If you’re looking for a cheap alternative to Apple’s iPod then the Samsung U5 may be the perfect MP3 player for you. At only $39.99, the Samsung U5 offers 2GB of storage space, an FM radio, an integrated USB stick and an above average voice recorder. One of the Samsung U5’s major set backs is the fact that it has a tiny 1-inch screen. However, the Samsung U5 still works as a great substitute for your iPhone when working out at the gym.
Design
The Samsung U5 measures 0.5 inches thick, 0.9 inches wide, and 3.5 inches long. A four way directional pad can be used to navigate between songs and control volume at one end of the Samsung U5. At the other end you will find a USB port with a small removable cap. A 1-inch, four line, OLED display is located in the middle of the Samsung U5 which gives it an unfortunate resemblance to a pregnancy test. The Samsung U5 distinguishes itself from other mini-MP3 players through its on screen animated characters know as Popcon. After booting up the Samsung U5 for the first time you’ll be able to choose from 11 of these miniature characters. The Samsung U5 comes with a pair of bundled white ear buds and an acrylic belt clip. The ear buds are attached to a generous 4 foot cable and their sound quality is comparable to iPod headphones.
Features
The Samsung U5 provides listeners with menu options for an FM radio, voice recorder, fitness partner, song selection, and data casts. Songs can be sorted on the Samsung U5 by artist, album, playlist, or individual song. The Samsung U5 supports MP3’s, WMA, OGG, and FLAC file types. The Samsung U5 does not support audiobooks or AAC files types that are used for iTunes. The Samsung U5’s FM radio provides both manual and automatic presets and an FM-recording function. The most unique feature of the Samsung U5 is with out a doubt its fitness application that allows you to track weight loss and fitness goals.
Performance
The audio performance of the Samsung U5 is far above average compared to most similarly priced MP3 players. The sound performance on this unit can be attributed to Samsung’s PNSe 3.0 sound enhancement technology. One of the most impressive facts about the Samsung U5 is its 20 hour battery life that’s listed. However, this 20 hour battery life seems to be much closer to 15 hours which is still quite impressive. Still, this battery life is higher than what you’ll get out of the Sansa Clip or Sony B-Series MP3 players, but fails to beat out the Phillips GoGear Spark with a 27 hour battery life. For only $39.99, the Samsung U5 is a great buy for anyone that needs a cheap MP3 player when working out at the gym.
