NWZ-E454

The NWZ-E454 offers 8 GB capacity in the 2010 E Series lineup. It continued the balance of audio enhancements and video functions. Equipped with 8 GB flash memory for MP3, WMA, AAC, and WAV files, it supports video and photo playback. A 240x320 TFT display, 50-hour lithium-ion battery, FM radio, and WM-PORT includes DSEE, Omakase Channel, and Lyric Pita.

The E454 gives the generation a little more breathing room, which helps it feel less of a budget compromise and closer to a properly considered everyday device. By this point Sony had moved past the habit of overcomplicating its lower-end players or dressing them up unnecessarily. The E454 works because it stays within its lane and gets the proportions right.