Apple iPod Shuffle 2GB review

The iPod Shuffle keeps it simple – and it’s brilliantly effective Tested at £40

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

The iPod Shuffle keeps it simple – and it’s brilliantly effective

Pros

  • +

    Feels good, slick interface

  • +

    neat features

  • +

    sound is superb

Cons

  • -

    2GB capacity is only option available to you

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

The first Apple iPod Shuffle was released in 2005 as a cost-effective solution for those who enjoyed listening to a randomly shuffled selection of tracks.

As small as it’s ever been and with an integrated clip, it remains a simple machine, and ideal for joggers or others wanting ultra-light portability. And despite the small, light dimensions, it feels solidly put together.

There’s no display; instead, a neat voice feature can tell you the name of the track or playlist, or how much battery power is left. You also have the choice of shuffle or repeat playback.

The 2GB flash memory (your only option – it’s a shame there’s not a larger model) can be filled with songs or playlists and you’ll get 15 hours music from the battery when fully charged.

And it sounds great, delivering detail and punch, with clean treble and decent bass. Even the bundled Apple buds have improved slightly.

If you’re happy with the basic functionality, then you’ll be happy with the Shuffle.

See all our MP3 player reviews

Follow whathifi.com on Twitter

Join whathifi.com on Facebook

What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.


Read more about how we test