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Product: Scuff/scratch protection for iPod

Compatible with: iPod nano, 20/40GB 4G iPod, 30/60GB 5G iPod

Retail Price: $31.00 for the set

Availability: Out now

Part of the reason why any "iPod killer" is so hard to take seriously is that the iPod isn't just a great product, it's entrenched with a symbiotic industry producing accessories for it. There are those that cater to the external functionality—speakers, voice recorders, to software products that allow you to back up your hard drive and even store drink recipes—and then, of course, there are the cases, which protect the scratch-prone device, but also allow the owner to express his individuality.

For both the former and the latter, the iPod cases from iFrogz succeeds admirably, allowing users to mix and match colors and covers while offering almost total protection.

The iFrogz case is composed of several parts. First there is a clear plastic shield applied directly to the iPod itself. Anyone who's tried to apply one of these knows how tricky it is; getting the iPod clean (iFrogz includes a cleaning cloth), getting the edges lined up, and getting the air bubbles out. Once the shield is on, it's time to start gussying up with a sticker over the scroll wheel (applied over the shield). iFrogz offers a wide selection of stickers, everything from nature signs to flags to skulls to butterflies. You can, of course, forgo the sticker, but I was impressed that, even through two levels of protection, the iPod's scroll wheel lost none of its sensitivity.

Over that goes the case itself, made of form-fitting silicon with a rubberized feel. The case leaves the ports and hold switch exposed. You may have to wiggle the iPod dock connector a bit to fit it in, however, it is not necessary to remove the iPod (even partially) from the case to connect it to your computer.

The final component in the iFrogz system is the band (sold separately from the rest of the case) which wraps around the case, covering all the ports. It has a small hole for the headphone jack. The hole is small; so small that to get my Sony headphone in required a bit of stretching, but, once accomplished, held everything together firmly.

And there you have it, an iPod completely protected from bumps, scratches and dust. They have a handsome design and a staggering selection of colors and stickers, allowing you to customize you iPod to your heart's desire.

So what are the drawbacks? Well, price, for one. Though currently being sold as a set (shield, sticker, case and band) at a discounted price, the iFrogz system is currently one of the pricier cases out there.

You can, of course, buy only the components you want. The band is the least essential part; getting the headphones to fit can be a pain, and if you have to remove it (say, to toggle the hold switch), you'll need two hands to reattach it (which can be awkward if you're standing while riding the bus).

Then there's the issue of over-branding the case. iFrogz includes their name and/or logo in three separate locations: a small logo impressed into the front of the case, name and website impressed into the back, and finally (and most noticeably) as a large neon green bump on the back of the case. The first two are very subtle and call no attention to themselves, while the bump sticks out, especially on cases that don't complement the color.

Still, in terms of total scratch protection, iFrogz is hard to beat. With all the parts used, it completely covers the iPod and gives it a unique, highly customized look.

Strengths: Total protection. Astonishing variety of colors and options.
Weaknesses: Pricey.

Bill's been using Macs since the late 80s. When he's not making smartass remarks to amuse Kirk Hiner, he enjoys fighting for the user.