iPod nano, fifth-generation (5G) 8GB

The 4G iPod nano was an incremental update to the 3G nano that preceded it–new form, new colors, better storage, Genius playlist support, Spoken Menus, and an accelerometer. A fine, but hardly earthshaking, update. The 5G iPod nano is different. A video camera, built-in microphone, and buffered FM radio make this iPod nano a far more functional, flexible, and entertaining iPod than its predecessor. It won’t replace your full-sized camcorder (or even last year’s pocket camcorder). It’s not Tivo for radio nor a field recorder. It’s a compelling upgrade to an already solid and affordable media player. If the iPod you own is starting to look a little limited, this is the iPod to ask for this holiday season.

–Christopher Breen