Why You Can Trust CNET SanDisk Sansa e200 series (mp3 players)
The memory maker is going prime time with its feature-packed Sansa e200 series, which includes the world's first 6GB flash player.
Memory goliath SanDisk continues its assault on the flash-based MP3 player market with the CES launch of the flagship Sansa e200 series and the budget-class Sansa c100 series. The e200 series represents a departure from previous Sansa players, thanks to a higher-quality form factor and a bushel of cutting-edge features. The SanDisk Sansa e200 comes in 4GB ($250) and 2GB ($200) varieties, as well as the flagship 6GB version, which is notable, as it's the highest-capacity flash-based player in the world. The players, which are physically much more polished than SanDisk models of the past but come with price tags to match, will be available in March.
Upside: The thin and sharp-looking SanDisk Sansa e200 measures 3.5 by 1.7 by 0.5 inches and has a maximum capacity of 6GB. It boasts a photo- and video-friendly 1.8-inch color screen, as well as a colorful and organic icon-based graphical interface. In addition, the player has a durable body, including a titanium back cover that resists scratches--unlike its similarly priced iPod Nano competitor--and a user-removable rechargeable battery. Other cool features include a Micro SD expansion slot, slide-show functionality, an FM tuner with FM recording, a universal-connector slot for future accessories, and compatibility with WMA subscription services. In short, the tiny player seems to be able to do it all.
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Downside: So far, we haven't been able to pinpoint any downsides, except for the fact that the 6GB player costs as much as a 30GB 5G iPod. Also, the device is quite long; at 3.5 inches, it's half an inch bigger than the SanDisk Sansa m200 series.
Outlook: Look out, iPod Nano and other high-end flash players--SanDisk, which can be aggressive with its prices, thanks to its advantageous place in the memory business, is coming out with some attractive WMA weapons. Although the new players aren't as competitively priced as its older players, the Sansa e200 series helps SanDisk make the jump from the budget class to the more high-profile luxury class.