An iPod or iPhone should not run around naked, ever. There’s no law against it, but touch (or drop) a naked iSomething and you’re asking for trouble — a scratch, nick or smudge. Apple’s vulnerable little iPod-iPhone family needs some protective custody. Here’s a look at a few, as tested with a second-generation Touch. Similar cases are available for other iPods and the iPhone.
OtterBox Defender Series
Polycarbonate skeleton case wrapped in a silicone skin, with transparent screen protection; $30 at otterbox.com
Initially, the Defender felt awkward and touchscreen response seemed sluggish because of the screen protector. After much practice, I actually liked the Defender because of its high level of protection, though it’s not waterproof. Even the Touch’s sync/charge jack and headphone jack are protected with a flip-up silicone plug.
Protective film
Clear vinyl film for touchscreen; $1.53 at monoprice.com
This is a basic peel-off sticker that most people will apply in less than a minute. I bought two of these — and blew it with both. Each time I tried to adjust the placement, I left fingerprints and dust on the film’s sticky surface, ruining it. For the non-klutz, though, this is as inexpensive as basic touchscreen protection gets.
Contour Design’s Fusion
Fashion backs made of flexible-silicone pattern on rigid polycarbonate; $30 at contourcase.com
A tight fit, with opening for easy sync/charge. I preferred the Fusion’s design to its fashion. I still wouldn’t get this without adding touchscreen protection.
Monster/LRG Leather Case
Carry case with detachable key chain, belt loops; $50 at lrgisamonster.com
Nice leather case available in seven colors/patterns, with a magnetic flap and a liner that promises to keep the screen clean. I’ll pass on the key chain, though. I didn’t like the gaudy brass “LRG” monogram on the case, either. And I’d still get a protective film for the touchscreen.
BodyGuardz
Transparent film; $25 for full body, $17 for two backs, $15 for two fronts at bodyguardz.com
A film applied with a pump-spray solution that feels more elastic — and tougher — than the bargain-basement film from monoprice.com. It’s much easier to adjust the fit, as long as the film and your fingers remain moistened. I couldn’t eliminate all the bubbles from the back.
