Will a Apple Refurb have scratches?

No, it will not have scratches.
The cases are replaced if they are messed up before they are sold as refurbs.

From the refurished store.
"*Apple Certified Refurbished Products*
*Frequently Asked Questions:*
*(1) What are Apple Certified Refurbished Products?*
Apple Certified Refurbished Products are pre-owned Apple products that undergo Apple's stringent refurbishment process prior to being offered for sale. These products have been returned under Apple's Return and Refund Policies. While only some units are returned due to technical issues, all units undergo Apple's stringent quality refurbishment process.

*Each Apple Certified Refurbished Product:*
* is fully tested (including full burn-in testing).
* is refurbished with replacement parts for any defective modules identified in testing.
* is put through a thorough cleaning process and inspection.
* is repackaged (including appropriate manuals, cables, new boxes, etc.).
* includes the operating software originally shipped with the unit and the custom software offered with that system. See each products "Learn More" for more details.
* is given a new refurbished part number and serial number.
* is placed into a Final QA inspection prior to being added to sellable refurbished stock.

Refurbishment procedures follow the same basic technical guidelines as Apple's Finished Goods testing procedures.

*(2) What should I expect when I purchase an Apple Certified Refurbished Product?*
* Substantial savings
* A fully functional unit with complete documentation
* The assurance that the unit meets Apple's premiere quality standards, and that its defective components have been replaced by genuine Apple components

*(3) Can I purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan for my Apple Certified Refurbished Product?*
All Apple Certified Refurbished Products are covered by Apple's One-Year Limited Warranty. For extended coverage, you have the option of purchasing the AppleCare Protection Plan with your Apple Certified Refurbished Product. The AppleCare Protection Plan extends the complimentary coverage on your Apple Certified Refurbished Product to up to three years of world-class support for Mac, and up to two years of world-class support for iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV.

For your convenience, we have placed the appropriate AppleCare Protection Plan at the bottom of each product collection on the Apple Certified Refurbished products page."

henree,

I purchased a 30Gb iPod video for my recent trip overseas to save all my digital photos to instead of bringing my laptop. It was a good choice. It was less expensive than buying a new one and it looked like new. No scratches and it came with new headphones, manual and iTunes software. The only thing different is that it came in a brown cardboard box instead of the nice iPod box.

So, to answer your question, *"Anyone know if this is a good option?"* I say yes.

My iPod Video was a refurb from Apple. It came in perfect condition.