Media junkies looking for an affordably priced portable video player will find a compelling option in 
Creative’s Zen Vision W, so named for the screen’s wide 16:9 format. It comes in two flavors: 30GB ($299) and 60GB ($399); we tested the 30GB version. Our Editors’ Choice for personal media players has been the Archos 604, and while this Zen doesn’t knock it out of the top spot, it’s able to compete, thanks to solid video performance and well-designed menus.
The Zen Vision W is slightly larger than the Archos (notably a quarter-inch thicker), but since neither device is exactly pocketable, the size difference is negligible. Unlike the Archos 604, the Vision W has dedicated volume buttons on the top edge. The mono speaker in the lower right corner puts out enough sound to be used at home.
Compared with the Archos 604, the control layout on this device is much more intuitive, and the menu system is easy to read and navigate. The small menu, return, and transport buttons are well marked and responsive, and the five-way selector switch makes navigation a breeze. One small navigation complaint: We don’t understand why the OS displays a right-pointing arrow indicating submenus, but wants a click of the center OK button rather than a right flick on the five-way. :: LAPTOP Magazine • Creative Zen Vision:W ::