iPod nano Reviews
Belkin Remix Metal for iPod nano 4G & iPod classic
CaseandCover.com reviews Belkin cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
For iPod classic
For iPod nano 4G
Company: Belkin
Model: Remix Metal
Price: $25-30
Compatible: iPod nano (4G), iPod classic (120GB)
Staggering is the only word we'd use to describe the number of hard plastic iPod and iPhone cases we're reviewing today -- over 20 different models that we've been comparing to one another, as well as past cases, over the last few weeks. To help you sort through all the options, we've assembled a few statistics that are worth knowing up front. All of the iPod nano cases in this roundup run from $20 to $30, with most at $25 or less, while the two iPod classic cases sell for $25 to $30, iPod touch cases range from $20 to $30, and iPhone 3G cases go for $20 to $35. Virtually every case offers at least partial back and side protection, but they vary widely in front, top, and bottom coverage. Though all use plastic as their base material, they differ considerably in color options and secondary materials. This review covers Belkin's Remix Metal cases for the fourth-generation nano ($25) and 120GB iPod classic ($30).
Based on earlier Remix Metal cases released for the third-generation iPod nano and original iPod classic, Belkin’s new versions continue the past trend: the back and sides of each case are a formed piece of completely clear hard plastic, while the front shell features interesting metal front colors and designs, fused onto an otherwise clear plastic faceplate. Multiple colors are available for each model.
The good news about both of these cases is that—unlike most of the cases we review today—they actually include integrated Click Wheel covers in addition to their hard plastic screen protectors. We had no issues seeing the iPods’ screens or using their controls while inside. Belkin includes holes for the headphone and Dock Connector ports, both compatible with oversized headphone plugs—the classic one just barely OK for the biggest ones—and Universal Docks. We really, truly love the way these cases look; Belkin’s choice of metals and integration of clear plastics on the front is a dynamite combination. The company has also removed the ink dots that were previously on the Click Wheel of last year’s classic version, which we think is an improvement.
Here’s the bad news. While the iPod classic version is every bit as good as last year’s, and still comes with shells for both thinner 80/120GB iPod classics and now-discontinued 160GB models, the iPod nano version we received had serious fit problems. It didn’t seem sturdy at all, and repeatedly came apart at the side seams, an issue that previously affected one of the company’s clear plastic iPhone cases, but in our experience not to the extent of this one.
Though we’d rely upon the iPod classic one in a heartbeat, and continue to feel that it’s worthy of our high recommendation, the iPod nano 4G version we tested was a dud, and definitely needs to be redesigned for greater stability. Our expectation is that Belkin will do this soon, if it hasn’t already started the process.
By Jeremy Horwitz
Editor-in-Chief, iLounge Published: Wednesday, October 22, 2008
For iPod classic
For iPod nano 4G Company: Belkin
Model: Remix Metal
Price: $25-30
Compatible: iPod nano (4G), iPod classic (120GB)
Staggering is the only word we'd use to describe the number of hard plastic iPod and iPhone cases we're reviewing today -- over 20 different models that we've been comparing to one another, as well as past cases, over the last few weeks. To help you sort through all the options, we've assembled a few statistics that are worth knowing up front. All of the iPod nano cases in this roundup run from $20 to $30, with most at $25 or less, while the two iPod classic cases sell for $25 to $30, iPod touch cases range from $20 to $30, and iPhone 3G cases go for $20 to $35. Virtually every case offers at least partial back and side protection, but they vary widely in front, top, and bottom coverage. Though all use plastic as their base material, they differ considerably in color options and secondary materials. This review covers Belkin's Remix Metal cases for the fourth-generation nano ($25) and 120GB iPod classic ($30).
Based on earlier Remix Metal cases released for the third-generation iPod nano and original iPod classic, Belkin’s new versions continue the past trend: the back and sides of each case are a formed piece of completely clear hard plastic, while the front shell features interesting metal front colors and designs, fused onto an otherwise clear plastic faceplate. Multiple colors are available for each model.
The good news about both of these cases is that—unlike most of the cases we review today—they actually include integrated Click Wheel covers in addition to their hard plastic screen protectors. We had no issues seeing the iPods’ screens or using their controls while inside. Belkin includes holes for the headphone and Dock Connector ports, both compatible with oversized headphone plugs—the classic one just barely OK for the biggest ones—and Universal Docks. We really, truly love the way these cases look; Belkin’s choice of metals and integration of clear plastics on the front is a dynamite combination. The company has also removed the ink dots that were previously on the Click Wheel of last year’s classic version, which we think is an improvement.
Here’s the bad news. While the iPod classic version is every bit as good as last year’s, and still comes with shells for both thinner 80/120GB iPod classics and now-discontinued 160GB models, the iPod nano version we received had serious fit problems. It didn’t seem sturdy at all, and repeatedly came apart at the side seams, an issue that previously affected one of the company’s clear plastic iPhone cases, but in our experience not to the extent of this one.
Though we’d rely upon the iPod classic one in a heartbeat, and continue to feel that it’s worthy of our high recommendation, the iPod nano 4G version we tested was a dud, and definitely needs to be redesigned for greater stability. Our expectation is that Belkin will do this soon, if it hasn’t already started the process.
By Jeremy Horwitz
Editor-in-Chief, iLounge Published: Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Belkin Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeves for iPod nano 4G & iPod touch 2G
CaseandCover.com reviews Belkin cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
Belkin Eco-Conscious iPod nano 4G 
Belkin Eco-Conscious iPod touch 2G
Company: Belkin
Model: Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeve
Price: $25-30
Compatible: iPod nano (4G), iPod touch (2G)
The reason we’re covering all of these cases in the same review is that the iPod nano cases are exceptionally similar to one another, while the iPod touch cases are related to the same-named nano cases. Each of the nano cases proceeds in the exact same way: they cover the nano’s metal body entirely, fully exposing the Click Wheel, headphone port, and bottom left corner, while covering the screen with a clear plastic shield. All of the cases expose the nano’s top-mounted Hold switch, as well.
From there, they differ a bit. Belkin’s Leather Sleeve for iPod nano 4G is made from a glossy, thin leatherette, and comes in both pink and black versions, each with with soft lining and Velcro tabs to keep their iPods inside. While the stitching is very similar to Incase’s, the case feels a bit thinner and cheaper, and the leather doesn’t look as nice as Incase’s; the back is flat, and has no belt clip, which some users may prefer. Otherwise, it could have come from the same factory, and also exposes the nano’s top right corner.
The Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeve uses vegetable-tanned black or walnut leather rather than chemically stained leather, and has a felt interior rather than microfiber. The combined look is a bit rough and bohemian, like a chalkboard eraser mixed with a racing glove, but the effect’s apparently intentional; this case has no contrast stitching, and has the same dull knife shape as the 4G nano, with the same openings as the standard Leather Sleeve. Choosing one over the other is purely a matter of personal taste, but we prefer the look of the standard version.
Incase’s black-only Leather Sleeve is facially difficult to distinguish from Belkin’s same-named case. There’s a little bit more of the same contrast stitching, an Incase leaf logo on the face, and a more interesting looking back with a non-detachable belt clip, permanently pointed such that the nano’s headphone port faces upwards. You’ll have to decide whether you want the belt clip, but the case looks a little sharper than Belkin’s, and uses what appears to be better-quality leather, as well. It has rougher tailoring around the Click Wheels of the nano, but otherwise, it’s attractive and well-made.
We weren’t as impressed by the iPod touch 2G versions of the Leather Sleeve and Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeve, primarily because they made little attempt to cover the device’s face or top, but also because of some other little oddities. The Leather Sleeve is actually leather on the front and back, with neoprene on the sides and bottom. By comparison, the Eco-Conscious Sleeve is leather on the front, bottom, and back, with a lot of felt on the sides and interior. We were surprised that our touch’s glossy back didn’t get torn up from the felt, which felt like a light Brillo pad by comparison with the smooth suede and suede-like fabrics we find inside most leather cases.
With both of these cases, you slide the iPod touch into a sleeve, sealing it inside with a Velcro tab, using holes at the bottom to access the headphone and Dock Connector ports. Both cases work with oversized headphone plugs, but they’re spottier on Dock Connector accessories; the standard Sleeve mostly fits into Universal Docks, but the Eco-Conscious one doesn’t. On the flip side, the Eco-Conscious case covers the touch’s Home button and exposes the Volume buttons, while the standard Sleeve exposes the Home button and covers the Volume ones. For fabric cases, they just don’t protect as much as they could, and they’re not aggressively priced in a way that makes up for their omissions.
Of all of the cases in this collection, our top picks would be Incase’s Leather and Neoprene Sleeves, though Belkin’s leather nano versions aren’t far behind; the iPod touch ones seem comparatively incomplete. While we think that both of these companies could stand to have better control over their tailoring, leather and fabric do present some interesting challenges for devices as small and thin as these iPods; our gut feeling is that subsequent cases will do even better.
