The SanDisk Sansa Express MP3 player is a good device to consider given its great sound, direct USB connection and small size. This inexpensive flash memory player comes in 1GB or 2GB sizes and appears as a USB flash drive. It plugs directly to your computer through a USB port--great for those who don't want to worry about carrying a USB cable--and the memory of the Express is expandable via a microSD card slot.

This MP3 player has nice looks, with its sleek mirrored front side and silvered back. External side controls are simple in nature with volume, power/menu and hold buttons. The primary control is a combo choice selection/navigation button. While this makes for nice, convenient control placement larger fingers will have a hard time using this. On-screen menu navigation also takes some getting used to.

The OLED display screen we found to be bright, helping to see what is playing under different lighting conditions. This is not a color display, however--album artwork and digital photos lovers might think about another player.

The Express is typical of Windows-focused MP3 players, using Windows Media Player to load and delete files. You can also drag and drop files directly much like you would any other flash drive. This player supports standard MP3/WMA music files as well as protected-WMAs distributed by many online subscription services. Support for the Audible audiobook format is also included.

Listening quality on the Express was solid with or without the built-in equalizer, even at higher volumes. The included earbuds however were substandard and it's definitely recommended you use your own. Other on-board features include FM listening/recording and voice recording. We found the FM picked up stations within range much like your typical FM radio. FM recording testing found playback quality at a good level. We also found the voice recording good, with the added feature that you can transfer your recordings onto your computer via drag and drop.

We found the Sansa Express to be a exemplary MP3 player considering the features for the price. You should consider this player if you are shopping in the under $100 range.

Pros: Nice sound, well priced, direct USB connection
Cons: Low quality earbuds, non-color display, small combo navigation/selection button

Warranty
1 year, limited