Are you tired of the same old gadget gift guides, filled with impersonal, overpriced tech that ends up gathering dust? Imagine bringing a friend from Italy to endless Italian restaurants – thoughtful in intention, perhaps, but missing the mark entirely. The author of this original gift guide experienced just that, realizing that gadget lovers, much like our hypothetical Italian friend craving something beyond pasta, often appreciate gifts that go beyond the typical tech offerings. This isn’t your average Wirecutter Gift Guide, but it’s inspired by the same spirit of thoughtful recommendation, digging deeper to find presents that truly resonate.
Instead of defaulting to the latest laser printer (seriously, who gifts a printer?), let’s explore a curated selection of gifts that prioritize thoughtfulness, uniqueness, and a touch of magic. These aren’t just gadgets; they are conversation starters, memory makers, and items that will be cherished long after the holiday season. Forget impersonal big-box tech; we’re diving into a world of gifts that are weird, cozy, timeless, fancy, and genuinely memorable – perfect for the gadget enthusiast in your life, or anyone who appreciates a truly special present.
This guide, drawing inspiration from the original article’s categories and expanding on the concept of thoughtful gifting, offers a Wirecutter-esque approach to finding presents that are anything but ordinary. Let’s move beyond the predictable and discover gifts that will evoke a little bit of wonder.
Singing Gifts: Harmonious Tech and Melodic Moments
Music transcends mere technology; it’s a deeply personal and emotional experience. Gifting music-related items is like sharing a piece of your soul, offering moments of joy and connection. These “singing gifts” blend technology with the soulful essence of music, creating harmonious presents.
Jawbone Jambox Bluetooth Speaker, $130. While this might be the most conventional “gadget” on this list, the Jambox remains a fantastic gift for its blend of sound quality, portability, and aesthetic appeal. It’s a Wirecutter favorite for a reason. Its versatility allows it to fill any space with music, from the bathroom to the kitchen counter. Compatible with Bluetooth and minijack, it works seamlessly with phones, computers, and MP3 players, ensuring anyone can easily enjoy their favorite tunes.
Jawbone Jambox Bluetooth speaker in red, positioned on a wooden surface, showcasing its compact design and portability, ideal for music lovers on the go.
Dieter Rams SK5 Phonosuper Record Player, $875. Moving beyond pure functionality, the Dieter Rams SK5 is a design masterpiece. More than just a record player, it’s a statement piece of “fancy nerd furniture.” Designed by the legendary Dieter Rams in the late 50s and early 60s, this vintage piece is a testament to timeless design, appealing to both audiophiles and design enthusiasts. Finding a working model is part of the gift itself, a treasure hunt for a unique and stylish piece of audio history.
Dieter Rams SK5 Phonosuper record player, a vintage audio device with a transparent dust cover, highlighting its minimalist and iconic mid-century modern design.
Rdio Streaming Music Service, $25 for a few months. In a world of fleeting physical gifts, the gift of experience holds lasting value. A subscription to a music streaming service like Rdio (or Spotify, or Apple Music) opens up a universe of musical discovery. It’s a practical yet thoughtful gift, especially for music lovers who haven’t yet embraced streaming. Rdio’s (or Spotify’s collaborative features) allow users to share music discoveries with friends, making it a socially connected gift. While specific services may change over time, the concept of gifting access to a vast music library remains timeless.
Screenshot of the Rdio music streaming service interface, showcasing its user-friendly design and social music sharing features, emphasizing the gift of musical exploration.
Pocket Piano, $175. For the musically inclined or those who simply enjoy playful experimentation, the Pocket Piano is a unique and engaging gift. This handmade, six-mode synth in a wooden case encourages musical exploration, regardless of skill level. Its quirky sounds and tactile nature make it a fun and unconventional way to create music. “Beeeep, Beeeep, Booop” – music making becomes accessible and delightfully chaotic with this pocket-sized instrument.
Pocket Piano synthesizer, a small wooden electronic instrument with colorful buttons, emphasizing its handmade and playful musical creation capabilities.
