The best tech gifts every gadget fan wants for Christmas 2024
What do you get the tech guy who has everything? Here are our top must-buy gadgets for 2024.
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
How do you know what makes a tech gift one of the best tech gifts for men? Answer: you task gadget-obsessed Owen Gough and Esat Dedezade to go out and find them for you. In this — one of our guides for those who have scoured the best gifts for him and come up blank — the pair of them sort their way through the mountain of tech releases and assess which ones are actually worth your money this Christmas.
In trying and testing tech in the categories of fitness, entertainment, productivity, cooking and sex, Owen and Esat have considered all kinds of budgets, meaning that after consulting this page there may be no need for you to consult the best gifts for boyfriends or best gifts for dads at all.
With top-tier smartwatches, speakers, electric toothbrushes, BBQs, TVs and games consoles to help keep them on track, the world of technology gifting is rich with opportunity… as you will soon see.
What are the best tech gifts in 2024?
- Best games console: Sony PlayStation 5, £545 at amazon.co.uk
- Best beard trimmer: Philips Series 9000,
£129.99£89.99at amazon.co.uk - Best portable games console: Nintendo Switch, £249.99 at argos.co.uk
- Best refurbished tech: iPhone 12,
£649£300 at backmarket.co.uk - Best electric toothbrush: Oral-B iO10,
£799.99£299.99 at amazon.co.uk - Best beer dispenser: PerfectDraft Pro beer dispenser,
£249.99£149 at perfectdraft.com - Best massage gun: Theragun Pro,
£469£349 at therabody.com - Best Xbox console: Xbox Series S, £249at amazon.co.uk
Metaverse Dream (Assouline) | Beats Pill Speaker | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX Headphones | Ember Mug
How we chose the best tech gifts in 2024
Selecting gifts for loved ones, especially tech-y folk with specific tastes, can be a perilous endeavour, regardless of how clued up you think you are, so we at British GQ like to help out as much as possible with a broad and detailed range of options to cater to all tastes. Perfectly placed to help guide you through the intricate world of tech toys for gadget lovers, Owen Gough, one of British GQ's Senior Commerce Writers, has more than eight years of experience covering the latest tech trends and helping readers sift through the noise to find the ultimate gift. Alongside contributing writer and tech expert of over a decade Esat Dedezade, he's tested almost every major product listed below, assessing the value for money, if it's actually as good a tech product as it claims, and whether it's worth your consideration, with years of experience attending product launches to curate the ultimate list of tech gifts.
GQ's pick of the best tech gifts for 2024…
- 1/77
Microsoft
Surface Laptop 7
If one laptop can knock Macs off the podium, it will be Microsoft's Surface 7. The latest model from the purveyor of Windows, the Surface 7 redefines what you thought was capable from Microsoft's range, thanks to AI smarts, supercharged load speeds and enough processing power to not only capably handle your spreadsheets at work, but relax with one or two games at the end of the day.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredibly powerful device capable of at-home working or gaming
- Bright, punchy display
Cons- Divisive for Mac fans
- Pricey
- 2/77
Beats
Pill Speaker
Brat summer may be over, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't still get out into the world on a hike, cycle or walk. Sure, it may be cold, windy and rainy, so why not cheer yourself up with some banging tunes from one of the best portable speakers around? Beats' latest Pill smart speaker is a thumping music player that treats your playlist with the respect it deserves, driving up the bass while maintaining harmonious treble through the big finish. With an ever-enduring battery, we defy you to hike for as long as this speaker can last.
Pros & ConsPros- Excellent sound in a water and dust-proof speaker
- Gorgeous design
Cons- None that we know of
- 3/77
Ooni
Karu 16 Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven
Forget your Dominoes and Papa John's, why not perfect the craft of baking your perfect pizza pie at home? Ooni's range of artisanal pizza ovens tops out at the Karu 16 Multi-fuel, which can cook huge 16-inch pizzas in seconds via various heating methods, from gas to electric. Perfect for making all kinds of pizzas, from deep-pan Chicago-style options to spotty, Neapolitan meals, it's the ultimate gift for at-home chefs.
Pros & ConsPros- Cooks pizzas super-fast
Cons- Still expensive but a good deal for a pizza oven
- 4/77
Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay HX Headphones
Danish audio-makers Bang & Olufsen are the ultimate brand for high-end luxury listening, and its premium Beoplay HX is the pinnacle of that notion. Plush Nappa leather cups cushion your ears while a powerful set of micro speakers effortlessly release high-quality sound into your ears. Sure, they are absurdly expensive, but they're the audiophile's dream.
Pros & ConsPros- One of the best, most luxurious audio experiences
- Premium materials and build quality
Cons- Leather can be hard to clean
- 5/77
We-Vibe
Pivot
Inject a bit more spice back into the bedroom with this app-controlled vibrating sex toy from We-Vibe. Made to slip over the shaft of the penis to enhance erections, it can be adapted to pulse however pleases you and your partner via your smartphone, and is a tonne of fun to play around with. Time to get you back in the mood.
Pros & ConsPros- App-controlled vibrations add more fun to the party
- Stretchy, silicone build fits all sizes
Cons- Most powerful vibrations might be a bit much for some
- 6/77
Microsoft
Xbox Elite Controller 2
The Series 2 of the Xbox Elite Controller is the most premium, comfortable and customisable game controller on the market. It’s sturdy, features rechargeable batteries powered by USB-C for optimal accessibility, and can be tweaked and tuned to your liking. Removable thumb sticks, changeable D-pads and rear levers give you greater control than ever before, so you can hit set buttons without ever having to take your fingers off the most important buttons. Level up your playtime, gamers!
