Ask the editors

40GB fourth gen iPod VS 30GB ipod photo

2005/04/07 17:23:41

Question

I am considering buying an iPod for an upcoming overseas trip. If you had a choice between a 40GB iPod with Click Wheel or a 30GB iPod Photo, which would you choose?

-- Submitted by: Jason Muscat, via email

Answer

Answer by:
Randolph Ramsay

Thanks for your question Jason. We know it can be a tough choice, particularly with the prices between different versions of the iPod getting smaller.

In terms of performance, the 40GB fourth generation iPod and the 30GB iPod photo are practically identical - they both deliver a nice, clean sound, although the bass can be a little lacking at times. When it comes to battery life, the iPod photo pips out the fourth generation model, being rated at 15 hours worth of life (as opposed to 12 hours for the fourth gen).

If capacity is all you're after, then go for the 40GB fourth gen iPod. But as you're going away on a trip, the iPod photo may be a better choice. Assuming that you have a digital camera, the 30GB iPod photo lets you immediately store and view any images (with the addition of the optional iPod Camera Connector for AU$48)). This means you don't have to carry around too many spare memory cards for your camera, as you can hook it up to the iPod and download anything you've already taken. You can, of course, also use the fourth gen iPod as a storage device for your images using devices like Belkin's Camera Link (AU$109.95) or Digital Media Reader (AU$139.95) add-ons. But you won't get the instant gratification of being able to see your photos on a colour screen.

If it was my choice, I'd go for the 30GB iPod Photo, mainly because having a colour screen is just plain cool. But if you're not fussed about digital images and you've got a massive collection of music you need to store, then stick with the fourth gen iPod.

Like this article? Click below to send it to your mobile for free!

Be the first to comment on this article!

  • Leave a comment

All fields marked with * are required

What do you think

Your e-mail will not be displayed

You must read and type the 6 chars within 0..9 and A..F

You must read and type the 6 chars.


  • Samsung S3 (4GB)

  • Cracking open Apple's revamped iPod Nano

  • How to use Spoken Menus on your 4G iPod Nano

  • Sony Walkman NWZ-S730F

  • Oi!: Cowon's Curves seek your Touch

  • Oi!: Archos debuts two 'internet media tablets'

  • How to convert video for the iPod

  • Is microSD the music medium of the future?

  • Step inside Sony's uchi, sorry, home

More articles »

Find the right mp3 player

Brand
  • Multiple options can be selected

    • Samsung S3 (4GB)

      Samsung S3 (4GB)

      A competent player with decent audio quality and some cool customisation options, but the screen is too small and navigation can be slow-going.

    • Sony Walkman NWZ-S730F

      Sony Walkman NWZ-S730F

      Available in 8GB and 16GB versions, these wafer-thin players have built-in noise-cancelling technology and a 2-inch, 320x240-pixel LCD.

    • Apple iPod Nano (4th generation)

      Apple iPod Nano (4th generation)

      Apple has set the Nano back on track with the thinnest, lightest design yet, and has features that are hard to ignore.

    • Apple iPod Touch (2nd generation)

      Apple iPod Touch (2nd generation)

      If you've been holding back, now is the time: the second-gen Touch is an excellent media player, and the addition of third-party apps extends the fun for everyone, no matter where your interests lie.

    • Samsung S2 Pebble

      Samsung S2 Pebble

      Have you tried squeezing blood out of a stone? How about music out of a pebble? The Samsung S2 Pebble is a screenless MP3 player with an LED just under the surface that blinks different colours as you listen to music.

    More reviews »

    Membership benefits

    Win prizes and other promotion benefits

    Win prizes and other promotion benefits

    As a CNET.com.au member, you're eligible to enter and win any prizes on our site. Sign up for a free CNET.com.au membership now!