, MS is revamping the Zune software both on the player and the computer. So it won't be as bad as you think.

No mass storage support:
Yeah, this is something I would like the Zune to have. Here's to hope that MS makes it a reality.

Practically useless wifi:
Um, the Zune 80, as well as the original Zune (with the firmware update) will have the ability to wirelessly sync files of any sort with a PC. So if you keep your PC on all the time, and set your software to update podcasts and such, then it actually WILL be a useful feature.

Only plays WMV:
With the new firmware, ANY Zune will support WMV, MPEG-4, and H.264. So the Zune truly WILL be the PMP it claims to be.

"Proprietary software:
Yes, the Zune does have that. But so does the iPod." either way I don't like it, and I don't think new software will make it much better. Even though I don't like either, I'd rather go with the iPod because at least iTunes works much better and has more content.

so I might be wrong about the WiFi, but it still doesn't let you run content through it like the Sansa Connect/ Archos 605Wifi/ iPod Touch and never mind web browser (605/Touch) (though I won't hold that against it because it costs less anyway)

new video codecs, ok that's a good thing but still no Xvid DivX like a good PMP should and once again the Zune 80 screen seems just as unimpressive but only a tad bigger

also I just wanted to point out from your other post that Archos audio quality is good but not audiophile. iAudio = audiophile (here's hoping X7 comes soon) and Archos = videophile

It's seriously unfair to make a judgment on the software without seeing it for yourself first. Plus, MS is COMPLETELY remaking it. You should check it out on gadget blogs.

True that you can't buy music via the wifi, but that is pretty useless on it's own anyway since you need to be in a wifi hotspot. With the Zune's wifi, you use the PC's wifi and not the internet. So you can be anywhere.

Yes, but the iPod is limited to just MPEG-4 and H.264. Plus, those are pretty obscure formats and I doubt an average user would ever need them.

My bad with the audiophile comment. Too many things at once in my head.

Here's my take:

I've never had any problems with iPods. The few times where my iPods have failed to work appropriately were when my XP machine quit running iTunes correctly and screwed up everything! After I switched to Mac, Hallelujah! I have a 360, the greatest gaming console in the world, and I'm quite fond of it and the games on it. I have a PSP, freeway, and I hate the gaming quality on it and everything else about it really. It was my primary MP3 player before I had bought an iPod Video. I was thankful for the change.

Now Jon here has made a good point: each player has its own problems. From the looks of it, freeway, you're trying to cut me down for promoting the use of Apple products because I've had better experience with them. I do not feel the Zune is as great as you said it is. That's my opinion. But you decided to take what I said and spin it around to say that the Zune is superior to the iPod. Jon points out a few flaws and with your last post, you are attempting to DEFEND the Zune. Interesting turn of things... LOL. The Zune is good in its own right, but it can't compete with the Touch and the iPhone even though it can beat the Classic as you say.

The Zune's Wi-Fi can be used through a PC's Wi-Fi allowing you to go anywhere... that is the dumbest thing I've heard. Suppose you take your laptop to Starbucks or some place with Wi-Fi. Your laptop can hop on it, allowing the Zune on it. Right? Problem with this! The Touch and the iPhone can already hop on those anyway since they have Wi-Fi too. No PC or laptop required! A PC needs to have Wi-Fi from a Wi-Fi network or hotspot to get a connection. The Touch and iPhone have built-in Wi-Fi, allowing them to bypass the PC to Zune measure.

Format-wise, it depends on the user. Me, I import CDs with iTunes and I occasionally download a few songs from them. I have no problem here. Handbrake does my DVD stuff for me, and voila! my iPod is a walking entertainment center. The Zune isn't even Mac compatible as far as I'm concerned. What's up with that? That may make it hard to convince the growing legions of us Mac people.