Pros & ConsPros- Plenty of customisation and personalisation for your playing style
- Greater precision aiming
Cons- Expensive
- Only for dedicated gamers
- 7/77
Casio
A164WA-1VES Watch
The Casio A164WA-1VES is a bit of a mouthful, but don't let that put you off. A classic and reliable digital watch that combines functionality with style, it has a water-resistant design, daily alarm, and auto-calendar to keep things moving. Perfect for everyday wear with a minimalist aesthetic, it'll compliment any outfit, making it a versatile and practical accessory for any occasion.
Pros & ConsPros- A watch grail for an incredible price
- Very long battery life
Cons- Light a little dim
- 8/77
Beerwulf
Beerwulf The Sub Beer Tap
This sleek and compact beer tap system allows you to pour fresh, perfectly chilled draft beer from the comfort of your home. Compatible with a wide range of beer kegs, it's the ideal addition to any home bar or entertainment setup. With a name like Beerwulf, you can rest assured recipients will be in safe hands.
Pros & ConsPros- A broad range of tasty brews to choose from that are compatible
- The crisp pouring system gives great-tasting beer every time
Cons- Quite big and tough to fit on the kitchen countertop
- 9/77
Phillips
Series 9000
Everyone with a beard knows how hard it is to keep it trim and tidy, but if there's one device to make your bathroom routine a bit more manageable, it's the Philips 9000 Prestige. With its built-in metal comb and strong cutter, this is all about precision. The PowerAdapt sensor checks hair density 125 times per second and dynamically adapts the motor, so regardless of density or length, you get an even trim. It can handle everything from a short set of stubble to a 6mm dense beard in 0.2mm instalments, so no more excuses for wayward whiskers.
Pros & ConsPros- Big battery
- Plenty of attachments
- One of the most comprehensive trimmers
Cons- Pricey
- 10/77
Fender
Play
Fancy flicking your fingers around a fretboard with the effortless skill of John Fruciante? Enter Fender Play — the ultimate online guitar lessons platform designed to help you reach your full shredding potential. Suited for beginners and experienced players alike, Fender Play offers a comprehensive curriculum taught by world-class instructors. With step-by-step video lessons, you'll master chords, riffs, and songs at your own pace, all from the comfort of your home. Next stop, Wembley.
Pros & ConsPros- An excellent gift for guitar players looking to improve their skills
Cons- Requires a bit of patience, dedication and practice on the giftee's part
- 11/77
Peloton
Bike+
AKA the deluxe Peloton, this bike's new larger touchscreen swivels outwards so you can more easily follow other strength and cardio workouts, while more powerful built-in speakers bring you closer to the heart-pumping, sweaty action.
Pros & ConsPros- Purpose-built to get a hard workout in from home
- A solid option for all experience levels
Cons- Quite hard to store at home tidily
- 12/77
Menkind
Thor LED Light
If he be worthy and all that. Regardless of your giftee's muscular prowess, they should have no issue wielding Thor's hammer, Mjolnir, as a desk LED light. No worries required, just stick it to the wall or desk, turn it on and enjoy the god of thunder's illumination.
Pros & ConsPros- A fun gift for Marvel lovers who love to show off their fandom
- Affordably priced
Cons- Light is not particularly bright
- 13/77
Lego
Polaroid Camera
Lego's beautifully put-together collectable Polaroid kit perfectly encapsulates the retro charm of the instant camera that took the world by storm. Operate it like a real Polaroid camera by loading a photo, before pressing the shutter button to eject it. A perfect gift for photography enthusiasts, Lego fans, or anyone who can appreciate timeless design.
Pros & ConsPros- Absorbing build
- Good-looking ornament once completed
Cons- Time-consuming build
- 14/77
Playstation 5
Sony's PlayStation 5 is cheaper than ever thanks to the release of the much more expensive and graphically impressive Pro edition, but that's more than ok for us bargain hunters. Picking up the most popular games console for just under £400 is a steal and we encourage you to buy while you still can to level up your gaming.
- 15/77
Withings
Withings Body Comp
Christmas time is a period of excess, and that's more than OK. But if you'd rather not pack on too many pounds over the festivities, then invest in Withings' body comp scales. Capable of way more than just discovering how much weight a bottle of eggnog will add to your belly, it can scan for your body fat percentage, bone density and your body's metabolic age.
Pros & ConsPros- Comprehensive readings
- Tracks nutrition and heart health
Cons- Best to be avoided by anyone prone to disordered eating
- 16/77
Therabody
Theragun Prime
It's time to limber up your muscles and eliminate DOMS for good. Theragun Prime is here to save your post-workout aches and pains, utilising deep tissue vibrations to replicate premium sports massages and get you back to fighting fit quicker.
Pros & ConsPros- Fights DOMS
Cons- Fairly large
- 17/77
Ninja
Creami Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Maker
Granted, now is really not the time to be thinking about ice cream as temperatures fall into single digits, but for those happy to weather winter cold snaps and still enjoy a bowl of ice cream, then allow us to introduce you to Ninja's Creami. Whip up a delicious range of tasty flavours with the touch of a button.
Pros & ConsPros- Easily makes delicious frozen treats
Cons- You have to freeze ingredients in advance
- 18/77
Sennheiser
Arctis Nova Pro
We take our gaming seriously, and so should you. There's no point hopping on Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 for a few relaxing rounds of Domination if you're not wearing premium hardware to hear the footsteps of your enemy. SteelSeries' Arctis Nova Pro will level up your experience, with 360-surround sound to help you get the drop on your foes.
- 19/77
Hotel Chocolat
Velvetiser
Delicious hot chocolate whenever you want it sounds like a fairytale, but Hotel Chocolat makes our dreams a reality. Silky smooth tasty hot chocolate can be made very easily with the Velvetiser, and there are dozens of flavour combos from chocolate orange to vegan dark chocolate. Perfect as a winter warmer gift.
