Axio Thump Case for iPod nano

The Axio Thump Case for iPod nano is a ruggedized silicone case for the iPod nano that offers good protection for the most part, but is held back from greatness by a few minor details.

Constructed of thick textured silicone, the Thump Case feels sturdy and resilient in your hand, enough so that I gave it a few test drops from a decent height without too much fear for the iPod’s safety. The case includes an adhesive film protector for the screen, which is good since the case itself leaves the screen and Click Wheel exposed. There’s a hole for a lanyard at the bottom right of the case, although no lanyard is included. I like the slightly convex shape of the case, as it fit comfortably in my hand, and the side bumpers are pleasantly thick. Taking the nano in and out of the case via the open bottom is a breeze, and the same hole provides access to the dock connector and headphone jack.

A small notch in the top of the case is supposed to let you access the hold switch, but I found the opening too small and the silicone at the top too thick; my finger had a hard time working the switch, and when I did manage to press down on it, the nano would start to slide out of the case unless I made sure to hold the bottom.

The difficulty of working the hold switch is annoying, and the lack of good Click Wheel and screen protection is a disappointment in a case that is otherwise an attractive proposition. Still, the toughness of the case is a major plus for those concerned with keeping their iPods from harm.–Dan Moren