Balloon Speaker, $45. Injecting a dose of whimsy into audio, the Balloon Speaker is a conversation starter and a fun way to amplify music. Its playful design and unexpected functionality make it a memorable and lighthearted gift. While not for audiophiles seeking pristine sound, it’s perfect for adding a touch of fun to casual listening. “Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!” – the sound of playful audio.
Red Balloon Speaker, a spherical audio device resembling a balloon, highlighting its whimsical design and unique approach to sound amplification.
Trumpet Kazoo, $19. For the musically humorous, the Trumpet Kazoo is the ultimate novelty gift. Made by the last metal kazoo maker in America, it’s a quirky and amusing present for anyone with a sense of fun and a desire to channel their inner Miles Davis (of the kazoo, of course). Guaranteed to be the most annoying – and therefore, perhaps the best – gift for the person who appreciates playful absurdity.
Trumpet Kazoo, a metal kazoo shaped like a trumpet, showcasing its novelty design and humorous musical potential as a quirky gift.
Fancy Gifts That Improve With Age: Timeless Style and Enduring Quality
In contrast to the often-disposable nature of modern gadgets, gifts that age gracefully offer a sense of timelessness and enduring quality. Leather, wood, and other natural materials develop character over time, becoming more beautiful with use. These “fancy gifts” are investments in lasting style and personal connection.
Pendleton iPad Case, $68. Blending technology with cozy, Southwestern style, the Pendleton iPad Case is a tactile and visually appealing gift. Its wool and fuzzy texture offers both protection and a unique aesthetic. It’s a statement piece that elevates the everyday gadget, transforming a clinical device into something warm and personal. The “crazy, cozy, fuzzy and southwestern” design stands out from typical tech accessories.
Pendleton iPad case with a Southwestern pattern, showcasing its wool texture and unique design that combines style with device protection.
Hard Graft Heritage Phone Case, $74. For a touch of understated luxury and timeless design, the Hard Graft Heritage Phone Case is an excellent choice. Crafted from wool felt with leather accents, it combines premium materials with functional design, including a card holder. Its enduring style and quality materials make it a gift that will be appreciated for years. This “favorite iPhone case design” is a step above the ordinary, a self-gift often forgone due to cost, making it a perfect present.
Hard Graft Heritage Phone Case, a wool felt and leather iPhone case with a minimalist design, emphasizing its premium materials and sophisticated style.
Wooden iPhone JackBack, $129. Transform the feel of an iPhone with the Wooden iPhone JackBack. Made from walnut, it adds a natural warmth and tactile quality to the sleek device. Easy to install and customizable with etching, it’s a gift that enhances the user experience and adds a personal touch. Walnut is highlighted as “the best color,” emphasizing the aesthetic choice for this unique phone modification.
Wooden iPhone JackBack in walnut, attached to an iPhone, highlighting the natural wood texture and how it enhances the phone's feel and appearance.
Hold Fast MoneyMaker Dual Camera Straps, $175. For the photographer who carries two cameras, the Hold Fast MoneyMaker Dual Camera Straps are a practical and stylish gift. Like “suspenders for cameras,” they distribute weight comfortably and securely. Crafted from high-quality leather, they combine functionality with a rugged, classic aesthetic. This professional-grade accessory is a thoughtful gift for serious photography enthusiasts.
Hold Fast MoneyMaker Dual Camera Straps, a leather harness designed to hold two cameras, showcasing its professional quality and practical design for photographers.
Hard Graft Flatpack Driftwood Bag, $265. A versatile and durable bag, the Hard Graft Flatpack Driftwood Bag is crafted from leather and suede, designed to last for decades. It can accommodate a small camera, laptop, or tablet, making it ideal for everyday carry or travel. Its timeless design and high-quality materials ensure it will age beautifully, becoming a cherished item passed down through generations. The bag’s quality is so high, it’s suggested “your grandkids will fight over who gets to keep it.”
Hard Graft Flatpack Driftwood Bag, a leather and suede bag with a stylish and durable design, emphasizing its versatility and long-lasting quality.
