Review: Archos 604 Wi-Fi portable media player

With built-in Wi-Fi and a colorful touch screen, the Archos 604 Wi-Fi handles almost all your video and audio files on the go. Is it worth building your collection?

Design

The Archos 604 Wi-Fi looks like a basic slab of brushed metal. It isn't altogether unattractive, but it lacks any real design flourish. The buttons, each a two-way rocker switch, are aligned down the right side of the device, and though we found them easy to use, they certainly weren't as intuitive or inviting as the Apple iPod's clickwheel.

Interface and transfer
The interface on the Archos 604 Wi-Fi is purposefully bare, which makes it less confusing than other PMPs and Internet tablets we've seen. Simple icons greet you on startup for Music, Videos, Pictures and the Web.

Video and music
The Archos handles a wide range of media files, almost. The device does better with audio than video, ironically, handling MP3, AAC, WMA and PlaysForSure files from subscription download services, which we liked.

Web browsing
The Archos 604 Wi-Fi had no trouble picking up our open Wi-Fi network. Web browsing was nice, though the strange, vertically-oriented control layout made scrolling and scanning across pages less than intuitive.

Accessories
The Archos 604 Wi-Fi comes with headphones, a stylus, a USB cord and a leather sleeve. When we first opened the box, we were sure that Archos had simply forgotten the charger, but they hadn't, they just don't include one with the device. You have to pay extra. This is a poor decision, we think.

Pros:
Simple interface with a clean look and easy buttons; easy to access the features; lots of audio support; video looks good.

Cons:
Lack of essential accessories to charge the device and use built-in DVR functions; poor battery performance; no transfer software; screen door effect on low-res screen.

Price and availability
The Archos 604 Wi-Fi is available immediately from Archos and other online retailers for $450.

Source Archos