If you're considering buying an MP3 player, you've probably noticed that you've got about a million options for players to buy. Searching online or in stores, you've found that you could buy everything from a barebones player with a tiny screen that costs less than a nice dinner to things the size of small laptops with more features than most computers packed 10 years ago.

Making sure you get everything you need when you buy an iPod isn't as simple as just going into the Apple Store, grabbing a music player off the shelf and paying. There are some other purchases you should make to ensure you get the most out of your iPod experience.

Upgrading from an older iPod model to the latest, most wonderful, and cutting edge iPod can be an expensive proposition.

This chart compares the features, benefits, and specifications of each current iPod model in an easy to read and compare chart to help you make the right purchase.

You need to understand your needs and how you expect to use the iPod in order to make sure you buy the right model. Once you figure that out, you should generally buy the most capable iPod you can afford, since you'll get the longest life from it and be able to store the most music and video.

This chart compares MP3 players that use solid-state Flash memory to store music and other data. These players are usually mid-line models that offer good amounts of storage and good prices, but don't crown the lines the way hard-drive-based players do.

This chart compares MP3 players that have hard drives and are the top-of-the-line models from their manufacturers, including the iPod, Zune, and Zen.

This chart compares ultra-portable MP3 players. These players are often entry-level models, or designed to be purchased for a specific use like exercise by someone who already owns an MP3 player. They are distinguished by their very small size and light weight, making them perfect for something like exercise.

The iPod Shuffle is the most portable iPod, a lightweight item that is designed specifically for use while exercising.

The iPod has become so much a part of our culture that when you meet someone who really loves music, you just assume they've got an iPod. And you're usually right. If someone on your year-end gift list is a big music fan and an iPod owner, that means there's a nearly endless list of good gift options.