Keep MP3 players safe and secure
MP3 players don’t work well once you drop them on the ground. Whether it’s the display screen or the headphone jack that breaks, you’ll have a hard time using your player after the accident.
If your warranty has expired – or, worse, if the coverage doesn’t include mishandling – you’re forced to buy a replacement player. This is far more expensive and time-consuming than buying, and using, some of the most common MP3 player accessories on the market.
There are several different ways to safeguard your player. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types so that you’ll be sure to pick the one that’s best for your lifestyle.
The Belt Clip
Clipping your MP3 player to your belt or waistband keeps the device within easy reach. Depending on the quality of the clip, you probably won’t have to worry about a malfunction. Most clips work well even if you jog or run, so knocking your player loose isn’t much of a concern.
If you’re in a crowded area – such as a train or bus – a thief could disconnect your headphone jack and grab the player before you can react. Another problem with belt clips is that, if you bang your hip into something, you can break the clip and send the device right to the asphalt.
The Armband
Armbands are great for people who wear low-riding pants or any other type of clothing that doesn’t work well with a belt clip. You can run, jog, walk or even play non-contact sports without worrying about your player.
Armbands often utilize your belt clip. Be sure to pick a durable clip so that you won’t lose the player when you’re running to class.
The Lanyard
Hanging the player around your neck is a great option for many people. The lanyard keeps the player near your body, which makes it easy to operate and hard for thieves to grab. You can also run as fast as you want without the player working its way off of your waistband.
The Backpack/Purse
Storing the player in your bag while you’re out and about keeps the device reasonably safe even if you drop your bag on the sidewalk. The bag’s padding absorbs some of the shock, as do the softer things riding inside.
Some backpacks come with reinforced holes for your headphone cord. This leaves you free to close your bag without worrying about what will happen to the cord when the zipper moves.
If that’s not an option, consider finding an alternative means of storing your player. The zipper destroys the headphone cord before you know what’s happened, leaving you devoid of music until you can buy a replacement.
Also: if somebody grabs your bag, the MP3 player goes with it. Be sure that you keep a steady grip on your bag to prevent theft.
The Front Pocket
Many people end up sticking their MP3 players into a front pocket. This is convenient, but the player picks up lint and dirt from your pocket.
If you have change, car keys or any other such items in your pocket, they’ll scratch your display screen. If you want to use your pocket for MP3-player storage, buy a protective cover or case to prevent damage.
There are a few other ways to carry your player around: some people, for example, choose to just keep the players in their hands while they walk around. You should go with whatever option is the safest and most convenient for your habits and lifestyle. Whatever method you choose, be sure to select a high-quality product. Saving ten dollars by buying a cheaply-made case might end up costing you a lot of money should the case not work as well as it should.
Filed under: Online Shopping, Technology