51 Cool Tech Gifts You’ll Want to Keep for Yourself
Updated: Aug. 30, 2023Once you get your hands on these tech gifts, you won't want to let them go.
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Surely we’re not the only ones who love to have the newest tech gadget. And when holiday shopping, it may seem like a no-brainer to choose tech gifts for family and friends. From everyday practical items to internet trends, the incredible advances in technology have resulted in options for everyone.
Tech gifts for every person on your list might be a bit of an investment, but they stand the test of them. They’re certainly coveted—maybe even by you! From lightweight computers and gaming accessories to digital frames and video doorbells, this list of gift ideas covers loads of options and price points.
So whether you want to splurge or save, you’ll find some cool picks for everyone on your list. Tech gifts are winners year-round!
For skin care enthusiasts: Personal Chiller Mini Fridge
Forget Barbiecore, what about pink fridgecore? This fairy-sized mini refrigerator keeps beauty products cool and germ-free. Tech gifts like this store nail polish inside to protect the bottles from the heat, or stow skin tools inside for a cooling effect. And yes, the mini-fridge can be used to sneak in a couple of beverages too.
For the at-home gym junkie: Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells
Working out at home doesn’t require much space but incorporating equipment does. Instead of adding a dumbbell rack or other gear to a small space, try the Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells. They replace 15 sets of weights, automatically adjust between five and 52.5 pounds and track reps and weight through the app. This fitness gift even has form guidance to avoid injury.
For the one tired of scooping: Smarty Pear Leo’s Loo Too Litter Box
Cat parents know how tiresome it is to constantly scoop kitty litter. The Smarty Pear litter box automatically separates the waste into a hidden drawer, while bamboo filters block the stench. A smartphone app even lets you track your cat’s health and use voice control. They’ll surely appreciate this futuristic gift for cat lovers.
For the digital reader: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite
Whether they gave up physical books years ago or are just trying to increase their reading goals, the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite is a great place to start. It holds up to 16GB of books, which you can buy from Amazon or rent through your local library. Our Senior Shopping Editor Megan Mowery said in her Paperwhite review it helped her fall back in love with reading.
For runners and hikers: Larq PureVis Water Bottle
It doesn’t get more futuristic than a water bottle that neutralizes bacteria, sanitizes water and cleans the interior surface of the bottle. But it gets better. Simply push a button and the bottle self-cleans every two hours to keep your water fresh and gunk-free. Whether they run or walk, give them the gift of hydration.
For allergy sufferers: TruSens Air Purifier
We’re all too aware of airborne viruses, allergens and bacteria. Fortunately, this TruSens Air Purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration system kills the germs and bacteria trapped in the filter. Gross to think about, but also so, so satisfying. Animal-friendly homes will also love these pet air purifiers.
For beauty gurus: Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
When it comes to tech gifts, this isn’t your average blow dryer. It’s like having a hair glam squad at your beck and call. Choose among the attachments and get to work. For a blast of air, swivel the neck for a sleek-looking blow dryer. The styling system was created to dry, smooth, volumize and curl—what else could you possibly need? Talk about a fitting gift for teens!
For prepared homeowners: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
When an intense storm hits that compromises electricity, anyone would be thankful that they have a source to power up their devices. With Jackery’s portable power station, all they have to do is plug the cord into the wall outlet, USB-C port or the other provided ports. It charges up to six devices, including smartphones, medical equipment and appliances, at a time. It’s also an amazing gift for campers.
For anyone avoiding tech neck: Lookshop Lookstand Cell Phone Stand
For those of us who spend too much time on our smartphones (guilty!), the Lookstand phone stand is here to save the day. To prevent tech neck, it easily attaches to the back of a phone, slides into an easel-type position and extends to full length for a lightweight stand on the go. Zoom meetings, cooking and FaceTime just got comfier.
For anyone who needs speedy Wi-Fi: Netgear Orbi Tri-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System
Know someone who has all the latest tech gifts and gadgets? Well, they’re going to need fast-paced internet access. Sluggish Wi-Fi means movies stream slowly and emails might never download.
Think of this mesh router as a home upgrade, especially since it offers up to 5,000 square feet of coverage. More than 100 devices can connect at the same time. All you need is a funny WiFi name to go with it.
For grill masters: ThermoPro Wireless Smart Meat Thermometer
This completely wireless smart thermometer has a remote range via Bluetooth, so the griller in your life can control their cooking from up to 500 feet away. There’s a connected smartphone app along with built-in timers and alarms to guarantee perfectly seared meat. In addition to being one of the best tech gifts, it also makes a lovely hostess gift.
