If you're buying for someone who appreciates good tech this holiday season, Ars is here to help make the gift giving process less stressful. The Orbital HQ spends much of its time testing all sorts of gadgets, games, and tech gear, so below we've rounded up a few of our favorite gift ideas from this year for anyone looking for a last-minute present.
We have dozens of recommendations across price ranges and device types, so we've broken down our picks into three categories: gifts that are ideal for gamers, gifts for around the house, and productivity-boosting gifts for people who work from home. With more and more people shopping online in this pandemic-stricken year, we can't guarantee that you'll be able to get everything in time without paying for expedited shipping, but if you'd like to give a loved one a quality piece of tech, the stuff below should delight.Table of Contents
- Gifts for gamers
- Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
- Paper Mario: The Origami King, Clubhouse Games, Minecraft Dungeons
- Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Final Fantasy VII Remake
- Azul
- ModMic USB
- Cooler Master MH751
- 8Bitdo Wireless USB Adapter
- 8Bitdo SN30 Pro+
- Hori D-Pad Controller (L)
- Obinslab Anne Pro 2
- Razer Gigantus v2 (XXL)
- Razer Viper Ultimate
- SteelSeries Rival 3
- Sega Genesis Mini
- Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
- Gifts for around the house
- Eufy Indoor Cam 2K
- RavPower PD Pioneer 90W 2-Port Wall Charger (RP-PC128), Aukey Omnia PA-B4
- Bluelounge CableBox
- LapGear Designer
- Sonos Beam
- Sonos Move
- Marshall Emberton, EarFun Go
- JLab JBuddies Studio Wireless
- Apple iPad Air (4th gen)
- Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition
- Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
- SanDisk microSDXC Card for Nintendo Switch
- Raspberry Pi 4
- LectroFan Classic
- Dyson V7 Motorhead
- Gifts for people who work from home
- Sony WH-1000XM4
- Jabra Elite 75t
- Logitech MX Master 3
- Logitech M720 Triathlon
- Logitech MX Keys
- Topre Realforce R2 PFU
- Audioengine A2+ Wireless
- Nekteck 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger Station
- Apple MacBook Air (late 2020)
- Acer Swift 3, Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
- CalDigit TS3 Plus
- Vava VA-UC017 7-in-1 USB-C Hub
- Razer Base Station Chroma v2
- Dell S2721QS, Dell UltraSharp U3419W
- Anda Seat Fnatic Edition
- Fully Jarvis Standing Desk, Fully Cooper Standing Desk Converter
Note: Ars Technica may earn compensation for sales from links on this post through affiliate programs.
Gifts for gamers
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass isn’t the only service to make a bunch of games available for one monthly fee, but no rival subscription has as rich a catalog. While the specifics of its library differ whether you play on Xbox, PC, or Android (via cloud streaming), Game Pass has a terrific blend of blockbusters, hidden-gem indies, and quality games across genres. Many of the included games hit the service on day one, including all recent games published by Microsoft itself. That has made it a much easier sell than an alternative like Sony’s PlayStation Now, which is similar in structure but lacking in first-party exclusives and recent hits.
Microsoft adds and removes titles every month, and not all of the available games are home runs. But the cushion of genuinely commendable games—from Halo to Forza, NieR: Automata to Tetris Effect, Celeste to Dead Cells, Spiritfarer to Doom Eternal, and on and on—is large enough to almost guarantee good value. If nothing else, a gifted subscription will buy a loved one time to play several games at no cost. Just note that there are multiple subscription options: Game Pass Ultimate is likely the best choice, since it includes a subscription to Xbox Live Gold for online play, but PC gamers may be better off with a gift card toward the cheaper Game Pass for PC.
Paper Mario: The Origami King, Clubhouse Games, Minecraft Dungeons
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The origami theme adds quite a bit of physical depth to Paper Mario's beautiful vast environments.
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All 51 games in Clubhouse Games appear in this clear interface.
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The "multishot" enchantment makes any crossbow that much more fun to shoot in Minecraft Dungeons.
For Nintendo Switch and PlayStation owners, there isn’t one catch-all service that’s as easy to recommend as Game Pass, so we’ll suggest a few notable games from the past year instead. We’re not saying these are the best games of the year—that list is coming, and you probably know your loved one’s tastes better than we do—but they are the kinds of experiences that should have mass appeal.
Starting with the Switch, Paper Mario: The Origami King is a charming and surprisingly funny adventure that should appeal to anyone looking for a family-friendly game. It’s not a particularly deep RPG, but it experiments with new gameplay ideas frequently enough to keep the experience from ever feeling stale.
Clubhouse Games, meanwhile, is a digital collection of 51 classic board and card games, from Checkers and Texas Hold’em to Shogi and Nine Men’s Morris. It’s as simple as it sounds, but it’s expertly curated: each game presents a different mood or style of play, and collectively it becomes a sort of distillation of gaming as a whole. It’s an obvious party game, but given how challenging the AI can be, it’s also an enriching solo experience.
Finally, Minecraft Dungeons is one of the best Diablo clones we’ve played in some time. It is delightfully free of bloat, with a good variety of wacky levels to crawl and uncomplicated yet enjoyable combat and loot systems. It’s best played with friends in co-op, but either way it’s breezy fun that’s easy to come back to.
Nintendo Switch Games
Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Final Fantasy VII Remake
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All of that foliage moves to the rhythm of the winds in Ghost of Tsushima.Sucker Punch / SIE
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Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales.
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Sometimes, you need a comically large sword to make a point in Final Fantasy VII Remake.
Let’s jump over to gift-worthy games for the PS4 and PS5 crowd next: Ghost of Tsushima is a fine first choice here. This 13th-century samurai drama blends a likable lead with satisfying swordplay and an open world that consistently engages with the player and keeps them moving forward. It’s also gorgeous, both in art direction and technical prowess.
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is another pretty open-world game. It’s considerably shorter than Tsushima—lasting around 15 hours if you want to do everything in it—but it never drags as a result. It’s an ideal crowd-pleaser, with a graceful combat system and thrillingly kinetic web swinging. The story is typical popcorn fare, but if you’re buying for a Marvel movie fan, it fits right into that mold.
