The Apple iPod has become an almost ubiquitous part of everyday life. It holds, by far, the largest market share in digital audio player sales. The iPod has grown from a basic, well-designed mp3 player to an all-inclusive tool for holding and using your digital media. The current generation of iPods can view photos and video, while still listening to mp3s and using the built-in organizer. The next generation is even expected to be integrated into a cellular phone, with the release of the iPhone this summer.

However, as any new iPod user has experienced, one of the first things that happens once you get your new iPod is that small scratches start to appear. This results in a frantic search for ways to protect your iPod from the scratches and scuffs that can quickly ruin your viewing experience. Thankfully, this need has spawned a large market of companies providing solutions to help protect your iPod and its screen from unsightly scratches and marks. Which one is right for you? Read on to find out details on some of the most popular methods of protecting your iPod and figure out which one is right for you.

A full cover is the best option for people who are clumsy or intend to use their iPods in lots of situations where damage is possible. It provides the most comprehensive protection of any of the options available. Besides scratches on the screen, defense is provided against scratches to other parts of the device, and often against other bumps and drops. A variety of different materials are used to make these covers, ranging from thick leather to hard aluminum casings.

Many of these cases come with extra features such as arm straps or belt clips to help you carry them. Other cases include external pockets to hold the headphones and other cables or accessories.

Several of my favorite full cases are the Brenthaven Flip Case and the ToughSkin case by Speck Products. The Flip Case provides a unique feature which allows it to act as a stand for your iPod. This makes it handy for watching videos without having to hold it. The ToughSkin case is one of the most protective cases available for iPods. The rubber skin reduces the risk of shocks from bumps or drops.

For those of you who put size at a premium, whether for practicality (an aluminum case doesn't fit as well in a pockeet) or simply because you prefer the design, iPod skin cases are a good option. They are made with silicone bodies and a hard plastic cover to protect the screen. Some have holes for the click-wheel while others have thinner silicone covers over the wheel. These are normally available in a wide range of colors to truly make your iPod fit your style. The main benefit of the "iskin" style covers is the size, as mentioned before. They offer quality protection without too much bulk. Often, however, they lack the extras provided by the full cases. The original covers are made by iSkin, but there are many knock-offs now available.

For people who need protection for more than just the screen, but are unwilling to sacrifice size, these are the perfect option.

For the minimalistic iPod user among us, there is always the option of buying simple overlays for your iPod. Available in models that cover the whole iPod or cling to just the screen, they provide the basic in protection. They guard against scratches on the screen, but provide little other protection. If you drop your iPod while listening to it, don't expect the thin layer of plastic sheeting to keep it from getting a nick or ding. However, this is popular among people who generally take great care of all of their electronics and want to enjoy the iPod design.

If the screen overlays are still too pricey for you, I know several people who have just kept the plastic on from the iPod packaging. I find this to be more of an annoyance than a benefit, however.