Memorex TouchMP

Memorex's latest MP3 player, the TouchMP, may just put the company back in the portable game. Priced at $99 (8GB), the TouchMP offers a decent assortment of features and one killer hook: a touch-screen interface.

A slim volume rocker switch graces the left edge of the TouchMP, while the right edge bears the power switch and home button. While holding the player with one hand, we found it was difficult not to accidentally squeeze the menu button while adjusting volume--but a two-hand grip solves the problem.

The bottom of the Memorex TouchMP includes a headphone jack, and a door that conceals the player's USB port and microSD card slot.

Measuring 4 inches long, 2.25 inches wide, and just under a half-inch thick, the TouchMP feels right at home in your hand or pocket.

For a touch-screen MP3 player (or anything with a touch screen, really) interface design is crucial. The TouchMP isn't going to be mistaken for an iPhone anytime soon, but Memorex does a surprisingly good job keeping the onscreen interface simple, legible, and intuitive.

The Memorex TouchMP covers most of the bases for portable media players, offering music, photos, videos, radio, voice memos, and audiobook playback.

The TouchMP is the best MP3 player we've seen out of Memorex, and strikes a good balance of price, design, and features. That said, unless you're drawn to the novelty of its touch-screen interface, there are better values to be had under $100.