Looking to get a jump-start on your holiday shopping? Here's a can't-miss gift: Apple has the refurbished 2nd-generation iPod Touch (8GB) for $149 with free shipping.
It wasn't too long ago that first-gen refurbs were selling for more than that, so this is a decidedly sweet deal.
What can I tell you about the Touch you don't already know? It's an iPhone without the phone--though if you plug in a headset and use an app like Fring or Skype, it can do a damn fine impression of one.
As I've mentioned before, Apple's refurbs are usually indistinguishable from new units, right down to the same bundled accessories and one-year warranty. The only real difference: They come in a brown cardboard box instead of the flashy plastic one.
My daughter has this exact Touch, and she looooves it. And what's not to love? Music, videos, games, apps, Internet--no wonder CNET awarded it 4.5 stars out of 5 and an Editors' Choice.
The Apple Store has been known to sell out of certain refurbished models, so if you want one of these, I'd act fast.
Bonus deal: Need an HDMI cable? Buy.com has a Belkin 12-footer for $7.99 after rebate--plus the awesome, awesome "Planet Earth Vol. 1" on Blu-ray.
Bonus deal #2: What's better than a Nintendo Wii for $199? How about a Wii for $199 and a free game? That's the deal over at eToys, where you'll get the console and "Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games" for $199.99 shipped. (Add the Wii to your cart; the game gets added automatically.)
