As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.

The FiiO M21 Android 13 portable player offers strong drive power and app flexibility for audiophiles. Its Snapdragon 680 processor and quad CS43198 DAC chips deliver high-resolution audio with balanced outputs. You might look for fiio m21 android 13 portable alternatives if you need a different size, weight, or specific feature set. The M21 weighs 10.6 ounces and measures 5.31 inches in height. Some users prefer lighter devices or smaller form factors for daily carry.

The 6 alternatives in this list were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original product. Each option shares key traits like Android operating systems, wireless connectivity, and high-fidelity audio support. You can compare these devices based on their unique specs, such as DAC types, battery life, or physical dimensions. This guide helps you find a player that matches your exact needs, whether you prioritize compactness, battery performance, or specific output configurations. Each entry is ranked by how well it meets common audiophile requirements.

How each alternative compares

JadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680

The JadeAudio FiiO JM21 shares the Snapdragon 680 processor and Android operating system with the FiiO M21, offering similar app flexibility for streaming services. It features wireless connectivity and supports Bluetooth with long playtime. However, it weighs 11.3 ounces, making it slightly heavier than the 10.6-ounce M21. This model lacks the M21’s quad CS43198 DAC configuration, which limits its raw output power and balanced drive capability. You should choose this option if you prioritize a lower price point and acceptable weight over the absolute highest fidelity and maximum headphone driving power found in the original.

HiBy M300 Blue Android Player

The HiBy M300 Blue runs Android 13 and supports lossless DSD and Wi-Fi streaming, matching the M21’s software environment. It distinguishes itself with a compact blue chassis measuring 4.45 inches in length. In contrast, the FiiO M21 is larger and heavier at 10.6 ounces. The HiBy model uses 3GB of RAM and 32GB of ROM, which is less storage than the M21’s 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage. It also lacks the M21’s powerful desktop mode and high-current output. Pick this player if you prefer a smaller form factor and do not need the extensive internal memory or maximum drive power of the Snapdragon 680-based FiiO.

FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Player

The FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Player also utilizes the Snapdragon 680 processor, ensuring comparable app performance and Android 13 compatibility. It offers strong 700mW drive capability, which is lower than the M21’s 950mW in desktop mode. The JM21 is designed for portability, weighing less than the 10.6-ounce M21, though specific weight data is not provided in the specs. It supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming. This alternative is suitable if you want the same processor and operating system but need a lighter device. You give up the M21’s higher power output and quad DAC architecture for a more manageable size.

Hiiiman H10 Android MP3 Player

The Hiiiman H10 is a compact Android DAP featuring a 4.4mm balanced output, similar to the M21’s balanced capabilities. It weighs only 4.06 ounces, significantly lighter than the 10.6-ounce FiiO M21. The Hiiiman uses the ES9018K2M DAC, whereas the M21 uses four CS43198 chips. The Hiiiman supports Spotify and Wi-Fi streaming, matching the M21’s app flexibility. However, it lacks the M21’s high-power desktop mode and superior drive strength. Choose this model if you prioritize a lightweight, compact design for daily carry and do not require the maximum output power or the specific quad-DAC sound signature of the FiiO.

Shanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/Amp

The Shanling M0 Pura is a portable DAC/Amp that connects wirelessly and supports lossless DSD and LDAC, similar to the M21’s audio features. It is much smaller, measuring 1.7 inches square, and lacks the standalone Android operating system of the M21. The M21 runs Android 13 with a Snapdragon 680 processor, allowing for direct app usage, while the Shanling acts as a companion device. The Shanling offers balanced output in a tiny package but does not provide the same processing power or app ecosystem. Select this if you need a high-fidelity portable amp for your phone rather than a standalone music player.

HIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy DAP

The HIFI Walker H2 is a zinc alloy DAP that supports lossless DSD and Bluetooth, offering build quality comparable to the M21’s premium feel. It weighs 5.36 ounces, lighter than the 10.6-ounce FiiO M21. Unlike the M21, the HIFI Walker H2 does not run Android or use a Snapdragon processor, limiting it to standalone playback without third-party app support. It lacks the M21’s high-power balanced outputs and desktop mode. This device suits wired audio purists who want a durable, simple player. You sacrifice app flexibility and high drive power for a simpler, lighter, and more durable build.

