iPod touch (3rd Generation)

So, how do you improve the mighty iPod touch? Hmm. That's a question that seems to have Apple stumped. The third generation of iPod touches looks identical to the 2nd generation models, but the capacities and prices are improved: 8GB ($199), 32GB ($299), and 64GB ($399). There's no built-in video camera, as had been rumored, which is a bit of a surprise, considering the less-expensive and much-tinier nano got one. With the iPod touch, Apple's focus remains firmly on music, and, more so than ever, portable gaming. Along with a nice speed bump come some app organization improvements and new Genius features, all of which are welcome additions. Even if there's no exciting surprise with this touch iteration, after three long years, there's still not a better portable media player out there.

Pros: Built-in video camera, mic, and speaker. Larger display, but same-size frame as previous-gen nano. Excellent user interface. New Genius Mix and VoiceOver features. Adds an FM tuner, and a pedometer.

Cons: So-so file support. Video camera can't capture still images. Ships with Apple's signature subpar earbuds.

Bottom Line: There are few major changes from last year's touch: The best iPod around gets a speed boost, a capacity increase, a lower price tag, and some modest Genius feature improvements. One thing remains the same: The competition is still lagging.

iPod nano (5th Generation)

Remarkably, the latest iPod nano looks almost identical to its predecessor, but this player packs so much more into its small frame: A video camera, an FM tuner (a first for iPods!), a pedometer for joggers, and a larger screen. Priced at $149 for 8GB and at $179 for 16GB ($20 less than last year's 16GB player), this nano is more affordable, and it's more capable than similarly priced players, so it's our latest Editors' Choice.

With a new polished and colorful paint job (you can choose from nine hues), the new iPod nano is one good-looking device. At 3.6 by 1.5 by 0.2 inches (HWD) and a mere 1.3 ounces, it's truly identical in size to the previous 4th generation nano. The screen, however, is significantly larger—2.2 inches as opposed to 2 (it may not sound like a lot, but on such a tiny player, that 0.2 inch makes a big difference), and its 376-by-240-pixel resolution is a bit higher too—the display on 4th-gen nano is 320-by-240.

Pros: The best touch-screen portable media player you can buy. Increased capacities at lower prices. Faster processor in 32GB and 64GB models. Top-notch Web browser. iTunes improvements include Genius Mixes, Genius-based app recommendations, and app organization.

Cons: Bundled earbuds still stink. Audio file support doesn't include FLAC or OGG. Browser still lacks Flash support.

Bottom Line: No other player offers video recording, but even without it, the iPod nano is still the most graceful device in its price range.