Shopping for a tech gift last-minute can be a little stressful, but there are plenty of good products available that should be worth a look. Depending on your budget and what you think will fit best with the loved one you have in mind, here is a guide that can help take care of those last-minute jitters.
Great gifts under $100
Two of the more practical and functional gifts that won’t break the bank are the Google Chromecast ($40) and Roku Streaming Stick ($60). Both are similar in that they plug into a TV’s HDMI port, connect to a home network via Wi-Fi and include the ability to “cast” over content from smartphones, tablets or computers. The Roku has more content access built-in, like Netflix, Crackle, YouTube, NHL GameCenter, TuneIn Radio and many others. Chromecast works very well with the Chrome web browser on a PC or Mac, as well as on iOS and Android devices.
The latest Kindle e-Reader is selling for $80. The SanDisk Connect Wireless Thumb Drive ($70) is a dual-use device that can act as a standard USB stick, or use its built-in Wi-Fi to stream media content to a smartphone or tablet. Parrot’s Flower Power ($70) is a gizmo that you can use to keep tabs on a favourite plant via Bluetooth, so you know when it needs water, sunlight or fertilizer.
For something truly functional, Mophie’s Juice Pack ($80) portable battery is a great thing to have for those times when a smartphone battery is dying. And if the person you have in mind loves smartphone photography, you could always consider an olloclip lens attachment for the iPhone 6 or 6 Plus.
Great gifts between $100-$400
You’ve either got a little more to spend or the recipient you’re thinking of deserves it. Either way, you have a lot of options. A good of earbuds? Consider the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear as a solid choice for looks and performance.
For someone who wants a smartphone, but doesn’t need the best the market has to offer, the Moto G is a great buy for $250 unlocked. It also works with a wide number of carriers. If the latest iPad Mini isn’t necessary, the iPad Mini 2 in both 16GB or 32GB capacities are under $400. A less expensive option would be the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4, in case Android is what you’re looking for.
You can give music at home a bit of a boost by buying a Sonos Play:1 speaker ($220). Now that it can be set up without the need for a Wireless Bridge, the upfront cost doesn’t have to be as high. In fact, the larger Play:3 is also $330, if your budget has room for it. The Denon HEOS sound system is an alternative to Sonos with similar price points, if you’re inclined to go in that direction.
These are just some ideas to consider, but you could also use them as a springboard to other products that might be a better fit in either budget.
