Wanting to get a podcast player in 2025 that isn’t your phone? It’s a common thought, especially as we all juggle constant notifications. If you’re looking to buy an iPod in 2025, you’re tapping into a market that’s all about nostalgia, dedicated podcast listening, and sometimes, a little DIY spirit. Apple officially stopped making iPods back in May 2022, with the iPod Touch 7th generation being the last one to roll off the production line. So, when we talk about the “best iPod” now, we’re really looking at the used and refurbished markets, or even considering older iPhones as dedicated podcast devices.

It’s kind of funny, isn’t it? The device that literally put “1,000 songs in your pocket” eventually got outshined by its own sibling, the iPhone, which pretty much does everything. But there’s a real charm to having a dedicated gadget just for tunes. No social media pings, no work emails popping up, just you and your podcast. It’s a mental break in a world full of digital noise. For those of us who grew up with iPods, or even those just discovering the joy of a distraction-free podcast experience, 2025 still offers some cool options. Whether you’re chasing the tactile satisfaction of a click wheel, the app versatility of an iPod Touch, or even turning an older iPhone into a full-time podcast companion, we’ll break down what makes sense to grab right now.

Table of Contents

The Last Stand: iPod Touch 7th Generation

Alright, let’s kick things off with the most recent iPod you could ever get your hands on: the iPod Touch 7th Generation. This one hit the scene in May 2019 and, sadly, was discontinued in May 2022, marking the end of the entire iPod line. So, in 2025, if you find one, it’s either going to be used, refurbished, or perhaps old stock.

Now, why would you even consider the iPod Touch 7th Gen? Well, it was basically an iPhone without the cellular capabilities, meaning it ran iOS and could access the App Store, play games, browse the web over Wi-Fi, and, of course, play podcast. For a while, it was a pretty decent option for someone who wanted a portable media player with a modern interface and access to streaming apps like Spotify or Apple Podcast, as long as you had Wi-Fi. It even supported augmented reality ARKit apps and Group FaceTime thanks to its A10 Fusion chip, though it was slightly underclocked compared to the iPhone 7’s chip.

However, by 2025, the iPod Touch 7th Gen is showing its age. It’s stuck on iOS 15.8.4 as of March 2025, meaning it won’t get future iOS updates or support for the latest apps. People often report that while it’s “usable,” things take an “extra second to load” compared to a modern iPhone. Battery life is another big one. with only a 1,000 mAh battery, you’re looking at around 2-3 hours of screen-on time or about 5 hours of podcast playback, especially if you get a used unit with degraded battery health. The camera isn’t anything to write home about either, sporting an 8 MP rear camera and 1.2 MP front camera.

So, who’s this for? If you’re a collector, it’s the final piece of the iPod puzzle. If you want a super-thin, lightweight device for very light media consumption, mostly podcast, podcasts, or reading e-books via Kindle without phone distractions, it could still serve a purpose. It’s pocketable and still has that beloved 3.5mm headphone jack. But honestly, for around $80-$90 what you might find a used 256GB model for on eBay, some argue it’s not truly “worth buying” in 2025 unless you’re a collector or need a super basic secondary device for a specific, limited purpose. You can often find refurbished models, but do your research on battery health. Best handgun to buy in 2025

The Classics: iPod Nano, Shuffle, and the Legendary iPod Classic

Now, if you’re really chasing that pure, unadulterated iPod experience, you’re probably looking at the older models – the ones with the iconic click wheels or the super-minimalist designs. This is where nostalgia really kicks in, and ironically, these older devices often offer a more “iPod-like” experience than the Touch ever could. Many users on Reddit in 2025 are actively seeking these out for a “distraction-free listening” environment.

iPod Classic 5th/5.5th Gen and 6th/7th Gen

For many, the iPod Classic is the holy grail. It’s the one that embodies the original vision of a dedicated podcast player, and in 2025, it’s seeing a real resurgence, especially within modding communities.

