Support NeoGAF

[Sukahii16]

I was looking into buying a 2nd generation iPod. Can anyone cite or point me to some of the major differences, drawbacks from these models and the 3rd and 4th gens? Thanks.

 

[DECK'ARD]

The only real drawback is the size, they are bit chunky compared to the 3rd + 4th Gen ones. Apart from that 2nd Gen. did have some advantages over the 3rd Gen, in that it had the 'classic' touchwheel control with the 4 real buttons round the wheel. The 3rd Gen. had the buttons above the touch-wheel, which was a bit awkward, and they were touch-sensitive and offered no feedback when you pressed them.

4th Gen. are the ones to go for though, with the click-wheel and 50% better battery-life than 2nd/3rd Gen.

 

[Sukahii16]

Thanks, that helps. I'm thinking of buying a 2nd gen 20gb one as a gift for a friend for $100 but I'm not sure if they're going to like the click wheel as opposed to the touch buttons. Also, these 2nd gens can be formatted to work with windows/usb, right?

 

[elitehebrew]

yep to your last question

 

[shantyman]

Also, the 2nd generation has better battery life than 3rd, FYI. Not sure this matters. It not as good as 4th Gen though.

 

[DECK'ARD]

The click-wheel of the 4th Gen. and Mini has the buttons under the touch wheel, so you push the wheel at the top/left/right/bottom. Works very well indeed, and is the best of the bunch. The 2nd Gen has the 4 buttons arranged in a circle round the outside of the touch-wheel. Personally I thought that was a better control method than the touch-sensitive buttons on the 3rd Gen. as it was easier to use with one hand and without looking at it when it's in your pocket. Also, feels more normal pressing buttons that move.

For $100 I'd say go for it. Very good price for 20GB. The only downside really is it's thickness compared to the 3rd + 4th Gen, although it's not huge or anything.