By Jeremy Horwitz
Editor-in-Chief, iLounge Published: Friday, October 24, 2008
Belkin Eco-Conscious iPod nano 4G
Belkin Eco-Conscious iPod touch 2GCompany: Belkin
Model: Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeve
Price: $25-30
Compatible: iPod nano (4G), iPod touch (2G)
_______________
Leather iPod and iPhone cases fall into three major categories these days: "play-through" designs that let you see the device's screen, "flip-style" designs that inconveniently cover the screen and controls with a flap that needs to be opened every time you want to use them, and "sleeves," which are little more than gloves that require you to slide the entire device in and out to use it.
Today, we're briefly reviewing 17 new cases for the iPod nano 4G, iPod classic, iPod touch 2G, and iPhone 3G from eight different companies. This combined review looks at Belkin's Leather Sleeves for iPod nano 4G ($25) and iPod touch 2G ($30), its Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeves for iPod nano 4G ($25) and iPod touch 2G ($30), and Incase's Leather Sleeve ($30) for iPod nano 4G.The reason we’re covering all of these cases in the same review is that the iPod nano cases are exceptionally similar to one another, while the iPod touch cases are related to the same-named nano cases. Each of the nano cases proceeds in the exact same way: they cover the nano’s metal body entirely, fully exposing the Click Wheel, headphone port, and bottom left corner, while covering the screen with a clear plastic shield. All of the cases expose the nano’s top-mounted Hold switch, as well.
From there, they differ a bit. Belkin’s Leather Sleeve for iPod nano 4G is made from a glossy, thin leatherette, and comes in both pink and black versions, each with with soft lining and Velcro tabs to keep their iPods inside. While the stitching is very similar to Incase’s, the case feels a bit thinner and cheaper, and the leather doesn’t look as nice as Incase’s; the back is flat, and has no belt clip, which some users may prefer. Otherwise, it could have come from the same factory, and also exposes the nano’s top right corner.
The Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeve uses vegetable-tanned black or walnut leather rather than chemically stained leather, and has a felt interior rather than microfiber. The combined look is a bit rough and bohemian, like a chalkboard eraser mixed with a racing glove, but the effect’s apparently intentional; this case has no contrast stitching, and has the same dull knife shape as the 4G nano, with the same openings as the standard Leather Sleeve. Choosing one over the other is purely a matter of personal taste, but we prefer the look of the standard version.
Incase’s black-only Leather Sleeve is facially difficult to distinguish from Belkin’s same-named case. There’s a little bit more of the same contrast stitching, an Incase leaf logo on the face, and a more interesting looking back with a non-detachable belt clip, permanently pointed such that the nano’s headphone port faces upwards. You’ll have to decide whether you want the belt clip, but the case looks a little sharper than Belkin’s, and uses what appears to be better-quality leather, as well. It has rougher tailoring around the Click Wheels of the nano, but otherwise, it’s attractive and well-made.
We weren’t as impressed by the iPod touch 2G versions of the Leather Sleeve and Eco-Conscious Leather Sleeve, primarily because they made little attempt to cover the device’s face or top, but also because of some other little oddities. The Leather Sleeve is actually leather on the front and back, with neoprene on the sides and bottom. By comparison, the Eco-Conscious Sleeve is leather on the front, bottom, and back, with a lot of felt on the sides and interior. We were surprised that our touch’s glossy back didn’t get torn up from the felt, which felt like a light Brillo pad by comparison with the smooth suede and suede-like fabrics we find inside most leather cases.
With both of these cases, you slide the iPod touch into a sleeve, sealing it inside with a Velcro tab, using holes at the bottom to access the headphone and Dock Connector ports. Both cases work with oversized headphone plugs, but they’re spottier on Dock Connector accessories; the standard Sleeve mostly fits into Universal Docks, but the Eco-Conscious one doesn’t. On the flip side, the Eco-Conscious case covers the touch’s Home button and exposes the Volume buttons, while the standard Sleeve exposes the Home button and covers the Volume ones. For fabric cases, they just don’t protect as much as they could, and they’re not aggressively priced in a way that makes up for their omissions.
Of all of the cases in this collection, our top picks would be Incase’s Leather and Neoprene Sleeves, though Belkin’s leather nano versions aren’t far behind; the iPod touch ones seem comparatively incomplete. While we think that both of these companies could stand to have better control over their tailoring, leather and fabric do present some interesting challenges for devices as small and thin as these iPods; our gut feeling is that subsequent cases will do even better.
By Jeremy Horwitz
Editor-in-Chief, iLounge Published: Friday, October 24, 2008
OtterBox iPod nano 4th Gen (4G) Impact Case Review
CaseandCover.com reviews OtterBox cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
Our lives are filled with many gadgets, phone, mp3 players and laptops are common items you’ll see many people carrying around these days. One thing you’ll notice is that the majority of people opt for a way to protect them be it a bag, a case, a sleeve or whatever. The reason for this of course is to not only protect their investment, but to keep their items looking good. We all like things that look nice, who doesn’t really, no one wants to use a beat up, scratched up product, we like things to stay looking new as long as possible. As many people know though not all products are created equal, especially when it comes to protection type ones like cases etc. It seems most of us are willing to pay a bit more for a quality product that will protect our device and give us a bit of peace of mind. Cost though is not always the best judge of a product’s effectiveness in how well it will protect something, name brand and product reputation are two of the factors that I use when deciding on most things, but not always. Otterbox is a company with an excellent reputation when it comes to protecting our electronic devices, they’re well know for top quality products that will protect our devices from most anything.
Up on the review block today I’ve got the first of three reviews of Otterbox cases for the iPod nano 4th Generation, it’s the Impact Case. I’m starting with the least expensive case in this series and working my way up to full protection for your iPod. The Impact Case is the familiar silicone skin style case, but it’s designed with shock protection in mind with reinforced corners designed to dissipate shock away from your device should you happen to accidentally drop your iPod nano. It’s a nice inexpensive, basic case that offers quite a bit more protection than other silicone cases on the market today.
The Otterbox Impact Case comes in the familiar plastic clamshell style package, but this on is the easy open style, it’s not sealed so no tools are needed to get at the product.
The Impact is available in black or white color, and as you can see I got the black color for review. Once you open the package the only thing you find is the case itself, nothing else included.
The case is fairly thick and will add a little bulk to your iPod, but without that bulk it wouldn’t offer much protection would it? So it’s a trade off really. The Impact case has a little hole in the back of it that allows the Apple logo to show through, personally I don’t care about this little ‘feature’ but those of you that are materialistic might. There is a nice texture on the outside of most of the case, this allows for a non-slip grip on your iPod. On the back of the case is the Otterbox logo as well.
Specifications:
iPod Nano 4th Gen Impact Case
Introducing: The OtterBox for iPod nano 4th generation Impact Series! This thin, skin-like design offers your 4th generation iPod nano protection against bump and shock. Your Click Wheel and all buttons are accessible through the case, and the inner corners are designed to dissipate impact AWAY from your device. Also, the OtterBox for iPod nano 4th generation Impact Series case has an ergonomic design that your hands will love to be wrapped around!
Compatibility/Features: Fits the iPod Nano 4th Generation only (both 8GB and 16GB). * Provides open access to headphone jack, sync/charge port and Click Wheel * Provides added protection against bump and shock * Inner corners designed to dissipate impact away from your device
Dimensions (case only): 3.77" x 1.72" x .43" Weight (case only): .03 lbs. Color: White or Black
Price: $19.95
Installation is very easy, you just slide your iPod in and it’s done, takes maybe a minute to complete.
The Otterbox Impact Case allows for easy access to the lock button on top and the bottom is open for full access there.
The Impact Case offers good shock protection for your iPod, but does not offer any protection for the screen or click wheel. This isn’t a big deal though as the screen is scratch resistant, and I’ve never really heard of people damaging the click wheel. Personally though I prefer a screen protector though, and use one for most any device I have that has a screen. It’s a personal preference thing.
Coming in at $19.95 I think the Otterbox Impact Case offers a nice level of basic protection for a relatively low price.
Conclusion: The Otterbox Impact Case for iPod nano 4th Gen is a nice, inexpensive way to protect your player from shocks and bumps.
It’s a basic case that offers much better protection that other silicone style cases out there today.
by: Kristofer Brozio Published 20/04 - 2009
Pros: Well made Textured for non-slip grip Good protection Inexpensive
Cons: Silicone attracts dust and lint No screen protection
Up on the review block today I’ve got the first of three reviews of Otterbox cases for the iPod nano 4th Generation, it’s the Impact Case. I’m starting with the least expensive case in this series and working my way up to full protection for your iPod. The Impact Case is the familiar silicone skin style case, but it’s designed with shock protection in mind with reinforced corners designed to dissipate shock away from your device should you happen to accidentally drop your iPod nano. It’s a nice inexpensive, basic case that offers quite a bit more protection than other silicone cases on the market today.