Vintage Sony Flip Clock, $25. Embrace retro charm with a Vintage Sony flip clock. These Eames-era clocks feature a wood case and analog internals, emitting a gentle hum and a satisfying click each minute. More than just a time-telling device, it’s a piece of nostalgic design that adds character to any space. Finding one at an estate sale adds to its unique appeal, a gift with a story.
Vintage Sony flip clock with a wooden case, highlighting its retro design and the nostalgic charm of its analog display.
6-ounce Steel Flask, five pack for $13. Practical and humorous, a five-pack of 6-ounce steel flasks is a gift that acknowledges the realities of flask ownership – they tend to get lost. Basic and functional, the value lies in what you fill them with. The “funny gift” aspect is highlighted by the acknowledgment that “if you’re using these correctly you’ll be losing them left and right.”
Five 6-ounce steel flasks, arranged to showcase their simple and functional design, emphasizing their practicality as a gift for sharing or personal use.
Handy Dandy Hand Strap, $40. For photographers seeking comfort and security, the Handy Dandy Hand Strap is a practical and luxurious accessory. Made from high-quality leather, it provides a secure grip on cameras, preventing drops and adding a touch of elegance to their gear. The “nicest leather camera hand strap” is presented as a worthwhile upgrade for any photographer.
Leather camera hand strap, showcasing its craftsmanship and practical design for securely holding a camera, emphasizing comfort and style.
Light and Heat Makers: Gifts of Warmth and Illumination
Gifts that provide warmth and light hold a special significance during the winter holidays. They symbolize care, comfort, and well-being, offering both practical utility and emotional resonance. These “light and heat makers” are gifts that literally and figuratively brighten someone’s life.
Windmill Delta Stormproof Lighter, $37. For the outdoorsy or prepared individual, the Windmill Delta Stormproof Lighter is a reliable and durable tool. Windproof up to 80mph and capable of burning for 30 minutes per fill, it’s designed for challenging conditions. Paired with a waterproof match kit, it’s a gift of preparedness and resilience. Its stormproof capabilities are emphasized, making it a practical gift for adventurers.
Windmill Delta Stormproof Lighter, a rugged lighter designed for outdoor use, highlighting its durability and windproof flame in a challenging environment.
Vintage Edison Lightbulbs, $8. Transform any lamp with the warm, romantic glow of Vintage Edison Lightbulbs. These bulbs evoke a sense of nostalgia and create a cozy ambiance. More than just light sources, they are decorative elements that enhance the atmosphere of any room. They “transform any lamp into a warm, romantic version of itself,” emphasizing their aesthetic impact.
Vintage Edison lightbulbs, showcasing their warm, amber glow and intricate filament design, emphasizing their decorative and nostalgic appeal.
Zojirushi Electric Kettle, $119. Practical and efficient, the Zojirushi Electric Kettle is a gift that simplifies daily routines. Faster than stovetop kettles and ideal for tea, coffee, and instant noodles, it’s a versatile kitchen appliance. The timer function adds convenience, ensuring hot water is ready on demand. Its practicality in “home offices” is also highlighted, expanding its appeal beyond just home kitchens.
Zojirushi Electric Kettle, a sleek electric kettle with a digital display, showcasing its modern design and convenient features for heating water quickly and efficiently.
Zippo Hand Warmer, $14. Combat winter chills with the Zippo Hand Warmer. Using lighter fluid, it provides up to 12 hours of warmth, perfect for cold weather activities or simply staying cozy. Despite its fuel-based operation, it’s described as safe and effective, with “a lot of good reviews.” Its long-lasting warmth is the key selling point, making it a practical winter gift.
Zippo Hand Warmer, a small metallic hand warmer being held in a hand, highlighting its compact size and its ability to provide warmth in cold conditions.
Cubix Lamp, $70. A minimalist and adjustable light source, the Cubix Lamp is crafted from oak and features layers that can be adjusted to control light output. Its small size makes it ideal for desks or bedside tables. Suggesting a “set of two” enhances its gifting appeal, making it a stylish and functional home accessory.
Cubix Lamp, a small oak lamp with adjustable layers, showcasing its minimalist design and customizable light output for a desk or bedside table.