#ProductBest forPrice
1FiiO M21 Snapdragon 680 Portable Player Best overallPower-hungry headphones with Android app support
2JadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680 Best budgetAndroid-based HiFi streaming with strong output
3HiBy M300 Blue Android Player Best blueAndroid 13 users wanting blue HiFi playback
4FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Player Best premiumUsers needing strong headphone drive power
5Hiiiman H10 Android MP3 Player Best 4.4mm balancedBalanced output and compact Android DAP
6Shanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/Amp Best usb-cPortable high-res audio and balanced output
7HIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy DAP Also greatwired audio purists and commuters
1Best overall
FiiO M21 Snapdragon 680 Portable Player

FiiO M21 Snapdragon 680 Portable Player

Best for: Power-hungry headphones with Android app support

DAC Chip
Quad CS43198
Headphone Outputs
3.5mm, 4.4mm
Output Power
950mW
Operating System
Android 13
Internal Storage
64GB
Connection
Wireless

The FiiO M21 is a portable music player running Android 13 with a Snapdragon 680 processor. It uses four CS43198 DAC chips for high-resolution audio. The device offers 950mW of power output in desktop mode. It includes 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. This unit suits listeners who want a powerful, app-enabled DAP with balanced outputs.

Pros
  • Snapdragon 680 processor for smooth Android 13 performance
  • Quad CS43198 DACs with fully balanced amplification
  • 950mW high power output in desktop mode
  • Dual 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs
  • Supports LDAC and lossless DSD playback
Cons
  • Heavier build at 10.6 ounces compared to lighter players
  • 64GB internal storage limits capacity without microSD expansion
  • Snapdragon 680 is less powerful than Snapdragon 8-series chips
Good fit if
  • You need a portable player with full Android app support
  • You require high power output for demanding headphones
  • You prefer balanced 4.4mm headphone connections
Skip if
  • You want a lighter device under 8 ounces
  • You need more than 64GB of internal storage
  • You prefer a dedicated MP3 player without Android

Verdict: FiiO M21 Android 13 Portable Player delivers strong power and app flexibility for audiophiles who prioritize balanced outputs and high-resolution playback over compact size.

2Best budget
JadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680

JadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680

Best for: Android-based HiFi streaming with strong output

DAC Chip
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Output Power
700mW + 700mW
Operating System
Android 13
Internal Storage
32GB
Connection
Wireless
Features
Bluetooth, Long Playtime, MP3 Player, Wi-Fi Streaming

The JadeAudio FiiO JM21 is a portable music player running Android 13 with a Snapdragon 680 processor. It uses dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs to deliver 700mW of balanced output power. The device weighs 11.3 ounces and measures 0.51 inches thick. It supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for streaming. This player suits users who want high-resolution audio with app freedom in a slim, lightweight form factor.

Pros
  • Snapdragon 680 processor for smooth Android 13 performance
  • Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs with 700mW balanced output
  • Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming
  • Slim 0.51-inch profile and 11.3-ounce weight
Cons
  • Heavier at 11.3 ounces compared to lighter competitors
  • Thicker at 0.51 inches than ultra-slim alternatives
  • Lower output power than models offering higher wattage
Good fit if
  • You want to install streaming apps on Android 13
  • You need strong output power for demanding headphones
  • You prefer a lightweight, slim portable player
Skip if
  • You need the absolute lightest possible device
  • You require higher output power than 700mW
  • You prefer a non-Android operating system

Verdict: JadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680 DAP fits listeners who prioritize app flexibility and solid driving power in a portable package. It is a practical option for those who value a balance between performance and manageable weight.

3Best blue
HiBy M300 Blue Android Player

HiBy M300 Blue Android Player

Best for: Android 13 users wanting blue HiFi playback

DAC Chip
CS43131
Headphone Outputs
3.5mm
Operating System
Android 13
Max Audio Resolution
DSD256, PCM 384kHz
Internal Storage
32GB
Expandable Storage
2TB

The HiBy M300 is a blue Android 13 portable music player powered by a Snapdragon 665 processor. It features a CS43131 DAC supporting DSD256 and PCM 384kHz for high-resolution audio. With 3GB RAM and 32GB storage expandable to 2TB, it handles streaming apps and local files. Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band WiFi ensure connectivity. This compact device suits listeners who want studio-grade sound with app flexibility.

