Your Holiday Gift Guide: Presents for Tech Lovers
By Margot Carmichael Lester, Staples® Contributing WriterThere’s one on every list: That tech-savvy person who’s up on all the new gear before you’ve even begun to master the last one.
Tim Swetonic of Seattle is one of those “early adopters.” Instead of focusing on brand or version, he offers this simple rule: “The gift has to make the recipient’s life better in some way!”
Use this short list of gift ideas to reduce the time and stress of shopping for gear so you can do more this holiday.
An Apple® Watch might be out of your price range, but other wearables are popular, too. The “Fitbit Charge HR is a great all-around fitness band for people of all activity levels, and it checks your heart rate,” notes Jessica Dolcourt, senior editor with CNET. “Tracking fitness is better with friends, and chances are that someone else in your extended circle has one, too.” Tip: Add a S'ip by S'well water bottle or new gym bag to create a fitness-themed gift.
2. Fun Tech.
Demand for game consoles and devices never wanes. Don’t forget accessories like headsets, keyboards and mice specially designed for the rigors of gaming. Want to up the ante on fun tech? Consider a drone with on-board camera!
3. Smart Home Gear.
Who doesn't want a cloud-based voice-activated “assistant” or other smart home gear that connects devices and appliances so they’re controllable remotely by phone? Tip: Looking for something less ambitious? Remote-controlled LED lightbulbs mean no more trips to the dimmer switch!
4. Audio Gear.
That’s my jam! The tech-savvy music lovers on your list will appreciate new audio headphones. When they want to share the music, consider a dock, radio and Bluetooth® or plug-in speaker system.
5. Useful Tech Accessories.
When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with useful accessories that “add value to their devices, like a stylish or quirky stand, quality laptop bag or a gift certificate to splurge on a new case,” Dolcourt says. Tip: External keyboards and interactive pencils/styluses are terrific for tablet users.
Three more tips before you begin buying:
1. Look for deals.Tech is frequently on sale. Compare prices online to find the best deals and make your final purchase from a store that offers a good price-match guarantee.
2. Research returns and protections.
When you’re shopping for tech, buy from stores with reasonable return policies and select items with good manufacturer warranties. Using a credit card? See if your bank offers extended warranties and purchase protection.
3. Plan for packing and shipping.
Sending the tech? Save time by buying at a store that sells the packing and mailing supplies you need, too. Ensure it arrives safely and on time by taking advantage of professional packing and shipping services.