Review: ShieldZone InvisibleSHIELD

iPod cases are almost an essential item. Most people think of buying an iPod requires an extra $10-$50 expense for a protective case. While this is a good idea, how much case does someone need? ShieldZone thinks almost none in the case of their InvisibleSHIELD product line.

Priced between $10 and $25, the InvisibleSHIELD comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit all iPods and provide anything from basic screen protection to a full wrap-around armor. The basic idea is that the InvisibleSHIELD is a rather thick clear plastic sticker designed to protect against scratches, bumps, and scrapes. It is not intended to protect against shocks or drops.

InvisibleSHIELD

InvisibleSHIELD Back

InvisibleSHIELD (Click Wheel Close-Up)

For the variety that protects the entire iPod, four pieces are included: one for the back, one for the front, one for the Click Wheel, and one for the select button. To install, simply use the included spray on the backs of each piece and then position it on the iPod. An included squeegee is used to smooth out the result. The installation process is similar for other devices, as well.

Lining up each piece is relatively easy, due to cut outs for the Dock Connector, hold switch, and headphone jack. The back piece wraps around and covers the sides of the iPod, as well. Only the corners are slightly exposed, due to the design.

Once it dries, it is firmly attached to the iPod and almost invisible, although sometimes there will be a few air bubbles. If that happens, you can wash it off and try again. The InvisibleSHIELD can be pulled off rather easily and repositioned multiple times without leaving an adhesive residue.

The downside to the InvisibleSHIELD when compared to other cases is that you cannot remove it too many times to use with certain accessories or to switch cases. As it adds just a little bit to the iPod’s thickness, some docks and hard-plastic snap-on cases won’t work with it. Universal docks seem to work well, but many iPod-specific ones (such as Altec Lansing’s inMotion speakers) don’t. Furthermore, it doesn’t protect against drops and very abusive situations. If you’re okay with those gotchas, the InvisibleSHIELD is a rather solid product.