iPod Classic 5th/5.5th Generation aka “iPod Video”: This one is a legend for a reason. Released in 2005-2006, many audiophiles swear by its Wolfson DAC Digital-to-Analog Converter, claiming it offers superior sound quality compared to later models. While some might say that’s “bullshit” in a blind test, the perception alone makes it highly sought after. These models were also the first to support video playback, hence the “Video” nickname. The 5.5 generation, a minor update, introduced features like search functionality and has better flash-modding capabilities, allowing for huge storage upgrades think 256GB, 512GB, or even 1TB SSDs instead of the original hard drive!. These mods significantly extend the device’s life and utility, making it a viable option for a massive offline podcast library in 2025.
iPod Classic 6th/7th Generation: These were the last “Classic” iPods, introduced from 2007 to 2009 and discontinued in 2014. They had a sleeker, all-metal design, and the 7th Gen offered up to 160GB of storage – a massive amount for its time, capable of holding nearly 40,000 songs. While they don’t have the “Wolfson DAC” mystique, they’re still excellent, reliable podcast players with the beloved click wheel. They’re often considered the “most modern and nicest feeling iPod” for the classic experience.

Why buy a Classic in 2025?

Nostalgia & Tactile Control: The click wheel is just chef’s kiss. It’s a unique interface that feels different from swiping on a screen.
Distraction-Free: No apps, no notifications, just podcast. This is a huge draw for many, as mentioned on Reddit.
Moddability: The ability to replace the hard drive with flash storage iFlash boards means improved battery life, durability, and enormous storage capacities. You can essentially build your “ultimate iPod.”
Offline Podcast Library: Perfect for those who prefer owning their podcast or want to escape the subscription model. You download your podcast, load it up via iTunes/Finder, and it’s yours.
Audio Quality: Even without the “Wolfson effect,” these are dedicated audio devices and often sound fantastic, especially with good wired headphones.

Things to consider: Finding a Classic in good condition can be pricey, especially modded ones. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300+ depending on the model, condition, and modifications. Batteries will likely need replacing, and you’ll need to be comfortable with managing your podcast library through a computer. Best hybrid to buy in 2025

iPod Nano 7th Generation

The iPod Nano 7th Generation was the last Nano model, released in 2012 and discontinued in 2017. It was super thin, had a 2.5-inch multi-touch display, and even came with Bluetooth connectivity. Think of it as a tiny, stripped-down iPod Touch, but without access to the full App Store. It was great for gym-goers or those who wanted something truly miniature. In 2025, it still holds up as a very compact podcast player, but its small screen makes it less versatile than an iPod Touch.

iPod Shuffle 4th Generation

The iPod Shuffle 4th Generation was the final iteration of Apple’s screen-less, clip-on player, discontinued in 2017. It was all about simplicity: clip it on, press play, and let the podcast flow. With 2GB of storage and up to 15 hours of battery life, it was perfect for workouts or anyone who just wanted background podcast without any distractions. The “VoiceOver” button was a neat feature, telling you the song title or playlist name. In 2025, if you just need a super-portable, ultra-simple podcast player for hundreds of songs, a refurbished Shuffle is still a solid, affordable choice. Some modern alternatives like the Mighty 3 for Spotify/Amazon Podcast exist, but the Shuffle offers true offline playback without subscriptions.

Beyond iPods: Old iPhones as Dedicated Podcast Players

Here’s where things get interesting, especially when you consider that many of the keywords related to “best iPod to buy in 2025” actually mention “iPhone.” This tells us a lot of people are thinking, “My old iPhone is basically an iPod, right?” And they’re not wrong! With iPods officially gone, an older iPhone can absolutely fill that void, giving you access to streaming services and a huge podcast library without tying up your main phone.

Turning an old iPhone into a dedicated podcast player is a smart move. You get a bigger, better screen than any iPod except maybe the latest iPod Touch, but even then, iPhones generally win on display quality, access to all streaming apps, and often much better battery life than an aging iPod. The bonus? Many older iPhones still have respectable cameras and can run plenty of games and other apps if you want a bit more versatility than a pure podcast player.

