The Zune 120GB is a worthy alternative to the iPod Classic, but many of its cool new features come at a cost.

Diminutive flash-based MP3 players may have a physical advantage, but they don't address the needs of users who prefer to carry their entire music and media library on one device. Microsoft's latest hard-drive-based Zune player, the Zune 120GB, targets precisely those users. With its innovative twist on music discovery, it's a worthy alternative to the recently updated 120GB iPod Classic--and, at $250, it's the same price as that Apple device, too.

Other than a storage boost and a new glossy-black look, the real changes differentiating the Zune 120GB from its 80GB predecessor lie in the 3.0 firmware--which, oddly, is not preinstalled on the new Zunes (you must visit Zune.net to obtain it). What's more, the player's major added features--built-in wireless and "Buy from FM"--may be interesting, but mostly they serve as incentives to get you to buy from the Zune Marketplace or subscribe to the $15-per-month Zune Pass.

The Zune 120GB is the same size and weight as its predecessor; but at 0.5 inches thick, it's bulkier than the 0.41-inch sixth-generation iPod Classic. It does weigh a bit less, though, at 4.5 ounces versus 4.9 ounces for the Classic.

This edition of the Zune has a glossy plastic front and a black (rather than silver) back. The all-black look is very sleek but prone to fingerprints and scratches. If you want to preserve your Zune, buying a case (sold separately, priced from $20 to $35) will be necessary.