Apple iPod killers 2005

We know what you're thinking: Why mention the iPod in the same breath as digital audio players from Archos, and Creative when the iPod doesn't even play the WMA format?

Well, the iPod and its would-be killers are MP3 players first and foremost. More important, the iPod, in all variations, holds a 68 percent share of the Australian MP3 player market. In other words, it's the dominant MP3 player, which makes it by default public enemy numero uno for other MP3 companies, as well as the throngs of anti-iPodders.

The only misleading aspect of this piece is that not all the players represented can actually kill the iPod. Perhaps the supercompact Sony Network Walkman NW-HD5 with its sweet sound and stupendous battery life can dethrone the iPod.

Archos's Gmini XS202 offers a Spartan set of features, but the 20GB device is a bona fide bargain. What about the Archos Gmini 402, the spectacular portable video player that's the same size as the iPod? Finally, those interested in watching video on a bigger and badder screen without having to add too much bulk should look at the Creative Zen Vision.

Sony Network Walkman NW-HD5 Read review If you want a slick alternative to the iPod, then the NW-HD5 is a stellar choice. Claimed battery life: 40 hours Memory Capacity: 20 GB Supported formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, ATRAC3 Dimensions: 57 x 15 x 89 mm Weight: 136 grams Archos Gmini XS202 Read review Although identical in appearance to the Archos Gmini XS200, the still-economical XS202 offers better features under the hood. Claimed battery life:17 hours Memory Capacity: 20 GB Supported formats: MP3, WAV, WMA, WMA DRM Dimensions: 59 x 19 x 76 mm Weight: 120 grams Archos Gmini 402 Read review Archos's supercompact Gmini 402 portable video player adds DRM-protected media to its long list of features. Claimed battery life:10 hours Memory Capacity: 20 GB Supported formats: WMA DRM, WMA, WAV, ADPCM, MP3 Dimensions: 107 x 61 x 18 mm Weight: 159 grams Creative Zen Vision Read review The Creative Zen Vision, a dazzling but occasionally frustrating personal media player, handles video and music with aplomb, all for a tantalisingly low price. Claimed battery life:4.5 hours of video playback Memory Capacity: 30 GB Supported formats: MP3, WAV, WMA, DivX, MPEG-4, WMV, XviD, JPEG, TIFF Dimensions: 74.4 x 124.2 x 20.1 mm Weight: 239 grams