Pros
  • CS43131 independent DAC chip for lossless audio
  • Supports native DSD256 and PCM 384kHz
  • Android 13 with Snapdragon 665 processor
  • Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band WiFi
  • 32GB storage expandable to 2TB
Cons
  • Snapdragon 665 is less powerful than the Snapdragon 680 in the FiiO M21
  • 32GB internal storage is smaller than the 64GB in the HIFI WALKER H2
  • 3.5mm jack is the only dedicated headphone output
Good fit if
  • You want a blue Android 13 music player
  • You need support for DSD256 files
  • You prefer a compact 2.28-inch device
Skip if
  • You require a 4.4mm balanced output
  • You need more than 32GB internal storage
  • You want the fastest available processor

Verdict: HiBy M300 Blue Android 13 DAP offers high-resolution audio decoding in a compact blue chassis. It fits listeners who prioritize DAC quality and app access over raw processing speed.

4Best premium
FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Player

FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Player

Best for: Users needing strong headphone drive power

DAC Chip
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Output Power
700mW + 700mW
Operating System
Android 13
Connection
Wireless
Features
Bluetooth, Long Playtime, MP3 Player, Wi-Fi Streaming
Use
Smartphones

The FiiO JM21 is an Android 13 portable music player built around a Snapdragon 680 processor. It uses dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs to deliver 700mW of balanced output power. The device weighs 156g and measures 0.51 inches thick. It offers 12.5 hours of battery life and supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming. You can install third-party apps like Spotify. This unit suits listeners who want strong drive capability in a lightweight form factor.

Pros
  • Snapdragon 680 processor for smooth Android 13 performance
  • Dual CS43198 DACs with 700mW balanced output
  • Lightweight 156g design with 12.5-hour battery life
  • Supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB DAC output
Cons
  • Battery life is 12.5 hours, which is lower than the 13-hour capability of the FiiO M21
  • Processor is a Snapdragon 680, which is less powerful than the Snapdragon 865 found in the FiiO M21
  • Weight is 156g, which is heavier than the 115g HiiiMAN H10
Good fit if
  • You need strong amplification for high-impedance headphones
  • You want to install streaming apps like Spotify
  • You prefer a lightweight device under 160g
Skip if
  • You require the highest possible processing power
  • You need a battery life exceeding 13 hours
  • You prefer a device weighing less than 120g

Verdict: FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680 DAP offers strong 700mW drive capability and app flexibility in a lightweight package. It fits users who prioritize balanced output power and portability over raw processing speed.

5Best 4.4mm balanced
Hiiiman H10 Android MP3 Player

Hiiiman H10 Android MP3 Player

Best for: Balanced output and compact Android DAP

DAC Chip
ES9018K2M
Headphone Outputs
4.4mm balanced, 3.5mm
Output Power
500mW @ 32Ω
Operating System
Android 12
Max Audio Resolution
DSD512
Internal Storage
16GB

The Hiiiman H10 is a pocket-sized Android digital audio player featuring the ES9018K2M DAC and dual amplifiers. It delivers 500mW via its 4.4mm balanced output, making it suitable for demanding headphones. You get Bluetooth 5.0, dual-band WiFi, and support for streaming apps like Spotify and TIDAL. With 16GB of internal storage and 15 hours of battery life, it offers a compact Hi-Res solution.

