Comparing Apples to Apples: iPod Nano vs. iPod Mini

September 13, 2005

When it was announced, the Apple iPod Nano immediately replaced the Apple iPod Mini, the world's most popular MP3 player in terms of units sold. Most of us expected an updated iPod Mini with a color screen and perhaps an 8GB drive. Instead, the Nano swooped in at the same Mini price points of $249 and $199 but with noticeably less memory. Of course, you get a lot of Nano for that premium price tag: a vibrant photo-friendly color screen; exercise-friendly flash memory with no moving parts; and the undeniably cool, superslim form factor, which is twice as skinny as the iPod Mini. Whether they're disgruntled fans of the ever-popular iPod Mini who want an update or flocks of onlookers gaping at the sheer size of the new player, everybody has something to say about the new iPod Nano. Obviously, Apple thinks the future of supercompact MP3 players lies with flash memory and not micro hard drives and that the iPod Nano will soon become the world's most popular player. Whatever the case, look for lower prices in the flash player market; those who don't mind a bigger device--albeit one that's been discontinued, though still coveted--with a monochrome screen should start tracking the iPod Mini's sinking prices online.

More resources

The updated Apple iPod family album  Harvest time: Apple's bumper MP3 player crop  Ultimate iPod accessories

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