Final Fantasy VII Remake, meanwhile, is at once a rousing action-RPG and a subversive take on the very concepts of remakes and fan service. While it’s based on the iconic cast and story of the original Final Fantasy VII, the structure and moment-to-moment gameplay of this 35-hour adventure are very much its own. Remake's combat system—which blends real-time action with menu-based commands and tactical pre-battle prep—is arguably more captivating as a result. It’s occasionally hokey and deeply melodramatic, even for a Final Fantasy game, but Remake ultimately stands out as a bold reimagining of a classic JRPG.
PS4 & PS5 Games
Azul
A surprising amount of tactical complexity can emerge from its sparse ruleset, but Azul never feels overwhelming. Each game usually lasts a quick 20 to 30 minutes, and the whole thing is aesthetically gorgeous. There’s a little room for “meanness” in the way you can deny others scoring opportunities, but all told Azul should be a natural fit in many family game nights.
Azul
ModMic USB
ModMic USB
There’s no shortage of dedicated gaming headsets, but those who already own a pair of headphones they like can avoid swapping between two different pairs with a ModMic. These are detachable microphones that connect through a small magnet adhesive you stick to an existing pair of headphones. There are a few types of these available, but the ModMic USB is the one most worth buying.
This model is best used with a PC, since it supplies audio through a USB cord that runs separately from any existing 3.5mm cable. (Though you can always pair the mic with a Bluetooth headphone to cut down on clutter.) The mic can come loose if you hit it by accident, but it’s difficult to knock off the magnet completely, and the mic arm is highly flexible. Everything is plug-and-play, and it’s easy to pop the mic off as needed.
Most importantly, the mic’s audio quality is excellent. Specs wise, it can reproduce sounds from 50Hz to 20Hz using an omnidirectional pattern. The result isn’t as detailed as a dedicated desktop mic like the Blue Yeti, but that’s the kind of device it’s competing against, since its richness and clarity blow away what you’ll find on most gaming headsets under $200. It’s good enough for basic recordings, let alone casual gaming chat.
Having an adhesive constantly attached to your headphones may annoy some, and at $80, the ModMic USB isn’t particularly cheap. If you have an older headset that can fit V-Moda’s BoomPro microphone, that’s a good lower-cost alternative. But for those who’ve already invested in a nice pair of headphones, the ModMic will turn them into an equally nice gaming headset.
Cooler Master MH751
Cooler Master MH751
If you’d rather keep things simple and buy a dedicated headset, though, we like the Cooler Master MH751. As we noted in a past guide to the best gaming headsets, it is exceptionally comfortable to wear for hour-long sessions, with a well-balanced sound, a detachable mic that presents voices relatively clearly, and a handsome design that doesn’t scream “look at me” in RGB lights.
The MH751 lacks “virtual surround sound” tricks, but given how often those effects sound unnatural, it’s not a big loss. (Plus, the MH751 still works with more integrated virtual surround tools like the PS5’s “3D Audio” tech.) This is still an $80 headphone, so its sound quality isn’t world-beating, but for the price it still does well to catch footsteps and other fine details in the proper space within a game’s audio mix.We recommend wired headsets like the MH751 for gaming since wireless models tend to bring a drop-off in mic quality. All the major consoles have 3.5mm jacks built into their controllers anyway. But if wireless is a must, we can vouch for the $100 SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless, a convenient if plastic-heavy option that works on any device through its USB-C dongle. If you’re willing to pay more, we also like the $150 HyperX Cloud II Wireless, which is comfortable, sounds nice, and has a battery life of roughly 30 hours.
8Bitdo Wireless USB Adapter
8Bitdo Wireless USB Adapter
If you know a Switch owner who also has an Xbox or PlayStation and prefers those consoles’ controllers, the 8Bitdo Wireless USB Adapter will let them use their gamepad of choice across devices. The dongle takes only a couple of minutes to set up with the Switch, and once everything is paired it effectively turns PS5, PS4, or Xbox One pads into variants of Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller.
This is something of a hacky workaround—the Switch’s UI and games are still designed with Nintendo’s own button icons in mind, of course, so it may take a few moments to associate the right buttons with the right icons onscreen. The adapter also doesn’t support Xbox Series X|S gamepads as of this writing, though that should change with future firmware updates. Still, the device keeps input latency to a minimum, and for multiplayer sessions, it’s much more affordable than buying a new Switch Pro Controller outright. It works with a variety of controllers on the PC, too.
8Bitdo SN30 Pro+
8Bitdo SN30 Pro+
If you’d rather gift a new controller entirely, though, 8Bitdo’s SN30 Pro+ is one of the best third-party gamepads we’ve tested for the Switch, PCs, and mobile devices. It takes the classic “dog bone” design of the old Super Nintendo controller but adds dual joysticks, trigger buttons, and handles. The result feels deeply comfortable and sturdily built. Each face button and joystick has just the right amount of resistance, the bumpers are quick to press, and the triggers have a deep amount of travel. The triggers are also analog, so on PC you can pull them varying distances to send different inputs. The d-pad isn’t quite as smooth as that of the latest PlayStation and Xbox controllers, but it’s a massive upgrade over the Joy-Con’s directional buttons.
The gamepad is simple to pair with various devices over Bluetooth or the Wireless USB Adapter above, and we’ve had no latency issues using it with a Switch, gaming PC, iPad, and Google Pixel 3a. (There’s no PlayStation or Xbox support, though.) It runs on a removable rechargeable battery, and while the controller’s rumble functionality isn’t as impressive as Sony’s DualSense pad or Nintendo’s “HD Rumble” effects, it’s still strong. Motion controls are supported and work as well as can be expected. There’s also a turbo function.
