Do you need a present for a geek right now! Well, you do not have much time left. Christmas is in days. What can you run out and get right now since Amazon does not have enough time to get it to you before the big day?
Here we go on a quick trip of tech gift ideas which do not cost too much. All of them can be found around town in different stores…if you hurry.
How about a thumb drive for your tech friend to store portable files on? Or in the case of people whose cars have a USB port in the radio, they can load their music to it and listen as they drive about town. I have seen and purchased 64 GB ones locally for $9.99. Depending on how they have compressed the song files that thumb drive could hold an estimated 10,000 to 18,000 songs. They can also be used to store duplicate files from the My Documents or any other folders on their computer.
Now a suggestion from Google. If you have a Chromecast you know how well they operate. They basically give you the ability to broadcast anything to your TV from your phone or computer. If your friends have a Smart TV you already have many of the features. But if not, all you need is a HDMI port on your TV and you are set. The retail price is $35.
Next how about a surge suppressor? You have seen your friend’s desktop computer with everything plugged directly into the wall. You know that sooner or later there will be a power spike of some sort that ruins his system. Get a surge suppressor with several outlets and also ports for USB cables. For anywhere from $12 to $50 you can save them a bundle.
Everyone can use an additional USB charging cable. People have phones, MP3 players, watches and many other devices that use them. They get lost and even wear out over time. There are many different types of connectors on the other end of the USB cable, so make sure you find the correct one. Depending on the type I have seen them this week from six dollars to $15.
How about a Tablet? If your friend does not have one and wants to try one out now is the time. How about for you kids and grandkids? Just do not let them be on it all the time. I found one for mine at $40. In this price range the resolution is not that great for reading. But the kids are playing games and they are fine for gaming. I did see some quite serviceable ones for $80 that I would easily consider. Of course, tablets get better and better for up to the $300 range. These good prices are for Android devices only. Windows and Apple products will cost significantly more.
Now I have recommended all of these gifts for your friends. But let us be honest…these can be gifts for you too! Either way, have a very Merry Christmas!
