You’ve made a list. You’ve checked it twice. You still have no idea what to buy for the IT pro in your life.
You’re a tech fiend who can’t think of a single toy to ask for this year.
No matter which scenario you relate to, you’re in luck: The TrainSignal team is made up of people who drool over devices and get nerdy about software. Check out these 12 TrainSignal-approved items to kick off your holiday shopping:
Under $100
LED Binary Clock
Why buy? This clock forces you to become an expert on binary or else…or else you won’t be able to read the time.
Cost: $24.99-29.99 on ThinkGeek.com
Sennheiser Chargeable Wireless Headphones
Why buy? Hook these headphones up to a computer, stereo, TV, DVD player or other device and someone can roam free around the house without anyone knowing they’re listening to David Hasselhoff’s Christmas album (yes, it exists).
Cost: $99.95 on Amazon
IKEA Lack Side Table
Why buy? Sure, this looks like a standard side table, but IT pros won’t see it that way. With a simple DIY project, crafty types can mount up to 8U of standard 19-inch hardware beneath it, following these easy instructions.
Cost: $9.99 at IKEA
Apple TV
Why buy? For people who hole up in their home offices watching everything on their computers, this device allows them to stream their favorite TVs shows, movies and more to a TV, so they can rejoin the rest of humanity in the living room.
Cost: $99 on Apple.com (Note: for non-Apple fans, direct your attention to the Roku.)
$100-$150
UP by Jawbone
Why buy? This little wristband marries fitness with technology by tracking sleep patterns, activity, moods, meals and more through an app. It even has an alarm that reminds its user to get up and moving.
Cost: $129.00 at Jawbone.com
$150-$200
Sky WiFi Smartpen
Why buy? Forget Post-It notes. This smartpen makes it simple to take notes, either written or audio, that sync to a user’s Evernote account, computer or device.
Cost: $169.95-$249.95 (2 GB-8GB)
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X6 Upgrade
Why buy? For people who aren’t professional designers but want to try their hand at creating logos, web layouts and more, this software makes it easy to experiment and learn.
Cost: $166.99 on Amazon
Magic Cube
Why buy? Because it really is like magic! This laser-projection keyboard works anywhere with a flat surface and is compatible with most devices using iOS, Android and Windows products.
Cost: $169.99 on Ceullon.com
Electric Quilt 7
Why buy? This isn’t your grandma’s quilting software. Scan fabrics or select photos and layout a quilt design all from a computer.
Cost: $189.95 on Amazon
Striiv Smart Pedometer
Why buy? IT professionals spend much of their workday desk-bound. This fitness gadget is all about motivation to get moving. It lets users compete against each other, set personal goals, participate in virtual walkathons and play games.
Cost: $99.95 on Striiv.com
$200+
Nest Thermostat
Why buy? Tech geeks will get a kick out of this energy-saving thermostat that allows its owners to set it via their smartphones. It also learns patterns and can detect when no one is home to set temps accordingly.
Cost: $249 on Store.Nest.com
Microsoft Surface
Why buy? If you haven’t seen commercials for the Microsoft Surface yet, congratulations. You’re the only person in America who hasn’t. The buzz around these tablets alone make them gift-worthy.
Cost: Starting at $499 on Surface.Microsoftstore.com
Still not sold on these gifts? When in doubt, go for for a gift card: ThinkGeek, Google Play and iTunes are always a safe bet. We also love ThisIsWhyImBroke.com and this list of 10 holiday gifts for sysadmins from our friends at Petri for more ideas.
Discussion