Does my essay compete with yours now? LOL. Freeway, the iPod has flaws but so does everything else. For you to think I call Apple the Messiah company and to introduce some politics here is offending! I'm insulted by this. The Zune is still a dud and may be until MS does something good about it. I've had good luck with iPods and I'm going to stand by them for that. If you like MS more, good for you.
-BMF

yeah i agree.. i have had a mini and i got the video when it first came out.. it is about 2 years old now and it is beautiful. it works really well i just feel like i need something new.. i guess you could kind of say im just scared to go and buy something that isn't apple. i mean i own a gateway laptop and an emachines desktop but i hate HATE windows media player and i love i tunes. so i am just scared to make the jump to ms. plus i think i would use the wi-fi more then i would use the so called wi fi on the zune.. i could see myself checking my email or facebook before i try and trade songs with my friends.. oh wait none of my friends have a zune.. ahh

an account, I would think. Switching to a new service isn't too good if you have been on another with multiple locked purchases (unless you like iTunes Plus ). Of course, you can unlock all of the stuff, but it is too time consuming and worthless. If you have a Mini and a Video, you might as well as keep using iTunes, and not load up your PCs with another software batch for the Zune. iTunes barely worked on my XP machines, which are ancient now, but they work fine on Macs (go figure). Adding a modded WMP 11 to your PCs isn't too helpful either.

The Touch has good Wi-Fi, so long as you have a network, and I'm impressed with mine. If you want to go for it, go for it. Your decision.
-BMF

I'm sorry that this discussion had to take a more negative tone, but you are saying things that aren't even true.

First off, the Zune DOES work. I realize that there is a negative mentality against the Zune (proof: you), but the Zune is actually a very capable player. The Zune 80 will have a renovated design and capabilities that put it way above the iPod Classic. The Classic doesn't even have an FM tuner. *** Steve Jobs!? I don't even understand how you can say that your claims are true. You have absolutely NO experience with the Zune (I'm sorry, but using your friend's one time does not count). I realize that the iPods work. But that gives you NO logical platform on which to say that the Zunes don't. That sort of logic is mind-bogglingly stupid.

Second, why would you even compare the Zune to the iPod touch or iPhone? The former is not even in the same price range (which automatically invalidates the argument) and the latter is a different product altogether (which means the same thing). I don't know about you, but I'm trying to make a fair argument here. And comparing the equally-priced Zune 80 and iPod Classic (80GB) is the only fair argument. And if a verdict was to be reached, the Zune 80 wins. It has more features by far and works just as well.

Third, you're confusing yourself with the wifi capabilities of the players we're discussing. I wasn't taking about whether a PC was needed. I was talking about whether an internet connection was needed. That being said, a Zune can WIRELESSLY SYNC with a PC. Here, you don't need an internet connection. The Zune simply communicates with the PC since both have wifi modules. It works the exact same way when you wirelessly connect your PSP with someone else's. That can be done anywhere as long as you are in range of one another. No internet connection is needed. Therefore, you don't need to be stationary or in any particular location (i.e. a wifi hotspot). Think about it this way: instead of using a proprietary cable to sync the Zune, you use wifi. With the iPod touch or iPhone, their wifi capabilities are internet-based. Notice how they're called the ONLINE music store and a wifi WEB browser. Here, you need to be within the vicinity of a hotspot. Therefore, it eliminates the mobility inherent to a portable device. If you're going to be staying in one place to download music or surf the net, at least do it right with a laptop.

That argument aside, I'm not saying that wireless sync is a more robust feature, but it's an awesome feature that puts the Zune that much higher above the iPod Classic.

Fourth, stop bringing up the 360. Unless you allot your discussion of the console to a separate paragraph, as far as I'm concerned, you're changing the subject. You're entire first paragraph has nothing to do with the Zune vs iPod argument.

Fifth, I'm sorry, but Windows controls 90% of the market. Apple only controls 8%. So the fact that the Zune is only compatible on PC's won't upset a whole lot of people. Plus, if you have a Mac, then you might as well stick by the iPod. As a owner of three iPods, they are a sound device. But if you're a PC owner, then there's no reason not to try the Zune. iTunes is cumbersome on a PC and the Zune software was MADE for the PC.

My conclusion to the guy who posted this question:

If you own a Mac, then look away from the Zune and buy an iPod. Plain and simple. But if you're a PC owner, then the Zune is a GREAT option. As a person who actually has the the Zune software downloaded on his computer, the Zune software simply takes your iTunes music and transfers it. The Zune has more codec support, features, and a larger screen. And the new Zune 80 will have a design that rivals the iPod. As a person who has actual experience with the Zune, it works and it works well.