The Otterbox Impact Case comes in the familiar plastic clamshell style package, but this on is the easy open style, it’s not sealed so no tools are needed to get at the product.
The Impact is available in black or white color, and as you can see I got the black color for review. Once you open the package the only thing you find is the case itself, nothing else included.
The case is fairly thick and will add a little bulk to your iPod, but without that bulk it wouldn’t offer much protection would it? So it’s a trade off really. The Impact case has a little hole in the back of it that allows the Apple logo to show through, personally I don’t care about this little ‘feature’ but those of you that are materialistic might. There is a nice texture on the outside of most of the case, this allows for a non-slip grip on your iPod. On the back of the case is the Otterbox logo as well.
Specifications:
iPod Nano 4th Gen Impact Case
Introducing: The OtterBox for iPod nano 4th generation Impact Series! This thin, skin-like design offers your 4th generation iPod nano protection against bump and shock. Your Click Wheel and all buttons are accessible through the case, and the inner corners are designed to dissipate impact AWAY from your device. Also, the OtterBox for iPod nano 4th generation Impact Series case has an ergonomic design that your hands will love to be wrapped around!
Compatibility/Features: Fits the iPod Nano 4th Generation only (both 8GB and 16GB). * Provides open access to headphone jack, sync/charge port and Click Wheel * Provides added protection against bump and shock * Inner corners designed to dissipate impact away from your device
Dimensions (case only): 3.77" x 1.72" x .43" Weight (case only): .03 lbs. Color: White or Black
Price: $19.95
Installation is very easy, you just slide your iPod in and it’s done, takes maybe a minute to complete.
The Otterbox Impact Case allows for easy access to the lock button on top and the bottom is open for full access there.
The Impact Case offers good shock protection for your iPod, but does not offer any protection for the screen or click wheel. This isn’t a big deal though as the screen is scratch resistant, and I’ve never really heard of people damaging the click wheel. Personally though I prefer a screen protector though, and use one for most any device I have that has a screen. It’s a personal preference thing.
Coming in at $19.95 I think the Otterbox Impact Case offers a nice level of basic protection for a relatively low price.
Conclusion: The Otterbox Impact Case for iPod nano 4th Gen is a nice, inexpensive way to protect your player from shocks and bumps.
It’s a basic case that offers much better protection that other silicone style cases out there today.
by: Kristofer Brozio Published 20/04 - 2009
Pros: Well made Textured for non-slip grip Good protection Inexpensive
Cons: Silicone attracts dust and lint No screen protection
| Grades: | |
| Overall |
| Design |
| Performance |
OtterBox iPod nano 4th Gen (4G) Defender Case
CaseandCover.com reviews OtterBox cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
A few days ago I took a look at the Otterbox Impact case for iPod nano 4th, today I’ve got the next in the series of cases from Otterbox, the Defender. The Otterbox Defender is an iPod case like no other really, it feature three levels of protection for you iPod. The first layer is the silicone covering over top of the second layer which is a plastic housing, in the housing you’ll find the third layer of protection, a clear membrane over the screen and click wheel. The Defender offers excellent protection for your iPod nano 4th Gen, and easy access to the ports and controls.
Like the Impact I looked at a few days ago, the Defender comes in the same type of packaging, a plastic clamshell, that’s easy to open. The cardboard insert is also the instructions for using the Defender.
The only things inside the box is the case itself, nothing else. The case is black in color and it’s rather bulky really, but there’s a reason for that which you’ll soon see.
On the back of the case is a small tab that pulls out, this can be used has a stand to make the iPod sit up so you can watch movies on it, or just see the screen sideways.
Specifications: iPod nano 4th Gen OtterBox Defender Case
The OtterBox for iPod nano 4th Generation Defender Series has a slim-fit, 3-layer design that provides unmatched protection against bump, shock, drop and scratch. The PATENTED thin membrane covers your screen and Click Wheel, while still allowing for full usability. This design allows you to sync and charge your device right through the case via convenient silicone plugs. Also, as an added bonus, this case has a built-in STAND so you can watch movies and videos while on a plane, train, or just about anywhere. Please note: This case ONLY works with the 4th Generation iPod nano.
Compatibility/Features: Fits the iPod Nano 4th Generation only (both 8GB and 16GB).
* THREE layers of protection! * Layer 1: a clear, thin membrane to protect your screen and Click Wheel * Layer 2: a hi-impact Polycarbonate skeleton * Layer 3: a Silicone skin to absorb bump and shock * Access to Sync/Charge, hold button, and headphone jack accessible via silicone plug * Full use of Click Wheel through case * Built in "kickstand" for movie viewing
Dimensions (case only): 4.05" x 1.83" x .55" Weight (case only): 1.18 oz.
Getting your iPod in the Defender is a little bit of work, first you’ll need to remove the silicon cover:
Then you’ll need to pop the plastic housing apart, when it’s separated you can get a better look at the clear membrane inside the case that protects the screen and click wheel.
Then you can set your iPod inside the case, and snap it back together.
To finish it off you’ll need to put the silicone cover back on, this can get tricky, as you’ve got to work it over the bumps and humps of the case. There is a hole is the back of the case that allows the Apple logo to show through so everyone knows you’ve got an Apple product!
The silicone part of the case features two tabs on the top and bottom that can be flipped away to reveal the lock on top and the connections on the bottom.
Here’s a couple pictures of the stand in action… I guess you would call it action.
In all it does seem like it takes a lot of work to get your iPod in the Defender, but not really, it took about 5 minutes total, and I think it’s well worth it.
Overall the case is very nice, it’s well made, and it offers a great amount of protection for your iPod nano.
The membrane is clear and offer an unobscured view of the screen, and click wheel. One small problem I ran across is that the membrane made the click wheel less sensitive, but all you have to do is add a little pressure and it works fine again.
Conclusion: The Otterbox Defender for iPod nano 4th offers probably the best protection for your iPod from dust, dirt, shocks and drops and of course it protects the screen and click wheel as well. The Defender is my choice for a case for my iPod, I like it quite a bit, it offers the protection I need for my iPod.
Yes it isn’t waterproof, but I don’t foresee dropping my iPod in a lake anytime soon, or any other body of water, so to me that’s not a problem, but if you’re looking for a waterproof case, stay tuned for the next Otterbox review coming soon.
by: Kristofer Brozio Published 25/04 - 2009
Pros: Well Made Great protection for iPod Protects screen and click wheel
Cons: Makes click wheel less sensitive
A few days ago I took a look at the Otterbox Impact case for iPod nano 4th, today I’ve got the next in the series of cases from Otterbox, the Defender. The Otterbox Defender is an iPod case like no other really, it feature three levels of protection for you iPod. The first layer is the silicone covering over top of the second layer which is a plastic housing, in the housing you’ll find the third layer of protection, a clear membrane over the screen and click wheel. The Defender offers excellent protection for your iPod nano 4th Gen, and easy access to the ports and controls.
Like the Impact I looked at a few days ago, the Defender comes in the same type of packaging, a plastic clamshell, that’s easy to open. The cardboard insert is also the instructions for using the Defender.
The only things inside the box is the case itself, nothing else. The case is black in color and it’s rather bulky really, but there’s a reason for that which you’ll soon see.
On the back of the case is a small tab that pulls out, this can be used has a stand to make the iPod sit up so you can watch movies on it, or just see the screen sideways.
Specifications: iPod nano 4th Gen OtterBox Defender Case
The OtterBox for iPod nano 4th Generation Defender Series has a slim-fit, 3-layer design that provides unmatched protection against bump, shock, drop and scratch. The PATENTED thin membrane covers your screen and Click Wheel, while still allowing for full usability. This design allows you to sync and charge your device right through the case via convenient silicone plugs. Also, as an added bonus, this case has a built-in STAND so you can watch movies and videos while on a plane, train, or just about anywhere. Please note: This case ONLY works with the 4th Generation iPod nano.
Compatibility/Features: Fits the iPod Nano 4th Generation only (both 8GB and 16GB).
* THREE layers of protection! * Layer 1: a clear, thin membrane to protect your screen and Click Wheel * Layer 2: a hi-impact Polycarbonate skeleton * Layer 3: a Silicone skin to absorb bump and shock * Access to Sync/Charge, hold button, and headphone jack accessible via silicone plug * Full use of Click Wheel through case * Built in "kickstand" for movie viewing
Dimensions (case only): 4.05" x 1.83" x .55" Weight (case only): 1.18 oz.
