SendStation earBuddy

If you’re looking for a case for your iPod, you’ve got literally hundreds of options. But a case for your earbuds? The options are few. The newest, and easily the best as long as you’re using Apple’s own earbuds, is SendStation’s earBuddy. This lightweight hardshell case, just 2.5″ x 1.75″ x 1.25″, keeps your Apple earbuds safe from harm and your earbud cables neatly wrapped and tangle-free. The exterior of the case is covered in tough ballistic nylon; a plastic reel inside handles the earbud/cable organization. The case zips securely closed and, according to SendStation, can withstand 200 pounds of force.

The earBuddy is available in either all black or silver with orange trim; the latter looks even better in person than it does on the company’s Web site. A built-in keyring lets you use the case as a keychain or connect it to your bag. My only complaints? $15 seems like a lot to protect earbuds that can be replaced with a superior model (such as Sennheiser’s MX-400 or MX-500) for the same price. On the other hand, the earBuddy would be perfect for protecting higher-end canalphones such as those from Etymotic, Sure, or Ultimate Ears — but it fits only Apple’s earbuds.–Dan Frakes