How to Identify Your iPod Model

If you’re looking to replace a battery, install flash storage or buy replacement parts, identifying the correct iPod model is the first step.

The good news is that once you know what to look for, it’s usually quite easy.

iPod Video (5th Generation)

The iPod Video was released in 2005 and was the first iPod capable of playing video files.

You’ll normally find these in one of three capacities:

• 30GB
• 60GB
• 80GB

The easiest way to identify a 5th generation iPod is by the plastic front housing and rounded design.

Another giveaway is the thicker rear housing found on the 60GB and 80GB models.

These are extremely popular amongst enthusiasts thanks to their sound signature and excellent compatibility with modern flash storage upgrades.

5th Generation vs 5.5 Generation

This catches people out all the time.

The so-called “5.5 Generation” isn’t officially called that by Apple, but it’s the name commonly used by the iPod community.

The easiest way to identify a 5.5 Generation model is by the Search function.

Navigate to:

Music → Search

If Search is present, you have a 5.5 Generation model.

The 80GB version also includes more RAM than the standard 30GB models, making it particularly popular for large music libraries.

iPod Classic (6th Generation)

The 6th Generation iPod Classic was released in 2007.

Common capacities are:

• 80GB
• 160GB

The easiest way to identify one is by the all-metal front housing.

Unlike the plastic front used on the iPod Video, the front of the Classic is aluminium.

One thing worth noting is that the original 6th Generation models have a storage limitation when flash modded, which is why many enthusiasts prefer later models.

iPod Classic 120GB (6.5 Generation)

The 120GB model often causes confusion.

Many sellers list these as 7th Generation iPods, but that’s not actually correct.

The 120GB model was released in 2008 and is commonly referred to as the 6.5 Generation.

Although it includes some improvements over the original 6th Generation, it still shares the same storage limitation when flash modded.

If you see a factory 120GB iPod Classic, it is not a true 7th Generation model.

iPod Classic (7th Generation)

The easiest way to identify a genuine 7th Generation iPod is surprisingly simple.

Apple only produced the 7th Generation in one capacity:

160GB (Thin Back)

If you have a thin 160GB iPod Classic, there is a very good chance you’ve got a 7th Generation model.

These are the most sought-after donor iPods for flash modding because they support significantly larger storage capacities than the earlier models.

If you’re planning a 512GB, 1TB or even 2TB build, the 7th Generation is usually the best starting point.

Thick vs Thin Rear Housings

Another useful identification method is the rear housing thickness.

Thin Models

• 30GB iPod Video
• 80GB iPod Classic
• 120GB iPod Classic
• 160GB 7th Generation Classic

Thick Models

• 60GB iPod Video
• 80GB iPod Video
• 160GB 6th Generation Classic

This is particularly important when choosing batteries and replacement rear housings.

Still Not Sure?

If you’re still unsure which iPod you have, feel free to get in touch.

A quick photo of the front and rear of the device is usually enough for me to identify the model and point you towards the correct parts.

Happy modding!

Adam

Retro Refresh