Gift giving can be complicated. Will they like it? Will they use it? It is even more challenging to buy for IT professionals or tech hobbyists because their knowledge and perhaps hands-on fixit abilities can make your gifts seem obsolete before they are even unwrapped.
Luckily, we’ve done the research for you! Here are 12 gifts and gadgets to buy your technologically advanced, screen-attached, hardworking loved one. Even if you’re not a tech obsessive, we’ve got gift ideas for you, too.
Sony WH-1000MX4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
Widely considered among the best in the industry, Sony’s noise-cancelling headphones have been sitting atop “best of” lists for years. Now, with the new MX4s replacing the highly acclaimed MX3s at an even friendlier price point, the decision of which cans to purchase is even easier.
Whether taking meetings or trying to drown out the world and get some work done, these headphones will not disappoint.
Where to find them:
Apple AirPods Pro
For those who want best-in-class noise-canceling technology without sacrificing portability, Apple’s AirPods Pro are the way to go. This pair, a step up from Apple’s original, innovative, totally wireless AirPods, now provides industry-leading noise-canceling technology. Plus, use Transparency mode when you want to hear what’s going on around you.
For the money, you’ll also get an impressive battery life and customizable silicone tips for comfort and staying power.
Where to find them:
Not an Apple user? These Sony WF-1000XM3 are just as good, at a cool $169.99.
Gregory Border 25 Backpack
With the majority of tech professionals working remotely, a solid pack that safely stores all their equipment is a necessity. Whether commuting to and from the office, a local coffee shop, or library, the Border 25 has room and safe storage for all your loved one’s essentials.
This pack includes a clamshell pocket for easy laptop access and easily accessible side and front pockets for phones, sunglasses, keys, and other items you need within arm’s reach. The Border 25 also doubles as an excellent carry-on bag for any personal or business air travel.
Where to find it:
- Gregory Packs: $119.95
- Backcountry: $119.95
For another pack option, we also love the Osprey Metron 26L for $160.
Ember Smart Mug 2
Work and coffee go hand-in-hand. Get your loved one the Ember Smart Mug and they will never again have to worry about their coffee getting cold while they work on an important project.
Not only does the battery-powered mug keep coffee warm, it also allows users to set their ideal drinking temperature. The battery lasts for up to 1.5 hours on its own, or indefinitely when used on the charging coaster. The tech person in your life will thank you for this long-lasting boost of energy!
Where to find it:
- Ember.com: $99.95 for 10 oz.; $129.95 for 14 oz.
- Best Buy: $99.99 for 10 oz.; $129.99 for14 oz.
- Target: $99.99 for 10 oz.; $129.99 for 14 oz.
Ifixit Pro Tech Toolkit
The Ifixit Pro Tech Toolkit is the perfect all-inclusive, portable toolkit for your resident tech expert. The kit includes everything you might need to repair nearly any piece of tech in a pinch. Why throw away a device due to normal wear-and-tear? This kit will save money and the environment—repair devices instead of throwing them out.
This toolkit is also useful for the IT professional works remotely but still needs an easy way to fix a cracked screen or a lagging battery on the go.
Where to find it:
- Ifixit: $69.99
- Best Buy: $69.99
- The Grommet: $70.00
Geekey Keychain Multi-tool
The Geekey Keychain Multi-tool features 16+ different tools that complete a multitude of functions. Made out of highly durable stainless steel, the Geekey is conveniently the size and shape of a key so it’s with you no matter what pops up.
This is a great gift for anyone who likes to be prepared, whether to strip wires, wrench something, or even to smoke something.
Where to find it:
- The Grommet: $22.95
- Walmart: $30.15
Anker Powercore+ 26,800 Battery Pack
In this era of remote work, a power bank is a must-have. Whether traveling for work or setting up office in a local park, it is crucial to stay powered up.
There are many portable battery packs on the market, and which one you choose may depend on the specific needs of the person you are buying for. This particular model from Anker has enough juice (and ports) to power two mobile devices and a USB-C compatible laptop.
If your loved one doesn’t need the ability to plug in a laptop or tablet, Anker also offers less expensive power banks with different port configurations to meet a variety of needs.
Where to find it:
Paperwallet Slim RFID Wallet
As credit card technology gets easier to use, our information gets easier to steal. Tap technology on our credit and debit cards makes purchasing more convenient and more sanitary, but it also means that with the right equipment, a would-be thief would just have to stand next to someone to steal their financial details.
These RFID wallets from Paperwallet not only protect your cards from being sneakily scanned, but they are waterproof, tear proof, and designed by artists from around the world.
Where to find it:
- Paperwallet: $25.00
Prefer a more traditional RFID wallet? Try the Fossil Derrick RFID Bifold.
LARQ Water Bottle
Who would have guessed that a technologically savvy water bottle would be gracing all the must-have gift-lists this year?
Meet the self-cleaning LARQ water bottle. This marvelous invention uses UV-C LED light to both clean the inside of the bottle and purify your water. LARQ does have a less expensive, lighter weight, single-wall model—but this version is insulated to keep your water cool and crisp all day long.
Where to find it:
- LARQ: $95.00
- Nordstrom: $95.00
SEGA Genesis Mini Console
Everyone needs to unwind, and your favorite IT professional is no different. Treat them to some nostalgia-inducing self-care with the SEGA Genesis Mini Console.
This plug-and-play system comes pre-loaded with 40+ classic SEGA Genesis games for hours of throwback fun. When the stresses of the day become too much, transport your favorite tech enthusiast back to a more carefree time.
Where to find it:
Want more retro gaming fun? Try the NES Classic Mini and the SNES Classic Mini.
Das Mechanical Keyboard
Mechanical keyboards are more popular than ever, and Das Keyboard is one of the leaders in the clickity clack revolution. Das Keyboards come with a variety of options and customizations, from customizable key functions to color enhancements and keyswitch options for the perfect tactile experience.
For the ultimate geek in your life, we might even suggest the completely blank Das Keyboard 4 Ultimate—because who even needs to look at keyboard labels? As more people work from home, it may the best time yet to try out a mechanical keyboard with a full audio experience. Type faster, louder, and with more precision with a Das Keyboard.
Where to find it:
- DasKeyboard: Options starting at $129
Raspberry Pi 400
What about the people who want less technology, not more? The brand-new Raspberry Pi 400 is a minimalist’s dream. The entire personal computer is built into a single, compact keyboard. (No, really!)
Whether you travel, hate laptops, or simply want to maximize your space, Raspberry Pi is easy to set up, break down, and move, and it can be yours for a cool $70. For $30 more, you’ll get the full kit, with a keyboard/computer, mouse, cables, and starter booklet. Plug in your own monitor or connect to your TV.
We recommend this computer for students, casual internet users, and grandparents—but its low, low price means anyone can use it, which is Raspberry Pi’s ultimate mission.
Where to find it:
Need a compact monitor? Asus has a variety of travel-ready options.
Related reading
For more gift giving ideas, check out our Guide to Tech Books & Talks.