Here are a few older iPhones that make excellent dedicated podcast players in 2025: Best hybrid cars to buy in 2025

iPhone SE 1st Generation / iPhone 6S / iPhone 7: These older models are popular for one big reason: they still have the 3.5mm headphone jack. For audiophiles or those who prefer wired headphones, this is a huge plus. The iPhone SE 1st Gen 2016 is small, pocketable, and runs older iOS versions but can still handle most podcast apps. The iPhone 7 is a step up in performance and still relatively compact. You can often find these for very budget-friendly prices. However, keep in mind their software support is limited.
iPhone 8 / iPhone X / iPhone XS or XR/XS Max: These models offer a significant jump in performance and screen quality compared to the SE or 7. They lose the headphone jack you’ll need a dongle or Bluetooth headphones, but they bring better cameras, faster processors, and more modern designs. The iPhone X introduced the all-screen design, and the iPhone XS Max offers a large display for media consumption. You can find these unlocked on Amazon or eBay for good prices.
iPhone 12 / iPhone 13 and mini versions: These are more recent, but still available at “budget-friendly” prices in 2025. They offer excellent performance, great displays, and will receive iOS updates for a few more years. The iPhone 12 Mini or iPhone 13 Mini are particularly appealing if you want a compact device similar in spirit though not size to older iPods. They also support MagSafe for accessories. Expect to find these for around $200-$400+ refurbished or used.
iPhone 14 / iPhone 15 / iPhone 16e: These are Apple’s newer “budget” or “value” iPhones as of 2025. If you want something with current software support and excellent performance that doubles as a podcast player, these are strong contenders. The iPhone 16e is specifically highlighted as the “best budget iPhone” in 2025, offering a large OLED display and a powerful A18 chip at a more accessible price point around $599 new, or cheaper used/refurbished. The iPhone 14 is also often mentioned as a great value, dropping to around $350-$420 on Amazon/eBay. While they’re not “iPods” in name, they effectively replace them as versatile portable media devices.

Why choose an old iPhone?

Versatility: Not just podcast, but apps, games, camera, web browsing.
Streaming: Full support for all modern streaming services Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube Podcast, etc..
Storage: Modern iPhones come with ample storage, and you can leverage cloud storage easily.
Updates: Newer old iPhones like the iPhone 12/13/14 will still get iOS updates for a good while, ensuring app compatibility and security. The iPhone 13 Pro Max, for instance, is getting the iOS 26 update.
Better Hardware: Generally superior screens, processors, and sometimes battery life compared to any actual iPod.

Modern Audiophile Alternatives: Dedicated Digital Audio Players DAPs

For those who prioritize absolute sound quality above all else and aren’t swayed by Apple’s ecosystem or just miss a dedicated podcast device, the market for High-Res Digital Audio Players DAPs has stepped up to fill the void left by the iPod Touch. These devices are built from the ground up to deliver a premium audio experience.

Brands like Astell & Kern, Sony, Fiio, and HiBy offer DAPs that support high-resolution audio formats FLAC, ALAC, DSD and often come with advanced DACs and powerful headphone amplifiers. They typically feature expandable storage via microSD cards, so you can carry massive libraries of lossless audio.

Astell & Kern A&norma SR35: Often cited as one of the best overall alternatives to the iPod Touch for sound quality. It’s a premium device that delivers a fantastic audio experience.
Sony NW-A306: A great “budget” option in the DAP world, offering a mature, balanced sound and good battery life. It’s compact and supports high-res audio.
Fiio M23 / Fiio M11S: These are also highly regarded for offering excellent sound quality and features at a reasonable price point.

While DAPs can be more expensive than a used iPod or older iPhone, they are designed purely for audio and deliver an experience that most smartphones can’t match without external DACs/amps. If you’re an audiophile with a substantial collection of high-res files, exploring Dedicated Digital Audio Players is definitely worth it.

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What to Consider Before Buying an “iPod” in 2025

Before you go hunting for your perfect podcast companion, let’s quickly run through some key things to think about.

1. Your Main Purpose

Nostalgia & Collecting: If you just want a piece of history or to relive your youth, an iPod Classic or a pristine iPod Touch 7th Gen makes sense. Just be aware of the practical limitations for daily use.
Distraction-Free Podcast: This is a huge driver for many. A Classic modded or not or even a basic iPod Shuffle excels here. An older iPhone with notifications silenced can also work, but the temptation is always there.
App & Streaming Access: If you need Spotify, Apple Podcast, or other apps on the go, the iPod Touch 7th Gen with Wi-Fi or an older iPhone is your best bet.
Audiophile Quality: For the absolute best sound, a dedicated DAP is the way to go.

2. Condition: Used vs. Refurbished

Since new iPods are no longer made, you’ll be looking at the secondary market.