Getting your iPod in the Defender is a little bit of work, first you’ll need to remove the silicon cover:
Then you’ll need to pop the plastic housing apart, when it’s separated you can get a better look at the clear membrane inside the case that protects the screen and click wheel.
Then you can set your iPod inside the case, and snap it back together.
To finish it off you’ll need to put the silicone cover back on, this can get tricky, as you’ve got to work it over the bumps and humps of the case. There is a hole is the back of the case that allows the Apple logo to show through so everyone knows you’ve got an Apple product!
The silicone part of the case features two tabs on the top and bottom that can be flipped away to reveal the lock on top and the connections on the bottom.
Here’s a couple pictures of the stand in action… I guess you would call it action.
In all it does seem like it takes a lot of work to get your iPod in the Defender, but not really, it took about 5 minutes total, and I think it’s well worth it.
Overall the case is very nice, it’s well made, and it offers a great amount of protection for your iPod nano.
The membrane is clear and offer an unobscured view of the screen, and click wheel. One small problem I ran across is that the membrane made the click wheel less sensitive, but all you have to do is add a little pressure and it works fine again.
Conclusion: The Otterbox Defender for iPod nano 4th offers probably the best protection for your iPod from dust, dirt, shocks and drops and of course it protects the screen and click wheel as well. The Defender is my choice for a case for my iPod, I like it quite a bit, it offers the protection I need for my iPod.
Yes it isn’t waterproof, but I don’t foresee dropping my iPod in a lake anytime soon, or any other body of water, so to me that’s not a problem, but if you’re looking for a waterproof case, stay tuned for the next Otterbox review coming soon.
by: Kristofer Brozio Published 25/04 - 2009
Pros: Well Made Great protection for iPod Protects screen and click wheel
Cons: Makes click wheel less sensitive
| Grades: | |
| Overall |
| Design |
| Performance |
OtterBox iPod Nano 4th Gen (4G) Armor Case Review
CaseandCover.com reviews OtterBox cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
Today for review I’ve got the last case from our friends at OtterBox
for the Apple iPod nano 4th Generation, the Armor case. This case is the ultimate in protection for your iPod, not only is it rough and tough, but it’s waterproof as well. The OtterBox Armor is clear so you can see your iPod, it features a membrane over the click wheel to allow access to the controls, a built-in cable management belt clip, and a lanyard as well. If you’re looking for something to truly protect your iPod from most anything then this is the case for you.
The OtterBox Armor for iPod nano 4th comes packaged in an easy open plastic clamshell style case with a cardboard insert inside that has directions for installation inside, also included is a cord style lanyard as well.
The case is clear so you can see your iPod though it, there is a membrane over the click wheel that allows access to the functions of the iPod while it’s in the case. Through the front of the case you can see the 3.5mm jack which your iPod gets hooked up to, the case has a built-in pass-through to allow connectivity while still keeping your iPod safe.
The back of the Armor has a belt clip that acts as cable management so you can wrap your headphones around it when not in use.
On the back, on the bottom is where you’ll find the other side of the 3.5mm headphone jack, the female side.
The top of the case is located a heavy duty clip, unlocking the clip allows access to the inside of the Armor for installation.
The lanyard has T shaped posts on the ends of it that fit in the top corners of the Armor, they slide into a hole in the case and get secured when the case is closed.
When we get the OtterBox Armor open we can see the seals on both the top and bottom that keep out water, dust and dirt, when the case is open we can also get a better look at the 3.5mm jack.
Specifications:
iPod nano 4th Generation (4G) Armor Case
The OtterBox Armor Series for iPod nano 4th generation case has a NEW look and a NEW feel. The ergonomic shape was redesigned for ultimate grip; your hands will love being wrapped around this case! Following in the original Armor Series tradition, this case offers waterproof, dust-proof, sand-proof, drop-proof and scratch-proof protection for your iPod nano 4th generation. The Click Wheel is covered by a PATENTED, thin membrane which remains fully functional through the OtterBox. This newly-designed, CRYSTAL CLEAR iPod nano 4th gen case has white overmolding, white latches and a belt clip for cable management/carrying convenience.
Compatability/Features: Fits the iPod nano 4th generation only (both 8GB and 16GB).
* Waterproof, dust-proof, dirt-proof, sand-proof, and drop-proof protection for your iPod nano 4th gen * Click Wheel is covered, yet fully functional * Impact-absorbing rubber on all sides * Included belt clip for carrying convenience * External headphone jack usable with any style headphones with a standard mini stereo plug * Includes removable neck lanyard
Dimensions (case only): 5.15" x 2.32" x .64" Weight (case only): 3.5 oz.
Price: $39.95
Installation is very easy you just slide you iPod into the Armor, lining it up with the 3.5mm jack so it goes into your iPod.
The lanyard is optional, but if you wish to use it, it installs easily.
The OtterBoxArmor truly lives up to its name, this case will protect your iPod from most anything out there including dust, dirt and water. You can truly use your iPod anywhere you go and in most any conditions. The Armor offers protection from shock as well, so you shouldn’t have to worry if you accidentally drop it either.
The OtterBoxArmor case does add substantial bulk or size to your iPod, so when it’s in the case you won’t have a sleek, thin iPod anymore, but I guess that’s the price you pay for protection, so it’s a trade-off really.
When your iPod is in the Armor case you don’t have access to the lock or data/charging port either, but I’ve not sure how big of a problem that is.
Conclusion: If you’re looking for a case that will fully protect your iPod, then you can’t get much better than the OtterBox Armor, it truly lives up to its name as Armor for your iPod.
by: Kristofer Brozio Published 2/05 - 2009
Pros: +Clear and well made +Full protection for your iPod from most anything +Allows access to controls while protecting iPod +Easy installation +Includes lanyard
Cons: -No access to docking port or lock -Large and adds bulk to iPod
for the Apple iPod nano 4th Generation, the Armor case. This case is the ultimate in protection for your iPod, not only is it rough and tough, but it’s waterproof as well. The OtterBox Armor is clear so you can see your iPod, it features a membrane over the click wheel to allow access to the controls, a built-in cable management belt clip, and a lanyard as well. If you’re looking for something to truly protect your iPod from most anything then this is the case for you.The OtterBox
Armor for iPod nano 4th comes packaged in an easy open plastic clamshell style case with a cardboard insert inside that has directions for installation inside, also included is a cord style lanyard as well. The case is clear so you can see your iPod though it, there is a membrane over the click wheel that allows access to the functions of the iPod while it’s in the case. Through the front of the case you can see the 3.5mm jack which your iPod gets hooked up to, the case has a built-in pass-through to allow connectivity while still keeping your iPod safe.
The back of the Armor has a belt clip that acts as cable management so you can wrap your headphones around it when not in use.
On the back, on the bottom is where you’ll find the other side of the 3.5mm headphone jack, the female side.
The top of the case is located a heavy duty clip, unlocking the clip allows access to the inside of the Armor for installation.
The lanyard has T shaped posts on the ends of it that fit in the top corners of the Armor, they slide into a hole in the case and get secured when the case is closed.
When we get the OtterBox
Armor open we can see the seals on both the top and bottom that keep out water, dust and dirt, when the case is open we can also get a better look at the 3.5mm jack. Specifications:
iPod nano 4th Generation (4G) Armor Case
The OtterBox
Armor Series for iPod nano 4th generation case has a NEW look and a NEW feel. The ergonomic shape was redesigned for ultimate grip; your hands will love being wrapped around this case! Following in the original Armor Series tradition, this case offers waterproof, dust-proof, sand-proof, drop-proof and scratch-proof protection for your iPod nano 4th generation. The Click Wheel is covered by a PATENTED, thin membrane which remains fully functional through the OtterBox. This newly-designed, CRYSTAL CLEAR iPod nano 4th gen case has white overmolding, white latches and a belt clip for cable management/carrying convenience.Compatability/Features: Fits the iPod nano 4th generation only (both 8GB and 16GB).
* Waterproof, dust-proof, dirt-proof, sand-proof, and drop-proof protection for your iPod nano 4th gen * Click Wheel is covered, yet fully functional * Impact-absorbing rubber on all sides * Included belt clip for carrying convenience * External headphone jack usable with any style headphones with a standard mini stereo plug * Includes removable neck lanyard
Dimensions (case only): 5.15" x 2.32" x .64" Weight (case only): 3.5 oz.
Price: $39.95
Installation is very easy you just slide you iPod into the Armor, lining it up with the 3.5mm jack so it goes into your iPod.
The lanyard is optional, but if you wish to use it, it installs easily.
