When it comes to portable music players, there are two names that stand out from the rest: iPod and Zune. Both devices have their own strengths and weaknesses, but which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the difference between Zune and iPod, so you can decide which one is best for your needs.
What is Zune?
Zune is a digital media player created by Microsoft. It was first released in 2006 and was discontinued in 2011. The Zune software was used to manage music, video, and podcasts on the device. It also allowed users to sync their media files with their computers. The Zune hardware included a small screen, a hard drive for storing media files, and a wireless connection for syncing with the Zune software. The device was available in several different colors and was compatible with many different types of headphones and speakers. Despite its features, the Zune failed to gain traction in the marketplace and was ultimately discontinued.
What is iPod?
The iPod is a portable media player developed and marketed by Apple Inc. The first version was released on October 23, 2001, about 8 1/2 months after the Macintosh version of iTunes was released. As of July 27, 2017, more than 450 million iPods have been sold worldwide. Its (“it’s” means “it is”controversial) design changed the way we hear music by making over 1,000 songs fit in our pockets. Unlike CDs or cassettes, the iPod let us easily create our own custom playlists of favorite songs (“favorite” is spelled with a “u” in Canadian English).
Difference between Zune and iPod
Although the Zune and iPod both function as portable media players, there are several key differences between the two devices. Perhaps the most notable difference is that the Zune has a built-in FM radio, while the iPod does not. The Zune also offers a larger range of storage options, with models available that can hold up to 80 GB of music, video, and other files. In terms of video playback, the Zune supports WMV and H.264 formats, while the iPod only supports MPEG-4. Finally, the Zune comes with a built-in wireless networking feature that allows users to share songs and other media with other Zune owners.
Conclusion
Although the Zune and iPod share some similarities, there are several key differences that may make one more appealing to you than the other. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Do some research on each product and decide which features are most important to you before making a purchase decision.