The shuffle-Tangent standoffBout 1: Sizing them up
Despite the differences in dimensions, it is hardly discernible in day-to-day usage. Both exhibit the same rounded edges and the same smooth scratch-prone surface, in addition to the same positioning of the 3.5mm earphone jack at the top of the player. The quad-directional button control on the shuffle has a slightly larger diameter of 23mm as opposed to the Tangent's 20mm. This may not amount to much, but the stylized button on the Tangent leaves only a miniscule 8mm diameter for the center Play key, making pressing it a less comfortable affair than the shuffle's (13mm). Good design often lies in the details. On extreme close inspection (think magnifying glass) of the innards of the USB cap, the Tangent has a rather empty look, and though it offers a snug fit, the design of the plastic fins suggests the fins are liable to expansion after long-term use, thus resulting in a looser fit. To its credit, the shuffle uses two spring-loaded ball bearings within the cap to secure it to the two indentations on the sides of the USB jack, which provides a reassuring fit. As we had earlier pointed out in our review of the shuffle, the slide switch on the back of the device is too smooth to get any appreciable friction going, especially for dry fingers. The Tangent improves on the former with indentations on its sliding switches. Both the shuffle and Tangent use an LED light embedded above the center control keys to indicate the status of the MP3 player, though the shuffle uses two instead of one as in the case of the Tangent. The Tangent also has a small eyelet for a lanyard to be attached. The Tangent also improves on the shuffle by coming in three different colors. Both shuffle and Tangent have their pros and cons, but for Apple's attention to details (barring the slide switch) and overall more solid construction, the design point goes to the shuffle this round.
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