By default, the SN30 Pro+’s face button layout mimics that of a Switch controller. But on the PC, 8Bitdo’s companion software unlocks a host of customization options: you can remap every control despite the directions of the joysticks, assign macros to specific buttons, and adjust the sensitivity of the triggers and joysticks. Most people will be perfectly happy with the default settings, but this means you could, say, create a profile that makes the triggers quicker to actuate, allowing you to aim and fire faster in a first-person shooter. For a $50 controller, this level of granularity is impressive.
Those who are perfectly happy with their existing controllers don’t need to run out and replace them, but it’s hard for anyone in the market for a spare “pro” gamepad to do better than SN30 Pro+. And since it still has the SNES-style d-pad and face buttons, it’s a fun option for retro gamers as well.
Hori D-Pad Controller (L)
Hori D-Pad Controller (L)
The Nintendo Switch is a delightful piece of hardware, but its Joy-Con controllers aren’t the most comfortable things to use for hours at a time. Hori’s plainly named D-Pad Controller (L) makes playing the Switch in its handheld mode a little more pleasant by trading the stiff pebble-like buttons of the default left Joy-Con for a genuine d-pad. For games like Tetris 99 or Super Mario Maker 2 that require frequent d-pad presses, this can be noticeably easier on the thumb. Its joystick and shoulder buttons still work as intended, too.
This controller lacks a built-in battery as well as any rumble or motion functionality, so it’s best seen as an alternative for handheld play, not a complete Joy-Con replacement. Still, as a stocking stuffer for Nintendo fans, it can make the Switch experience more convenient.
Obinslab Anne Pro 2
Obinslab Anne Pro 2
Keyboard preference is highly subjective, but if you’re looking for a good mechanical keyboard that also works well for gaming, consider the Obinslab Anne Pro 2. It’s a “60 percent” keyboard, so it’s only 11.5 inches wide and has no dedicated number pad, media keys, or arrow keys. The upshot is that it takes up little space on a desk, which leaves plenty of room for rapid mouse movements in a first-person shooter.
It’s less ideal for strategy games and MOBAs like League of Legends, but the keyboard’s companion software lets you reprogram every key to different macros. It’s also possible to set lesser-used keys as arrow key replacements. In general, the Anne Pro 2’s versatility is a strong point: it’s available with Cherry MX, Gateron, or Kailh switches—the Kailh Box Brown switches on our unit are fairly quiet and have a smooth feel that’s suitable for work and gaming—and it works over Bluetooth or a detachable USB-C cable. Each key is individually backlit with clean RGB lighting, which can also be customized in the companion app.
The actual build quality of the Anne Pro 2 is great. There’s no way to adjust the angle of the keyboard, but its PBT keycaps feel crisp, its chassis never flexes while typing, and each key is easy to replace if needed. While Obinslab isn’t a household name, the Anne Pro 2 has earned a following in keyboard enthusiast circles in recent years, and the company has done well to support the keyboard’s software over time. It won’t be for everyone, but for about $100, it’s better-made than many pricier gaming keyboards from bigger-name brands.
Razer Gigantus v2 (XXL)
Razer Gigantus v2 (XXL)
For first-person shooters and PC games that require frequent flicks of the wrist, an oversized mouse pad can ensure that a mouse never flies off its intended surface. It also keeps a mouse and keyboard on the same level.
Razer’s Gigantus v2 is a nice option here: its flat block cloth is smooth to the touch, and it rests on top of a firm-but-not-stiff 4mm layer of green rubberized foam. You’ll still want to clean it every so often, but by default it does a decent job of resisting dust and food crumbs. We haven’t had to deal with any loose stitching after three months of use, either. It doesn’t immediately come off as a “gaming pad,” as the only marking is a minimal Razer logo tag in the top-right corner. And while preferences can differ, we’ve found the actual surface of the Gigantus v2 to strike a good balance between speed and control. Different sizes are available, but at $30 for a 37.04×16.15×0.16-inch pad, the Gigantus is a good value for a desktop upgrade.
Razer Viper Ultimate
Razer Viper Ultimate
Continuing along those “desktop upgrade” lines, the Razer Viper Ultimate is the best wireless gaming mouse we’ve tested. It is supremely responsive in operation and more than precise enough for competitive gaming. Its feet glide with minimal friction. While it’s primarily made of plastic, it feels durably put together, and the slightly humped design is light (74g), fully ambidextrous, and accommodating to most hand sizes and grips. While it does have some RGB lighting effects on the front, those are optional and fairly restrained, so the mouse doesn’t look out of place in an office setting. It gets around 70 hours of battery life, but it can also be used with a nicely flexible cable that comes included in the box. We’ve had no reliability or double-clicking issues after several months of testing, either.
Razer’s software isn’t always the most intuitive—though you don’t have to use it often, since you can save any customized settings and macros directly to the mouse itself—and there’s no Bluetooth support in a pinch, but if you’re shopping for a PC gaming diehard, the Viper Ultimate should satisfy.
SteelSeries Rival 3
That said, the Viper Ultimate is expensive. If you’d prefer a more affordable wired mouse, get the SteelSeries Rival 3. It’s not as versatile or performant as the Viper Ultimate, its side buttons could be more pronounced (though that’s also a shortcoming of Razer’s mouse), and its scroll wheel is a little flusher against the body of the mouse than we’d like. It also uses a lot of plastic.
Regardless, for $30, the Rival 3 presents great value. It’s light (77g) and well-sized, with a slightly bigger hump than the Viper Ultimate that plays well with claw grips. Its main click panels are sturdy and satisfying to press, all its buttons can be customized through software, and its sensor is still devoid of major latency issues. Plus, its RGB lighting is surprisingly crisp.
SteelSeries Rival 3
Sega Genesis Mini
Sega Genesis Mini
If you’d prefer to give more of a retro gaming gift, the Sega Genesis Mini is a charming trip down memory lane. It’s an adorably tiny replica of Sega’s classic console with 42 built-in games. Different people will always prefer to see different games, but generally speaking the library here is well-curated, ranging from classics like Sonic the Hedgehog and Gunstar Heroes to overlooked but worthwhile titles like Alisia Dragoon and Dynamite Headdy. The quality of the emulation is great throughout.
