FiiO M5From real comments

Verdict distilled from 2 mentions across 1 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment100%
PROS 100%

Rank based on 2 mentions across 1 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You want an affordable Hi-Res DAP/Bluetooth receiver around $99
  • You mainly use it at the gym or running with a lag-free touchscreen
  • You value bundled extras like a clip and screen protectors

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You need a customizable EQ or song search out of the box
  • You require Bluetooth transmit or DAC output while in receiver mode
  • You have a very large music library needing search and song-title scrolling

What users complain about

No cons data available.

Compare in seconds

Based on user comments

Best choice
1Premium
Natural, non-fatiguing soundMQA and AK4499 chip appealClear upgrade over harsher rivalsUncertain heat outputHigh priceNo sharper sound signature option
Natural, non-fatiguing sound
MQA and AK4499 chip appeal
Clear upgrade over harsher rivals
Uncertain heat output
High price
No sharper sound signature option
2Premium
Strong power deliveryReliable alternative to competitorsSound-tuning flexibilityCosts more than cheaper alternativesHigh price
Strong power delivery
Reliable alternative to competitors
Sound-tuning flexibility
Costs more than cheaper alternatives
High price
3
Fully Balanced ArchitecturePremium, Understated BuildRich Tube Sound
Fully Balanced Architecture
Premium, Understated Build
Rich Tube Sound
4Premium
Drives almost any headphoneUnique xBass and 3D tuning controlsMusical, layered, engaging soundHigh price questionedOverdamped decay / odd dynamics reportedCannot switch preamp and headphone outputs independently
Drives almost any headphone
Unique xBass and 3D tuning controls
Musical, layered, engaging sound
High price questioned
Overdamped decay / odd dynamics reported
Cannot switch preamp and headphone outputs independently
5Budget
Excellent value for moneyDrives demanding headphones with easeExceeds initial expectationsInconsistent regional pricingCheap-feeling volume knobLimited availability at some retailers
Excellent value for money
Drives demanding headphones with ease
Exceeds initial expectations
Inconsistent regional pricing
Cheap-feeling volume knob
Limited availability at some retailers
6Premium
Extremely versatile tuning options
Extremely versatile tuning options
7Mid
Balanced XLR ConnectivitySought for Driving Hard-to-Drive HeadphonesSolid Metal Volume Knob
Balanced XLR Connectivity
Sought for Driving Hard-to-Drive Headphones
Solid Metal Volume Knob
8Mid
Strong Value on SaleGaming Software FeaturesImproved Dynamic RangeFull Price Feels HighUncertain Value vs E5
Strong Value on Sale
Gaming Software Features
Improved Dynamic Range
Full Price Feels High
Uncertain Value vs E5
9Budget
Strong speaker amp performance
Strong speaker amp performance
10Mid
Detailed, engaging sound
Detailed, engaging sound
Best valueYou are here
31Budget
FiiO M5
Good sound quality for the price
FiiO M5
Good sound quality for the price

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

Sound quality and value stand out for the price. Multiple users highlight that the M5's sound quality is excellent for its price range, especially compared to rivals like the Shanling M0. Some call $99 a fair price and note the lag-free touchscreen performs well during gym or running use. Bundled extras like a free clip and screen protectors were seen as a bonus over competitors, adding to the sense of value for money.

Missing software features frustrate power users. Reviewers repeatedly note the lack of a customizable EQ as a major omission, with one calling it a dealbreaker for a 'dedicated high res player.' There's no search function for large libraries, no song-title scrolling for long names, and limited playlist/folder handling. FiiO reportedly acknowledged EQ requests and later added custom EQ and replay gain in firmware 1.4.7.

Bluetooth functionality has real limitations. The M5 works well as a Bluetooth receiver for phones, but several users were surprised it cannot broadcast or transmit Bluetooth, only receive it. Others found there's no DAC output available while in Bluetooth receiver mode, calling it a wasted opportunity compared to the Shanling M0. Setup issues, a Chinese default interface, and firmware update difficulties on Mac also caused early frustration for some buyers.

Outdated / Not-accurate data?