Every September, Apple rolls out its new lineup of iPods, and the multitalented, though pricey iPod touch typically gets all the attention. Apple, however, doesn't own exclusive rights to end-of-summer product releases, and this year, four other manufacturers released solid low-price MP3 players right around the same time. What? You didn't hear about them? That's because these devices don't run apps or browse the Web. Simple MP3 players that concentrate on music become harder and harder to find each year despite the fact that many of us just want a reliable, affordable device that we can take to the gym. With this in mind, we've rounded up the five best MP3 Players under $100.

I won't lie to you: The iPod touch is a lot more fun than any of the MP3 players listed below, but that doesn't mean a less-expensive devices can't have extra features. Our Editors' Choice for budget players, the Archos 3cam Vision integrates a camera that records video and shoots stills. It's on par with many cell phone cameras, so it's not the best quality, but it is a standout feature for an MP3 player that costs $100. On the other end of the spectrum of features, Apple's $50 iPod shuffle still lacks a screen or many other extras (except for a robotic voice that tells you what song is playing), but it did get a click wheel for easier navigation this year.

To round out our list we've included very basic, no-frills models from Samsung, SanDisk, and Sony. All three manufacturers have been in the MP3 player game for quite a while now, and they're not exactly breaking any new ground, but they still know how to put out an easy-to-operate, quality device. If you're not living in the iTunes universe, it's worth giving these players a listen.

FEATURED IN THIS ROUNDUP

Apple iPod shuffle (4th Gen. with Click Wheel)

Price: $49 direct (2GB)
%displayPrice% at %seller% It's hard to get excited about an iPod with no screen, but Apple's inclusion of on-player controls makes the affordable shuffle easier to navigate—and a better value. Read the full review ››

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Archos 3cam vision

Price: $99.99 direct (8GB)
%displayPrice% at %seller% For a penny under $100, our Editors' Choice packs a generous 8GB of storage, plus a camera for video and photos and an MP3 player with video playback. Read the full review ››

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Samsung YP-R0

Price: $99.99 list (8GB)
%displayPrice% at %seller% Far-better-than-average earphones save the Samsung YP-R0 from being overshadowed by flashier low-cost MP3 player competitors like the Archos 3cam vision. Read the full review ››

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SanDisk Sansa Fuze+

Price: $79 direct (4GB); $89 direct (8GB); $119 direct (16GB)
%displayPrice% at %seller% If you live outside the iTunes ecosystem, the Sansa Fuze+ offers better features than either the Apple iPod nano or the iPod shuffle and is priced to compete with both players. Read the full review ››

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Sony Walkman E Series (NWZ-E353)

Price: $69.99 direct (4GB)
%displayPrice% at %seller% The very affordable 4GB Sony Walkman E Series (NWZ-E353) rings up at a pleasing $70, just don't expect any extras. Read the full review ››