We would prefer if the system came with Sega’s six-button controllers, but the pair of three-button pads that come in the box are at least comfortable and equipped with 72-inch cords. And though we wish there were a “rewind” function a la Nintendo’s retired SNES Classic, the system’s interface mostly stays out of the way.The more recently released TurboGrafx-16 Mini is another retro console we enjoyed, but it has been difficult to find in stock. The Genesis Mini is one of the few mini consoles that is still readily available, but since it’s also good, it’s an easy recommendation for old-school Sega fans or gaming aficionados who would enjoy a playable slice of history.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
What makes the ROG Zephyrus G14 especially worth recommending is how it offers that performance in a laptop that works well for everyday use. It’s no Ultrabook, to be clear, but at 0.7 inches thin and 3.5 pounds, it’s more portable than most laptops designed for gaming. Its design is relatively handsome to boot, and it gets a solid 9 to 10 hours of battery life. It doesn’t have an integrated webcam, and its fans can still get noisy, but if you want a gaming laptop that’s pleasant to use in and out of actual games, it’s hard to do better.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
Gifts for around the house
Eufy Indoor Cam 2K
Eufy Indoor Cam 2K
A good indoor security camera can provide peace of mind when you’re out of the home, keeping an extra eye on pets, kids, and possessions. Eufy’s Indoor Cam 2K is an excellent value here: it captures clear video, day or night, with a sharp 2K resolution, and its companion app is well-featured and easy to use.
That app can promptly send alerts to your phone when it detects different sounds or motion, and you can set specific activity zones for the camera to watch out for. It’s also possible to adjust the sensitivity of the motion sensor if the frequency of alerts gets too high. You can manually record a clip or screenshot in real time, use the camera’s built-in mic and speaker to have a conversation, and manually trigger a built-in alarm function as well.
Another benefit of the Indoor Cam 2K is that it lets you record video in several ways. You can sign up for Eufy’s cloud recording service for $3 a month or $30 a year for 30 days of saved clips—which isn’t super expensive, relatively speaking—or use Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video service if you own an iOS device. Unfortunately, using HomeKit limits recordings to 1080p. If you’d prefer to keep your recordings local, you can do so with a microSD card or NAS. Eufy gives the option to record in 1080p to save storage space, and it’s possible to record either continuously or only when the camera detects an event.
The camera’s 125-degree field of view isn’t the widest we’ve seen, and the actual hardware is neither super flexible nor premium feeling. But for a $40 camera that hits all the other fundamentals, those aren’t dealbreakers.
RavPower PD Pioneer 90W 2-Port Wall Charger (RP-PC128), Aukey Omnia PA-B4
A good wall charger is a basic but consistently useful gadget. If you’d like to upgrade someone’s everyday charger, pick up RavPower’s RP-PC128. It’s a 90W charger with two USB-C Power Delivery ports. Each can supply up to 90W individually, which is enough to charge many power-hungry laptops at full speed, but they can also split that power when used simultaneously. So, it’s possible to charge two lower-power laptops at 45W a piece, or charge one notebook up to 60W while charging a phone up to 30W. RavPower includes a USB-C to -C cable in the box, and while the charger isn’t USB-IF certified, we’ve tested it for several months without any safety issues.
The RavPower charger uses gallium nitride (GaN) technology, so it’s impressively compact (2.5×2.5×1.2 inches) for the amount of power it puts out. But if you don’t need quite as much juice or would prefer a more compact device, we also like Aukey’s Omnia PA-B4. This is a 65W charger with two USB-C PD ports, which isn’t ideal for bigger laptops but is still fast enough to charge the vast majority of smartphones and tablets at max speed. Notably, it measures just 2.05×2.05×1.18 inches, so it takes up even less space on a power strip.
RavPower RP-PC128 & Aukey Omnia PA-B4
Bluelounge CableBox
The Bluelounge CableBox is a simple plastic box designed to fit most surge protectors and hide any rat’s nest of cords that may stem from one. It’s easy to open, flame-retardant, and clean-looking. The cutouts on its sides give ample room to slide out whatever cords you need. It’s certainly possible for someone to DIY a product like this, but the CableBox is a straightforward and attractive way to reduce clutter.
Bluelounge CableBox
LapGear Designer
A good lap desk like the LapGear Designer can make working from the couch more comfortable. This model comes in a variety of finishes, with a soft microbead cushion on the bottom and smooth yet sturdy faux-wood material on the top. It weighs around two pounds, adds about three inches of height, and keeps excess heat from reaching the lap. Different models can fit up to 15- or 17-inch laptops.
There are several useful touches beyond that, including a slot for holding a phone, a plastic stop that prevents the laptop from sliding off when rested at an angle, an elastic strap for holding down loose paper, and a small handle for carrying the desk around. It also comes with a 90-day warranty if needed. Working from a lap desk all day still isn’t ideal for one’s wrists, but the Designer gives little to complain about when it’s needed.
LapGear Designer
Sonos Beam
While the image quality of modern TVs continues to improve, the speakers built into those sets remain largely mediocre. A soundbar like the Sonos Beam can help improve that.
This is a 3.0-channel soundbar that’s relatively compact at about 26-inches wide, so it’s better situated in smaller living rooms or with secondary TVs. But it still plays loud and has an impressive soundstage for its size, so movies and music feel appropriately sized. While it struggles to produce deep sub-bass without a dedicated subwoofer, it has a neutral, well-balanced audio profile that generally keeps content sounding natural.Like many Sonos products, the Beam is lacking in connectivity options: there’s no Bluetooth audio support and only two ports for HDMI-ARC and Ethernet. There’s also no support for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X surround sound. But the device is simple to set up and operate through the Sonos app, and Apple users can stream audio directly to the soundbar through AirPlay 2. It’s easy to add other Sonos speakers to the Beam over time, and you can access Alexa or the Google Assistant directly from the device. There are certainly better-sounding options that cost more, but the Beam is a nice first upgrade for those who’d appreciate something compact and uncomplicated.
