Holiday Gift Guide 2021 | Best High-Tech Gifts for Everyone on Your List

The holiday shopping season is kicking into full gear, with deals arriving well ahead of Black Friday. However, COVID is still affecting the supply chain, so you'll want to jump on the gift shopping bandwagon now before pickings are slim. Simplify your shopping by using our list of the best tech gadgets for 2021 to help you find the greatest gifts for your family and friends – you'll find something for everyone. Continue reading to browse some of the coolest and overall best tech gifts to give this year.
Apple Watch SE
The Apple Watch is the ideal wrist-worn companion to the iPhone for productivity- and fitness-minded people. Watch owners can answer and make phone calls, check their calendars, and respond to text messages and so much more without touching their iPhones. The Apple Watch also functions as a sleep tracker and a fitness tracker to monitor health. At around $300 or less, the Apple Watch SE is affordable to boot. Get it here.
Amazon Echo Show 8
The Amazon Echo Show is one of the top household smart devices on the market, making it an ideal gift for the power user in your life. The Alexa-powered device does everything from managing calendar entries to controlling smart home devices. Once someone uses the Echo Show, they'll wonder how they lived so long without it. Get it here.
Xbox Series X
There's not a gamer around who wouldn't want to find an Xbox Series X among their gifts this holiday season. The hot new console from Microsoft has been challenging to find since it debuted earlier this year, but don't give up. Follow a few key Twitter accounts, and you'll be able to snag one this holiday shopping season. First, see if one is available here.
iPad mini 6th Generation
Apple upgraded the iPad mini in 2021, making it an enticing gift for the Apple owner who seemingly has it all. The iPad mini (6th generation) fills that sweet spot in between the iPhone and the full-sized iPad. You can easily toss the 8.7-inch tablet in a purse or small backpack for using it on the go. If you want to go bigger, Apple also offers the very affordable 10.2-inch iPad (9th generation) or the powerhouse iPad Pro 12.9 (5th generation).
DJI Mini 2 Drone
The DJI Mini 2 drone is perfect for photographers and aerial enthusiasts on the go. It's super portable yet still powerful, recording up to 4K video. The drone's best feature is Ocusync, which allows the phone to control the drone in flight. Ocusync extends the drone's range using radio frequencies instead of the unreliable Wi-Fi connection used in the original Mavic mini. It also broadcasts video in 1080 or 720P, allowing you to preview the drone footage with extraordinary clarity. Best of all, it weighs under 250 grams and doesn't require registration with the FAA. Get it here.
Roborock S5 Max Robot Vacuum and Mop
Know someone who is tired of breaking their back while mopping their floor or vacuuming their carpet? Then you will want to snag the Roborock S5 Max Robot Vacuum and Mop. Equipped with LiDAR navigation, the robotic vacuum knows where to vacuum and where to mop, ensuring your house is as clean as possible. It even can travel between rooms with customizable settings for each space. This robotic vacuum takes care of your cleaning chores, so you don't have to. Get it here.
AeroGarden Harvest 360
Know someone with a green thumb who dreads the end of the growing season? Help them turn their gardening into a year-round hobby with the AeroGarden Harvest 360. The hydroponics growing system lets you grow herbs and vegetables indoors regardless of the weather outside. The no-fuss solution produces a bounty of food by automatically watering the plants and adjusting the lighting to optimize growth. Get it here.
GE Lighting Sync Smart Home Starter Kit
Help loved ones make progress on building a smart home with this lighting starter kit from GE. This all-in-one package includes a smart bulb with a smart dimmer switch. You can use the compatible app to schedule your lighting and adjust the colors and brightness of your lights as needed. Thanks to C by GE app, owners can control their lighting even when they are not home. The system also is compatible with Google and Alexa digital assistants. Get it here.
Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer
Everyone has somebody on their gift-giving list who loves to grill. Take the guesswork out of grilling or cooking meat with this app-connected smart thermometer from Yummly. The completely wireless thermometer connects to your smartphone (both iOS and Android are supported) and helps you monitor your meat while it is cooking. You can set up timers as well as temperature alerts to cook your meat with chef-like precision. Get it here.
Apple AirTags
We all know someone who tends to lose their keys or misplace their wallet. It is not only inconvenient for them, but it also can be expensive. Save them some hassle and help keep track of your gear with an Apple AirTag.
When you lose an AirTag-equipped item, you can find it easily, thanks to Apple's network of iOS devices. Each iOS device anonymously reports the AirTag's location, allowing the owner to see the current location of the AirTag on a map. Owners with newer iPhone models can take advantage of the phone's U1 chipset to get precision directions that'll bring them within a foot of their lost item. Get them here.