- 20/77
Heist
3.0Men's Smart Hair Dryer and Styler
Men need hair dryers too, you know? Heist understands this and has built the 3.0 smart dryer, a tool to get that barber-fresh look at home. Blowdrying your hair with a protective tech that doesn't damage your scalp or hair with heat, you'll be able to perfect your style with a proper manly tool.
- 21/77
30% off Ooni Karu 16 Outdoor Pizza Oven
British GQ loves homemade pizza pie, so when we saw that Ooni has knocked off 30 per cent from its top-tier Karu 16 outdoor oven, we just had to shout it out. Capable of cooking 16-inch pizzas in literally less than a minute, it will turn you into a Neapolitan pro in no time at all.
- 22/77
Dreame
Dreame X40 Ultra
Dreame's high-end robot vacuum looks better than a cleaning appliance has any right to, which means recipients will have no qualms about leaving it out in full view. Better yet, it's brimming with a handful of unrivalled features, including a clever extendable side brush and mop, helping ensure that no corner is left untouched. Powerful suction and mopping abilities aside, its charging base station not only cleans the mops, but also self-empties the dustbin, meaning less time faffing around with maintenance, and more time relaxing in a nice clean home. One of the most advanced robovacs currently available, with a price tag to match.
Pros & ConsPros- Beautiful design
- Packed with high-tech, innovative features
- Superb performance
Cons- Expensive
- 23/77
Panasonic
Panasonic Lumix S9
The Lumix S9 is a stunning full-frame camera that performs as well as it looks. Available in a refreshing choice of colours (we're fans of the dark olive), it packs high-end features like incredible stabilisation, built-in filter effects and the ability to shoot top-quality video and photos. With a compact form and support for interchangeable lenses, it's the ultimate tool for content creators, budding photographers and one of the best travel gifts for a perennial vacationer.
Pros & ConsPros- Full frame sensor in a beautiful, compact body
- Innovative features
- Incredible stabilisation
Cons- No viewfinder
- No headphone jack for audio monitoring
- 24/77
Balsam Hill
BH Nordmann Fir Tree – Twinkly
Giving someone a Christmas tree might seem like an odd decision at first, but this is no ordinary tree. Balsam Hill is famed for producing some of the most luxurious, realistic artificial trees around, making dropped needles and the yearly chore of tree collection and recycling a thing of the past. Stunning looks aside (you can practically smell the pine needles), this particular variant is infused with the Christmas magic of Twinkly LED lights. Built-in for decadent convenience, you can sync them up with other Twinkly lights via an app, with all manner of preset and customisable effects at your disposal. The only tree you'll ever need, with plenty of entertainment value for kids and adults alike.
Pros & ConsPros- Stunning, realistic design
- Twinkly Light Show unlocks amazing lighting effects
Cons- Pricey
- 25/77
Casio
Casio CT-S1 Portable Piano Keyboard
Forget the bulky, ugly monstrosities you learned about as a child, and give someone the gift of delightfully stylish and portable music instead. Casio's offering is sleek, modern, and oh-so-playable, and comes in a variety of colour options to suit any taste. We're rather taken with the red variant, and the fact that it perfectly balances playability and portability is a very welcome bonus.
Pros & ConsPros- Slick, compact design
- Portable
- Great for beginners
Cons- May be too compact for advanced players
- 26/77
Vieunite
Vieunite Textura Digital Canvas
The perfect present for art lovers who love mixing things up, this high-end digital canvas lets users quickly and easily swap out artwork at the press of a button, thanks to a connected app. Packed with pixels and designed to resemble a genuine canvas to bring life to every brush stroke, you can even display your own photos and videos for an added dash of personalisation. And the best part? There's not a single monthly subscription cost in sight. Hooray!
Pros & ConsPros- Mix and match your art whenever you see fit
- High quality screen
Cons- Pricey
- 27/77
HMD
HMD Barbie Phone
Hi Barbie! Forget invasive DMs, work emails, incessant notifications, battery anxiety, and more. Give someone the gift of freedom, with this Barbie-themed dumb phone which takes things back to their absolute basics. No apps, no nonsense – just an honest-to-goodness phone that makes calls, sends texts, and looks amazing in the process. A true conversation starter that lets you smash through a digital detox in the process.
Pros & ConsPros- No modern distractions
- Fun, retro design
- Great conversation starter
Cons- Lacks apps (though that's the point)
- 28/77
AlphaTheta
AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2
This compact DJ controller is ideal for those starting off on their mixing journey, or seasoned pros who are looking for something more compact to travel with. Despite its size, it's got everything you need to start mixing, with plenty of controls and features thrown in. It supports streaming services like Tital too, along with popular DJ software from the likes of Serato. Mix things up on your PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet, and you'll be the life of the party in no time.
Pros & ConsPros- Compact design
- Works with major DJ apps and streaming services
Cons- May lack some features that professionals are after
- 29/77
Marantz Model M1
Hook the M1 up to your existing speakers, and unlock a world of near-infinite music listening possibilities. Supporting all major streaming services, Bluetooth AirPlay 2, and more, there's no shortage of ways for you to enjoy your tunes. With 100W per channel, there's more than enough power to hook up serious bits of kit (including a sub for some extra low-end oomph), and its sleek, minimalist design will artfully blend in with any setup.
Pros & ConsPros- Superb sound
- Crammed with features
- Near-limitless ways to listen to music
Cons- Pricey
- 30/77
Rola
Rola Cordless Smart Pet Water Fountain
Okay, so this might be more of a present for a furry friend than a human, but if you have an animal lover in your life, we're sure they'd massively appreciate the thought behind one of the most advanced pet water fountains money can buy. The cordless version of Rola's fountain lets you place it wherever one wishes, without having to worry about pesky things like plug socket locations. Better yet, it's got a clever design that makes it more hygienic than rivals – its magnetic induction wireless pump design means that all electrical circuits are kept separate from the tank itself. That means it's not only safer, but also reduces the build-up of dirt, making for a cleaner drink in the process. Mr Tibbles will be thrilled.
