Apple iPod Nano (2012) Review

With its latest model, Apple has finally fixed the iPod nano. The 5th- and 6th-generation MP3 players were a radical rethink that didn't work all that well; Apple tossed the click wheel design that the first four nano generations used, and replaced it with a tiny, square screen that was too small to view or control comfortably. The 7th-generation nano ($149 direct, 16GB) fixes this problem with another full-scale redesign that includes a larger, sharper touch screen. It's also feather light, yet sturdy feeling, has an improved interface, and comes with better-sounding Apple EarPods. It's a beautifully crafted and much-improved player, and easily recaptures our Editors' Choice.

Design, Screen, and Interface
The sleek iPod nano measures 3.01 by 1.56 by 0.21 inches (HWD) and weighs just 1.1 ounce. It's thin and light, yet its aluminum enclosure feels solid and secure. The left panel sports a three-button rocker that controls volume, with the center button acting as a hardware Play/Pause control. (You also can control the nano via its touch screen.) The top edge holds an oval-shaped Sleep/Wake button, while the new, compact Lightning Connector and standard 3.5mm headphone jack are on opposite corners of the bottom panel. All buttons work with precision and have a nice click to them.