BeatleMegaFan,

Look, I understand that you own a Mac. Good for you. Obviously, the iPod will be the best option for YOU. But you have ZERO experience with the Zune. You can't just call the Zune a dud. A dud is a product that doesn't work and makes no economic sense. But the Zune is a strong rival to the iPod for a PC owner. And I'm defending the Zune because you're making biased attacks against it. Notice that I've never expressed one opinion unless it was based upon a fact. The iPods are nice and you are justified for liking them. But there's no need to reject the viability of the Zune just because it isn't your player of choice. Just stop being biased. Just because it's made by Microsoft does not mean that you have to hate it.

And BMX, if you decide to go with the touch, then realize that you are paying MORE for it and that comparing the two is unfair. If you get the touch, then get the 16GB. But realize that it costs $400. Suddenly, an $250 80GB Zune (that has some pretty nice features) isn't so bad in comparison.

Look at the TITLE! Only a moron would ask that. The original poster was asking for opinion on the Zune 80 and the Touch. Why else would I compare them? And the stationary Wi-Fi comment was based on how you presented your last post. I know it can wirelessly sync with a PC.
Then your last statements are regarding both the Zune and the Touch and you use the word "COMPARISON", so what are you, a hypocrite? I can't stand hypocritical people who make the dumbest statements. You show yourself to be that way, yet you have an in-depth knowledge of the MP3 world, so I know this isn't true. And now you decide on using profanity to describe other people and their comments. How low do some people go? I originally posted here to offer my opinion on the Touch. I do not want to trash the Zune, but I related my experience with them. I've also gone to stores and have attempted to use them, and they do not function to the best of their abilities either.

I do not see a point to argue with you. I presented my case and you attack it and claim I'm wrong. I based all of my statements from all of my experience, and I assume you attempted to as well. And I own several more PCs than Macs. I have what, 2 Macs that I enjoy, compared to 5 PCs that work most of the time. I used to use 2 of them for music and videos.

I was only saying things that I felt were relevant to the discussion. I made references and whatnot to other stuff, so what is your deal? Stop attacking me. The original poster just said he has made up his mind now. Don't use profanity and attacks to try to convince people that you're right. Poor choice. Respect your fellow posters.

Anyway: again, the Touch is good if you already use iTunes and you want an iPhone-like player. The Touch is as close as you can get without going online and getting the Onda Honey player from China. If you are a heavy PC user who does not like Apple or iTunes so much, try the Zune. You've nothing to lose.
I apologize to all others who have had to read this stuff.
-BMF

it runs very fast for me. Even when I'm on networks other than my own, the quality is superb. I'm impressed with the YouTube app. It runs better than many wireless laptops when they are watching YouTube stuff. Seriously. But, maybe I got a gifted Touch and all the others have horrible speeds.
At least mine works right. Your call. You know, I don't use XP much, but a Zune would be interesting to have, with all the MS compatibility and all. I'd still consider the YP-P2 or the 605 Wi-Fi if you had to choose one.
-BMF

Look,

I first made my opinion about the Zune and why he should choose it over the touch. Clear and simple.

But then you went ahead and called it a "dud" and that the Zune would not even compete. I'm sorry, but you were the first to start this whole comparison malarkey.

And from a personal standpoint, bias is MUCH lower than profanity.

This is how I saw it. I didn't say anyone had to agree with me. Anyway, to MS, it could be considered a dud. It hasn't sold too many compared to other devices. That doesn't mean it sucks. In fact, the Zune is quite a capable player. It just can't compete with the other stuff because it hasn't gotten there yet. Emphasis on the "YET".

We can leave it at that. Really, the Classic would be beat by the Zune 80. No argument. I'm an Apple person and I can admit that. Touch and iPhone are in a different category, but to have to choose between them really comes down to the options of touch screens and storage.