Pros & ConsPros- Keeps your furry friends hydrated
- Clever, hygienic design
Cons- Your recipient may not be as excited about it as you are
- 31/77
Doogee
Doogee V40 Pro
And now for something completely different. A far cry from the usual iPhone, Pixel, and Samsung recommendations, Doogee's latest flagship might not quite match them for flagship specs, but it delivers plenty on other fronts. It has a gargantuan 8,680mAh battery for a start, which is practically twice the size of most other handsets, which means there are multiple days between charges, even with heavy use. It's built like a tank too, with extreme drop and water protection. With a capable camera system and a rear screen for additional info and features, you're getting plenty of bang for your buck.
Pros & ConsPros- Absolutely massive battery
- Built like a tank
Cons- Large and hefty build
- 32/77
Playseat
Playseat Formula Instinct F1 Edition
Playseat's high-end racing setup is the ultimate gift for people who want to tear around a circuit without the risk of writing off an expensive supercar (or paying the high rental prices). With plenty of adjustable elements, it'll form the foundation for any top-quality racing sim setup, while looking great in the process. You'll need a decent space to set it up, mind, but once you do, you'll be in tire-screeching nirvana.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredible immersion
- Easily adjustable for a perfect fit
Cons- It might dominate smaller spaces
- 33/77
Denon
Denon PerL Pro
Deonon's superb-sounding PerL Pro in-ears are now also available in a sleek white model, for those who want something other than the standard black fare. The newer hue brings with it the same excellent audio performance, with customised sound courtesy of Denon's app making each listening experience unique to you. Packed with noise cancelling and all manner of features, they're a perfect pair of in-ears for commuters and music lovers alike.
Pros & ConsPros- Packed with features
- Superb personalised sound
Cons- Design may not suit everyone
- 34/77
Shark
CryoGlow
Shark’s wondrous LED face mask uses a combination of blue and red LEDs to help transform your skin for the better. A Better Ageing Mode helps reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles over time, while a Blemish Repair Mode works to keep textured, uneven skin and blemishes at bay. A Skin Sustain Mode helps boost brightness and maintain results after an eight-week cycle of the previously mentioned modes, and there’s even an Under-Eye Cooling mode to help soothe and depuff under-eyes with the aptly named Insta-Chill Cold tech. The ultimate gift for at-home self-pampering bliss.
Pros & ConsPros- It's like a spa for your face
- Easy self-pampering at home
Cons- You might surprise visitors
- 35/77
Solo Stove
Smokeless Bonfire
Ever wondered if it's possible to enjoy the cosy warmth of a traditional campfire without the eye-searing smoke? Enter the Solo Stove Smokeless Bonfire — an innovative stove with a unique design that maximizes airflow and promotes complete combustion, resulting in a virtually smoke-free fire. Crafted from durable stainless steel, it'll make for a cracking addition to any outdoor gathering or backyard oasis.
Pros & ConsPros- Smokeless and easy ash clean-up
- Ideal for hosting
Cons- Though portable, can be cumbersome to carry
- 36/77
Sony
PlayStation 5
Most of us have been wistfully glancing over at the likes of Ebay and Amazon, hoping to see stock land for the ultra-powerful PS5, but thankfully, you can finally get your hands on one (took two years, but we got there in the end). The super-charged console recently received a fairly sizeable discount, dropping the price below £400, which should help you budget for a whole lot of gaming, even if you're having to sacrifice hundreds of lost hours in productivity.
Pros & ConsPros- Current-gen graphics and visual fidelity enhances your gaming experience
- Plenty od internal storage to hold onto the biggest, space-hungry games
Cons- There's still a noticeable lack of new exclusive games
- The overall design is huge and hard to fit in some TV cabinets
- 37/77
FiiO
KA15 Portable USB DAC
Know someone who’s forever tweaking EQ settings and swapping out headphones to chase the ultimate music-listening experience? Pull them out of their endless pursuit with FiiO’s powerful, portable USB-C DAC, which will turbocharge wired headphones hooked up to anything from laptops and PCs, to smartphones, tablets and more. Compact and simple to use without any overwhelming setup, the difference is immediate, and oh-so noticeable. With a charming retro cassette player vibe, it’s as fun as it is capable.
Pros & ConsPros- Elevates sound
- Compact, retro design
Cons- Adds an extra step
- 38/77
Tefal
Access Steam+ Handheld Clothes Steamer
If your fella simply CANNOT keep his clothes wrinkle-free, then what he really needs is a handheld clothes steamer. Wave goodbye to the chore of getting out the ironing board every time you have to head out of the door, this Access Steam is perfect for decreasing all your clothing quickly and efficiently. Simply add water, wait for it to boil and gently waft it in front of the offending item to eradicate any unsightly dimples.
Pros & ConsPros- Easy to store
- Two settings
Cons- Only one colour option
- 39/77
Diptyque
Car Diffuser
Ditch the sad limp pine tree hanging from the rearview mirror and elevate the driving experience with this luxurious diffuser. Unfusing vehicles with the captivating scent of Diptyque's iconic Baies fragrance — a blend of fresh roses and blackcurrant leaves — it's the perfect way to create a sophisticated and inviting ambience on the road.
Pros & ConsPros- Opulent scent for the car from one of our favourite fragrance brands
Cons- Pricey
- 40/77
Belkin
MagSafe charger
A classier way to charge your iPhone and accompanying Apple kit, this Belkin MagSafe charger will sit on your office desk and wirelessly top up your batteries without you having to scramble for the right power cable. Slick, convenient and stylish.