Pros
  • ES9018K2M DAC with dual ES9603Q amplifiers
  • 4.4mm balanced output delivering 500mW @32Ω
  • Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC and dual-band WiFi
  • Supports native DSD512 decoding
Cons
  • 3.4-inch touchscreen is smaller than the 4-inch displays on competing Android players
  • 16GB internal storage is lower than the 64GB options available in other listed models
  • Bluetooth 5.0 is an older standard compared to newer Bluetooth versions
Good fit if
  • You need a dedicated 4.4mm balanced output for high-impedance headphones
  • You want a compact Android DAP that fits in your pocket
  • You prioritize high-resolution local file playback over the latest Bluetooth standards
Skip if
  • You require a larger screen for easier navigation
  • You need more than 16GB of internal storage without using a microSD card
  • You want the newest Bluetooth version for wireless audio

Verdict: The Hiiiman H10 Android DAP with 4.4mm Output suits listeners who prioritize balanced power and compact size. It fits users who value the ES9018K2M DAC's performance in a portable form factor.

6Best usb-c
Shanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/Amp

Shanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/Amp

Best for: Portable high-res audio and balanced output

DAC Chip
Dual CS43131
Headphone Outputs
3.5mm
Output Power
100mW@32Ω, 250mW@32Ω
Operating System
MTouch OS
Max Audio Resolution
32bit/384kHz, DSD 128
Expandable Storage
2TB

The Shanling M0 Pura is a compact, 35.8-gram portable DAC and amplifier with Bluetooth 5.0. It uses dual CS43131 DACs for high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD 128. The device includes a 1.54-inch touch screen and a 650mAh battery for up to 9.5 hours of playback. It connects via USB-C and supports LDAC, aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs. You need a MicroSD card for storage, as the unit has no internal memory.

Pros
  • Dual CS43131 DACs support 32-bit/384kHz and DSD 128
  • 250mW balanced output power at 32 ohms
  • Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC, aptX, AAC, and SBC support
  • Lightweight 35.8g portable build with 1.54-inch touch screen
  • 650mAh battery delivers up to 9.5 hours of playback
Cons
  • No internal storage requires a separate MicroSD card
  • Smaller 1.54-inch 240×240 resolution screen
  • Lower 100mW single-ended output power at 32 ohms
Good fit if
  • You want a lightweight, pocketable DAC/amp for travel
  • You prioritize high-resolution wired audio quality
  • You need Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC support
Skip if
  • You require built-in internal storage for music files
  • You need a high-resolution large display
  • You want a standalone MP3 player without external storage

Verdict: Shanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/Amp is a high-fidelity companion for your phone or laptop, offering strong balanced power and lossless audio support in a tiny package. It fits you if you carry a MicroSD card and value portability over standalone operation.

7Also great
HIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy DAP

HIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy DAP

Best for: wired audio purists and commuters

DAC Chip
ESS ES9018K2M
Headphone Outputs
3.5mm
Expandable Storage
512GB
Bluetooth Version
Bluetooth 5.2
Connection
Wireless
Features
Bluetooth, MP3 Player, Lossless DSD

The HIFI Walker H2 is a portable Hi-Res MP3 player built with a zinc alloy chassis. It uses the ESS ES9018K2M DAC to deliver clear sound with 107dB SNR. You get Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless listening and a 3.5mm jack for wired connections. It includes a 64GB microSD card and supports up to 512GB. The device weighs 5.36 ounces and offers up to 10 hours of playback.

Pros
  • ESS ES9018K2M DAC for high-resolution audio
  • Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX support
  • Includes 64GB microSD card
  • Zinc alloy body with physical controls
  • Up to 10 hours of playback
Cons
  • 3.5mm headphone jack only
  • 10 hours of battery life
  • 5.36 ounces weight
Good fit if
  • You want a dedicated Hi-Res MP3 player
  • You prefer physical buttons over a touchscreen
  • You need Bluetooth 5.2 transmitter and receiver
Skip if
  • You require a touchscreen interface
  • You need a 4.4mm balanced output
  • You want an Android operating system

Verdict: HIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy MP3 suits listeners who value build quality and wired audio fidelity. It fits those who want a simple, durable device without smartphone complexity.

