There's something to be said for gifting a loved one with the stalwart iPod. Ranging from the no-frills iPod shuffle to the hardy iPod classic to the app-capable iPod touch, here's what you should consider before buying an iPod.
How will I use it?
It is possible to get a different iPod for any niche of your life. The first thing to consider is whether or not you want the ability to use apps -- essentially, most of the advantages of the iPhone without the phone part (or other extras such as Siri and a better camera.) If so, the iPod touch is automatically your choice.
If you're not-so-keen on the apps, then you have three other lines to choose from -- the $US49 iPod shuffle, the iPod nano that starts at $129 and the $249 iPod classic. Here's a description of each of these mode