Pros & ConsPros- Charges smartphones and devices efficiently and safely without overheating
Cons- Requires ownership of wireless charging devices
- 41/77
Phillips
Hue LED Strip Lights
Seen on TikTok and YouTube influencer videos for the last few years, Philips' Hue strip lights will instantly level up your home decor and smart home set-up in one fell swoop. Transform any room into a techno-coloured light show, with pre-programmed modes to set the mood and automatic timers to only turn on when watching movies or turn off when it's time for bed.
Pros & ConsPros- App-controlled with a huge range of colours and themes
- Can be placed in loads of fun positions to sync up with music or the TV
Cons- Quite an arduous process to set up
- 42/77
Peak Design
Travel Backpack Coyote
Peak Design’s Coyote-coloured backpack is the ultimate solution for anyone looking to travel in style, while looking after their precious gear in the process. Built to last with weatherproof stitching, zips and abrasion-resistant threads, its cavernous, expandable design has all the space one needs for clothes, camera gear, laptops, equipment, and more. Cleverly concealed carry straps, 360-degree grab handles, and a 100 per cent recycled weatherproof 400D nylon canvas shell (complete with 900D bottom liner) round off the impressive specs rather nicely. Pair with Peak Design’s optional camera cube, tech, packing, and clothes pouches for the ultimate flexible travel solution.
Pros & ConsPros- Extremely well-made
- Very practical
- Durable
Cons- Pricey
- 43/77
Meta
Quest 3
With Apple's Vision Pro causing all sorts of tech nerds to go weak in the knees (and their bank accounts), you're likely dreaming of owning your own VR headset to live in some other tech-centric reality. In steps the Meta Quest 3, a much more affordable avenue for AR exploration that is just as good as Tim Cook's offering.
Pros & ConsPros- The pinnacle of current VR headsets
- Great catalogue of games and uses
Cons- Quite fiddly to set up and keep updated
- Requires some space in your home to move around in
- 44/77
Logitech
MX Creative Console
Logitech’s pair of controllers will make an excellent gift for the creative in your life. Whether they’re an expert at Photoshop wizardry or cutting together ‘gram-worthy clips in Premiere Pro, the customisable LCD keypads will let them whizz their way through editing tasks faster than ever. A handy dialpad also unlocks precise adjustments, letting users unleash their maximum potential with ease. From Spotify to Lightroom, and everything in between, this is a guaranteed desktop favourite in the making.
Pros & ConsPros- Powerful customisation options
- Will boost creative efficiency
Cons- May be overkill for some
- 45/77
Sage
Barista Touch Impress
Brewing the perfect cup of coffee in the morning is no easy feat. We can't all be trained baristas, but you really don't need a degree in optimum boiling temperatures to get tasty mugs every time you try with Sage's Barista Touch Impress. And impressed we are, as it's just a few simple button presses to get properly nice drinks across a range of flavours. Live vicariously as your local coffee aficionado and enjoy the taste.
Pros & ConsPros- Simply and easy to use, regardless of your coffee choices
- bean-to-cup gives you flexibility over your coffee flavours
Cons- Bulky
- Ongoing cost of beans can ramp up the overall price
- 46/77
Krafted
Connex
This Swiss army knife-like adaptor lets you connect practically anything to anything, with a plethora of traditional USB, USB-C, and Apple Lightning connector options. Letting you mix and match different ends, you or friends in need will never be short of the wrong charging option again. Available in black or a rather pleasing jade green, those missed connections will be relegated to the dark ages, where they rightfully belong. An indispensable accessory for tech fans, travellers, festival-goers, and more.
Pros & ConsPros- Versatile
- Compact design
Cons- More colour options would be nice
- 47/77
Ember
Mug
We've already covered the Ember espresso cup elsewhere on this list, but what if your tech-loving friend likes their drinks on the larger side? The Ember Mug is a bigger cup with enough space for tea, coffee, hot chocolates and everything in between, with a handle to protect your delicate fingers from your toasty brew.
Pros & ConsPros- App controlled to get optimum temperatures
- Keeps beverages warm for hours
Cons- We wish it was a little deeper for more liquid
- 48/77
SteelSeries
Alias Pro
Anyone from gamers and streamers to serial Zoom callers will appreciate the Alias Pro mic, which delivers fuss-free, studio-quality results that will present one’s dulcet tones to the world with impeccable clarity and precision. The included mixer provides customisable controls, along with handy volume and mute controls, complete with RGB lighting for a dash of pizzazz. Combine with SteelSeries’ included Sonar app for some seriously impressive customisation options, including powerful AI noise-cancelling which drowns out distracting background noises like overzealous washing machines, screaming toddlers, and needy cats.
Pros & ConsPros- Superb performance
- Rammed with features
Cons- May be overkill for some
- 49/77
Anker
Nebula Capsule
If your telly just doesn’t quite cut the mustard anymore, the only way to improve your home-theatre experience is with a dedicated cinema projector. This one is ultra-portable (literally the size of a craft beer can), delivers crisp Full HD visuals, and can stretch your films up to 100 inches if you’ve got the wall space for it. All you need now is the popcorn maker.
Pros & ConsPros- Super portable, dinky design is easy to bring on any occasion
- Durable design protects it from inevitable dinks and scrapes
Cons- The battery could be bigger
- Resolution is mid
- 50/77
Therabody
Theragun Mini
Other Therabody products can be found on this list, but none are dinky enough to accompany you on your travels should you need to obliterate DOMs on holiday. The Theragun Mini packs enough punch to clear away the aches and pains of a post-workout stretch, with a decent battery life to keep up with your journey for the summer-bod. The perfect gift for the fitness fiend in your life.
Pros & ConsPros- Multiple massage settings
- Ergonomic design
- DOMS-busting capabilities
Cons- Pricey
- Only useful if you work out regularly
- 51/77
Kindle
PaperWhite
Collecting books and actually reading them are two very distinct hobbies, but we're all about championing the idea of reading as much as you can. We can't all, unfortunately, afford to own a property decked out with a wall-length library, so we instead have to opt for Amazon's Kindle series to house literally thousands of novels in one convenient place. The PaperWhite would be our choice, with a big, bright display, easy-to-reach buttons to navigate the pages, and enough memory to house every story we could ever think of.
