Review: Griffin Elan Form Graphite

When the iPod touch first hit the market, it was merely a touchscreen iPod that could also surf the Web with Safari. In the years since then, thanks mostly to updates in its operating system, it has become as important, if not more, than the iPhone in Apple’s lineup. Although cases for the original iPod touch were often basic and bland at best, Griffin’s latest offering, the Elan Form Graphite gives 2nd generation iPod touch users a case as cool as their iPhone 3G using counterparts.

Priced at $34.95, the case is a bit on the pricier end of the spectrum, especially considering the fact that it is a plastic hardcase. That being said, the fit-and-finish of the case is outstanding. The design of the case is the same as Griffin’s other Elan Form products, but replaced the simulated leather exterior or chrome accents with a more muted design. On the back, the case features an artificial carbon fiber pattern with just a bit of give to the touch. Around the front of the iPod, there is a dark chrome trim, mimicking the look of the metallic ring around the face of the iPod touch 2G and the iPhone 3G, but darker. The case features cutouts for the volume control buttons, power button, Dock Connector, and headphone jack.

Included with the case are a small black microfiber cloth and a screen protector, providing total protection for your iPod touch. Additionally, the case consists of two “halves” – the main part of the case which covers about 2/3 of the iPod and the final 1/3 that fits over the bottom. This part is designed to be removed for docking purposes or other situations where you need access to a standard sized iPod. We thought this was a nice touch and it seems that the two halves fit together, and on the iPod in a rather sturdy manner.

To install the iPod into the case is simple—slide the top part over the top portion of the iPod and slide the bottom part over the bottom portion of the iPod. Fit is snug, and the included microfiber cloth is designed to remove any dust or debris from the iPod and the case before installation. If you skip this step, you could potentially get scratches on the mirrored back of the iPod. The larger section of the case isn’t really designed to be removed on a regular basis, so the potential of scratching shouldn’t be a concern for most users. Finally, the screen protector was simple to install, although due to the iPod touch’s glass display, one has to wonder the necessity of it.

After about a month of use, we were rather happy with the Elan Form Graphite and feel that it gives the iPod touch enough protection without detracting from Apple’s aesthetics. Some may even find that the faux-carbon fiber finish gives the back of the iPod touch a unique and classy look, similar to the faux-leather back of some BlackBerries.

In summary, the Elan Form Graphite is a bit pricey as far as iPod cases go, but does its job and looks good doing it. If you can justify the price, you won’t be disappointed.