Introduction:

Griffin Technology Elan Passport Case for the iPod Touch 2G

    I'm back today with a quick review of a new case from Griffin Technology for the iPod Touch 2G. It's a folio style case eloquently called the Elan Passport. Just as with the iPhone, the iPod Touch is a massive market for accessory manufacturers. There is approximately 35 million iPod Touch devices in the wild. That's a ton of accessories that will be sold. I don't know about you guys, but every single person I know with an iPhone or iPod Touch (which is alot!) not only love their device, but also owns at least one accessory for it, usually a case of some sort. Most own numerous accessories, including multiple cases (for different occasions) because depending on what you'll be doing on a given day, you may need more or less protection for your device. Let's take a closer look at the Elan Passport case from Griffin and see where it fits in.

Retail Packaging:

   So you may be wondering why I said "again". Well if you've read my PowerDock 4 review then you already know why. Maybe it's just me, but I dislike the use of all this firm but brittle plastic in their products packaging. It just feels so wrong today with all the "going green" and "frustration-free packaging" thoughts out there. I just think it's wasteful and even if it's not somehow, it still feels like it. It displays the product effectively which I guess is the goal here.

A Closer Look:

     Removing the Elan Passport from it's plastic coffin reveals a very high quality folio. The black genuine leather covering with chrome metal accents really does give a nice first impression. Opening it up reveals an intricate microsuede pattern on the inside. The in-hand feel is excellent and this is one of the few cases that you actually feel like you got your moneys worth because of the top notch materials, attention to detail and craftsmanship.

One thing noticeably missing is a way to secure the cover. It just folds over. We'll have to see if this is a problem during installation and usage.

Installation:

    Installation couldn't possibly be any easier. Just simply slide your iPod Touch 2G into the case while it's in the open position. The fit was very good and all the ports lined up fine, although sometimes needed a slight tug but this is typical with new leather cases until they break in. While in the closed position, the Elan Passport has a great feel in the hand of quality and protection. Although there is no secure closure on this case, it seems to stay closed just fine on it's own under normal use. My only concern would be if dropped or "thrown' across the room, if it would still remain closed. I know that sounds crazy, but I've heard some pretty crazy ways that people have broken their screens, heh.

The only other issue with a case of this style is using the far left and far right edges of the touchscreen can be tricky. The bulk of the leather edging can make it hard to touch the edges of the screen. This can be frustrating at times, but thankfully it's not all that often. You'll have to decide if the tradeoff of great protection for your iPod Touch is worth the minor inconvenience.

Conclusion:

   Well, what else is to say really? It's a high quality genuine leather folio style case for your iPod Touch 2G. The fit is good, the craftsmanship and materials are top notch and the protection is second to none. The only annoyance being the difficulty to touch the far sides of your touchscreen at times. Worth the trade-off? Many people think so. You'll have to decide for yourself. I can say that if you are a clumsy person that drops their device frequently, or like to throw your device in your purse or in the console of your car, or you are buying this for a younger person, then it's a real good choice for the added protection. The only major drawback is it adds so much bulk to an otherwise super thin iPod Touch device. However seldom can you have protection and thinness in the same package.

A big thanks go out to Griffin Technology for sending in the Elan Passport for review. Be sure to check out Griffin's extensive selection of accessories for iPad, iPod, iPhone, Zune, Blackberry and more on their website www.griffintechnology.com

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