Pros & ConsPros- 32GB can contain thousands of e-books
- Auto-adjusting front light
Cons- More affordable e-readers available
- 52/77
Lelo
Hugo 2
Some people like flowers or a crate of beer as a gift. Others prefer the kinky stuff, and if that's the case for your giftee, why not help them expand their sexual horizons? Lelo's Hugo 2 is a body-safe vibrating prostate massager with remote access so you can tickle the mythical P-Spot from afar.
Pros & ConsPros- Powerful deep motor vibrations that can be adjusted for your pleasure
- Curved hook design built to hit the right spot
Cons- An investment piece
- Remote control costs extra
- 53/77
Pinter
Beer Dispenser
If your giftee simply adores an American IPA, then we have the absolute best gift they could hope for. Essentially an at-home brewing kit, it's the complete and simple package of a keg that just requires some water and patience to rustle up a broad range of self-made beer. There's a staggering range of tasty options to choose from, and all it takes from them is a 10-day waiting period before they can guzzle back as they please.
Pros & ConsPros- Very affordable
- Pours a great at-home pint
Cons- Larger, more premium dispensers are available
- 54/77
Phillips
Premium XXL
It's tough to resist, we get it. TikTok is full of influencers espousing the merits of air frying your food and, in our humble opinion, there's no need to hamper your own culinary enjoyment anymore. Simply embrace it. One of the best models we've tested comes from Philips in the form of its XXL edition. Not only is it capacious enough to feed the 5,000 a barrel full of fish and bread in its basket, but it's loaded with plenty of cooking settings for those who plan on cooking essentially every future meal from now on.
Pros & ConsPros- Capacious interior designed to cook, fry, reheat and grill huge meals
- Easy to clean
Cons- Bulky and more than a little unsightly on the kitchen countertop
- 55/77
Bang & Olufsen
BeoSound Explore
Warmer weather brings a temptation to head out to the park with a few brews or partake in one of those hikes you pretend to be passionate about in your Tinder profile. Whatever excuse you use to get outdoors, you’ll want to bring a top-quality speaker with a rugged aesthetic, and we can’t recommend the BeoSound Explore enough. Trippy Red reverberated around our four-hour expedition across Scafell Pike and it barely dented the battery.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredibly durable and resistant to water and dust
- Great 360-degree soundstage
Cons- Colour options are bland
- 56/77
Garmin
Epix Pro Sports Watch
Ultimate performance is a word thrown around by a lot of tech companies, but few can truly hold the crown when stacked up against Garmin's Epix Pro Sports watch. A premium design comes with a premium price – so be prepared to fork out a fair amount for it – but, if you take your activities and fitness seriously, you won't find better.
For this particular model, you'll find built-in strobes that pulse and burn so you're better-aware of your workouts in low light and the new endurance score feature helps you focus your training for those big sessions.
Pros & ConsPros- Impossibly detailed workout tracking and vitals
Cons- Very pricey
- 57/77
Sony
WH-1000XM5
Almost certainly the best ANC headset on the market, the XM5 series makes the outside sounds slip away into the ether, so that you can fully focus on your music, chosen podcast or work call. It's got fully scalable noise cancellation, with the ability to track where you are and what you're doing and automatically adjust on the fly, ensuring crisp, vibrant music almost anywhere you choose to listen. Pricey? Sure. But these are the best headphones you can buy and by some margin.
Pros & ConsPros- Normally heavily discounted in the sale
- Exceptional sound
Cons- Bulky
- Weak waterproofing
- 58/77
Nintendo
Switch OLED
It’s the wildly popular Nintendo Switch, but not as you know it. Well, pretty much exactly as you know it, only with a bigger seven-inch OLED screen for punchier and more accurate colours. In other words, the most important feature on this portable console just got a whole lot better. Whether you’re sneaking in 30 minutes with Metroid Dread on your commute or spending the umpteenth sofa-bound hour finessing your Animal Crossing village, this is the Switch you want.
Pros & ConsPros- Upgraded display visuals add depth and colour to your games
- Enhanced battery over older models
Cons- Rather bulky if you're hoping to travel with it
- 59/77
Gadgetmonster
Weather Station
We all know That Guy who is forever checking the weather app to announce that you're all about to enjoy a miserable walk home from the pub in the rain. Can't beat 'em? Make sure they're fully aware of the incoming climate at home with this dinky smart weather station. They'll get in-depth real-time tracking on temperatures, precipitation scales and more. Though we can't help them on securing a personality. Sorry about that.
Pros & ConsPros- Accurate time-sensitive data
Cons- No notes here, it's impressive in every way
- 60/77
Domyos
EL540 Elliptical
Some might be offended when unwrapping a cross trainer — they didn't gain that much weight over Christmas! — but if your giftee is hoping to stay clear of the January gym rush, then why not bring the iron paradise to them? Domyos' trainer is lithe so won't take up too much space in the spare bedroom, but has plenty of grit to smash through workouts, even if you're a beginner.
Pros & ConsPros- Plenty of built-in resistance to ramp up your fitness
Cons- Large, bulky design is tough to store
- 61/77
Panasonic
Multishape groomer
Panasonic's Multishape is the absolute Swiss Army Knife of the grooming world, with enough attachments to tidy up your whole daily routine from hair and beard to teeth and nose. Looking for a gadget that does it all? Combining an electric toothbrush, beard trimmer, razor, nose and ear hair trimmer all in one go, you'll never need another grooming gadget again. With detachable heads to help you navigate your daily tidy up and switch between cutting your ‘tache to cleaning your teeth in seconds. It’s got a marathon battery, a powerful motor and one of our favourite new gadgets of 2023.