Sonos Beam
Sonos Move
If you’re looking for a good home speaker that isn’t restricted to the TV, we can also recommend the Sonos Move. This is a battery-powered speaker that works over Wi-Fi in the house or Bluetooth when you’re away from your home network. Its audio quality naturally takes a dip with the latter, but either way the Move has a full, powerful sound with rich bass and clean mid-range details. It’s also capable of automatically adjusting its sound to the environment in which it’s currently placed, correcting itself if it’s closer to a wall or other obstacle.
The Move is a large and hefty (6.6 lbs.) speaker, so it’s not as portable as other Bluetooth speakers. It gets about 10 hours of battery life, which is just decent. But the design has a high-end feel, with a convenient cutout on the back that makes it easier to transport. It can charge over USB-C on the road, but it also comes with a charging cradle that takes up little space and holds the speaker in place. The device also has an IP56 rating, which means it can withstand some rain even if it’s not full-on waterproof.This is an undoubtedly premium speaker, and at $399 it’s priced as such. The Sonos One (or One SL) is a better value for those who don’t need a speaker with the flexibility to work outdoors or on the road. But if they do, the Move is a high performer.
Sonos Move
Marshall Emberton, EarFun Go
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The Marshall Emberton.Jeff Dunn
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The EarFun Go.Jeff Dunn
Marshall Emberton & EarFun Go
If you’re looking for a Bluetooth speaker that’s less expensive and more portable, consider the Marshall Emberton. It’s nicely compact at 2.7×6.3×3.0 inches, it has a useful one-button control system that handles volume and track playback, and it’s IPX7-rated to be waterproof. We like the retro guitar-amp-style look of it, too, as well as the soft rubber coating around its sides. Battery life is solid at 15 to 20 hours (depending on how loudly you play it), and there’s a handy LED readout that displays how much power is left. There’s also a USB-C port for charging.
Most importantly, the Emberton sounds excellent for its size. It’s not a neutral audio profile by any means, but it’s consistently smooth and balanced, with a surprising amount of volume, high-end clarity, and mid-range detail. It’s still a small speaker, so it won’t get truly deep sub-bass, but it presents enough upper-bass oomph to sound lively and fun. The only real downside is that there’s no speakerphone functionality.
We think you won’t be disappointed with the Emberton, but if you’re looking for a speaker that costs less than $50, get the EarFun Go. It doesn’t sound as rich as the Emberton, but for the price it’s still clear and loud enough. Its pill-shaped design is light and easily portable, with an IPX7 waterproof rating, a USB-C charging port, and around 20 hours of battery life.
JLab JBuddies Studio Wireless
Buying a pair of headphones specifically designed for kids can ensure that your little one isn’t damaging their ears with overly loud music. If you’re interested in taking that extra step, the JLab JBuddies Studio Wireless has a built-in volume limiter that keeps audio under a doctor-approved level of 85 decibels.
In addition to that, the JBuddies connect over Bluetooth—which is a must these days with so many devices ditching the headphone jack—and get a good 20+ hours of battery life. They can also use an included cable if needed. The design is durable enough to withstand a few beatings, and JLab covers the device with a two-year warranty. All the control buttons are large enough that kids over 5 should be able to pick them up easily. And while the sound quality isn’t great, it’s not horrible for $30. We doubt you’re shopping for an audiophile anyway.
JLab JBuddies Studio Wireless
Apple iPad Air (4th gen)
The only major complaints are the less-than-ideal 64GB of default storage and the somewhat expensive $599 starting price. The less expensive 10.2-inch iPad is still a fine choice for those who only need a tablet for lighter work and Web browsing, but the iPad Air is a significant step-up in both speed and design. If cost isn’t a factor, it’s the iPad most worth buying.
Apple iPad Air (4th gen)
Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition
Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition
Besides that, Amazon packages in a year-long subscription to its Kids+ service (formerly FreeTime Unlimited), which includes an array of books, videos, TV shows, and games mostly aimed at younger kids. The 8-inch display isn’t particularly high-end, but it’s competent enough for reading and video viewing, and performance isn’t so slow as to be annoying. Amazon also gives a fairly comprehensive set of parental controls, so you can keep things like Alexa and location access off when a kid’s account is in use.
Paying up for an iPad is probably the better choice to keep a kid over 10 or so entertained, but if you’re shopping for a younger child, know that there is a competent option for closer to $100.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
If you want to make it easier for a loved one to stream video to a 4K TV, grab the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K. It loads apps and menus quickly, has an effective voice search function using Amazon’s Alexa assistant, and does a good job of remembering where apps have been suspended. Unlike Roku’s Streaming Stick+, it supports a variety of HDR standards—including HDR10, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG—and displays its main menus in HDR. It supports nearly all of the major streaming apps natively (NBC’s Peacock aside), though most apps that aren’t supported are relatively easy to add with a little extra effort.
If there’s a downside, it’s Amazon’s user interface, which tends to advertise Amazon’s own Prime Video content and can sometimes feel crowded. But the company has announced a UI overhaul that should tidy up the look and will add features like multiuser support and picture-in-picture video. That’s scheduled to hit the Fire TV Stick 4K in early 2021. Regardless, those who want a clean UI might want the aforementioned Roku Streaming Stick+ or Google’s Chromecast with Google TV. (Just note the latter is missing Apple’s TV+ app.) In truth, while we prefer the Fire TV Stick 4K by a hair, there isn’t a ton to separate each streamer, so the best choice might be whichever one you find on sale.
SanDisk microSDXC Card for Nintendo Switch
While it’s not as quick as a good UHS-II card like Lexar’s Professional 1800x, the U3, V30-rated SanDisk card is significantly cheaper and still speedy enough to capture 4K video, run Switch games, or do most other common tasks without serious hindrances. It’s readily available, so your risk of buying a fake is low, and it comes from a trusted company that covers the card with a limited lifetime warranty.
