I briefly had a new iPod Shuffle when it was released last month. I loved the size and the voiceover feature, but ended up returning it. Why? The inability to use any headset other than the stock Apple buds didn’t work for me. I have, and use, a number of relatively high end headsets with my iPhone, and I just couldn’t get used to the stock buds. So back it went!
Still however, I wanted a small iPod to use when I didn’t want to carry something larger and/or put my iPhone or iPod Touch at risk. As a result, I returned the Shuffle and got a new Nano. Small, light and easy to use, I love it. And when OtterBox offered an opportunity to review their iPod Nano 4th Gen Armor Case, I jumped at it. Let’s take a look…
OtterBox’s Take-
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.
- 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
My Take-
I have reviewed a number of other OtterBox offerings over the last year or so, so the Armor Case for iPod Nano 4th Generation was immediately familiar. It has all the features I have come to know and appreciate. It is incredibly well-built, offers complete protection (and I mean complete), yet still offers the ability to access most of the key controls of the device.
Getting the iPod into and out of the case is a relatively simple process.
After releasing the single latch on the bottom the Nano slides right in. You then simple close the clamshell created by the case around the Nano, and clip the latch into place.
In doing so a seal is created that protects the iPod from all the elements including water. In fact, you can submerge the case in water!
A removable clip makes it easy to secure the iPod and case to a belt buckle, bag and more. An included cord lets to hand it around your neck, tie it to a bag or… whatever.
While in the case the iPod is actually inverted. A pass-through play awaits and, as a result, so long as you have waterproof headphones you can listen to music in the rain, the tub etc. without concern for the device’s well-being. Moreover, while in the case, the scroll-wheel is fully functional. Unfortunately, the design of the case means you cannot lock the device or charge/sync it, but that is a small price to pay for the high degree of protection the OtterBox provides.
At the end of the day I love the case for the flexibility it provides. If I want an iPod that is super thin and light I can use the iPod on its own. If, however, I want the ultimate in protection, I can throw the iPod in the case and, within seconds, water, shock and generally “dan-proof” it.
What I Like-
Awesome complete protection
Easy to get iPod in and out
WATERPROOF
Scroll-wheel still fully functional while iPod inside
What Needs Improvement-
Adds bulk and weight (but if you want the ultimate in protection that is the cost!)
Available from OtterBox for $39.95