Pros & ConsPros- Multiple attachments for cleaning teeth, shaving, clipping hair and trimming nose and ear hair
- Long-lasting battery
Cons- Weak-ish motor
- 62/77
Oura
Ring
The celebrity fitness tracker of choice, Oura’s ring sits stealthily on your chosen finger while keeping tabs on your heart rate, activity, sleep and loads more. It’s ideal if you know someone who’s already wedded to their mechanical watch but still obsesses over their gymbound PBs.
Pros & ConsPros- Great for tracking vitals
Cons- Fitness tracking isn't as detailed as a watch for activity specific data
- 63/77
Garmin
Marq II Golfer
Look, there’s no other way of saying this: most golf watches give off less of a major-winner vibe and more of that of a village putting green runner-up. So it’s a delight to see that Garmin has taken the task seriously with its latest Marq wearable, which is made from titanium with a bona fide ceramic bezel. As you’d expect, it’s got all the smarts you need (and plenty more) to help you improve your swing too.
Pros & ConsPros- Pinpoint accurate GPS tracking and global archive of every golf course for unparalleled guidance and data
- Durable, lightweight design is perfect for active users
Cons- Essentially a dedicated golfing watch which, while still working as a watch, is the best place for diehard golfers
- Very expensive for what it offers
- 64/77
Anker
Powerbank
First-world disasters include not having a sufficiently large following on TikTok, failing to sport some sort of smartwatch, and running out of charge on your smartphone. However, those problems can be a thing of the past with Anker's powerful portable charger. Arriving with USB and USB-C ports for multiple phones, you can get two full charges back on a standard iPhone, and it's small enough to slip right into your pocket.
Pros & ConsPros- Powerful bank for charging on the go
Cons- Fewer charges than in bigger models
- 65/77
Sonos
Roam
Pound for pound one of the best Bluetooth speakers you can buy, the Sonos Roam has been dominating the on-the-go music space for over a year now, and there’s little reason to believe it will be knocked off the top spot. The headline specs? It’s affordably priced, looks great, sounds even better, and is slender enough to slide into that little water bottle pocket you get on the side of your rucksack – perfect for one of those pumping EDM-filled hikes everyone pretends to love on dating apps.
Pros & ConsPros- Powerful 360-degree soundstage
- A long-lasting battery with a hardy chassis makes for a quality portable smart speaker
Cons- There're only a few bland colour options
- 66/77
Ruark
R2 Mk4
Who says radio is dead? Not us. Ruark's effortlessly stylish R2 Mk4 is exactly why the wireless simply will not be replaced, no matter how many Alexa-stuffed smart speakers you might buy. With a gorgeous finish that hides incredible smarts and solid drivers, this is a top-spec radio to wake up to each morning.
Pros & ConsPros- Gorgeous design from a heritage British brand that delivers genuine quality in build and sound
- SmartRadio tuner with internet radio/DAB/DAB+/FM, Spotify Connect and support for Deezer
Cons- It would be nice to have more colour options
- 67/77
Bowers & Wilkins
PX8
Anyone looking for a refined, bespoke listen to their favourite tunes will often turn an admiring eye to British brand Bowers & Wilkins for that silky-smooth, luxurious fit over their ears. Truth be told, they will definitely continue to do so, as the latest flagship PX8 series is the most comfortable set of cans we've ever tried, and they've got the sonic punch to guide you through Taylor Swift's discography with aplomb.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredibly comfortable Nappa leather cups and headband elevate it beyond your bog-standard headphones
- App control allows for EQ tweaks and impressive noise cancellation.
Cons- Not even a little bit weather-resistant
- Pricey and, unsurprisingly, very easy to damage
- 68/77
Ninja
3.8L Air Fryer and Dehydrator
Air fryers are popping off for all manner of energy-saving and wellness-related reasons, none of which would be remotely valid if this Ninja model weren’t capable of making a damn tasty meal. Consider this the rare kitchen gadget that’s not destined to sit unloved on a kitchen countertop all year long.
Pros & ConsPros- Plenty of cooking settings unlock plenty of culinary variety
- Affordably priced
- Capacious internal basin for lots of chips
Cons- Bland overall design and colourway
- 69/77
Apple
AirTags
Struggle to remember where you put your phone, wallet, keys, or literally anything else in your life? Sometimes it’s helpful to have Big Brother’s eye on your stuff. Apple’s AirTags are an affordable location-tracking device for iPhone owners, pinging the exact location (within a metre or two) of your misplaced gear straight to your handset. For Android users, you might consider the Galaxy Smart Tag alternative.
Pros & ConsPros- Accurate pinpoint GPS tracking
- Minimalist, small design is easy to attach to important gear
Cons- Best used with an Apple iPhone
- 70/77
Nothing
Phone 2
If your giftee is after a new handset, why not consider one of the most hyped new brands around that just so happens to be delightfully affordable? Nothing's Phone 2 is a properly good smartphone, powered by Android – so they will feel right at home if they've ever used a device from the likes of Samsung or Huawei. Its totally unique Glyph system is the real star here though, blasting pulses of light from the Phone 2's backside to give you a visual queue that someone's calling. It's a gadgetry gimmick that's hard to ignore but spectacularly cool to behold.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredibly fun Glyph pulses in time to notifications
- Eye-catching dot-matrix UI and engaging OS
Cons- Camera is mid
- 71/77
Waterpik
Cordless flosser
Tired of having to flick a bit of string between your teeth day and night to please your dentist? Concerned you're not getting the proper clean your mouth deserves? A jet-powered water flosser is the only way to improve your morning routine with a minimal amount of effort on your part. Firing a tiny blast of water along the gums will rinse out all the dirt that gets stuck in those hard-to-reach places to deliver the sort of shine your hygienist will be proud of.
