I'm writing this after reading "nano knock offs The ultimate Guide". While maybe applicable for it's time, it now needs revision. I'm not the author, so I can't revise it.

So, here's a new one.

The terms, "look-a-like", "knock-off", and "fake" are used interchangeably.

What's this about?

iPod nanos are nice. Especially the 3rd Generation incarnation. Video is great, right? But they are over-priced and put limits on how you use them. Not so nice. Electronics manufacturers know this. So they make nicer, cheaper personal media players(PMPs) in the hopes that consumers will see the benefits and jump on board. So, we have a situation. Apple's sales drop as people get interested in these new cheaper PMPs.

Why is this bad for the consumer? Crooked dealers also notice what's happening. They try to take advantage of it. 1gb or smaller capacity PMPs are sold as 2gb, 4gb, or even higher models. iPod nano look-a-likes can be a great bargain. But know what you're doing before you bid.

Hopefully this will help someone in the market for a good cheap PMP.

The dry facts.

The Pros:

• Look-a-likes, as the name implies, look just as good as a "real" iPod.
• Buying a look-a-like will save you some $money$. Always good.
  
• Look-a-likes will play video and audio just as well as an iPod.
• Unlike an iPod nano, a look-a-like will work with any OS that supports flash drives.
• Unlike an iPod, if you're teckie, you can modify your PMP's user interface to a look all your own. See "Links" at the bottom.
• No extra software is required to use a look-a-like. It's plug and play. That's right, no iTunes installation. Yaaaay!
• Look-a-likes actually have more features than a "real" nano. Check the description of any you find on eBay and you'll see.
  

The Cons:

• A nano look-a-like is just that. It looks like a nano. So expect to learn a few things if you're used to a "real" nano.
• If you just have to have the scroll interface of the nano, you'll have to pay extra for the Apple logo on the back. The "fakes" are push-button operated.
• If it ever breaks, you'll probably have to fix it yourself, or buy a new one. Don't send it to Apple and expect help.
• Yeah, that's really all the cons.

Things to note when shopping:

• Knock-offs usually will not play common video formats. I say usually because there are some that play .avi. Look for the ability to play either .amv or .avi in the description.
• The simple fact that a seller is offering 4, 6, or 8gb PMPs is not always a sign of dishonesty. Check feedback, ask questions, and use common sense.
• Most all mp4 players now use a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. So, unless something looks weird about the listing, assume that it uses a 3.5mm. When in doubt, ask the seller.
• As previously noted, a knock-off, will play music and video, and that's where it ends. It plays music in a folder. It doesn't use playlists or sort your music for you. So, take that into consideration.
  

In "nano knock offs The ultimate Guide" people were warned to stay away from sellers who use stock photos of "real" iPod nanos. At the time this was good advice. This is no longer the case. The 3rd Gen knock-offs that I've seen, and that I sell, look so much like an iPod nano, that it wastes time to use original photos. Still a word of caution. If you don't feel comfortable with a seller's supplied photo, ask for a real photo of the item. If they are honest, they will provide one. If they refuse, stay away. Simple as that.

I work on and sell "real" iPods and "fake" ones. Because of this, I have personally used both kinds of PMPs. From my experience, there is absolutely no reason to pay more for Apple's logo. Knock-offs work just as well and do more than a "real" nano, and they cost less. So, unless you just have way too much money and your pants are falling down from the weight, consider one of these cheap alternatives.

With common sense and a little knowledge you won't be disappointed. Remember, never hesitate to ask the seller a question. An honest seller will want to help you understand their product better.

Links:
www.s1mp3.org - Tools for customizing your Mp4 player.
www.mympxplayer.com - Tools, an information base, and a forum dedicated to Mp4 player customization.