Mini Killer

Got to play with Creative's latest MP3 player for a little while today. It's their latest answer to the iPod juggernaut. Under the battery cover was still the internal codename for the project: Mini Killer. But to the public it'll be called the Zen Micro when it launches next month for about €280.

Certainly, the specs put it ahead on points: 5GB storage (versus iPod Mini's 4), plus an FM tuner and, of course, longer battery life (about 12 hours, which the Creative people kept harping on about, though frankly most users don't care so much).

In response to the Mini's five colours, Creative gives you 10 to choose from (but only four at launch time). Creative has finally realised that design matters as much if not more than technology and the Micro looks a good deal better than its predecessors.

But for my money the anodised finish of the iPod Mini still wins out. The other features, however, may sway your opinion towards the Micro. Have a butcher's yourself at Creative.