Apple iPod Mini (4GB, 2nd generation) review

What you need to know

Reviewed by: Jasmine France and Eliot Van Buskirk

Reviewed on: 17 March 2005

Tags: Apple Computer, Inc., Apple iPod Mini (4GB, 2nd generation), connector, portable, France

We like:

Best-of-breed design and interface; comes in four colors; excellent playlist features; clean sound; smooth syncing with iTunes; organises contacts; includes games; functions as an external drive; large third-party support; improved battery life.

We don't like:

No FM radio or recording capabilities; battery not user-replaceable; FireWire cable and AC adapter not included.

You might also need:

Headphones

CNET UK judgement:

In the iPod Mini redux, Apple offers two capacity options and a more competitive pricing scheme; welcome improvements in an already fantastic player.

Full review:

The iPod brand has become synonymous with excellent portable audio players, and the second-generation Apple iPod Mini continues the tradition with its fashionable, intelligent design. Apple has made precious few (but all necessary) updates to its stylish microdrive player, which is a good thing since it was already a winner. The device's strongest design point, the ClickWheel, now has colour labels to match each colour option, and Apple has done away with the unpopular gold model. But the most exciting enhancements are the improved battery life--now rated at 18 hours--and the addition of a 6GB option. Continue Reading...