It seems the Zune and iPod are destined to constantly try to one-up each other. The 30 GB Zune is Microsoft’s first attempt at getting a piece of the MP3 player market. The Zune is a solid player with an easy to use and understand interface and integrates almost flawlessly with the online Zune Marketplace.

The Zune has a 3 inch widescreen, 30 BG of storage, FM radio and Wi-Fi capabilities. The Wi-Fi and Fm radio are to features that make it distinctly different from the iPod heavyweight. By using the Wi-Fi you can transfer songs in your library to other Zunes in the area. However, there is a limit on sharing. Songs are restricted to a three plays or three days rule. After three days or three plays on the device the song is automatically deleted.

Everyone seems to enjoy the large display screen and the device design is less prone to scratches and fingerprints. Users and critics have found the format restrictions frustrating. The Zune will play unprotected MP3, usually ripped from CDs or downloaded from services like Limewire, and WMA songs downloaded from the Marketplace; however, it is incompatible with other WMA services with copy write protections like Rhapsody, Wal-Mart and Napster. Additionally, the video options in the Marketplace are limited to some podcasts and music videos. There are no movies in the Marketplace and the device is not currently compatible with services like Amazon Unbox.

Microsoft is well on its way to become an iPod market share contender. The device is easy to use and excellent for novices just looking to upload their CD collections.