The OtterBox
Armor truly lives up to its name, this case will protect your iPod from most anything out there including dust, dirt and water. You can truly use your iPod anywhere you go and in most any conditions. The Armor offers protection from shock as well, so you shouldn’t have to worry if you accidentally drop it either.The OtterBox
Armor case does add substantial bulk or size to your iPod, so when it’s in the case you won’t have a sleek, thin iPod anymore, but I guess that’s the price you pay for protection, so it’s a trade-off really.When your iPod is in the Armor case you don’t have access to the lock or data/charging port either, but I’ve not sure how big of a problem that is.
Conclusion: If you’re looking for a case that will fully protect your iPod, then you can’t get much better than the OtterBox
Armor, it truly lives up to its name as Armor for your iPod. by: Kristofer Brozio Published 2/05 - 2009
Pros: +Clear and well made +Full protection for your iPod from most anything +Allows access to controls while protecting iPod +Easy installation +Includes lanyard
Cons: -No access to docking port or lock -Large and adds bulk to iPod
| Grades: | |
| Overall |
| Design |
| Performance |
Griffin Wave Case for iPod nano 4G and classic 120GB
CaseandCover.com reviews Griffin cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
Staggering is the only word we'd use to describe the number of hard plastic iPod and iPhone cases we're reviewing today -- over 20 different models that we've been comparing to one another, as well as past cases, over the last few weeks. To help you sort through all the options, we've assembled a few statistics that are worth knowing up front. All of the iPod nano cases in this roundup run from $20 to $30, with most at $25 or less, while the two iPod classic cases sell for $25 to $30, iPod touch cases range from $20 to $30, and iPhone 3G cases go for $20 to $35. Virtually every case offers at least partial back and side protection, but they vary widely in front, top, and bottom coverage. Though all use plastic as their base material, they differ considerably in color options and secondary materials. This review looks at Griffin's highly similar Elan Form for iPod nano 4G and iPod touch 2G ($30 each), Nu Form for iPod touch 2G ($25), and Wave Cases for iPod nano 4G and iPod classic ($25 each).
All of these cases share the same basic design idea, borrowed from Incase’s Slider Case for the original iPhone: you get a two-piece plastic shell that slides apart low on the iPod’s body, rendering its bottom Dock Connector port compatible with any accessories that might be otherwise incompatible with the bottoms of the cases. As we’ve noted before, the idea was bright for the first iPhone because there actually was an accessory—Apple’s iPhone Dock—that required access to the bare bottom of that model, but it’s largely unnecessary for iPods, which generally fit without issues into the myriad Universal Dock accessories that are now available.
These slide-off bottoms, then, are an insurance policy against really oversized cases and plugs, but in our testing, you’re unlikely to actually need that feature for most accessories. It’s now mostly appealing as an easier way to get the iPod in and out of the case than using a fully open top, bottom, or face.
Nu Form for iPod touch 2G is the most basic implementation of the idea. The top half is semi-glossy gray plastic, with a collection of rounded squares floating in a pattern on the back left side, while the bottom is coated in soft touch black rubber; as with all of the products here, Griffin includes a screen protector and cleaning cloth in the package. While standard-sized headphone plugs and Dock Connector cables work just fine with holes in Nu Form’s bottom, oversized ones require you to pull the bottom off for connection. Universal Docks work with or without the bottom piece attached.
Elan Form for iPod touch is the exact same case, only with a thin layer of black leather coating both the top and bottom shells, and a $5 higher price tag. Our review sample’s leather was not precisely flattened in the corners, but generally looked pretty good anyway; it is no different in terms of accessory compatibility. The iPod nano 4G version sells for the same $30 price, and replaces the film screen protector with a hard plastic front shield. Once again, the leather wasn’t perfectly flattened in the corners, but it looked fine, and there was no need to pull the bottom off to use most accessories. In fact, the bottom here is compatible with every accessory we tested, including oversized headphone plugs and cables. All that’s missing from this case is Click Wheel, Hold switch, and full bottom protection for the nano; everything else is covered.
The real stars of this collection, in our view, are the $25 Wave Cases for iPod nano 4G and iPod classic, which though highly similar in concept are superior to the others in execution—some of the nicest cases we’ve seen for either of these iPod models. The iPod nano version is sold individually or in $35 two-packs, one translucent white or black, the other black or green, while the iPod classic version comes in a single translucent black version. Both use soft touch rubber on the outside, combined with a completely clear hard plastic face protector that’s held in place by the interlocking top and bottom halves. All that’s exposed, again, are the headphone and Dock Connector ports, Click Wheel, and Hold switch.
As with Griffin’s prior Wave designs, the design twist is a helix-like motif on the case, overlapping different colored shells, but here the waves are found on the back rather than the sides. We seriously love the way that these cases look in person; our only major gripe is that their face protectors are too easy to scratch, in some cases leaving streaks or blemishes that can be seen overlapping the iPods’ screens. Additionally, the iPod classic case’s headphone port hole looks generous, but doesn’t work with the very largest plugs we tested; it’s fine for most, not all. Both cases work with Universal Docks even if their bottoms are left in place.
Though different users’ tastes will obviously vary, the variations in price and materials between these otherwise similar, good designs weigh in certain models’ favor. Nu Form struck us as a plain but nicely protective design, slightly pricey for its quality, while Elan Form looked legitimately handsome as a hybrid plastic and leather case, but also felt a little expensive given that it wasn’t ideally executed, especially for the iPod nano. Wave, with its cool curves and overlapping colors, was the best executed of this bunch, offering identical protection at more reasonable pricing. It’s worthy of our high recommendation, while the others fall into the general recommendation category.
By Jeremy Horwitz
Editor-in-Chief, iLounge Published: Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Staggering is the only word we'd use to describe the number of hard plastic iPod and iPhone cases we're reviewing today -- over 20 different models that we've been comparing to one another, as well as past cases, over the last few weeks. To help you sort through all the options, we've assembled a few statistics that are worth knowing up front. All of the iPod nano cases in this roundup run from $20 to $30, with most at $25 or less, while the two iPod classic cases sell for $25 to $30, iPod touch cases range from $20 to $30, and iPhone 3G cases go for $20 to $35. Virtually every case offers at least partial back and side protection, but they vary widely in front, top, and bottom coverage. Though all use plastic as their base material, they differ considerably in color options and secondary materials. This review looks at Griffin's highly similar Elan Form for iPod nano 4G and iPod touch 2G ($30 each), Nu Form for iPod touch 2G ($25), and Wave Cases for iPod nano 4G and iPod classic ($25 each).
All of these cases share the same basic design idea, borrowed from Incase’s Slider Case for the original iPhone: you get a two-piece plastic shell that slides apart low on the iPod’s body, rendering its bottom Dock Connector port compatible with any accessories that might be otherwise incompatible with the bottoms of the cases. As we’ve noted before, the idea was bright for the first iPhone because there actually was an accessory—Apple’s iPhone Dock—that required access to the bare bottom of that model, but it’s largely unnecessary for iPods, which generally fit without issues into the myriad Universal Dock accessories that are now available.
These slide-off bottoms, then, are an insurance policy against really oversized cases and plugs, but in our testing, you’re unlikely to actually need that feature for most accessories. It’s now mostly appealing as an easier way to get the iPod in and out of the case than using a fully open top, bottom, or face.
Nu Form for iPod touch 2G is the most basic implementation of the idea. The top half is semi-glossy gray plastic, with a collection of rounded squares floating in a pattern on the back left side, while the bottom is coated in soft touch black rubber; as with all of the products here, Griffin includes a screen protector and cleaning cloth in the package. While standard-sized headphone plugs and Dock Connector cables work just fine with holes in Nu Form’s bottom, oversized ones require you to pull the bottom off for connection. Universal Docks work with or without the bottom piece attached.
Elan Form for iPod touch is the exact same case, only with a thin layer of black leather coating both the top and bottom shells, and a $5 higher price tag. Our review sample’s leather was not precisely flattened in the corners, but generally looked pretty good anyway; it is no different in terms of accessory compatibility. The iPod nano 4G version sells for the same $30 price, and replaces the film screen protector with a hard plastic front shield. Once again, the leather wasn’t perfectly flattened in the corners, but it looked fine, and there was no need to pull the bottom off to use most accessories. In fact, the bottom here is compatible with every accessory we tested, including oversized headphone plugs and cables. All that’s missing from this case is Click Wheel, Hold switch, and full bottom protection for the nano; everything else is covered.
The real stars of this collection, in our view, are the $25 Wave Cases for iPod nano 4G and iPod classic, which though highly similar in concept are superior to the others in execution—some of the nicest cases we’ve seen for either of these iPod models. The iPod nano version is sold individually or in $35 two-packs, one translucent white or black, the other black or green, while the iPod classic version comes in a single translucent black version. Both use soft touch rubber on the outside, combined with a completely clear hard plastic face protector that’s held in place by the interlocking top and bottom halves. All that’s exposed, again, are the headphone and Dock Connector ports, Click Wheel, and Hold switch.