SanDisk microSDXC Card for Nintendo Switch (128GB)
Raspberry Pi 4
The Raspberry Pi continues to be an easy recommendation for tech enthusiasts and would-be tinkerers. The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B is the latest version of the mini Linux PC, and while it’s not powerful enough to be an actual desktop PC alternative for most, it’s still impressively capable for a device that starts at $35. (That model comes with 2GB of RAM, though models with 4GB and 8GB are available for a bit more.)
Either way, the appeal here is still the host of fun DIY projects you can create with it, from a homemade smart speaker to a retro game emulator to TV media center. Just note that if you’re buying for someone who has never used a Pi before, you may want to buy a kit that includes heat sinks to keep the PC from overheating if taxed.
Raspberry Pi 4 Model B
LectroFan Classic
ASTI LectroFan Classic
The static of a white noise machine isn’t a magic cure-all for sleep troubles—any sudden changes in sleep quality are always best addressed by a doctor—but the LectroFan can help those struggling with loud neighbors or a heavily snoring partner at night. Its random, electronically generated noise is effective at masking outside sounds without coming off as harsh. It offers a wide volume range with 30 different steps, which should cover those in quiet or seriously loud environments, and it has 10 white noise settings that address different frequencies. There is a set of 10 “fan sounds” beyond that, for those who prefer that effect.
All of this is operated through a set of simple front-facing controls, and while the device isn’t wireless, it is small enough to be easily portable. It also comes with a 60-minute timer function for those who want the machine to shut off automatically overnight. There are white noise smartphone apps that can produce similar effects, but for those who may need a tool like this regularly, the LectroFan does the job well.
Dyson V7 Motorhead
Dyson V7 Motorhead
You probably know the rap on cordless Dyson vacuums by now: they cost a lot and don’t have great battery life, but they’re phenomenal at actually cleaning and attractively designed to boot. All of that holds true with the Dyson V7 Motorhead, which is the most affordable of the company’s cordless stick vacuums.
It only lasts around 25 to 30 minutes per charge, and its trigger-like activation switch needs to be constantly held to supply power, which may annoy some. But it’s lightweight, not too loud, and equipped with a dirt compartment that’s easy to empty without getting your hands dirty. Most importantly, it’s highly effective at getting dust, hair, and other debris out of thicker rugs.
Peruse the Web and you’ll likely find complaints about the long-term durability of Dyson vacuums, but most of these gripes appear to be issues with most vacuums of this type. You should ensure that your gift recipient would specifically like a cordless stick vacuum in the first place, but if so, the V7 impressed enough in our testing to be worth recommending as a premium upgrade. It’s also worth noting that there are alternative V7 (and V8) models that come with vacuum heads for different surfaces, if you find a good price there.
Gifts for people who work from home
Sony WH-1000XM4
Sony WH-1000XM4
Sony’s WH-1000XM4 is a superb pair of wireless noise-cancelling headphones. They’re sturdily built and comfortable to wear for hours at a time, with a professional look and relatively easy-to-use touch controls. They get around 30 hours of battery life, which is solid, and quickly recharge over USB-C. They also come with a sturdy carrying case, and the headphones themselves fold up for easier storage.
Like most Bluetooth headphones, the WH-1000XM4 aren’t the clearest sounding headphones for their price, but their mildly bass-forward sound is enjoyable, particularly for those into hip-hop or pop music. It doesn’t distort. That said, a nifty EQ tool in Sony’s companion app makes it easy to customize the sound to a profile more to one’s liking.There are several convenient features beyond that: a “speak to chat” function can automatically pause music when you start talking to someone else; a motion sensor in the left earcup can do the same when you take the headphones off your head (then resume when they’re back on); and the device can connect to multiple devices simultaneously over Bluetooth. An “ambient sound” mode nicely blends music with outside noises, too, for those times when it’s good to be aware of the surroundings.
Best of all, Sony’s active noise cancellation is top-notch, clamping down on low-frequency rumbles like that of an airplane cabin and, to a lesser-but-still-impressive extent, higher-pitched sounds like a running air conditioner. The only major downside is their mic quality, which is passable but not ideal for calls. We also haven't compared them to the Apple AirPods Max just yet, though that pair is much more expensive at $549. Either way, the WH-1000XM4 are one of the most well-rounded pairs of wireless headphones on the market.
Jabra Elite 75t
Jabra Elite 75t
If you’re looking for a pair of totally wireless earbuds, consider the Jabra Elite 75t. They’re light and comfortable in the ear, and they stay secure in place while on the move. They get roughly seven hours of battery life per charge, which is good for a true wireless pair, though their USB-C charging case adds another 20 hours or so on top of that. They connect reliably over Bluetooth 5 and support multipoint connections. Mic quality is solid, and each earpiece has a relatively straightforward one-button control system for adjusting volume, track playback, and taking calls. And since the earphones have an IP55 sweat and dust resistance rating, they’re well suited to working out.
No true wireless pair really sounds amazing, but relative to its peers the Elite 75t are above-average. They’re aimed toward “bassheads,” so they can lack some high-end detail, but they’re suitably lively for the many people who like that sort of profile. It’s also possible to customize the sound through Jabra’s companion app.
Beyond that, there’s an effective “ambient sound” mode, plus an active noise cancellation option that Jabra recently added through a firmware update. That ANC isn’t quite as strong as that of Apple’s AirPods Pro, but it’s decent, and the earphones’ design creates a tight seal that blocks a good chunk of outside noise naturally.
Jabra recently launched an Elite 85t that was designed for ANC from the ground up and has better call quality, but at $230 we don’t think it’s worth the premium for most people. And while we’ve seen some user complaints in the past regarding connection issues, those were addressed after a recent firmware update in our testing.
Logitech MX Master 3
Logitech MX Master 3
We highlighted the Razer Viper Ultimate above, but if you’re after a great wireless mouse without gaming frills, get the Logitech MX Master 3. Its sculpted design is supremely comfortable, with an ample thumb rest, a natural feeling slope over the top, and a hefty yet premium feel. It has no latency issues with everyday work, and its main click buttons are satisfying to press. It gets about 70 days of battery life per charge and charges over USB-C, though it unfortunately can’t connect over a wire in a pinch. It can connect over Bluetooth, though, in addition to the included USB receiver.
