The iPod nano fills a clear need in Apple’s product line, offering an affordable, introductory-level iPod. With the high-capacity, video-capable iPod at the high end, and the low-cost, niche-targeted iPod Shuffle at the low end, the nano fits comfortably in the middle.
The iPod nano offers a great introduction for those new to the iPod, and does so at an affordable price. While it offers less capacity than the video iPod (the nano maxes out at 8GB, while the video model can offer up to 80GB), it has many great features and is a solid product.
Sporting a 1.5-inch color screen and weighing in at a svelte 1.41 ounces, the iPod nano is a marvel of portable music playing. The screen is bright, the case feels substantial, and overall the package delivers everything good about iPods, while not overwhelming the bank account.
There’s a trade-off for the size and price, of course. The nano doesn’t offer the video playback that the video iPod does, and those with large music libraries may quickly fill its smaller capacity.
Still, for those who want to sample what iPod life is like without breaking the bank, or for those who want a larger choice of music than the Shuffle can offer, while still not adding much weight to their exercise regimen, the iPod nano is a great option.
The Good
Lightweight
Attractive price
All the benefits of the iPod experience
The Bad
Limited capacity
Can't play TV, movies, or music videos
Models
2GB, 4GB, 8GB
Colors
Black, silver, pink, green, blue
The Price
US$149-$249
| 