As with Griffin’s prior Wave designs, the design twist is a helix-like motif on the case, overlapping different colored shells, but here the waves are found on the back rather than the sides. We seriously love the way that these cases look in person; our only major gripe is that their face protectors are too easy to scratch, in some cases leaving streaks or blemishes that can be seen overlapping the iPods’ screens. Additionally, the iPod classic case’s headphone port hole looks generous, but doesn’t work with the very largest plugs we tested; it’s fine for most, not all. Both cases work with Universal Docks even if their bottoms are left in place.
Though different users’ tastes will obviously vary, the variations in price and materials between these otherwise similar, good designs weigh in certain models’ favor. Nu Form struck us as a plain but nicely protective design, slightly pricey for its quality, while Elan Form looked legitimately handsome as a hybrid plastic and leather case, but also felt a little expensive given that it wasn’t ideally executed, especially for the iPod nano. Wave, with its cool curves and overlapping colors, was the best executed of this bunch, offering identical protection at more reasonable pricing. It’s worthy of our high recommendation, while the others fall into the general recommendation category.
By Jeremy Horwitz
Editor-in-Chief, iLounge Published: Wednesday, October 22, 2008
InvisibleSHIELD by ZAGG Review
CaseandCover.com reviews ZAGG’s invisibleSHIELD cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
Everyone who owns expensive devices is always looking for a way to protect them. There is no shortage of cases, films and other protecting products out there, and each has its own benefits and downfalls. When Invisible Skinz reached out to me to take a look at the invisibleSHIELD
, I was happy take another look. I say another, because I have used these products in the past, as I had one for my Motorola Q back in 2006. At the time, I ended up having to send my phone back to Verizon, and forgot to remove the shield before sending. Fortunately, I am able to take another look.
In the Box
Invisible Shield
Install Squeegee
Shieldspray
Installation/Thoughts
Installing the invisibleSHIELD on your device takes about 30 minutes, but it’s worth the time. The secret for Zagg is the shield spray that they include with the shields. The formula interacts with the adhesive on the shield to make the installation process easier, and more effective. The actual installation process is simple; peel off the shield from the paper backing, spray, apply and squeegee. Each invisibleSHIELD is created specifically for the device its sold for, so the longest part of the installation is getting each little piece lined up perfectly. The result is full device coverage that looks incredibly professional. Out of all the devices I have, I thought the iPhone 3G would be a great representation as a test device for the product. The capacitive touch screen was my biggest concern, as I wondered if the screen would still be sensitive to my fingers. Good news, there is no noticeable difference in user experience on the screen.
I’ve had the invisibleSHIELD on my iPhone for the past week and have been happy with the results. The full body coverage gives me the peace of mind that I my phone is protected. The texture of the shield gives it a “grippy” feel, which makes it less prone to being dropped, and overall is a very unobtrusive solution to keeping your device protected.
About the Invisible Shield
ZAGG’s invisibleSHIELD™ is a thin polyurethane film originally created for the military to protect the leading edge of helicopter blades. What’s unique about this military-grade, patented film is how tough it is – it doesn’t scratch. What makes ZAGG’s exclusive invisibleSHIELD™ so strong, flexible and scratch-proof? Its Nano-Memory technology™. With this technology, it also allows it to curve and contour around an entire device (not just the screen) and adhere to the device unless you want to remove it (without leaving adhesive).
The invisibleSHIELD has been designed to protect over 2,500 handheld electronics, including the Apple iPod touch, the Apple iPhone 3G, the BlackBerry Curve and more.
from Mickey Papillion, 3/14/2009
Everyone who owns expensive devices is always looking for a way to protect them. There is no shortage of cases, films and other protecting products out there, and each has its own benefits and downfalls. When Invisible Skinz reached out to me to take a look at the invisibleSHIELD
In the Box
Invisible Shield
Install Squeegee
Shieldspray
Installation/Thoughts
Installing the invisibleSHIELD
I’ve had the invisibleSHIELD
About the Invisible Shield
ZAGG’s invisibleSHIELD
The invisibleSHIELD
from Mickey Papillion, 3/14/2009
Switcheasy Colors iPod nano (4g) Case Review
CaseandCover.com reviews SwitchEasy cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
SwitchEasy
recently released a line of different color silicon protection for the new 4th Generation iPod nano
. The cases come in 11 different colors and should meet the needs of any iPod nano 4G owner looking for a silicon protection system. The packaging is quite simple, but complete. For $12.99 plus $3.00 for shipping, you receive the silicon case, plastic click-wheel guard, soft plastic screen protection, a hard-shell screen protector and a microfiber cloth. The package also comes with a plug for the dock connector port to provide protection and keep unwanted lint or small particles out.
The whole package starts by installing the protective plastic ring for the click-wheel. Once this is on you add the plastic screen protector. You then can slide the silicon case onto your iPod nano. You then slide the hard plastic screen protector into place and add your dock connector plug.
The feel of the case is of soft silicon which has some good stretch to it, but is thick enough to provide more-than adequate protection against scratches and falls. The case itself we tested was Crimson in color and nicely duplicated the Product(Red) iPod nano we have. The one down side to covering the iPod with colored silicone is you can never duplicate that metallic look you get with a anodized metal casing of the unprotected iPod nano. On the plus side, the case is not a sticky silicone and should not collect lint.
Although you cannot fit the iPod nano into a dock with the silicone on, you can use the USB cable without any interference. The headphone jack and hold switch are exposed enough to provide for normal use as you would expect. The build quality of the case is top notch and there were no noticeable defects or imperfections from manufacturing.
All-in-all the SwitchEasy Colors Case is a great option if you are looking for a full silicone casing solution to an iPod nano. The price is very reasonable for all you get and the shipping was very fast, 3 days from California to New York, for only costing $3.00.
We give this case a 4 out of 5, only taking off for the inability to use it with a standard dock.
by Zollotech.com
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
SwitchEasy
recently released a line of different color silicon protection for the new 4th Generation iPod nano. The cases come in 11 different colors and should meet the needs of any iPod nano 4G owner looking for a silicon protection system. The packaging is quite simple, but complete. For $12.99 plus $3.00 for shipping, you receive the silicon case, plastic click-wheel guard, soft plastic screen protection, a hard-shell screen protector and a microfiber cloth. The package also comes with a plug for the dock connector port to provide protection and keep unwanted lint or small particles out.The whole package starts by installing the protective plastic ring for the click-wheel. Once this is on you add the plastic screen protector. You then can slide the silicon case onto your iPod nano
. You then slide the hard plastic screen protector into place and add your dock connector plug.The feel of the case is of soft silicon which has some good stretch to it, but is thick enough to provide more-than adequate protection against scratches and falls. The case itself we tested was Crimson in color and nicely duplicated the Product(Red) iPod nano
we have. The one down side to covering the iPod with colored silicone is you can never duplicate that metallic look you get with a anodized metal casing of the unprotected iPod nano. On the plus side, the case is not a sticky silicone and should not collect lint. Although you cannot fit the iPod nano
into a dock with the silicone on, you can use the USB cable without any interference. The headphone jack and hold switch are exposed enough to provide for normal use as you would expect. The build quality of the case is top notch and there were no noticeable defects or imperfections from manufacturing.All-in-all the SwitchEasy
Colors Case is a great option if you are looking for a full silicone casing solution to an iPod nano. The price is very reasonable for all you get and the shipping was very fast, 3 days from California to New York, for only costing $3.00.We give this case a 4 out of 5, only taking off for the inability to use it with a standard dock.
by Zollotech.com
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
DLO StrapWrap Review
CaseandCover.com reviews DLO cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
by Dan Pourhadi, Macworld.com
Being a student of the collegiate order, as well as a guy who pretends to be a Chicago Loop business-type, I’m constantly carrying a bag to look like I’m on my way to something important (even if sometimes the bag is empty). My iPhone rests in my pocket, pumping tunes to my ears and effectively eliminating any idle communication with fellow public-transportation drones. But keeping it in my pocket is annoying and inconvenient—the iPhone is always bouncing around, clinking with my change from lunch, and extending my headphone wire the entire snag-attracting distance from my ear to my pants. Oh, and it makes my pocket bulge, too.
When I saw the box for the DLO StrapWrap , I let out a soft yelp: exactly what I needed, I thought. And after giving it a try, I was content with its functionality, and only mildly disappointed by its caveats.
The StrapWrap’s exterior is made from neoprene, making it reasonably resistant to the effects of wear-and-tear. It attaches to your shoulder bag or backpack using two adjustable Velcro flaps that wrap around any strap (up to 2.5 inches wide). A “stability clip” can clip to a buckle on your bag’s strap to keep the StrapWrap from sliding. Your gadget slides into one of two stretchy pouches on the front of the case, depending on the gadget’s size (gizmos up to 2.5 inches wide will fit) and how exposed you want it—one pouch offers more protection than the other. You can use the other pouch as a pocket for whatever you can manage to cram in there (for example, earbuds, ID, or credit cards).
