The Best Portable CD Players
Back in the day, there were no downloads, no streaming services, and no way of sampling songs prior to their release. Back then, you had to buy the entire album and hear it for the first time along with everyone else. Although times have changed, and those anxious midnight releases are a thing of the past, one thing that’s endured the test of time is the portable CD player. You can still enjoy those CDs, new and old, and experience them how they were truly meant to be listened to. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best portable CD players available today.
What to Look For
We wanted to find the best of the best, so we scoured the market with three main questions to guide us: Does it have a portable, compact build for convenient on-the-go listening? Does it produce high-quality audio? Does it have any modern features like Bluetooth and radio? Our favorite came from GPX since this simple and affordable option offers user-friendly controls and a lightweight build. But if you want a truly modern device, we recommend paying a bit more for the Bluetooth-ready player from Roadom. There’s a lot to consider, so let’s dive right in.
GPX PC332B Portable CD Player
Tune in
With the look and feel of an original Sony Discman, this portable CD player from GPX takes it to the next level with a built-in FM radio and black stereo earbuds. Adding to the appeal is the fact that it’s much more lightweight than its predecessor and comes with anti-skip protection. So dust off those old CDs, or go buy some new ones and listen to them the way they were meant to be heard.
Pros:
- The built-in FM radio works nicely without the need for a long or obtrusive antenna.
- The anti-skip protection isn’t a gimmick; it actually works.
- The included set of earbuds makes sure you can start listening right after setup.
Cons:
- The lightweight design sacrifices a bit of durability.
ROADOM KC809 Wall CD Player
Get with the times
This portable CD player has been given the ultimate upgrade and a complete makeover. Equipped to play all your compact discs, it also features a wide array of other functions. It’s Bluetooth-compatible and features a USB port, SD card slot, and mounting screws for hanging it on the wall. If that isn’t enough, it also has an FM radio, Hi-Fi speakers, and remote control, making this portable CD player (yes, it is indeed portable) one of the most versatile on the market.
Pros:
- The built-in speakers sound surprisingly crisp and clear, eliminating the need for headphones when you’re listening around the house.
- The stylish look and mountable design make this a fashion statement as much as a functional CD player.
- This is a great option for those that want a CD player for meditation or relaxing listening, especially since the remote control and Bluetooth let you control it from a distance.
Cons:
- With so many features, this pick might prove to be a little less user-friendly for those that want just the basics.
HOTT CD511 Portable CD Player
Providing a high-quality Bluetooth connection, this portable CD player from Hott is the perfect companion for any road trip. Actually, it’s the perfect companion for any kind of travel. So whether you’re commuting or just traveling through your daydreams, the Hott CD player will bring the tunes. Also, if the terrain gets a little rocky, the player comes equipped with anti-shock protection. And with the aforementioned Bluetooth capability, you can connect to speakers throughout your home.
Pros:
- Although it has somewhat of a more old-school style, the modern features like Bluetooth connectivity add convenience and compatibility with our latest tech.
- This is a great choice for road trips since the slim and discreet size doesn’t take up too much space in a travel bag. It also has anti-shock protection that reduces the chances of jittery playback during travel across bumpy terrain.
Cons:
- The Bluetooth isn’t compatible with certain systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of buying a portable CD player in this day and age?
There are several. You can listen to your new and old CDs wherever you like. Plus, these current portable CD players have adapted to modern times. With a USB cable, you can download your favorite CDs onto a computer without affecting that original CD sound. Also, a good majority of current players have Bluetooth capability, so whether you’re in the car or at home, you can connect to nearby Bluetooth speakers. Some of these portable players even have a built-in speaker, can be mounted on your wall, come with a remote, and have an operational FM radio.
Why not just use a streaming service?
There are several reasons some folks don’t like using streaming services. Some people don’t want to pay the monthly fees; others protest the monopoly that major streaming services have over artists’ content, while others don’t want their CD collections to go to waste. Plus, CDs have a unique sound that’s amplified once you put on your headphones. It’s raw, it’s original, and it can’t be captured on a steaming service.
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.