Today for review I’ve got the last case from our friends at Otterbox for the Apple iPod nano 4th Generation, the Armor case. This case is the ultimate in protection for your iPod, not only is it rough and tough, but it’s waterproof as well. The Otterbox Armor is clear so you can see your iPod, it features a membrane over the click wheel to allow access to the controls, a built-in cable management belt clip, and a lanyard as well. If you’re looking for something to truly protect your iPod from most anything then this is the case for you.

The Otterbox Armor for iPod nano 4th comes packaged in an easy open plastic clamshell style case with a cardboard insert inside that has directions for installation inside, also included is a cord style lanyard as well.

The case is clear so you can see your iPod though it, there is a membrane over the click wheel that allows access to the functions of the iPod while it’s in the case. Through the front of the case you can see the 3.5mm jack which your iPod gets hooked up to, the case has a built-in pass-through to allow connectivity while still keeping your iPod safe.

The back of the Armor has a belt clip that acts acts cable management so you can wrap your headphones around it when not in use.

On the back, on the bottom is where you’ll find the other side of the 3.5mm headphone jack, the female side.

The top of the case is located a heavy duty clip, unlocking the clip allows access to the inside of the Armor for installation.

The lanyard has T shaped posts on the ends of it that fit in the top corners of the Armor, they slide into a hole in the case and get secured when the case is closed.

When we get the Armor open we can see the seals on both the top and bottom that keep out water, dust and dirt, when the case is open we can also get a better look at the 3.5mm jack.

Specifications:

iPod Nano 4th Gen Armor Case

The OtterBox Armor Series for iPod nano 4th generation case has a NEW look and a NEW feel. The ergonomic shape was redesigned for ultimate grip; your hands will love being wrapped around this case! Following in the original Armor Series tradition, this case offers waterproof, dust-proof, sand-proof, drop-proof and scratch-proof protection for your iPod nano 4th generation. The Click Wheel is covered by a PATENTED, thin membrane which remains fully functional through the OtterBox. This newly-designed, CRYSTAL CLEAR iPod nano 4th gen case has white overmolding, white latches and a belt clip for cable management/carrying convenience.

Compatability/Features: Fits the iPod nano 4th generation only (both 8GB and 16GB).

* Waterproof, dust-proof, dirt-proof, sand-proof, and drop-proof protection for your iPod nano 4th gen
* Click Wheel is covered, yet fully functional
* Impact-absorbing rubber on all sides
* Included belt clip for carrying convenience
* External headphone jack usable with any style headphones with a standard mini stereo plug
* Includes removable neck lanyard

Dimensions (case only): 5.15" x 2.32" x .64"
Weight (case only): 3.5 oz.

Price: $39.95

Installation is very easy you just slide you iPod into the Armor, lining it up with the 3.5mm jack so it goes into your iPod.

 

The lanyard is optional, but if you wish to use it, it installs easily.

The Armor truly lives up to its name, this case will protect your iPod from most anything out there including dust, dirt and water. You can truly use your iPod anywhere you go and in most any conditions. The Armor offers protection from shock as well, so you shouldn’t have to worry if you accidentally drop it either.

The Armor case does add substantial bulk or size to your iPod, so when it’s in the case you won’t have a sleek, thin iPod anymore, but I guess that’s the price you pay for protection, so it’s a trade-off really.

When your iPod is in the Armor case you don’t have access to the lock or data/charging port either, but I’ve not sure how big of a problem that is.

Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a case that will fully protect your iPod, then you can’t get much better than the Otterbox Armor, it truly lives up to its name as Armor for your iPod. 

Pros:
+Clear and well made
+Full protection for your iPod from most anything
+Allows access to controls while protecting iPod
+Easy installation
+Includes lanyard

Cons:
-No access to docking port or lock
-Large and adds bulk to iPod

Grades:
Overall
Design
Performance