The difference between classic and video?

[deezaj]

I wanna buy an Ipod that plays video. Are the classic and the video the same thing with different names? Like the 80GB Ipod classic and the 80GB Ipod video? I don't see the actual name Ipod Video on Apple, but I see classic.

[moe_4eva]

No, they're not quite the same. The 80gb classic has a mat front rather than shiney on the 80gb video, it is about half as thick (same thickness as 30gb video), and has the coverflow. Other than that, there aren't too many differences.

[paranoidxe]

iPod Videos are no longer being manufactured..and is the predecessor to the classic.

[choirguy]

As mentioned by the others, the 5G (or 5.5G) Video iPods are out of production (although a few occasionally came up as refurbished units in the Apple Store), and compared to the current generation of iPod Classics, were thicker, had shorter battery life, less storage space, and different menus.

The benefit of the 5G and the 5.5G Video is that they work with all the old video devices (portable iPod video players, cords, etc.) whereas the new "Classics" require devices with a special authentication chip. Many of the "old" 5G or 5.5G accessories are selling on clearance at the moment, while the market waits for new devices that can be used with the new Classic iPods.

So if you buy an older iPod, you might get some really good deals on accessories these days. Since you're also buying new, you can always find a supplier to install a new battery (with extended life) as well as a new, larger hard drive (depending on what you want to pay).

[kyussmondo]

The video 80GB iPod will also not work with iTunes Movie Rentals if you are interested in that. I would pick up either one. The Classic is slightly better but it doesn't really justify an upgrade if you already have a Video. If you are new to the iPod though I would pick up the classic new unless you want to try and find a bargain getting a Video off eBay or a refurb from Apple.

[laurenglenn]

The Classic does Anamorphic video out (great for those portable DVD players that are on clearance). Just buy an Apple A/V cable first to get around that authentication chip business and you'll be set.

Battery life is muuuuch better on the Classic.

Sound is better on the 5G...

6G has rentals as slashjunior said.

6G's surface is less glossy and requires almost no polishing to remove fingerprints

Storage space is still bigger. It costs you more to get a new longer battery and bigger disk space than just to get the 6G. Although, if you can find an 80GB Refurbished model for $225, I'd go with that for sound quality and compatibility with 3rd party accs.