Tough Choices – IPod Mini, Shuffle, or Full?
Minimalist Modern – iPod Shuffle
It’s white, weird-looking, and approximately the size of a pack of gum. But don’t be fooled – this small player packs some serious punch. Perfect for workouts or on the go, the iPod Shuffle comes with either 512 mb (about 120 songs) or 1 gig of storage (about 240 songs). And the prices is right – at about $99, the iPod Shuffle retails for far less than most MP3 players. Innovative in more than just design and price, the iPod Shuffle also has an ingenious function. The Shuffle does just that, shuffling through a pre-loaded play list you control using iTunes software. The Shuffle has up to 12 hours of play time, can be customized with colorful sports cases, and can be worn on the wrist or around the neck. As an added bonus, you can plug your iPod Shuffle directly into any computer’s USB port to manage your music collection – and charge the device at the same time.
The Shuffle’s downsides come down to its real limitation – size. Since it can only store up to 1 gig of music, this is not the device to take on a long trip. In addition, some users might be irritated by their lack of control over what’s playing due to the device’s tiny interface, which does not display song titles or allow selection of an entire album like the other model iPods. However, the Shuffle is a great idea for the budget-conscious, those headed out on workouts or short trips – or just those who love the iPod Shuffle’s streamlined sense of style.
The Middle Classes – iPod mini
With storage of 4 to 6 gigs of music (that’s up to 1,500 songs), the iPod mini is eye-catching in an array of pastel metallic colors and a bit easier on the pocketbook than the full-sized iPod (starting at $199). Weighing in at under 4 ounces, the iPod mini is truly tiny, and its battery lasts for up to 18 hours of play. Like its siblings, the mini uses iTunes software to manage your music and features up to 25 minutes of skip protection. And it’s customizable with wristbands, lanyards and cases galore.
Drawbacks are limited primarily to storage space. Many consumers like the metallic exterior, which prevents the mini from scratches and damages, but complain about its inability to accommodate their massive music collections. Think hard about what kind of storage you require before making your choice.
The Big Leagues – Full-Sized iPod
The full-sized version of the iPod features the white and silver exterior the world has come to know and love. And these iPods pack a powerful computer that stores either 20 or 40 gigs of music or photos. That’s up to 15,000 songs or 25,000 photos! New iPod models feature color screens and combine the functions of the old MP3 player and photo option. The iPod can be customized with covers or armbands and can store everything from your beloved album collection to the latest podcasts and downloads. Starting at $299, the iPod is powered by iTunes software on your Mac or PC and features around 15 hours of battery life.
The drawback of the full-sized iPod is twofold – cost and functionality. Many casual music listeners just don’t have the collections to warrant such a massive storage device – or don’t have the Net savvy to load the latest programs and take advantage of all the device’s functions. Nonetheless, you may be seduced by the value of approximately 15 more gigs of space for just $100 more – and there’s nothing like having your entire music collection available to you at the touch of a finger.
Ultimately, there’s a perfect iPod for everyone in the family. It’s a good idea to start small and take it from there, but if your collection warrants it – or you just covet the mother lode – go for a large-sized iPod. Each product is long on the elements that have made iPod products so successful – design, fun and the elusive cool factor.
