The game is on. The category defining 2012 iPod touch is the world’s best-selling, best-loved mobile gaming platform and nothing else comes close — not Nintendo, not Sony, not Android — Apple’s build quality, game availability and, as shown here, mouth watering prices.

The big advantages vis-a-vis buying on the Apple Store are piece of mind and, surprisingly, price when buying refurbished. When it comes to new in box 2012 iPod touch models, Walmart’s prices, free accessory bundles and free site-to-store shipping are a tough combination to beat.

Here’s a quick look at offers, 2012 iPod touch and earlier models, from five prominent vendors — Apple, Walmart, MacConnection, Amazon and GameStop:

• [4] 8GB iPod touch, $129 (179)
— Sales tax applies in most states
— Apple Certified Factory Refurbished, free shipping

• Refurbished 8GB, 16GB, 32GB iPod Touch 4th Generation, from $149
— Sales tax will apply
— Walmart, free site-to-store shipping
— Additional models available

• Refurbishished 8GB, 16GB, 32GB iPod Touch 4th Generation, from $149
— Sales tax will apply
— GameStop Premium Refurbished
— Shipping from $6, free in-store pickup where available

• [4] 32GB iPod touch, $179 (249)
— Sales tax applies in most states
— Apple Certified Factory Refurbished, free shipping

• 16GB, 32GB, 64GB iPod Touch models, from $184.95
— Sales tax applied on a state-by-state basis
— Amazon, Prime, free shipping

• 16GB, 32GB, 64GB iPod Touch & Bonus Accessory Kit, from $189
— New in-box models
— Sales tax applies in most states
— Walmart, free site-to-store shipping

• 16GB, 32GB, 64GB iPod Touch models, from $194
— Sales tax applied on a state-by-state basis
— MacConnection, free shipping

• [4] 64GB iPod touch, $229 (329)
— Sales tax applies in most states
— Apple Certified Factory Refurbished, free shipping

Know of a great 2012 iPod touch deal/bundle? Have the inside dope on refurbished iPod touch prices? Drop us a note in the comments below…

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