Apple iPod Touch

Reviewers agree that the Apple iPod Touch is a revolutionary and generally satisfying gadget -- some call it an iPhone without the phone because it plays music and video and offers Wi-Fi Internet access but doesn't make calls. The second-generation Touch has some minor improvements over its acclaimed predecessor, including an external speaker, a greater selection of useful applications and compatibility with the Nike + iPod fitness software for runners. Battery life and processing power have also been tweaked, and reviewers indicate that the Touch still outclasses every other touch-screen portable media player on the market. Memory is still small compared with competitors like the Archos 5 (*Est. $420 for 250 GB), but critics are relieved to see that the price of the Touch has come down somewhat. The iPhone 3.0 software update (*Est. $10 for Touch users) offers a number of improvements, including stereo Bluetooth for listening to music wirelessly; cut, copy and paste; and the ability to shuffle your Touch simply by shaking it.

The iPod Touch has the most buzz of any portable media player, and reviews abound. The most prolific and comprehensive reviews of portable media players are found at CNET and PCMag.com, who practically gush over the iPod Touch. Laptop Magazine and GoodGearGuide.com are also very positive overall, and user reviews at Amazon.com are legion. Coverage of the Touch is so rich across the web that ConsumerReports.org, a highly respected source of product reviews, is probably optional reading if you don't already own a subscription.