FiiO JM21, FiiO M21, and HiBy R4 — a quick comparison

Summary

This video compares three popular Android-based audio players: FiiO JM21, FiiO M21, and Hib R4. The speaker evaluates them based on factors like weight, design, screen quality, system features, and sound signatures. While the JM21 is the most portable and lightweight, the M21 offers premium materials and slightly better sound quality. The Hib R4 stands out with its bold design and punchy, dynamic sound. Ultimately, the speaker emphasizes that choosing between the players depends on personal preferences, with each offering great value and performance in its own way.

Takeaways

• 😀 The FiiO JM21 is the lightest and most portable of the three devices, making it ideal for users who prioritize portability.
• 😀 The FiiO M21, while slightly heavier, offers a larger battery and a more refined design with premium materials.
• 😀 The Hib R4 is the heaviest at 233g, but it still remains manageable for most users and features a bold, unique design.
• 😀 The screens on all three devices are nearly identical, offering similar size, resolution, and viewing angles.
• 😀 The M21 runs on Android 12 with a Snapdragon 680 chipset, offering solid performance, while the Hib R4 runs Android 13 with a Snapdragon 665 chipset.
• 😀 All three devices are responsive and support popular streaming services, making them versatile in terms of usability.
• 😀 The Hib R4 offers more advanced sound customization with its MB sound utility, allowing for system-wide sound tweaking.
• 😀 The FiiO M21 delivers better sound quality than the JM21, offering improved staging, transitions, and a more developed treble.
• 😀 The FiiO JM21 has a natural and balanced sound signature, making it a versatile player for various types of music.
• 😀 The Hib R4 offers a punchier and more energetic sound signature, with tighter low frequencies and dynamic mids and treble, making it suitable for users who prefer a more forward sound.
• 😀 The FiiO M21 stands out with its unique hard case design, reminiscent of old cassette players, which adds to its nostalgic appeal.

Q & A

What are the main differences between the Fio JM21, Fio M21, and Hib R4 in terms of weight?

The Fio JM21 is the lightest and most portable, weighing 156g. The Fio M21 weighs 204g, and the Hib R4 is the heaviest at 233g. The difference in weight between the JM21 and R4 is more noticeable, making the JM21 a better option for those seeking portability.

Which player is the most portable among the three?

The Fio JM21 is the most portable, being the lightest and smallest of the three, making it easy to carry in a pocket.

How does the M21 compare in terms of design and build quality?

The M21 has a more refined design with better materials, including a premium color scheme and a more solid build, offering a higher-end feel compared to the JM21's plastic back panel.

What are the main differences in the screen quality across the three players?

All three players offer similar screen quality with comparable resolution, size, and viewing angles. However, the Hib R4 has a slightly larger screen, though the difference is not substantial.

How do the operating systems of the players compare?

The Fio M21 runs on Android 13, while the Fio JM21 and Hib R4 run on Android 12. The M21 has a better chipset, Snapdragon 680, compared to the 665 in the other two, though the performance differences are minimal in real-world use.

What makes the Hib R4 stand out in terms of sound customization?

The Hib R4 offers an advanced sound tweaking utility (MB sound tweaking), which allows more in-depth system-wide audio customization, making it stand out in terms of sound flexibility.

What are the differences in the sound signature between the three players?

The Fio JM21 has a balanced, natural sound signature, ideal for general use. The M21 provides improved staging and treble, with a more refined sound. The Hib R4 offers a punchier, more energetic sound with forward mids and enhanced dynamics, catering to those who prefer a more lively audio experience.

Which player is better for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality?

The Fio M21 would be the best choice for audiophiles, as it offers a more refined and developed sound with improved staging, treble, and overall sound quality.

Is the Hib R4 more suitable for specific types of music or audio preferences?

The Hib R4’s punchy and energetic sound signature with forward mids and emphasized dynamics makes it better suited for users who enjoy more energetic and powerful music genres, such as rock or electronic.

How do the three players compare in terms of usability and general features?

All three players support popular streaming services, have system-wide equalizers, and offer good responsiveness. The Hib R4 has the edge with its advanced sound tweaking utility, while the M21 stands out for its Android 13 OS and better chipset.