How to Comparison Shop for an iPod Online

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By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

When it comes to shopping, online comparison shopping is definitely the most convenient way to do it. Web sites such as Froogle, BizRate, PriceGrabber and MySimon have all created comparison shopping services that are easy to use and can help you find what you’re looking for quickly. If you’re looking for an iPod, you can easily find just the right model within an hour or two, without even leaving home.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet access

Step 1

Think about what you’re planning to do with your iPod, and the features you want it to have. See the Tips section of this article for a quick guide to the important features of iPods.
Step 2

Navigate to a comparison shopping Web site such as Froogle, BizRate, PriceGrabber or MySimon.
Step 3

Type your search terms into the search box and hit enter.
Step 4

Narrow your search results by entering a brand name or price range if the site allows you to do so.
Step 5

Compare the features of different models. If you can’t find enough information, try going to the manufacturer’s Web site.
Step 6

Select the model that you want and start comparing prices. Remember to include shipping and sales tax if they apply. Some sites may offer free shipping or other incentives so be sure to include that in your calculations.
Step 7

Check and double-check. You may even want to try several different comparison shopping sites to hunt down the best deal you can find.

Tips & Warnings

There are only a few different iPod models, but they vary in terms of their capabilities. Each model also has several varieties which differ in their storage capacity.
All models except for the iPod shuffle have a display screen. The shuffle model is less user-friendly and has a relatively low storage capacity but it is a great option if you’re on a tight budget.
The iPod nano and the iPod mini are the first models released with a screen. They have a storage capacity of 1 to 6 gigabytes and have a longer battery life than the iPod shuffle.
The more sophisticated models are slightly larger than the shuffle, and feature a display screen as well as longer battery life. These also have a larger storage capacity, of up to 40 gigabytes.
So-called fourth and fifth generation iPods have some advanced features—these cost significantly more than the shuffle but they’re also more user-friendly and versatile.
The fourth-generation iPod is the iPod photo, which can store images and display them in color on its screen, and has a storage capacity of up to 60 gigabytes.
The fifth-generation iPod has a video player and storage capacity of 30 to 80 gigabytes.
To prevent future problems, make sure you find out as much as possible about the iPod and the store you’re buying from before purchase, including the store’s returns policy and the warranty on the item.