The Archos 404 is the baby of Archoss new Generation 4 line of players; it has similar features to the Archos 604, but in a smaller package. Based around a 30GB hard drive, the 404s bright 3.5-inch LCD, smooth video playback, and broad video file-for...

• Screen looks very bright and clear. Good video format support. Video playback is smooth. Video recording quality (with optional dock) is excellent. Can load content via drag-and-drop or WMP.
• Battery is not removable. Battery life is shorter than expected. Hold button doesnt lock the volume buttons. Video recording requires optional dock.
• The Archos 404 is a very good pocket-size media player, and it can record video via the optional docking station, but I wish the battery were removable.

The aggressively priced Archos 404 combines a 3.5-inch screen with a supercompact body; its a video, music (including subscriptions), and photo player with the ability to record line-in audio and video with optional adapters; good voice recorder; impr...

• The aggressively priced Archos 404 combines a 3.5-inch screen with a supercompact body; its a video, music (including subscriptions), and photo player with the ability to record line-in audio and video with optional adapters; good voice recorder; impr...
• The Archos 404 lacks the kickstand and removable battery of its bigger brother, the 604; proprietary USB cable; no recording line-in video or audio out of the box; few bundled accessories; no FM tuner; weak equalizer.
• The attractively priced Archos 404 is a PVP in an MP3 players body. If you want a better screen and a removable battery, spend $50 more for the wider 604.