The mouse’s scroll wheel is somewhat unique, as it uses tiny magnets to simulate resistance. This may feel slightly unusual at first, but it allows the wheel to be quieter, more durable over time, and capable of switching between more precise notched scrolling and an infinite scroll dynamically. There’s a horizontal scroll wheel besides that, as well as a couple of customizable side buttons.
In general, the MX Master 3’s customizability is a highlight, as it’s possible to customize how the mouse’s features work on a per-app basis—for instance, you could set the horizontal scroll wheel to swap between tabs on Chrome but scroll horizontally in Excel. All of this works across Windows and macOS.
Logitech M720 Triathlon
The MX Master 3 is the most well-rounded choice for people who have to use a mouse all day, but if you’re on a budget, Logitech’s M720 Triathlon is a fine alternative. Its buttons and scroll wheel don’t feel as well-built as the MX Master 3, but it should slide naturally into most hands and performs fine. While it’s not rechargeable, it lasts about two years off a single AA battery. For less than $50, it should still be a nice upgrade for those who haven’t invested in a good wireless mouse before.
Logitech M720 Triathlon
Logitech MX Keys
Logitech MX Keys
The Logitech MX Keys is a well-rounded wireless keyboard for those who don’t want something as noisy or involved as a mechanical gaming keyboard. Its key travel isn’t as deep, and it doesn’t have the same level of customizability with assigning macros and such. There’s also no way to adjust its incline.
But for what it is, the MX Keys is still fast and comfortable to use. Its keys are smooth, nearly silent, and cleverly indented. The latter helps you naturally find the center of each key and keep typos to a minimum. Each key is individually backlit, too, and the keyboard can auto-adjust the strength of the backlight depending on the lighting of the room and whether your fingers are over the keys at all.
Logitech rates its battery life as up to five months depending on how heavily you use the backlight, which is great. It charges over USB-C and can work wired if needed. This is also a great device for those who work across multiple devices, since you can connect to three separate devices entirely—be they a laptop, phone, or iPad—and quickly swap between them with a trio of keys at the top of the board.
If you don’t need a number pad or would prefer to pay $20 less, Satechi’s Compact Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard is another wireless office keyboard we like. But the MX Keys is worth a look regardless.
Topre Realforce R2 PFU
Topre Realforce R2 PFU
If money isn’t an object, though, the Topre Realforce R2 PFU is among the nicest keyboards we’ve ever used. It doesn’t have any backlighting or a removable cable, but it’s otherwise a wonderfully premium piece of hardware.
Its Topre switches find a unique balance between the tactility of a mechanical switch and the quietness of a premium rubber dome switch, with a springy yet smooth quality that’s deeply satisfying to press. You can also customize the actuation point of the keys from 1.5mm to 3mm if you really want to get granular with their feel. Either way, the Realforce’s matte PBT keycaps are nice and crisp, and we dig the board’s professional aesthetic. There are other Topre keyboards out there, but for an ultra-high-end model with a number pad, the Realforce R2 PFU is a treat.
Audioengine A2+ Wireless
The Audioengine A2+ Wireless are a nice desktop upgrade for anyone still relying on the tinny speakers built into their laptop or monitor. Each stereo speaker is only six inches tall, so don’t expect room-rattling bass, but for the size they put out a clear, balanced, and largely accurate sound. They supply a nice array of connectivity options—3.5mm, Bluetooth (with aptX support), RCA, or microUSB—in a handsome design with exceptional build quality.
We wish the volume knob was in a more convenient spot than the back of the left monitor, and you’ll want to grab a pair of angled stands to get the best sound possible. But for a refined pair of desktop speakers that sound great but won’t eat up a ton of room on a desk, the A2+ Wireless fit the bill.
Audioengine A2+ Wireless
Nekteck 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger Station
Nekteck’s 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger Station is a useful accessory for anyone who often needs to recharge multiple devices at their desk. As its name suggests, it offers five ports in total: a USB-C Power Delivery port capable of charging up to 87W—which is powerful enough to charge even power-hungry laptops like Apple’s MacBook Pro—and four USB-A ports for refilling multiple devices simultaneously.
The whole thing can output 111W of power in total, and Nekteck includes a fast-charging USB-C cable in the box. At about six inches long and three inches wide, it’s not the smallest desktop charger around, but it should have more than enough power for most people’s needs. Since the charger and included cable are USB-IF certified, you can also expect them to be safe to use for years to come.
Nekteck 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger Station
Apple MacBook Air (late 2020)
Apple MacBook Air (M1)
With the impressive power of Apple’s M1 silicon, the MacBook Air has once again become a slam-dunk recommendation for anyone in need of a good mainstream laptop. That M1 chip is remarkably fast and power-efficient, blowing away comparable Intel-based notebooks on most benchmarks and genuinely supplying “all-day” battery life. It has few noticeable issues working with traditional x86 applications, too, despite this being Apple’s first stab at silicon for Macs.
The MacBook Air’s hardware is getting a bit boring visually, but it’s still sturdily built, with a crisp display, light weight, and comfortable keyboard. The only major downsides are its mediocre webcam, which is limited to a 720p resolution, and its lack of dedicated keys for adjusting the keyboard backlight. The latest Dell XPS 13 and HP Spectre x360 are still fine Ultrabooks for those who’d prefer a touch-enabled Windows machine, but if you’re buying for an Apple fan who doesn’t need a laptop for gaming or more intense work, the M1 MacBook Air is an excellent buy.
Acer Swift 3, Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
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The Acer Swift 3.Jim Salter
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Microsoft's Surface Laptop Go has a clean, well-constructed design.Jeff Dunn
Acer Swift 3 & Microsoft Surface Go
CalDigit TS3 Plus
If you know someone who works with several monitors, hard drives, or other peripherals during the day, CalDigit’s TS3 Plus will let them attach everything to their computer with one cable.
