I’m not sure about you, but Christmas really snuck up on me this year. It’s only a week away! (Eep!) But that’s one of the reasons I love tech–when you’re scrambling to find great gifts, they’re available to ship now, or even to pick up at the store with just a few hours to spare.
That’s where our sponsor Best Buy comes in. It just so happens they’re fully stocked with some of our own favorite tech gifts from affordable treats to big splurges, including plenty we’ve recommended on our own 2013 Tech Holiday Gift Guide. Plus you can grab every one of them online, at your local store, or even shipped it to your store so you can pick it up yourself. Either way, we’re guessing these cool ideas will make the people left on your gift list very happy without any inkling that they were purchased with days to spare.
I won’t tell, promise. -Kristen
Google Chromecast ($29.99)
You can’t beat a gadget that lets you stream all your favorite music, movies, and more from your smart phone, tablet or laptop to a big screen TV for under $30. Plus, it fits right in your pocket. Or a stocking. Hint, hint.
Beats Wireless Headphones ($279.99)
These continue to be among the best headphones on the market. If you’re shopping for a music lover, a frequent traveler, or just someone you really, really like, trust me these will make them squeal.
Sony ZX Series Over-Ear Headphones ($19.99)
If you’re looking to spend a wee bit less, these are terrific headphones from a stellar brand at remarkably good price.Great for a frequent traveler, or a tween/teen who will be excited to get a “real” pair of headphones.
GoPro Hero 3 ($299.99)
As much as I love my Hero 2, the Hero 3 might be on every shutterbug or active person’s holiday wish list, whether they know it yet or not. It’s slim, sleek, and WIFI-enabled, which means photos taken from the slopes or surf can be sent in a snap to friends and family making them jealous in only a matter of seconds.
Nintendo 2DS ($129.99)
My daughter has actually retired her 3DS for her new 2DS, which she says is much easier to use, though not necessarily as compact (if you’re wondering the difference). We parents–er Santa–like the pricetag.
Lenovo Yoga Ultrabook Touchscreen Laptop ($899.99)
This flip and fold laptop is genius for travelers, students, or those who call the local coffee shop their home office. At only 3.3 pounds with a 4GB memory and easy set-up, it’s one of my favorite computers of the year. Plus there are 12 special offers on it right now if you click over stat.
Sonos Play 1 ($199.99)
I’m hard pressed to find another bluetooth speaker system that’s as amazing and affordable as the Sonos Play 1. You’ll be wowed at the sound quality without having to clear off a shelf to make room. If you already have the speakers and are ready to take it to the next level, check out the Sonos Playbar, Sub, and Connect Amp Package ($1899, shown at top). This package with the media-enhancing Playbar and the terrific Sub subwoofer will make an audiophile’s holiday. Big time.
Samsung S4 Active ($49.99 with 2-year contract)
A smart phone can be a pretty personal gift (at least in my opinion, anyway), but if you know someone who’s shopping for a new phone, the S4 is my favorite Android. The Active version is even more awesome because it’s waterproof even with a case. So brilliant for parents. Or teens. Or anyone, really.
Nabi 2 Tablet 8GB ($179.99)
I’ve had my eye on this excellent first tablet for grade-schoolers, ever since we first featured it here on Cool Mom Tech. I’m impressed with how kid-friendly it is but still usable by grown-ups with the full power of an Android tablet and all the bells and whistles you’d want. That means they won’t be ditching it to steal your own tablet anytime soon. As a parent, I can assure you that is a holiday gift in and of itself.
Thanks to our sponsor Best Buy for making it really easy to get our last minute shopping without feeling guilty that we’re uh, doing last minute shopping.
