Pricing and availability
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Elevate your audio experience with the FiiO X5 III, a versatile digital audio player designed to meet the demands of discerning audiophiles and musicians alike. This device brings together advanced technology and user-friendly functionality, making it a fantastic choice for streaming high-fidelity sound. Equipped with dual DAC chips, the X5 III ensures that every note, beat, and sound is delivered with pristine clarity and precision. Its Android-based operating system allows for easy navigation and access to a wide range of applications, offering a seamless blend of digital convenience and high-end audio performance.
The FiiO X5 III supports a wide array of audio formats, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tracks exactly the way they were meant to be heard. Its expandable storage capacity means you can carry a vast library of music wherever you go. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, streaming and downloading become effortless, while the balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs cater to various listening preferences. The X5 III also includes a powerful battery, ensuring hours of uninterrupted playback, perfect for those long jam sessions or commutes.
Key Features:
- Dual DAC chips for enhanced audio precision
- Android-based operating system for app compatibility
- Supports high-resolution audio formats
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless streaming
- Expandable storage via microSD card slots
- Balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Long battery life for extended listening sessions
Product specs
| Brand | FiiO |
| Model | X5 III Portable Music Player - 32GB |
| Finish | Titanium |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Portable Digital Music Players |
Videos
Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews
✅FiiO X5iii 3rd gen brief walkthrough. (This device gets rec'd ;) )
Reviews
PROS
-
Exceptional sound clarity and detailed sound stage
-
Comprehensive accessory package included
-
Built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio connectivity
-
Android OS allows for versatile functionality
-
Excellent EQ and volume control features
CONS
-
Firmware updates require constant screen interaction
-
Inconsistent Bluetooth connection with frequent stuttering
-
Resuming playback often starts on incorrect song
-
No deep sleep mode leading to rapid battery drain
-
Significant drop in battery life compared to previous models
-
Poor button placement leads to accidental presses
-
Touchscreen is unresponsive with high latency
-
Device is large and heavy, impacting portability
-
Volume wheel has mechanical issues over time
-
Vulnerable to damage from short drops
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about FiiO X5 III.
Features and functionality
-
The FiiO X5 III struggles with performance due to its underpowered Rockchip RK3188 processor, making it less capable of running modern Android applications smoothly.
Source -
The FiiO X5 III struggles with large libraries, becoming laggy with high song counts, even when using external apps like Neutron.
Source
Comparisons
-
The FiiO M11 Plus offers a more robust Android experience with a better chipset, capable of running apps, games, and projecting screens, unlike the X5 III.
Source -
Users transitioning from the X5 III to devices like the Hiby or the M11 Plus note improved performance and user satisfaction with the newer models.
Source -
The X5 III's sound quality compares favorably against the Shanling UP5, which offers a warm sound, while the X5 is described as having a more neutral tone.
Source
User experience
-
Owners report the X5 III can be improved significantly by installing a custom kernel, enhancing responsiveness and audio performance.
Source -
Switching to the Hiby R4 offers improved speed over the X5 III, although initial lag with the Hiby music app remains present.
Source -
Despite having the same DAC chip as the FiiO M9, the X5 III reportedly offers better sound quality, noted for a strong bass foundation.
Source
Software and compatibility
-
The FiiO M11 Plus is praised for its ability to play high-resolution files via both Bluetooth and wired connections, offering noticeable audio quality improvements over smartphones.
Source -
Installing a .nomedia file at the root of the SD card prevents Android's mediascanner from slowing down performance.
Source -
The specific Neutron version 2.24.2 is optimized for the X5 III, improving performance on the 32-bit device.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Lowering album art resolution to 800x800 enhances responsiveness on the X5 III.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Popular Music Gear
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
yoomanizeGear IQ 77
-