I didn't start this. I wouldn't want to either. It looked like you took what I said and reversed it just to start an argument. There's no point to this. And by the way, I was the first to reply here and I gave my opinion. I called it a dud because sales haven't been up too much. And again, this thread's question has apparently concluded, so why do you insist on continuing this debate here? I don't care if other people like Zunes. Diversity is good. Where is the point to this? I agree with you that the Zune is okay. So what are you doing?

-BMF

i understand they arnt in the same class.. or the price and all that other stuff but those are the two players i was interested in. i do not want the ipod classic cause i think that is just the video with more memory. so yeah im sorry for mixing the two classes? but i am going to get one of them and i just wanted to know which was best.. no need to get all upset about why yours is better. as long as you know it is. then thats that. hence that is why it is your opinion. but i really appreciate all of the responses that were givin.. thanks alot guys.

Let us know what your finally decide on.

(Just a side note - on my friend's dad's touch it took 5.89 minuted to load the new york times home page and then about 1.09 seconds to navigate around. )

about 6 minutes to load the news page? Mine doesn't take that long. Usually, connection makes a difference, but lately, I've been having good experiences and browsing with my Touch. Of course it can't match a laptop or desktop, but it's okay.

Bmx, no need to feel bad about mixing the classes of the MP3 players. People ask stuff all the time. Even when considering just a new iPod, some people ask is the Nano is better than the Classic, etc. However, every topic needs a healthy discussion, though this one seems to be getting a bit heated. Oh well.

Good luck on picking out something.
-BMF

It's definitely more than okay, but whatever, I can't change your mind. And BTW, the Zune has met MS's expectations, especially for a 1st gen player.

Anyway, (and I'm saying this to BMX) just remember that the new firmware update for the Zune will be changing quite a lot. Not only will the interface receive a face lift, but you'll get more audio and video codec support than any iPod can give you. The Zune 80 will sport a glass screen and will have some other nice features to boot (i.e. an FM tuner and wireless sync/sharing). It may not be as radical as the touch, but it does stack up pretty well when you consider price and practicality.

It really all depends on what you want. If you want something totally new, something you'll treat more like a toy (I don't mean to sound derogatory), and something that you'd rather have fun with instead of serving as your main PMP, then get the touch. But if you want something new, yet familiar, need a large capacity, and would treat as your main PMP, get the Zune.

They're in different classes so it's difficult to determine which is better. The iPod touch may have more radical features, but it serves a different audience than someone who would rather buy a Zune. The touch is more for fun while the Zune is more for getting things done.

There, I gave you a rhyme.

Though I may not have hinted it. I may like to see the new firmware update myself. I knew the features of the Zune, but talking about it makes me want to test it out. I doubt that I may ever get one, considering my ever-growing iPod collection, but hey, it's worth trying.

I hope this doesn't sound bad, but... this is what I was trying to get at. And you said it perfectly freeway. I agree. Nice rhyme, though I can get my own things done with Touch, but like you said, different crowds tend to do their own things. I do mine with iPods, which makes them fun for me.

Everyone's happy it looks like. Glad we could come to an agreement.
-BMF

yeah i am interested to see the new interface and such on the zune.. but to be honest.. i really wanna get the touch so i can flash it in peoples face.. (then probably get it stolen) but still .. i like the visual appeal much more on the touch.. plus i still love the internet web browsing.. if the zune had that.. it would be a no brain er to get the zune.. maybe 3rd gen?

Of course when it does come out to replace the Zune 80, then perhaps you should try it. MS would be stupid not to add it in somehow. I love the Wi-Fi capabilities on the Touch. Just like Steve and the Starbucks guys said, if you hear a good song, you can go ahead and download it. Well, I think that's a plus. The iTMS on the Touch is just great for me.

The Zune has yet to make it big. Until iTunes was available to Windows people and USB people, the iPod wasn't that popular. Maybe MS should branch out to Mac, make their programs work on Mac, and put some new innovative feature here. They have the disadvantage of being last to the MP3 market compared to Apple. If the Zune wants to be the best and wants to sell the most, it has to have something that no one else or Apple has implemented into their players. That doesn't mean it sucks right now, but it just hasn't appealed to as many people yet . Well, I'll look forward to the day it does and I'll wonder just how long it'll take.
-BMF