Google Nest Smart Thermostat
We all know someone who loves gadgets, especially those that they can use in their home. Give them the ultimate control over their home's heating system with the Google Nest smart thermostat. The basic version lets you control your home heating with your mobile phone and alert you when something seems wrong. Spend a little more money, and you grab the Nest Learning Thermostat that learns the occupant's habits and automatically adjusts their home heating system. Get it here.
Theragun Prime Massage Gun
Nothing feels better than a massage after a long workout or a stressful day at work. Not everyone has the money or the desire to visit a professional masseuse every day, which is why massagers like the Theragun Prime are so popular.
These at-home massage guns can soothe aching legs and reduce tension in your shoulders. Best of all, you control the relief by pinpointing those areas that need it most and spending as much time as you want working out the cramps and discomfort. Get it here.
The Theragun is cheaper than a professional, but it may be too pricey for many people. Thankfully, there are less expensive options like the MassageGun Pro, which offers similar features at a fraction of the price.
Ring Video Doorbell 3
Want to keep a loved one safe at home? Then consider gifting them the Ring Video Doorbell 3. The 1080p HD video doorbell is equipped with security features that let you know who is at your door whether you are at home or away. Owners can watch what is happening outside their door, listen to any commotion, and even speak to someone who is nearby.
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 has a battery option that is ideal for apartment dwellers, allowing them to set up this surveillance doorbell without modifying the existing wired doorbell. You simply attach it to the door, connect it to Wi-Fi, and it is ready to go. If you move from an apartment to your own home, you can bring your doorbell with you and use the wired option to tie it into the new home. Get it here.
Any iPhone 13
Apple's latest and greatest iPhone 13 is the ultimate gift for the iPhone owner in your life. With a brighter display, faster processor, longer battery life, and an even more powerful camera, the iPhone 13 is the best iPhone to date. It's a perfect upgrade for anyone rocking an outdated iPhone. You can choose between the entry-level iPhone 13 or splurge a bit more for an iPhone 13 Pro or even the colossal iPhone 13 Pro Max.
Anker Nebula Capsule II Smart Mini Projector
The Nebula Capsule II projector from Anker makes the perfect gift for teachers, businessmen, or movie buffs. The pocket-sized projector delivers an impressive 100-inch image with 720P video quality making it perfect for presentations on the go. Those who prefer pleasure over business will appreciate the diversity of content available on the Capsule II. With over 5,000 apps, owners can customize the Nebula Capsule II to their liking, choosing to add popular channels like YouTube, Netflix, and more. Get it here.
Wyze Smart Plugs
Going away and want your lights to turn on at night to deter thieves from breaking into your unoccupied home? Ditch those antiquated analog timers and replace them with these smart plugs from Wyze. Powered by the Wyze app, you can schedule the outlets to turn on and off as needed. You can also control the outlets even when you are not home. Need more control? You got it. These smart plugs also work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for complete voice control. Get them here.
EcoFlow RIVER 600 Portable Solar Power Station
Know someone who lives the van life? Or maybe in a rural area where power outages are common. Help them prepare for these unexpected outages with the EcoFlow RIVER 600 Portable Solar Power Station. 720Wh offers enough capacity to run lights, charge a mobile phone, and even power a TV while they wait for power to be restored. It's also a great companion when they hit the road for a long trip or spend a weekend away camping. Get it here.
Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug
Got a coffee or hot cocoa lover on your holiday list? We have a gift for you! The Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug is equipped with a battery-powered heating element that keeps that cup of joe or mug of cocoa warm all day long. You can dial the temperature up or down to your preference. Keep the mug on the charging coaster for all-day heating or use the mug alone for 1.5 hours. Get it here.
Apple AirPods
Whether you are buying for a music lover or a productivity person, you can't go wrong with a pair of Apple AirPods. The AirPods pair seamlessly with any iPhone, iPad, or Mac and switch between these devices automatically. With these Apple-branded earbuds, you can listen to music, activate Siri, talk on the phone, and more. They are a must-have for the iPhone owners in your life. Get them here.
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Have a friend or family member who has a keyring that is overflowing with keys? Help them trim their ring by upgrading their existing deadlock with this smart lock from August. Easy to install, the August smart lock will replace any deadbolt lock on an existing door. The lock can be activated with an app and configured to grant temporary or permanent access for trusted friends and family. The built-in Wi-Fi lets you integrate the lock into an existing smart home through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or even Apple HomeKit. Get it here.
