Apple iPod (30GB, 5th Generation, Black) - Expert Reviews

Review summary: We chose to review the 30GB (as opposed to the 80GB version) as it is the direct competitor to the Microsoft Zune (not that the capacity will really make a difference in our review, aside from valu...

Pros: It shur is purty, maw, Solid player that is available everywhere, Excellent musical quality, Bright, high quality screen,

Cons: Screwy scroll wheel, Pricey iTunes store, Eye strain while watching movies, It's not an iPhone,

Award: Editor's Choice!

Review summary: The amazingly low priced updated Apple iPod gets many under-the-hood improvements, but it's still not a true video player.

Pros: Improved video battery life and brighter screen; gapless playback; new features such as instant search and enhanced games; movies now available in iTunes 7; excellent overall value

Cons: Still no FM radio; small screen not conducive to movie viewing; proprietary USB cable; narrow native video-format compatibility; body is still scratch prone

Verdict: and Toshiba's 30GB Gigabeat S cost nearly the same on the street

Review summary: The fifth generation of Apple's iPod is also the most stylish. It's thinner than ever and, of course, it can play video.

Pros: Looks great, Easy to use, CLickwheel a pleasure to use

Cons: Limited features, Creative's Vision:m has more to offer

Verdict: Good looks, limited functions

Review summary: Make way for the champion of MP3, as the iPod 80GB flexes its newly bulked-up muscles. iPod boma ye! iPod boma ye!

Pros: Huge capacity. Brighter screen. High-quality video output

Cons: Temperamental. Prone to scratching

Pros: Intuitive controls, Improved screen, Better battery life

Cons: Still uses iTunes, Still uses proprietary connection, scratches easily

Verdict: The iPod is one of the best portable media players on the market, and this update does little to change that. While the improvements are fairly minor, the improved battery life and better screen certainly make this an attractive option.