The Good: The neoprene feels very durable, and the pouches constrict so tightly that there’s no way your gadget is slipping out accidentally. The Velcro flaps work well to secure the case to the strap—at least they did for my bags—with little slippage. And, of course, the convenience factor is a big plus.
The Bad: Because of its ‘one size fits all’ mentality, the StrapWrap is big, both in bulk and height. For messenger bags, that isn’t really an issue—there’s plenty of room across the chest. But for backpacks, the macho design—and particularly the height, considering that most backpack straps curve—can add a level of discomfort or general irritation that, for some, could be a deal-breaker.
In addition, while the “stability clip” can be useful, if your bag has no buckle or other appendage within reach, the clip becomes nothing more than a nuisance, and there’s no way to remove the long stability strap from the case. You end up either dealing with the swaying, bouncing fabric or shove the strap between the case flaps and your strap. And, of course, unlike bag-straps designed specifically for, say, an iPhone or iPod, there’s also no way to control the functions of your gadget without removing it from the StrapWrap first.
All-in-all, the StrapWrap is a decent bag-strap option, especially for people who may want to bring along different gadgets at different times, but it’s not without limitations.
by Dan Pourhadi, Macworld.com
Being a student of the collegiate order, as well as a guy who pretends to be a Chicago Loop business-type, I’m constantly carrying a bag to look like I’m on my way to something important (even if sometimes the bag is empty). My iPhone rests in my pocket, pumping tunes to my ears and effectively eliminating any idle communication with fellow public-transportation drones. But keeping it in my pocket is annoying and inconvenient—the iPhone is always bouncing around, clinking with my change from lunch, and extending my headphone wire the entire snag-attracting distance from my ear to my pants. Oh, and it makes my pocket bulge, too.
When I saw the box for the DLO StrapWrap , I let out a soft yelp: exactly what I needed, I thought. And after giving it a try, I was content with its functionality, and only mildly disappointed by its caveats.
The StrapWrap’s exterior is made from neoprene, making it reasonably resistant to the effects of wear-and-tear. It attaches to your shoulder bag or backpack using two adjustable Velcro flaps that wrap around any strap (up to 2.5 inches wide). A “stability clip” can clip to a buckle on your bag’s strap to keep the StrapWrap from sliding. Your gadget slides into one of two stretchy pouches on the front of the case, depending on the gadget’s size (gizmos up to 2.5 inches wide will fit) and how exposed you want it—one pouch offers more protection than the other. You can use the other pouch as a pocket for whatever you can manage to cram in there (for example, earbuds, ID, or credit cards).
The Good: The neoprene feels very durable, and the pouches constrict so tightly that there’s no way your gadget is slipping out accidentally. The Velcro flaps work well to secure the case to the strap—at least they did for my bags—with little slippage. And, of course, the convenience factor is a big plus.
The Bad: Because of its ‘one size fits all’ mentality, the StrapWrap is big, both in bulk and height. For messenger bags, that isn’t really an issue—there’s plenty of room across the chest. But for backpacks, the macho design—and particularly the height, considering that most backpack straps curve—can add a level of discomfort or general irritation that, for some, could be a deal-breaker.
In addition, while the “stability clip” can be useful, if your bag has no buckle or other appendage within reach, the clip becomes nothing more than a nuisance, and there’s no way to remove the long stability strap from the case. You end up either dealing with the swaying, bouncing fabric or shove the strap between the case flaps and your strap. And, of course, unlike bag-straps designed specifically for, say, an iPhone or iPod, there’s also no way to control the functions of your gadget without removing it from the StrapWrap first.
All-in-all, the StrapWrap is a decent bag-strap option, especially for people who may want to bring along different gadgets at different times, but it’s not without limitations.
iDive 300 iPod/iPhone Underwater Case Review
CaseandCover.com reviews H2O Audio cases and covers for the iPhone, iPod, and BlackBerry. Trusted reviews, from trusted sources throughout the internet.
Underwater movie watching and music listening done right
by Rob Griffiths, Macworld.com
If you’re a professional scuba diver, there’s probably one aspect of your career that you really dislike: the interminable decompression stops. For those who don’t know, professional divers tend to dive much deeper, and for much longer, than do recreational divers such as myself. As a result, they build up lots of inert gases in their bloodstream, and these gases need to be purged before surfacing so as to avoid decompression sickness. For example, the US Navy’s dive tables show that a diver spending 60 minutes at a depth of 130 feet must make four decompression stops totaling nearly 90 minutes before surfacing!
As a recreational diver, I don't have anywhere near such requirements—just a three minute “safety stop” at 15 feet of depth. I can easily pass those minutes by just looking around at the undersea environment. But if I had 90 minutes or more to wait before surfacing, the surroundings would quickly turn monotonous. You can’t read a book or magazine, for obvious reasons, and taking a nap isn’t a good idea, either, as you need to maintain your depth and be awake to monitor your equipment. Sounds like a recipe for hours of boredom, doesn’t it?
Until recently, it probably was. But add H2O Audio’s iDive 300 Deep Dive Waterproof Case & Speakers to the mix, and you can use those decompression stops to watch a movie, listen to an audiobook, or be serenaded by your music collection. You can also use the iDive 300 during your dive, as well as while snorkeling and swimming.
Save $24! New iPod classic 120GB black NOW $224.94 (was $249) FREE Engraving & FREE TuneRanger,Case after rebate
The iDive 300 lets you use your iPhone or iPod underwater to watch video and listen to audio (you can't run apps or use the phone). Specifically, the iDive protects your player down to an incredible depth of 300 feet—recreational divers are limited to 120 feet, and most "waterproof" iPod cases we've tested work only to 10 feet or so. Your iPod or iPhone fits snugly inside the case using several included spacers and trim pieces. The iDive 300's amplified, outside-the-ear headphones—actually small speakers—are permanently connected and can be either clipped to the sides of your mask or tucked inside a dive hood.
How does the iDive 300 let you use the touchscreen on an iPod touch or iPhone, or the Click Wheel on an iPod, through the thick plastic required to withstand the incredible pressures at such depths? It doesn’t. Inside the iDive, you’ll find a circuit board, a dock-connector plug, and space for three AA batteries (for powering the case's circuitry and headphones). You control your player using buttons—for volume, playback, and menu navigation—on the side of the iDive, which communicates with your iPod or iPhone through the dock-connector port. In other words, the iDive is more like an iPod speaker system in a waterproof enclosure than a simple waterproof case (which partly explains its higher price).
How well does the iDive work in the real world? A recent short trip to Cabo san Lucas gave me the opportunity to use the iDive on a real dive, using my iPhone 3G as the audio and video source. After testing the case at home to make sure it was watertight, I set out on the trip, still with a good deal of trepidation over immersing my iPhone 3G in the open ocean!
I needn’t have worried, however, as the iDive performed perfectly. Once in the water with the iDive, I tested both movie and audio playback, and everything worked as expected. I was able to easily navigate menus, start and stop audio and video, and watch and listen to my iPhone while scuba diving. I had a bit of an issue during setup, requiring me to turn the iDive on and off a couple times to get it to “see” my iPhone, but after that, it worked fine.
There’s something decidedly weird about listening to music (not to mention watching a movie) while gliding 60 feet under the surface. The underwater world is usually quiet, with the exception of the noise from breathing and bubbles…but not for me, at least not on this dive. I tried a variety of music, and found that classical seemed to work nicely with the slow, easy pace of scuba diving. (The faster you swim, the faster you use up your air supply, so scuba divers are generally very slow swimmers.)
Using the iDive while diving was reasonably easy, at least in warmer, “no glove” water. The buttons were all easy to press, and I could operate them by touch after I became familiar with their locations. For colder water use, I tested the iDive 300 at home with my light dive gloves on, and the buttons were large enough to distinguish and press. I didn’t, however, bring the gloves on the trip, so I can’t comment on how well the gloves would work with the iDive 300 in the real world.
The sound from the headphones is adequate, if not of the highest quality—I found the sound somewhat tinny, with bass response lacking. I had the speakers clipped to my mask, resting over my ears; I imagine that had I been wearing a dive hood with the headphones tucked inside, the sound might have been better. To be fair, reproducing sound accurately underwater is very difficult, especially at the lower frequencies, so the iDive did an acceptable job, in my opinion. Volume levels were easily loud enough—the amplified speakers did that job with ease.
