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Review on πŸ”Œ Enhanced Carabiner Case for iPod nano 1G, 2G in Black/Gray: Belkin by Dave Russell

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Very durable and does the job

I've been using the Belkin F8Z057 black case for my 2nd generation iPod Nano for a few months now. I liked it so much that I decided to find it on Revain and write a review, which I don't do often. I couldn't remember what brand the case was - the only words printed on the inside of the case were "NE NeuElements". But there was a tiny model number on the little black label on the inside edge of the case, so I finally found this listing from Belkin. ADVANTAGES: 1. Very durable even without iPod inside. I've dropped my iPod with the case on once or twice and haven't even broken a sweat worrying about it.2. The carabiner clip is well designed: I didn't think I would like this clip but now I don't want a suitcase without it. It is very convenient to attach it to a laptop bag or a belt loop. If it bothers you, you can easily remove it.3. Workmanship: no defects in the seams of the skin after several months of daily use.4. Access to the display and the scroll wheel: Nothing obstructs the display - the edges close perfectly. The screen hole is a real hole - the case does not have a built-in transparent protective cover. The scroll wheel circle is also correctly aligned (slight resistance due to case depth - see CONS)5. The plastic screen protector is a separate piece that you can use if you want: it hasn't peeled off yet, although it doesn't have adhesive to hold it in place. If I decided to take it off, it would peel off easily. The screen protector is slightly larger than the screen, so the edges of the screen protector are slightly raised where it rests on the iPod's body. This actually causes a small "bubble border" around the entire outer edge of the screen. This can be seen above all when the display is unlit and light reflections fall on it. I could solve this problem by hand trimming the tread a bit, but I don't mind. Just wanted you to know if you use it.6. Easy to remove from the case: There is a small silver clip at the bottom of the case that attaches to the gray strap that holds the carabiner. You can also snap the strap behind the case for added security, but I don't use a clasp. It stays buttoned up fairly well even without the use of a button. It's easy for me to detach this clip and slide the iPod in and out of the case. Access to Headphones and Charger: The headphone jack does not obstruct the case at all. The charging port can be used with the charging cable when the case is on, but you have to unclip the clip and move the strap out of the way (some would call this a minus, but I don't mind). I find it easier to take my iPod out of its case when I need to sync or charge it. If you have a docking station, I think you definitely need to remove the case! CONS: 1. Access to hold button: Not sure if this is the difference between Nano 1st and 2nd gen, but on my Nano 2nd gen the hold button does not fit in the hole in the case. The left edge of the hold button is covered, which makes it almost impossible for the hold button to slip. I never use the hold button so it's not a problem for my use case, but for those who do it will annoy you! That's why I gave my rating 4 instead of 5.2 stars. Scroll wheel access: Due to the depth of the case around the scroll wheel, it's a bit difficult for my big thumb to press the play/pause button without also pressing the middle button. I got used to it and changed the way the buttons are pressed to compensate. It takes some time to get used to, but if you have small fingers this probably won't be a problem for you.3. The plastic screen cover is too big and causes blisters - see #5 in PROS.4. Access to the charging port - you need to unfasten the strap to charge with a cable or remove the cover for the docking station (this is not a minus for me, but for some it will be). All in all, I definitely recommend this case for Nano 2nd Gen. for users who don't use the hold button. If you use the hold button religiously, this case probably isn't for you.

Pros
  • Best in the niche
Cons
  • Alright