For doomscrollers: The Social Media Detox Tracker Journal
Sometimes we need a break from technology—or, at least, accountability. This extremely simple Social Media Detox journal allows them to track mindless scrolling and set up healthier habits. No one is suggesting giving up the smartphone altogether, but a little management leads to big changes. Start with quitting social media and see how much less you scroll.
For those who need a new phone: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
Oh, this foldable Samsung smartphone is a beauty. Samsung’s new generation flip phone lets them take high-quality selfies right from the cover screen. There’s also extra flex (literally) in the form of high-quality video recording in Quick Shot mode, which can be switched to Flex mode to continue recording hands-free.
It’s perfect for capturing TikTok masterpieces! While you’re at it, check out these unique features only a Samsung Galaxy has too.
For the active ones: JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Wireless Earbuds
If they hit the gym religiously or can’t go a day without listening to a podcast, these JLab wireless earbuds are their new best friend. They offer true wireless connectivity with active noise-canceling capability, a sport fit and up to 70 or more hours of play time. If you’re buying these for a woman and want to create a whole fitness package, combine them with a pair of top-rated Amazon leggings.
For proud grandparents: Aura Carver Digital Picture Frame
How could loving grandparents choose just one photo to display in a frame? Aura makes it so they don’t have to. The brand’s digital picture frames allow them to proudly display adorable kids, fluffy friends and other family memories. Simply sync a phone’s photo roll and they can view the highlight reel at any time. Grandma and grandpa will love it!
For aspiring students: Microsoft Surface Laptop 4
It’s cute, it’s lightweight and it has a comfort keyboard. Even better, Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 4 has a no-lag touchscreen, and this particular model comes in several cool colors, including ice blue and sandstone. Plus, its fast-charging feature brings the device up to 80% battery in about an hour. Now this is our kind of graduation gift!
For beauty multitaskers: The Canopy Humidifier Starter Set
Canopy humidifiers already have legions of fans, and now you can get your friend in on the hype with the brand’s starter set. One of the coolest tech gifts, it includes a humidifier, paper filter, USB-C power cord and aroma sample kit. It targets many skin issues like dryness, sensitivity and redness. They’ll wake up with fresh, hydrated skin.
For home entertainers: bev by Black+Decker
If they live for a good drink on a Friday night or host regularly, they’ll love the Black+Decker cocktail maker. Bev, the boozy appliance, works with Bartesian cocktail capsules, which means more than 40 different beverages are on the menu (try a drink based on your zodiac sign). There’s also the option to select drink strength and mix in the spirit of their choice, which is cheaper than hiring a bartender!
For penny pinchers: Winnsty Digital Coin Counter Jar
You never know when someone is saving up for a vacation or a special gift for themselves. This coin counter jar does the work for them and displays the amount on the digital screen. Add it as a kid’s stocking stuffer to teach the responsibility of money (even if they just find it in the sofa cushions) early.
For hot sleepers: Perfectly Snug The Smart Topper
If they struggle with night sweats or chills (or the cold feet of their significant other), The Smart Topper by Perfectly Snug keeps their ideal temperature all night. It works by gently blowing air under and around them and has a foot heater for a spa-like feel. Cooling products are a must for sweaty sleepers or those in search of that hotel bed feeling.
For music connoisseurs: Sony SRS-XP500 Wireless Speaker
Being both wireless and portable makes this Sony speaker a must-have for gatherings and jam sessions. It features up to 20 hours of battery life and is splash- and spill-resistant—you know, in case the party gets a little too fun. If they plan to take it up a notch, the speaker has two microphone/guitar rear inputs. It’s one of the best smart speakers to keep the party going.
For never-ending scrollers: OcuShield Anti-Blue Light iPhone Protector
This extremely practical gift is fitting for anyone who is tied to their phone—sound familiar? The OcuShield screen protector is a clear-appearing filter that eliminates most harmful blue light rays from hitting delicate eyes. Reducing blue light is said to improve the symptoms of eye strain and insomnia, so they’ll appreciate this daily-use gift. These blue light glasses do the trick too.
For pet parents: Black+Decker PowerSeries Cordless Stick Vacuum
Time to say goodbye to dust bunnies and pet hair! Black+Decker’s cordless stick vacuum has a battery with up to 55 minutes of runtime. It easily converts to a handheld vacuum and works well on carpet and hardwood. Messes have officially met their match with this dependable vacuum.
For the security-minded: Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell
This is one of those tech gifts that’s so useful you’ll want to buy one for yourself. The Arlo video doorbell is relatively easy to set up, thanks to its wireless function that installs near an outside door or even an apartment building door. The smartphone-controlled app sends an alert when the doorbell rings, so they won’t miss that important delivery. It’s also a great step in burglar-proofing a home.