Polaroid NOW+ Instant Camera
Have some who loves taking photos? Want to get them something different? Then consider the NOW+ instant camera from Polaroid. It captures the charm of the vintage instant camera but updates it for the modern digital world. This isn't your grandparent's Land Camera, for sure. With features like autofocus and double exposure to capture two moments in one photo, it's significantly better. Get it here.
Anker PowerCore Slim Portable Battery
People on the go understand the need for portable power. When your phone is about to die, there's nothing worse than scrambling to find an outlet. Don't rely on public charging areas that you can find in the mall or the airport. Grab one of these slim portable batteries from Anker and bring a power source with you where ever you may go. Get it here.
Withings Thermo Smart Thermometer
Previously only found in hospitals or doctor offices, the no contact thermometer is now ubiquitous. One of the latest and greatest models is the Thermo from Withings. The Withings Thermo is excellent for families who want to track their children's temperature without spreading an illness to other family members. It also is ideal for workplaces or sports teams where temperature monitoring is critical in controlling COVID-19. Because it integrates with your smartphone, each temperature reading from the Withings Thermo can be stored to one of eight profiles and shared with a medical professional as needed. Get it here.
React 7-in-1 car charger
Having the right tools following an accident can mean life or death. Whether you are involved in an accident or witness one, you should have the React 7-in-1 car tool in your reach. More than just a charger, the React also includes a window breaker and seatbelt cutter, two tools that could help extricate a person trapped in their car. Once everyone is in a safe spot, you can use the React to provide light thanks to its LED flashlight or warn oncoming cars with its red strobe light. It's a must-have gift for the commuter in your life. Get it here.
Apple HomePod mini
Know someone who lives in a house with lots of rooms or lots of people? Then we have the perfect gift. Snag an Apple HomePod mini or two and give them a personal assistant and an interconnected communications network that works seamlessly with their iOS devices. The HomePod mini can play Apple Music, check your calendar, and add tasks to your to-do list.
When connected to other HomePod minis in the house, the smart speakers can act as a sophisticated intercom to communicate with family members in nearby rooms. No more yelling up the stairs that dinner is ready. Just send a message to the HomePod mini. Get it here.
BioLite Alpenglow Lantern
Know someone who lives the van life or spends their summer at the campground? The BioLite Alpenglow Lantern might be the perfect gift. With up to 200 hours of usage on a single charge, the Alpenglow Lantern is ideal for power outages or long-term camping trips. Not only does it provide light, but it also can be used to charge your phone or tablet in a pinch. Our favorite fun feature -- the multiple lighting modes that you can access by shaking the device. Get it here.
OrbitKey Nest
Are you looking for a gift for the technology enthusiast who seemingly has everything? We bet they don't have an OrbitKey Nest. This little gem does a little bit of everything. The portable desk organizer makes it easy to keep cables, memory cards, dongles, and more together in one place. Not only does the OrbitKey Nest has space to stash a handful of accessories, but it also doubles as a portable charger. Get it here.
Belkin MagSafe 2-in-1 Wireless Charger
Every Apple owner knows the pain of having a different charging cable for each device. Save your favorite Apple fan from this tangled mess with the Belkin MagSafe 2-in-1 Wireless Charger. The wireless charging stand can hold both an iPhone and AirPods. If your loved one also has an Apple Watch, consider spending a bit more to get the Belkin Boost Charge 3-in-1 Wireless Charger, which charges an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at the same time. Get it here.
eufyCam 2 Pro Wireless Home Security Camera System
The eufyCam 2 Pro is the perfect gift for the homeowner on your list, especially if they are concerned about protecting their house. The eufyCam 2 Pro is the ideal security camera system for beginners. It's wireless, so it is easy to install and easy to monitor from a mobile phone. It also has a 365-day battery life, so owners only have to take down the cameras once a year to recharge. Those with a smart home setup will appreciate Eufy's integration with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa. Get it here.
Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller
Gamers don't just play on an Xbox, PlayStation, or a PC. Many bring their gaming enthusiasm to their mobile phones. Make mobile gaming easier for the gamer on your holiday shopping list with the Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller. The Razer Kishi brings a console-quality controller to your mobile phone. Equipped with precision thumbsticks, buttons, and a D-pad makes it easy to run and gun on Call of Duty as well as build a fortress in Minecraft. The controller connects directly to the phone's charging port providing a latency-free connection. It also doubles as a mobile charger. Get it here.
Apple TV 4K
Another Apple fan favorite, the Apple TV 4K is a welcome addition to any Apple fanboy's living room. The most significant improvement in the latest Apple TV is a redesigned Siri remote that makes controlling your TV easy. The Apple TV also integrates with the iPhone, iPad, and Mac, allowing you to control playback from your mobile device and stream content to the console whenever needed. Get it here.