Got it about three years ago and I still use it daily. Before the Zen I had two ipods which didn't last me long at all. I dropped the zen what seems like a bajillion times cause I'm a total clutz, but believe me this thing is tough. Most reliable mp3 player hands down.

I got this MP3 player after my Zen Sleek stopped responding after dropping it one time too many. The audio playback on this device is incredible as is the video playback. I, for one, am in love with the vertical touch pad; some people find it to be a little odd, but it just takes a little time to get used to. Something that took me some time to get used to during my transition to the Vision: M from the Sleek was the included shortcut button, and the movement of the next and previous buttons directly onto the side of the touch pad. It threw me off at first, but after using the device for a while, I started to like it. Now, I don't have an iPod. A lot of people say, "Well, is it better than an iPod?" It isn't my place to say, but my friends that have used both the Video iPod and the Vision: M tend to side with the Vision: M. I would suggest looking at specifics for both the Video iPod and the Vision: M on their respective websites to decide for yourself. The only thing I do not like about this MP3 player is it does not include a way to charge with an outlet; it must be charged via USB. Now, this isn't really a problem as much as a slight annoyance. The USB charges a little slower than desired. If this is a problem for anyone, just buy an accessory that allows you to charge using an outlet. I would recommend this product to anyone that wants a solid, reliable MP3 player.

Edit: A little aggravating, but it can take some time to actually add music onto the player.  If you're not in a rush, it shouldn't be a problem.

When the 5th gen iPod was released, I refused to buy it: Does not play WMAs, does not play divx video, forced to using iTunes, no native mp3 support, battery life sucks when playing videos, 16-bit only color display, little-to-no shock resistance to sudden drops, and the list goes on. Got this one instead, and had all the features I wanted and then some! Doesn't have the styling appeal of the ipod, but to some people, functionality and versatility is more important than styling. Dropped this thing on concrete floor once, and it lives!

I got this player a couple of months ago and I love it.  It is my first mp3 player so I can't really compare it to any others.  The only problem I have with it is it is hard to find the accesories for this player in the stores.