Hard drive vs. flash drive durability

There are definitely more problems to be had with hard drive based mp3 players. I had to have my 20GB 4G iPod replaced about 4 times when I had it because of hard drive failures. All in a matter of 2 years. Thats like a new iPod every 6 months! The time it takes to access songs and play them may take just a bit longer to do on a hard drive based mp3 player than a flash based one because it has to move the disk around to find the file. You may also get better battery life in a flash mp3 player since it does not have to move a disk to find a file.

So to make a long story short, flash based mp3 players are more reliable and will probably last longer than hard drive based mp3 players. I personally have an 80GB iPod and make use of all of its functionalities. I haven't had any problems with it (yet) but I probably will later down the road.

Hope this helps make your decision!

It all comes down to how you handle the iPod. Except when syncing, my 60GB iPod video is always in a silicone case. I have never dropped it more then 6 inches and it has lasted 18 months.

I think it all comes down to how and where you plan on using it. If you plan on using it primarily while running or cycling, the flash drive would be a better option. If you care more about having lots of space (and you said you didn't) or about watching video, than the 30 gig would probably suit you better. Another consideration is size. Some people want a very small, pocketable device, other don't mind the larger, heavier 30 gig.

From your description of your needs, I say the Nano sounds right.

For what it's worth, I have a first generation 5 gig iPod that, though it really only works when plugged as the battery is shot, is still working. I used to run with it. The only iPod I've ever had to send in for repair was my 60 gig photo. The headset jack went bad while it was under warranty. I now use a first generation shuffle for running as it's just more comfortable than my 60 gig video. I don't treat any of them with extra special care. They've all been dropped (in cases) more than once.

Ah. Well, then, I completely reverse my recommendation. Go with the 30 gig. And you'll get recommendations to the contrary, of course.

One of the major reasons I keep buying new ones is because I need larger ones. I remember being ecstatic when I got my 60 gig iPod photo. I could fit everything on it!! I have had to reconcile myself to the fact that it's no longer possible to fit my whole library on an iPod.

As I indicated, I've never had harddrive problems with my iPods of which there have been four (not including the shuffle), starting with the original. You'll hear from people who've had lots of problems.