Used: Can be cheaper but carries more risk. Check for battery health, screen condition, and overall functionality. Many iPod Classics will have aging hard drives that might need replacing.
Refurbished: Often comes with a warranty and has been inspected/repaired. This is generally a safer bet, especially for iPod Touch models or older iPhones. Look for reputable sellers on platforms like Amazon Renewed or Back Market.

3. Battery Life Expectations

This is probably the biggest concern with any older device.

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iPod Touch 7th Gen: Expect modest battery life 2-5 hours of active use unless the battery has been replaced.
iPod Classic/Nano/Shuffle: Battery life varies wildly depending on the model and age. Classics are prime candidates for battery upgrades during modding. Some modded Classics can get 55+ hours of playback!
Older iPhones: Generally better than iPods, but still varies by model and battery health. Look for models with at least 80% battery health, or plan for a battery replacement.

4. Storage Needs

Offline Libraries: If you have thousands of songs, especially in lossless formats, you’ll need significant storage. Modded iPod Classics can offer up to 1TB. Older iPhones offer up to 256GB or 512GB, depending on the model.
Streaming: If you primarily stream, local storage isn’t as critical, but downloaded playlists still eat up space.

5. Software Compatibility for Touch/iPhones

The iPod Touch 7th Gen is stuck on iOS 15.8.4. This means some newer apps won’t run, and over time, more apps will drop support. Older iPhones will have varying levels of iOS support, so check before buying if specific apps are crucial for you.

6. Budget

iPod Shuffle/Nano: These are generally the cheapest entry points into the “iPod” world, often under $100.
iPod Touch 7th Gen: Around $70-$150 for a used one.
iPod Classic unmodded: Can range from $100-$200+, with modded versions going higher $200-$400+.
Older Budget iPhones: You can find models like the iPhone SE 2nd Gen, iPhone 12, or iPhone 14 for $200-$450, offering a modern experience at a reduced cost.
Dedicated DAPs: These start around $300-$400 and go much higher for audiophile-grade options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are iPods still being made in 2025?

No, Apple officially discontinued the entire iPod product line on May 10, 2022. The iPod Touch 7th generation was the last model released and also the last to be discontinued. Any iPods you find for sale in 2025 will be used, refurbished, or unsold new old stock.

Is it worth buying an iPod Touch 7th generation in 2025?

For most people looking for a modern media player, probably not. The iPod Touch 7th Gen runs an outdated operating system iOS 15.8.4, has a relatively slow processor, and limited battery life compared to current smartphones. However, it might be worth it for collectors, for very specific light media consumption like offline podcast/podcasts with Wi-Fi only, or if you want a dedicated device for reading e-books without phone distractions.

What is the best “classic” iPod to buy in 2025 for podcast?

Many enthusiasts recommend the iPod Classic 5th or 5.5th generation also known as iPod Video due to its highly regarded Wolfson DAC, which some believe offers superior audio quality. These models are also highly moddable, allowing you to replace the old hard drive with modern flash storage for vastly increased capacity and better durability. The iPod Classic 6th or 7th generation are also great choices if you prefer a more modern “classic” design and can also be modded.

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What are good alternatives to an iPod in 2025 if I want a dedicated podcast player?

Many people turn to older iPhones as excellent iPod alternatives. Models like the iPhone SE 1st or 2nd Gen, iPhone 7, iPhone 12 Mini, or iPhone 14 can be found at good prices, offer access to all streaming apps, and have significantly better hardware than any iPod. For serious audiophiles, dedicated Digital Audio Players DAPs from brands like Astell & Kern or Sony provide superior sound quality and high-res audio support.

Can I still use Apple Podcast or Spotify on an old iPod in 2025?

You can use Apple Podcast or Spotify on an iPod Touch 7th generation as long as you have a Wi-Fi connection. Older iPods like the Classic, Nano, or Shuffle do not support streaming apps. you need to manually sync podcast files MP3, AAC, ALAC, etc. from a computer using iTunes or Finder.

How much should I expect to pay for an iPod in 2025?

Prices vary widely based on the model, condition used vs. refurbished, and whether it’s been modded. A basic iPod Shuffle or Nano might go for under $100. A used iPod Touch 7th Gen typically ranges from $70-$150. Unmodded iPod Classics can be found for $100-$200+, while modded ones with upgraded storage can easily exceed $300-$400.

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