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Best for MP3 downloads
- DRM-free files
- Full albums available
- Quirky search feature
- No subscription service
Introduced in 2007, AmazonMP3 is one of the newer music services on the market, but its library has grown rapidly and is now on par with all of its major competitors. Jamie Lendino of PCMag.com says, "By combining low prices, broad selection, smart integration with iTunes and Windows Media Player, and the sweet, sweet freedom from DRM, AmazonMP3 is a solid destination for digital music." Critics note that AmazonMP3 still has some kinks to work out -- chief among them the usability of the search feature -- but most appreciate the fact that Amazon's tracks and albums are reasonably priced and DRM-free, offering users the most flexibility with their purchases.
PCMag.com offers a very good overview of the pros and cons of AmazonMP3's music service. A shorter write-up at About.com leads to a longer, more detailed review outlining the reasons that site guide Mark Harris considers AmazonMP3 one of the best music services available. TopTenReviews.com and Digital Trends provide more direct comparisons of AmazonMP3 to the competition.
Our Sources
PCMag.com's Jamie Lendino gives a thorough review of the pros and cons of AmazonMP3, which is now a top contender against Napster and iTunes. Lendino likes the universal compatibility of the MP3 format sold on the site and the fact that tracks and albums can be purchased without having to buy a subscription. He says AmazonMP3 is somewhat weak in its search capabilities and the suggestions for other music based on previous purchases are limited.
Review: AmazonMP3 (Winter 2009), Jamie Lendino, Feb. 25, 2009
Editors at TopTenReviews.com rate AmazonMP3 in terms of selection, features and customer support. The review has a wealth of useful information, including screenshots. AmazonMP3 scores well, following closely behind top services Napster and iTunes.
Review: AmazonMP3 Review, Editors of TopTenReviews.com
In this update of an older article, reviewer Chris Nickson says that in many cases there's not a great deal of difference between major sites' music libraries, so his ratings criteria are more about interface and copyright policies. His overall favorite of the seven music download sites covered here is newcomer AmazonMP3, which Nickson says offers the most flexibility for a good price.
Review: Music Download Services Compared, Chris Nickson, May 14, 2008
4. About.com
About.com digital music guide Mark Harris has a thorough write-up of AmazonMP3, but it's not clear from the description whether or not he personally tested the service. The review includes pros, cons and a list of specs. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: AmazonMP3 Review: A Review of the AmazonMP3 Downloads Store, Mark Harris
Music Downloads Runners Up:
4 picks including: About.com…