For people who hate to clean: Roborock S7 Robot Vacuum and Mop
Chores? Boo. There won’t be a need to think about the floors, thanks to the Roborock S7. It’s one of the best robot vacuums around that’s controllable from a smartphone app. For those areas of the home with loads of foot traffic, this handy device even mops and scrubs for floors you would eat off of.
For techy drivers: weBoost Drive 4G-X OTR Cell Phone Signal Booster
Whether they’re driving on country roads with spotty reception or just have long daily commutes, this weBoost cell phone signal booster will be very much appreciated. It supports 5G technology and works with all American networks and carriers. It’s also made in the USA, which is a nice bonus.
For beautiful smiles: AquaSonic Black Series Ultrasonic Whitening Toothbrush
Their smile will be brighter than ever after you give them a futuristic AquaSonic Black Series toothbrush. This American Dental Association (ADA)-accepted electric toothbrush comes with eight brush heads (are you changing your brush enough?) and a travel case. It features an ultrasonic motor, which provides 40,000 vibrations per minute, with wireless charging. Choose from four modes, use the smart timer and smile on! Tech gifts have entered the dental health chat!
For podcasters: HyperX QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone
Your, we mean their, love of podcasting and audio activities will be taken to the next level with this top-rated HyperX QuadCast microphone that works with USB ports. It’s compatible with PCs and Macs, has a tap-to-mute feature and is customizable with red, green, blue (RGB) lighting and effects. Once you record, here’s how to listen.
For little learners: Homer Learn & Grow App
This early-stage, personalized learning app for kids downloads directly to tablets and encourages brain-building screen time (unlike hours of mindless YouTube). It’s a genius way to turn a little one into a full-on prodigy while having fun. Looking for more gifts for toddlers? We’ve got tons of ideas that go beyond tech gifts.
For luxury enthusiasts: Parker Clay Presidio Laptop Sleeve
While this leather laptop sleeve may not be the technology itself, it’s one of the best add-on tech gifts and accessories for those who don’t leave home without their screen. Built for protection and designed for style, it fits 15-inch models perfectly. For more of an all-in-one bag, consider these laptop backpacks.
For neat freaks: Force of Nature Multi-Purpose Cleaner
This isn’t your mom’s cleaner, friends. Force of Nature uses advanced technology to kick all other green cleaning products to the curb and make homes eco-friendly havens. With space-age-feeling electricity, it converts tap water and a capsule of salt and vinegar into an organic multi-purpose cleaner and deodorizer. And did we mention that it’s a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered disinfectant and sanitizer?
For the independent reader: Kobo Libra 2
If your giftee wants to read on an e-reader but not through an Amazon Kindle, try the Kobo Libra 2 instead. It has almost all of the same features and add-ons with none of the ads—see for yourself in our Kobo review. Download thousands of books or sync to a library’s database to always be ready for a good read.
For music lovers: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)
We already listed a great pair of earbuds, but for those who only swear by Apple products when it comes to listening to audiobooks or an engaging Spotify playlist, elevate their listening experience with AirPods Pro. The lightweight earphones deliver not only clear, rich, signature sound, but they can also be used for ambient sound when it’s important to keep in touch with the environment. Enjoy up to 6 hours of listening time or up to 4.5 hours of talking time on a single charge.
For animal lovers: Dyson Pet Grooming Kit
Owners of fluffy dog breeds who deal with heavy shedding will want to check out the Dyson Pet Grooming Kit. Just attach the retractable brush attachment to a Dyson vacuum and power it on to whisk away the pup’s loose bits of fur, animal dander and microscopic skin flakes. The vacuum sucks up all the mess so there’s almost no clean-up.
For artists of all ages: Wacom One Drawing Tablet
See their imagination come to life in full color on a 13.3-inch display. The natural-feeling surface friction makes intuitive drawing on a screen a breeze and even feels like drawing on paper. Plus, there’s no need for batteries. The Wacom drawing tablet is easily one of the best tech gifts for budding artists and cutting down on messes.
For the one who sings in the shower: Urroy Shower Phone Holder
Controlling a shower playlist or watching videos in the bathtub just got easier. This shower phone holder rotates 360 degrees and it’s 100% waterproof. It also fits dozens of smartphone sizes so they can scroll, watch and listen on their phone. Here are more ways to maximize bathroom space.
For the late riser: Hatch Restore 2
A blaring alarm clock is probably the worst way to wake up in the morning—and non-morning people know it. Thankfully, Hatch Restore 2 is an alarm clock that peacefully starts the day. “Gone are the days of snoozing my siren alarm clock every morning,” writes Shopping Editor Madi Koetting in her Hatch Restore 2 review.