Specifications side by side

SpecFiiO M21 Snapdragon 680 Portable PlayerJadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680HiBy M300 Blue Android PlayerFiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res PlayerHiiiman H10 Android MP3 PlayerShanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/AmpHIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy DAP
DAC ChipQuad CS43198Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198CS43131Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198ES9018K2MDual CS43131ESS ES9018K2M
Headphone Outputs3.5mm, 4.4mm–3.5mm–4.4mm balanced, 3.5mm3.5mm3.5mm
Output Power950mW700mW + 700mW–700mW + 700mW500mW @ 32Ω100mW@32Ω, 250mW@32Ω–
Operating SystemAndroid 13Android 13Android 13Android 13Android 12MTouch OS–
Max Audio Resolution––DSD256, PCM 384kHz–DSD51232bit/384kHz, DSD 128–
Internal Storage64GB32GB32GB–16GB––
Expandable Storage––2TB–512GB2TB512GB
Bluetooth Version––Bluetooth 5.0–Bluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 5.2
ConnectionWirelessWirelessWirelessWirelessWirelessWirelessWireless
FeaturesBluetooth, MP3 Player, Lossless DSD, Hi-Res Audio, LDACBluetooth, Long Playtime, MP3 Player, Wi-Fi StreamingBluetooth, MP3 Player, Lossless DSD, Wi-Fi StreamingBluetooth, Long Playtime, MP3 Player, Wi-Fi StreamingBluetooth, MP3 Player, 4.4mm Balanced, Hi-Res Audio, Wi-Fi Streaming, SpotifyBluetooth, USB-C, MP3 Player, Lossless DSD, LDACBluetooth, MP3 Player, Lossless DSD
UseSmartphonesSmartphonesAudiophiles, SmartphonesSmartphonesAudiophiles, SmartphonesAudiophilesAudiophiles
ColorDark BlueSky BlueBlueSky blueBlackOrangeBlack
Form FactorPortable––––PortablePortable
TypeDAC/AmpDAC/Amp–DAC/AmpDAC/AmpDAC/AmpDAC/Amp
ProcessorSnapdragonSnapdragonSnapdragonSnapdragon–––
Weight10.6 ounces11.3 ounces––4.06 ounces–5.36 ounces
Dimensions––4.45 × 2.28 × 0.51 inches0.51 × 0.51 × 0.51 inches3.27 × 0.55 × 2.17 inches0.55 × 1.7 × 1.7 inches0.59 × 2.17 × 3.54 inches
ModelM21F30511–JM21–Shanling M0 Pura MP3 PlayerH2
Size––3G RAM +32G ROM+2TG Extension–––H2-64GB

Frequently asked questions

Which FiiO M21 alternative is best for budget-conscious buyers?

The JadeAudio FiiO JM21 Snapdragon 680 is the top budget choice. It runs Android and uses the same Snapdragon 680 processor as the M21. This device supports Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth. It weighs 11.3 ounces in a Sky Blue finish. It offers strong output power for a portable package.

Is there a compact Android DAP with a 4.4mm balanced output?

Yes, the Hiiiman H10 Android MP3 Player fits this need. It features a 4.4mm balanced output and runs Android. The device uses the ES9018K2M DAC for high-resolution audio. It weighs only 4.06 ounces and measures 3.27 inches in length. It supports Bluetooth and Spotify for easy streaming.

What is the smallest portable DAC/amp option listed?

The Shanling M0 Pura Portable DAC/Amp is the most compact option. It measures 1.7 inches wide and 0.55 inches thick. This device supports USB-C connection and Bluetooth with LDAC. It offers lossless DSD playback and balanced output. It is designed for use with smartphones or laptops.

Does any alternative offer more RAM and storage than the M21?

The HiBy M300 Blue Android Player offers 3GB RAM and 32GB ROM. It also supports up to 2TB of extension storage. This device runs Android 13 and features a Snapdragon processor. It provides Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth connectivity. The chassis is blue and measures 4.45 inches in length.

Which player is best for users who prioritize build quality?

The HIFI Walker H2 64GB Zinc Alloy DAP is built for durability. It features a zinc alloy body and weighs 5.36 ounces. This device supports lossless DSD and Bluetooth. It is a 64GB model designed for wired audio fidelity. It offers a simple experience without smartphone complexity.

Are there alternatives with strong headphone drive power?

The FiiO JM21 Android 13 Hi-Res Player offers strong drive capability. It delivers 700mW of power for demanding headphones. This device runs Android and uses a Snapdragon processor. It supports Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth. It is lightweight and includes long playtime features for portable use.

See also