We all have that person who is extremely hard to buy for, who already has everything and needs nothing. If they want a new phone or computer, they go out and buy it on their own, and they always have all the latest and greatest tech stuff already….so what do you get them? One of the easiest things to get them are accessories to help them maximize what they already have and use. I’m always asked for my opinion on what I think are “great gifts” to get the people that have everything, so by popular request, here are some of my favorite gifts to consider.
- A Backup Solution. Backup hard drives are a MUST in this technology driven world…and it’s a great gift to give. Even if you already have one, a Portable Backup Hard Drive is one of the smartest, and most practical gifts to give. We like the HGST Touro http://amzn.to/2gfZy1N because it has a low failure rate, is slim and small, and is a good price point. This is great for your parents or older friends, and especially great if you help them set it up so it’s all ready to go.
- Online Backup. If your friends aren’t much for a physical device, or would forget to plug it in, consider getting them a subscription to Carbonite Online Backup. For $60/year, it runs in the background on your computer, automatically backs everything up, and makes getting files back simple. If you really care about your data (or have pictures you would hate to lose on the computer), we recommend both an on-site backup solution (like the hard drive mentioned above), AND an online, off-site backup….that way your chances of ever losing the data are SIGNIFICANTLY lessened.
- Better Phone Accessories. This one is a fun one, especially because there are SO many options out there to choose from. One of my favorite purchases for my iPhone- without a doubt- is my corded, extra long Bolse iPhone Lightning Charging Cable (http://amzn.to/2gowh3q). The iPhone cables are notorious for fraying or breaking, and these are jacketed with fabric for extra strength and durability- and they never look dirty. I love the extra long one for my nightstand. Best of all, there are MFi Apple Certified (i.e. verified by Apple to work with your phone)…which is important to know if buying an off-branded iPhone accessory, as it won’t break or ruin your phone. It can be tempting to find cheap cables & accessories at Five Below or other discount stores…but check their reviews online and make sure they’re certified- nothing is worse than giving something that might harm them or their device….and there’s a LOT of cheap counterfeit accessories on the market. If they have too many cables, consider a military-grade drop protection case (these are customizable with a photo: https://www.rokform.com/products/iphone-6-6s-custom-rugged-case).
- Battery Backup Protection. This is one of my favorite gift ideas, and it’s oh, so important to have. I live in an area with frequent brownouts and power failures, and virtually every electronic device over $200 in value is hooked up to a battery backup device in my home. If the power goes out, my device stays on, and the power fluctuation doesn’t harm your devices. You should have one behind your TV and attached to any computer in the house. They’re not all created equal….and we like the APC ones for their guarantee: http://amzn.to/2gf7vPz.
- Get a Good Laptop Case. I’ll admit it, I’m a bag snob- but one of the biggest problems with computer bags out there today is that they don’t offer enough protection for your laptop if it’s dropped. Getting someone a laptop sleeve is a GREAT cheap gift…because it can be added to another bag for extra padding. We like this one: http://amzn.to/2gf17Is, because it’s basic and cheap- and can be put into whatever my favorite expensive designer laptop bag of the week is. If you looking for a bag, finding one with structure and padded walls on all sides of the bag is important (like this one http://amzn.to/2gFVcwY). There are literally hundreds of great bags out there- but not all have a structured frame and padded walls which significantly helps in a drop or fall.
- Accessorize Their Desktop. Most people have a specific desk or location they use their computer from- be it a laptop or a desktop. Consider upgrading their screen by getting a 25″ monitor (like this one http://amzn.to/2gG9A8w)….or better yet dual screens! If it’s out of the budget- a nice wireless keyboard/mouse combo is always well loved (we love Logitech, like this one: http://amzn.to/2gf347K)
It’s literally impossible to keep up with the latest products or trends out there, that’s why we love hearing suggestions from our readers or followers online. If you have a favorite- we would love to know- post it in the comments below. Making smart purchases on your technology and accessories helps ensure their longevity for years to come….so give practical, techy gifts to your loved ones this year!
red gift box on a laptop keyboard