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Ting’s holiday gift guide
Ting Staff • December 1, 2017
Our holiday gift guide for tech geeks
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the tech lovers on your list. Here are a few of our favorite gadget-related gifts and stand-out stocking stuffers that won’t break the bank.
Stocking stuffers under $30
TrackR bravo: $29.99
Know someone who’s always misplacing their phone, wallet or keys? TrackR bravo is the perfect gift for your absent-minded friend or family member. TrackR Bravo is a coin-sized, super slim device that connects to an app on your smartphone or tablet. With the press of a button on the TrackR app, you can cause your TrackR device to ring and light up so that you can easily find your keys or wallet again. TrackR bravo comes with a distance indicator, separation alerts and Amazon Alexa integration.
Google Cardboard: from $20
For the virtual reality enthusiast, grab Google Cardboard, a simple viewer that turns your smartphone into a VR device. Cardboard supports most Android and iOS phones with screen sizes from four to six inches. It also has an interactive click button that works with all compatible phones.
Roku Express: $29.99
For Netflix addicts, get the Roku Express, an HD media streamer that comes with its own remote and plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port. With no monthly rental fees, you can start watching your favorite TV channels and services right away, from Amazon Video to Hulu.
Mid-range gadgets under $50
Echo Dot: $49.99
Amazon’s Alexa-enhanced Echo Dot has all the power of the larger Echo in a hockey puck-sized package.
The Dot can do everything from checking the weather and sports scores to home automation tasks like controlling the lights, thermostat and garage door in your home.
Google Home Mini: $49.99
Google’s answer to the Echo Dot is the Home Mini, which brings the power of Google to your kitchen or living room. You can consult your schedule, stream videos and music on your TV, translate a quick sentence and more.
Amazon Fire 7: $49.99
Amazon’s Fire 7 tablet packs a powerful punch with a small price tag. This Alexa-enhanced device lets users watch video, listen to music and play games.
The book lovers on your list can read to their heart’s content with access to millions of Kindle ebooks and magazines.
Cambridge SoundWorks OontZ Angle 3 Plus: $34.99
Quirky name aside, this wireless speaker balances low price with strong sound quality and connects to a variety of Apple and Windows devices. It’s portable, water-resistant and Bluetooth-enabled, with deep bass tones and up to 30 hours of battery life.
For the tech geek who’s been extra good, grab a gift under $100
Super Nintendo Classic Edition: $79.99
Everything old is new again. Fueled by nostalgia, Nintendo is bringing back its classic SNES video game console, which is smaller than the original but otherwise looks and feels the same. If you’re eyeing the SNES for the gamers in your family, act quickly. These are guaranteed to go fast during the holidays.
Fitbit Flex 2: $79.95
With New Year’s right around the corner, the Fitbit Flex 2 is the perfect excuse to start getting more active.
The fully waterproof wristband tracks health and fitness metrics like calories burned, steps taken, distance traveled and even sleep patterns.
Google Daydream View: $99
Google’s Daydream View is a more sophisticated version of Cardboard: a VR headset that works with a variety of Android smartphones, including Google Pixel and Samsung’s S8 and Note8. The device comes pre-loaded with “experiences,” from games to media apps.
Philips Hue Starter Kit: $69
Already purchased an Echo Dot or Google Home Mini? Dip your toes into the home automation features by using Philips’ Hue lighting system. You can easily control the color and brightness of the included light bulbs either with the linked mobile app or with your voice using the Dot, the Home Mini or Apple’s Siri virtual assistant.