by Abby Way

Created on: June 14, 2009

Since their release, iPods have been one of our favorite tech toys. Millions of people already use iPods, and they are becoming increasingly popular every year.

Despite the popularity of this expensive gadget, many people don't protect their iPods as they should. Some people spend half again as much on accessories as they did on the original iPod, yet they don't think about buying a case.

Fancy accessories like docking stations, wireless remote kits, speakers, and voice recorders are great additions to your iPod, but the first accessory you should buy is protection for your iPod.

iPod skins and cases come in all different styles and are made for any budget. You're sure to be able to find a case that you like if you take a good look.

Some common problems with iPods are scratches to their click wheels, screens, and backs. These areas are most vulnerable to scratching, and scratches can be very annoying and unsightly once they happen.

If you ever want to resell your iPod or trade it in for another, each scratch will lower the value slightly depending on its location. A screen scratch is very bad, but caused by contact with a sharp or blunt object; a tiny scratch on the mirrored back doesn't matter quite as much, but will happen almost every time you take your iPod out of your pocket or another small space and will add up quickly.

Some types of cases that work well for iPods are:

1. Phone case converted to an iPod case
Many people use this type of case, because they're easily available and cheap. Often, people already have this type of case lying around and decide to use it. They aren't made for iPods, however, so the back is particularly vulnerable to scratching as it rubs against its case.

2. Silicone skins
These are very common due to their low cost and high availability. Many foreign-made cases are mass-produced and attract dust and lint, however. US- and Japan-produced silicone cases tend to perform the best.

3. Leather cases
Another popular type of case, but if they aren't made properly, they can result in scratching. The Apple-branded case has been reported to cause scratching, so it's better to look for a type like Belkin or Digital Lifestyle.

4. Active-wear cases
iPods are made for people who are on the go and participate in sports like running. Unfortunately, these sports can also result in broken iPods that were dropped after they slipped out of their case. There are plenty of cases available specifically for people who are active and need shock-resistant protection for their iPods.


No matter which type of case you choose, the important thing is that it protects your valuable purchase from scratches and other such damage.

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