Seeing the iPhone’s screen also wasn’t a problem, at least not in the water we were diving in, which was generally clear with visibility ranging from 20 to 50 feet. I didn’t see any distortion from the case's plexiglass, which is impressive, given its thickness. I recorded a short movie, below, of the iDive 300 in action at approximately 65 feet (using a Canon SD850 IS in a waterproof housing), so you can get a sense of how it looks. You'll notice that the colors are somewhat off due to the lack of natural light during a scuba dive and the fact that I recorded the video using a compact digital camera.
Being a recreational diver, I got nowhere near the iDive’s 300-foot limit, as our dive ranged between 50 and 65 feet. Still, there’s a fair amount of pressure at those depths, yet the iDive 300 remained perfectly sealed, and all of its controls worked fine. At the conclusion of the 45-minute dive, there wasn’t any sign of water anywhere inside the case.
The biggest problem I had while using the iDive 300 was simply managing the cables it adds to an already cable- and cord-heavy hobby. The headphone cable leading out of the iDive splits into left and right cables after a foot or so. Combine those cables with the buoyancy-jacket inflator, the instrument cluster, and two regulators, and you’ve got a potential tangle on your hands. I did my best to route the cords in such a way that they wouldn’t interfere with the rest of my gear.
Another potential issue with the iDive 300 has nothing to do with the product and everything to do with how you use it: While enjoying your music or movie, you may forget to check your depth, your air supply, the location of your buddy, and/or the direction you’re moving. Overlooking just one of these things while diving could potentially lead to a fatal accident, so it’s critically important that you stay involved with your dive while using the iDive 300.
Macworld's buying advice
Overall, I was very impressed with the iDive 300. While it’s not cheap at $299, you do get what you pay for: It’s amazingly well-engineered, solidly built, and worked exactly as advertised during my time with it. It was relatively easy to set up, its buttons were large and easy to press under water, and there was more than enough volume at the depths I tested it. Sound quality is about what I was expecting, given the difficulties of reproducing sound underwater, and was certainly good enough to understand words and listen to music.
If you just want to use your iPod or iPhone around the pool or while snorkeling in shallower waters, H2O Audio's Amphibx line will handle those needs. But if you’re looking for a well-built, waterproof case that you can use while scuba diving, the iDive 300 is well worth your consideration.
Underwater movie watching and music listening done right
by Rob Griffiths, Macworld.com
If you’re a professional scuba diver, there’s probably one aspect of your career that you really dislike: the interminable decompression stops. For those who don’t know, professional divers tend to dive much deeper, and for much longer, than do recreational divers such as myself. As a result, they build up lots of inert gases in their bloodstream, and these gases need to be purged before surfacing so as to avoid decompression sickness. For example, the US Navy’s dive tables show that a diver spending 60 minutes at a depth of 130 feet must make four decompression stops totaling nearly 90 minutes before surfacing!
As a recreational diver, I don't have anywhere near such requirements—just a three minute “safety stop” at 15 feet of depth. I can easily pass those minutes by just looking around at the undersea environment. But if I had 90 minutes or more to wait before surfacing, the surroundings would quickly turn monotonous. You can’t read a book or magazine, for obvious reasons, and taking a nap isn’t a good idea, either, as you need to maintain your depth and be awake to monitor your equipment. Sounds like a recipe for hours of boredom, doesn’t it?
Until recently, it probably was. But add H2O Audio’s iDive 300 Deep Dive Waterproof Case & Speakers to the mix, and you can use those decompression stops to watch a movie, listen to an audiobook, or be serenaded by your music collection. You can also use the iDive 300 during your dive, as well as while snorkeling and swimming.
Save $24! New iPod classic 120GB black NOW $224.94 (was $249) FREE Engraving & FREE TuneRanger,Case after rebate
The iDive 300 lets you use your iPhone or iPod underwater to watch video and listen to audio (you can't run apps or use the phone). Specifically, the iDive protects your player down to an incredible depth of 300 feet—recreational divers are limited to 120 feet, and most "waterproof" iPod cases we've tested work only to 10 feet or so. Your iPod or iPhone fits snugly inside the case using several included spacers and trim pieces. The iDive 300's amplified, outside-the-ear headphones—actually small speakers—are permanently connected and can be either clipped to the sides of your mask or tucked inside a dive hood.
How does the iDive 300 let you use the touchscreen on an iPod touch or iPhone, or the Click Wheel on an iPod, through the thick plastic required to withstand the incredible pressures at such depths? It doesn’t. Inside the iDive, you’ll find a circuit board, a dock-connector plug, and space for three AA batteries (for powering the case's circuitry and headphones). You control your player using buttons—for volume, playback, and menu navigation—on the side of the iDive, which communicates with your iPod or iPhone through the dock-connector port. In other words, the iDive is more like an iPod speaker system in a waterproof enclosure than a simple waterproof case (which partly explains its higher price).
How well does the iDive work in the real world? A recent short trip to Cabo san Lucas gave me the opportunity to use the iDive on a real dive, using my iPhone 3G as the audio and video source. After testing the case at home to make sure it was watertight, I set out on the trip, still with a good deal of trepidation over immersing my iPhone 3G in the open ocean!
I needn’t have worried, however, as the iDive performed perfectly. Once in the water with the iDive, I tested both movie and audio playback, and everything worked as expected. I was able to easily navigate menus, start and stop audio and video, and watch and listen to my iPhone while scuba diving. I had a bit of an issue during setup, requiring me to turn the iDive on and off a couple times to get it to “see” my iPhone, but after that, it worked fine.
There’s something decidedly weird about listening to music (not to mention watching a movie) while gliding 60 feet under the surface. The underwater world is usually quiet, with the exception of the noise from breathing and bubbles…but not for me, at least not on this dive. I tried a variety of music, and found that classical seemed to work nicely with the slow, easy pace of scuba diving. (The faster you swim, the faster you use up your air supply, so scuba divers are generally very slow swimmers.)
Using the iDive while diving was reasonably easy, at least in warmer, “no glove” water. The buttons were all easy to press, and I could operate them by touch after I became familiar with their locations. For colder water use, I tested the iDive 300 at home with my light dive gloves on, and the buttons were large enough to distinguish and press. I didn’t, however, bring the gloves on the trip, so I can’t comment on how well the gloves would work with the iDive 300 in the real world.
The sound from the headphones is adequate, if not of the highest quality—I found the sound somewhat tinny, with bass response lacking. I had the speakers clipped to my mask, resting over my ears; I imagine that had I been wearing a dive hood with the headphones tucked inside, the sound might have been better. To be fair, reproducing sound accurately underwater is very difficult, especially at the lower frequencies, so the iDive did an acceptable job, in my opinion. Volume levels were easily loud enough—the amplified speakers did that job with ease.
Seeing the iPhone’s screen also wasn’t a problem, at least not in the water we were diving in, which was generally clear with visibility ranging from 20 to 50 feet. I didn’t see any distortion from the case's plexiglass, which is impressive, given its thickness. I recorded a short movie, below, of the iDive 300 in action at approximately 65 feet (using a Canon SD850 IS in a waterproof housing), so you can get a sense of how it looks. You'll notice that the colors are somewhat off due to the lack of natural light during a scuba dive and the fact that I recorded the video using a compact digital camera.
Being a recreational diver, I got nowhere near the iDive’s 300-foot limit, as our dive ranged between 50 and 65 feet. Still, there’s a fair amount of pressure at those depths, yet the iDive 300 remained perfectly sealed, and all of its controls worked fine. At the conclusion of the 45-minute dive, there wasn’t any sign of water anywhere inside the case.
The biggest problem I had while using the iDive 300 was simply managing the cables it adds to an already cable- and cord-heavy hobby. The headphone cable leading out of the iDive splits into left and right cables after a foot or so. Combine those cables with the buoyancy-jacket inflator, the instrument cluster, and two regulators, and you’ve got a potential tangle on your hands. I did my best to route the cords in such a way that they wouldn’t interfere with the rest of my gear.
Another potential issue with the iDive 300 has nothing to do with the product and everything to do with how you use it: While enjoying your music or movie, you may forget to check your depth, your air supply, the location of your buddy, and/or the direction you’re moving. Overlooking just one of these things while diving could potentially lead to a fatal accident, so it’s critically important that you stay involved with your dive while using the iDive 300.
Macworld's buying advice
Overall, I was very impressed with the iDive 300. While it’s not cheap at $299, you do get what you pay for: It’s amazingly well-engineered, solidly built, and worked exactly as advertised during my time with it. It was relatively easy to set up, its buttons were large and easy to press under water, and there was more than enough volume at the depths I tested it. Sound quality is about what I was expecting, given the difficulties of reproducing sound underwater, and was certainly good enough to understand words and listen to music.
If you just want to use your iPod or iPhone around the pool or while snorkeling in shallower waters, H2O Audio's Amphibx line will handle those needs. But if you’re looking for a well-built, waterproof case that you can use while scuba diving, the iDive 300 is well worth your consideration.