Pros & ConsPros- USB recharging
- Blessedly quiet motor
- A range of floss tips are available to help clean dentures, braces or different mouth types
Cons- Only two pressure settings, which may not do enough for those with sensitive gums
- 72/77
Apple
iPad
There are few greater joys in life than reclining horizontally with the football come Boxing Day. Especially if can do so with a tablet while the kids hog the telly for themselves in (relative) silence. So if Apple’s latest iPad feels a little spenny for your tastes, then Back Market has you covered with this ninth-gen model from 2021. Its 10.2-inch screen provides ample binge-watching real estate, but consider grabbing an Apple Pencil stylus and Smart Keyboard in the process to really level up its creative capabilities.
Pros & ConsPros- Bright, punchy display is great for on-the-go gaming and bingeing
- Decent storage for apps and photos
Cons- The return of the finger scanner may put people off
- 73/77
Hydrow
Rower Pro
It's unlikely you'll be entering too many regattas any time soon, but if you fancy yourself a rower and can't make it back out on the water, then why not bring the boat to you with the Hydrow Rower? Built with performance in mind, it's got a Full HD display loaded with thousands of real-world workouts that put you digitally on the water for that racing feel. Concerned about the space in your home? It's 30% smaller than most other models and is a lot easier to store away. Win in our eyes.
Pros & ConsPros- Sleek design
- Convenience
Cons- Monthly subscription
- 74/77
Panasonic
Series 9000 Shaver
Looking for a professionally close shave in your own bathroom? Panasonic's 9000 electric shaver is one of the best we've used for smooth, clean skin with minimal fuss. Eradicate irritated skin and get smooth jaws and cheeks with this premium trimmer every time, with a rotating head for a comforting sweep across your face, with enough power to slice through the finest of hairs for silky skin every morning.
Pros & ConsPros- Superb performance
- Cleaning/charging stand
- Suitable for thick hair
Cons- May be bulky for some
- 75/77
Microsoft
Xbox Series S
One of the most affordable consoles on the market right now, the Xbox Series S also has the advantage of actually being available online. Unlike many of its siblings, the Series S doesn't sell out as quickly and still does everything any other Xbox would — just not in 4K. A bonus here is that it dovetails perfectly with Microsoft's Game Pass subscription service, which already counts Deathloop, Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 among its roster.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable mid-point to current-gen graphics
- Digital-only means less CD clutter in your home
Cons- Not the full-fat 4K next-gen gaming experience
- 76/77
Phillips
PerfectDraft Pro beer dispenser
Easily the best beer machine we've seen, this Pro dispenser rivals your local boozer for convenience. With automatic cooling that can be adjusted to suit the beer of choice, smart features to let you know when you're running out of lager, and the ability to order more right from the app, this should be your first choice every time.
Pros & ConsPros- Top-tier beer dispenser capable of pouring crisp, chilled draughts
- A huge range of compatible beer kegs is available
- Smartphone connectivity allows you to receive notifications when keg is running low
Cons- Extremely bulky
- 77/77
Guinness
Nitrosurge
If they simply love a good pint of Guinness, then boy do we have the gift for you. The Nitrosurge is a tiny, affordable gadget that transforms the standard at-home-poured pint of the black stuff from the mundane to the extra-special, releasing the built-up nitrogen in your cans for a supremely exciting sup.
Pros & ConsPros- Pours Guinness cans like a pub pint
Cons- Some argue perfect pint can also be poured with technique alone
What does “gadget” mean?
“Dreams about the future are always filled with gadgets” according to someone who probably knows quite a bit about tech in general, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and to be honest, he's spot on. Gadgets are what get us excited about the future and its possibilities, especially because there's a gadget to improve almost every aspect of your life these days.
The official meaning says “a gadget is a mechanical device or any ingenious article”, but nowadays it basically means anything with a bit of tech in it to help you order your food shopping intuitively, shave your face without hassle, enjoy a cup of coffee at the optimum temperature, or use smart voice robots to turn your heating up at home. Now, that all sounds a bit 2001: A Space Odyssey, but truly, we're in the golden era of gadgetry, and if you're of a mind to enjoy some tech-y gear, then the below should take your fancy.
How to research gadgets?
Why, you simply have to read this article, of course. There is a slew of useful tools and gadgets below that we've selected, from coffee machines to beard trimmers. When it comes to researching what you want, you probably need to narrow down your field of search so you're not overwhelmed with gizmos and tech that won't enrich your life (or only vaguely help you make an okay cup of coffee).
Once you know what tech gadgets you're after, we've got a tonne of guides to help you figure out whether you need a fresh pair of noise-cancelling headphones, a quality 4K TV, or a smart wearable device on your wrist to help you work out optimally. Looking for more gifts? We've got you covered. Check out our roundups of the best gifts for men, best gifts for women, best gifts for brothers and best gifts for sisters for advice on how to buy top presents for the whole family.
Birthdays, anniversaries and general seasonal gifting opportunities can feel overwhelming if you're stuck for something to get your giftee this year, but there's no need to rush into buying something they are almost certainly going to return when you're not looking. Our shopping editors are clued up on exactly what you need to buy for a loved one, family member or mate for all occasions, even if the below gadget options don't quite scratch that itch.
MORE GIFT GUIDES…
Best Advent calendars | Best alcohol Advent calendars | Best beer Advent calendars | Best whisky Advent calendars | Best gifts for women | Best gifts for men | Best gifts for mums | Best gifts for dads | Best high-end gifts | Best gifts for girlfriends | Best gifts for boyfriends | Best gifts for friends | Best hampers | Best gifts for wives | Best gifts for husbands | Best gifts for sisters | Best gifts for brothers | Best gifts for teens | Best food gifts | Best unusual gifts for men | Best male masturbators