Electronics manufacturer Archos has overhauled its range of iPod-rivalling media players, introducing the Archos 5, Archos 5g and Archos 7.

As the names suggest, the Archos 5 and Archos 7 feature 5-inch and 7-inch screens, respectively. Both displays feature a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, offering pin-sharp image quality that threatens to better Apple’s impressive iPod Touch.

Like the Touch, the Archos media players are controlled by onscreen buttons, and web-browsing and emailing is also supported. The feature-packed 5g goes one better than its rival, however, with 3G/HSDPA connectivity that lets you download video content on the move.

In keeping with previous Archos products, you’ll find a range of optional extras available – from a docking station that allows you to record TV programmes, to a GPS kit that turns your media player into a satellite navigation device.

With its rivals offering flash-based storage, it’s a surprise to find these products available with traditional hard drives only. Although they may not be as robust in the event of an accident, there’s no arguing with the storage space on offer – with as much as 320GB in the top-of-the-range Archos 7.

Prices start at £280 for the 60GB Archos 5, rising to £360 for the 250GB model. The Archos 7 costs £360 with 160GB of storage space, and £440 with a 320GB hard drive. In order to keep prices competitive, the broadband-enabled Archos 5g is available with a 30GB drive only, costing £360.

For more information, visit Archos here.