This is a compact, well-built docking station with a massive array of ports, including two high-speed Thunderbolt 3 ports, five USB-A 3.1 ports, USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports, a DisplayPort 1.2, an SD card reader, audio-in and -out jacks, a Gigabit Ethernet jack, and an S/PDIF digital optical audio port. It can drive two 4K displays at a 60Hz refresh rate (with the appropriate adapter) and supply up to 87W of power to charge power-hungry laptops like the MacBook Pro. Conveniently, a handful of the ports are easily accessible right on the front of the dock.You’ll want to ensure you’re buying for someone whose computer actually has a Thunderbolt 3 port, since the appeal of a device like this is to take advantage of the faster data transfer speeds Thunderbolt 3 provides. But if that’s the case, moving data from the dock generally feels as quick as using an SSD directly connected to the PC. For power users, this blend of performance, port selection, and useful design make the TS3 Plus a handy desktop companion.
CalDigit TS3 Plus
Vava VA-UC017 7-in-1 USB-C Hub
Vava VA-UC017
If that much power isn’t needed, though, a simpler USB-C hub like Vava’s VA-UC017 can still expand a newer laptop’s connectivity at a much lower price. This model packs seven ports in a highly portable (at about 4 inches long) and sturdy metal design, including three USB 3.0 ports, microSD and SD card readers, an HDMI port, and a USB-C PD port that supplies about 87W of power (which is enough to charge most laptops at high speeds). All of these connectors work as expected.
The HDMI port limits you to a 30Hz refresh rate when outputting 4K video, and the three USB-A ports might be too close together to use each one simultaneously. The device also gets a bit hot when it’s in use, though that’s the case with most compact hubs like this. But for around $25, this is a strong value for those with a port-starved notebook. If you need an Ethernet port, we can also recommend Vava’s VA-UC006 hub, which adds that alongside a 3.5mm audio jack for around $60.
Razer Base Station Chroma v2
Razer Base Station Chroma v2
While there are certainly cheaper headphone stands, Razer’s Base Station Chroma v2 is a fun take on the idea. That’s because it’s fitted with a rim of lively RGB lighting, which can be customized with different colors, effects, and patterns through Razer’s Synapse software. Conveniently, the stand doubles as a USB hub, with two bonus USB 3.1 ports alongside a 3.5mm jack with its own built-in digital-to-analog audio converter.
A Chroma v1 model with three USB 3.0 ports and a wider shape is available for a few dollars less, but the Chroma v2 has an aluminum finish that’s nicer than the v1’s plastic. The v2 is a bit taller, too, which keeps larger headphones from touching the bottom of the base. Both stands stay nice and stable on a desk, though.
Just note that this is best served with Windows desktops, as the latest version of Razer’s RGB customization software isn’t available on macOS. Since it also connects over USB-A, those with USB-C-only laptops will need an adapter. If you don’t need RGB at all, Satechi’s Aluminum USB Headphone Stand is another quality stand we like.
Dell S2721QS, Dell UltraSharp U3419W
Dell S2721QS & Dell UltraSharp U3419W
Dell’s S2721QS is a commendable choice for anyone in the market for a good everyday office monitor. It’s a 27-inch IPS panel with a 4K resolution that keeps images and text crisp, wide viewing angles, good brightness, and pleasant image quality out of the box (though it can be improved with a little calibration). It has two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort 1.2—Dell’s U2720QM is a good, if more expensive, alternative if you need a USB-C port—and its handsome design allows for a flexible range of tilt and swivel adjustments.
If you’re looking for an ultrawide display that can effectively do the work of two monitors, Dell’s UltraSharp U3419W is another option we like. It’s a 3440×1440 IPS panel with slightly better color accuracy by default. It has a USB-C port that supplies up to 90W of power to a laptop, plus an array of USB 3.0 ports, a DisplayPort, and two HDMI ports. It comes with a virtual KVM switch, as well as a convenient picture-in-picture feature. Like the 27-inch model above, it comes with a three-year limited hardware warranty.
Both monitors max out at a 60Hz refresh rate, so they’re not ideal for competitive shooter games. Still, each is a good buy for more casual gaming and typical office work.
Anda Seat Fnatic Edition
It’s important to note that this is a hefty chair (72 lbs.) designed for people between 5-foot 9 and 6-foot 9 and up to 441 pounds. If you’re shopping for someone that size, though, the Anda Seat should work well for gaming or office use. If you don’t like the look, our home office setup guide has additional chairs we like, including the premium Steelcase Gesture and the more affordable Uplift J3 Ergonomic.
Anda Seat Fnatic Edition
Fully Jarvis Standing Desk, Fully Cooper Standing Desk Converter
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The Fully Jarvis standing desk has a solid build and tons of accessories.Corey Gaskin
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The Fully Cooper Standing Desk Converter, fully extended.Corey Gaskin
Fully Jarvis & Fully Cooper
You should make sure your loved one actually wants a standing desk before gifting one, but if so, Fully’s Jarvis Standing Desk is a great choice. It’s pleasant to use and available with a variety of styles, materials, and customizations, including L-shaped models and handsome bamboo, wood, laminate, and whiteboard finishes. It accommodates a wide range of heights and stays largely stable when in use. It comes with a solid seven-year warranty on its mechanical parts and a one-year warranty on the desktops. Fully also offers a number of nifty accessories, such as desk drawers, power and wire management grommets, monitor arms, bottle openers, and more.
If your loved one already has a desk they enjoy but would like to turn it into a standing desk, Fully’s Cooper Standing Desk Converter can help. At roughly 21×35.5 inches, it’s best suited for larger desk spaces, but its size means it can comfortably fit a larger monitor alongside a laptop and other accessories. There’s a spacious 12×30-inch tray for mice and keyboards, too. It’s easy to adjust when needed and even lets you customize its lifting strength and resistance to find a comfortable point for pushing the desk down. (We had few complaints with the default setting, though.) And like the Jarvis, its desktop feels high-quality and avoids wobbles well.
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