Nano 2nd gen a lot better than Nano 1st gen?

[volcs0]

Am trying to decide which to get my 11YO for his birthday.

Refurb store has 2gb 1st gen for $99, 2nd gen $109.
4gb 1st gen $129, 2nd gen $149.

Is it worth the extra few bucks for the 2nd gen unit? A lot better? Are they a lot less fragile?

thanks...