For the cat moms and dads: Litter-Robot 4
Similar to the other litter box on this list, the Litter-Robot 4 is self-cleaning, so your giftee can spend less time scooping and more time cuddling. Take a look at our editor’s review of this self-cleaning litter box boasting why it’s one of the best tech gifts for pets and their parents.
For the puppy parents: Furbo 360° Dog Camera
If you’re looking for a gift for a canine lover, the Furbo 360° Dog Camera is a lifesaver when Fido is home alone. When connected to the camera through their phone, dog owners can see and talk to their pet, and even schedule a tossed treat. Hear noise with the bark sensor and get a notification when the dog moves out of sight (but with 360-degree vision, it’s hard to do). This is one of the best tech gifts for dog owners.
For the at-home movie watchers: AuKing Mini Projector
A home theater is one of those tech gifts they’ll love to show off. Whether it’s for a movie night in the living room or in the backyard, this AuKing projector is one of my most-used gifts. The display is clear, and you can connect your phone for easy watching (with an HDMI cable). Pair it with the smart speaker on this list.
For frequent flyers: Twelve South Airfly Wireless Audio Transmitter
Airplane headphones aren’t always good quality, but how does one use Airpods or Bluetooth headphones with a standard headphone jack? The Airfly lets flyers plug into the airplane screen and connect their Bluetooth device for wire-free listening. They won’t board a plane without this Amazon travel accessory ever again.
For the forgetful one: Apple AirTags
Another travel hack is adding Apple AirTags to anyone’s gift list. Attach the tags to keys, wallets, luggage, backpacks and even kids to make sure nothing (and no one) gets lost in transit. It’s a travel essential for all kinds of journeys, from road trips to international flights.
For the nighttime routiners: Foreo Luna Mini 2
There are so many beauty tools that make skin care easier. One of which is the Foreo Luna Mini 2, a cleansing massager that exfoliates, cleanses and encourages blood flow. Anyone into skin care will love the massager and the way it removes gunk from pores. Just read our editor’s glowing review.
For the at-home estheticians: Personal Microderm Elite Pro
Oil, makeup and dirt love to hide in pores and fine lines. The Personal Microderm Elite Pro is a must-have for avid skin care lovers. The device balances skin tone, reduces blackheads and increases collagen production. Shopping Editor Emily Way noticed her makeup and skin care absorbs so much better after using it for just a month.
For the home chefs: Ooni Karu 12 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Usually, people think of steaks and burgers when grilling is mentioned. But with an Ooni Karu pizza oven, homemade pizza can also be on the menu. The pizza oven fits everywhere from a balcony to a campground and runs on wood, gas or charcoal. It’s a unique kitchen gadget that friends won’t be able to stop talking about.
For the wrinkle-prone: The Nori Press
Business trips, destination weddings and last-minute events call for crisp, wrinkle-free clothes. Although it looks like a hair straightener, the Nori Press steam iron is a handheld steamer that takes clothes from wrinkled wad to crispy clean. It irons and steams at once, making it a great replacement for anyone’s standard iron. Tech gifts like these help make life easier.
For the vigilant neighbors: Ring Video Doorbell
Another option in the doorbell security department is the ever-popular Ring Video Doorbell. What sets this one apart is the motion detection and entryway sensors that let you know when someone’s outside, and you can speak to them through the smartphone app. I also love that I can check up on what’s going on in the neighborhood, making it one of the best home security systems.
For the all-night bookworms: Glocusent LED Reading Light
Reading at night is a challenge if you don’t want to wake up a sleeping partner. But the Glocusent light provides soft, hands-free light for reading, crocheting or just seeing in the dark. Our Deputy Shopping Editor swears by hers, saying in her Glocusent review, “It’s the best reading light for bed I’ve found—no competition.”
For the film buffs: Olympus Trip 35 Vintage Film Camera
Photos often get lost on a smartphone (anyone else guilty of having more than 10,000 photos?). But the Olympus film camera brings a touch of nostalgia and tradition to photography. Help your giftee learn the magic of film photography and have fun doing it with this cute Olympus camera. It’s a sweet gift for any photographer.
For the faraway friends: Long Distance Friendship Lamp
A text or phone call is always an option, but a wooden friendship lamp is a sentimental touch to a long-distance friendship or relationship. Assign colors to each person and touch the lamp to send a “thinking of you” message. This is a little glowing BFF gift they’re sure to appreciate for years to come.
For the one with a lot on their plate: Smart Squeeze Stress Relief Ball
We all get stressed from time to time. But managing that stress is key to better health and this Smart Squeeze Stress Relief Ball helps. It syncs with a smartphone app to provide an elevated approach to the traditional stress ball. Here are more zodiac-approved ways to beat anxiety.
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