Crazy Sweater, $231. Embrace winter warmth and playful style with a “crazy sweater.” While the example is a high-end option, the concept is adaptable to various budgets. A warm, wool sweater with a unique design is a cozy and thoughtful gift. Paired with Warby Parker glasses, it creates a complete stylish and warm winter look. The example of a Macintosh team member wearing a similar sweater adds a touch of geek chic appeal.
Crazy Sweater, a colorful and patterned sweater, showcasing its bold design and warmth as a stylish and cozy winter gift option.
Strange (or Japanese) Gifts: Unexpected Wonders and Whimsical Delights
Gifts that are unusual, rare, or extravagant hold a unique charm. They are often items people wouldn’t buy for themselves, making them delightful surprises. These “strange (or Japanese)” gifts embrace whimsy, pushing the boundaries of conventional gifting with a touch of delightful absurdity.
Instant Rainbow Projector, $20. Bring a touch of magic indoors with an Instant Rainbow Projector. This whimsical gadget projects rainbows onto walls, creating a cheerful and unexpected ambiance. It’s a simple yet delightful gift that adds a touch of wonder to any space. The “instant rainbow projector” speaks for itself – a gift of pure joy and visual delight.
Instant Rainbow Projector, a small device projecting a rainbow onto a surface, highlighting its whimsical nature and ability to create colorful indoor displays.
Fuji Instax 7s Instant Camera, $147 (including 5 packs of film). In the digital age, the Fuji Instax 7s Instant Camera offers a nostalgic and tangible photography experience. The fun of instant photos and the lack of practical necessity are precisely what make it appealing. It encourages spontaneous creativity and provides physical keepsakes in a digital world. The inclusion of “5 packs of film” emphasizes the ready-to-use nature of the gift.
Fuji Instax 7s Instant Camera, a colorful instant camera in hand, showcasing its retro design and the fun of instant film photography for tangible memories.
Wooden Voice Recorder, $48. Combining natural materials with technology, the Wooden Voice Recorder is a unique and tactile gadget. Designed by Richard Upchurch, it features simple controls for recording and playback, with a knob for adjusting speed. Its wooden casing adds a warm and organic feel to a digital device. The design by Richard Upchurch adds a touch of designer credibility to this unusual item.
Wooden Voice Recorder, a small wooden device with buttons and a knob, highlighting its natural material and simple functionality for recording and playing back audio.
ArduCopter Kit, $589. For the tech enthusiast who loves a project, the ArduCopter Kit is a build-it-yourself flying drone. Capable of hovering and filming with an optional camera, it’s more than just a toy. It offers a hands-on building experience and the reward of creating a functional and impressive gadget. Its wind resistance sets it apart from simpler toy drones, emphasizing its capability.
ArduCopter drone kit components, laid out to showcase the parts needed to build a drone, highlighting the DIY and tech-enthusiast appeal of this gift.
Cardboard Animal Masks, $20. Playful and whimsical, Cardboard Animal Masks offer a dose of imaginative fun. While sized for kids, they can still bring out the inner child in adults. These masks are perfect for parties, photo booths, or simply adding a touch of silliness to everyday life. Despite being “only meant to fit kids…Drat,” the playful appeal for adults remains.
Cardboard Animal Masks, a set of animal masks made from cardboard, showcasing their playful designs and appeal as fun, imaginative gifts.
Sony HMZ-T1 Personal 3D Viewing Headset, $999. For the ultimate in immersive entertainment, the Sony HMZ-T1 Personal 3D Viewing Headset is an extravagant and over-the-top gift. A personal 3D cinema experience, it’s a gadget few would buy for themselves due to its price and single-user nature. Its “nonsense but wonderful nonsense” quality makes it a memorable and unique gift for tech enthusiasts who appreciate the extreme.
Sony HMZ-T1 Personal 3D Viewing Headset, a futuristic-looking headset designed for personal 3D viewing, emphasizing its immersive and high-tech entertainment experience.
Portable Super Nintendo, $80. Tap into nostalgia with a Portable Super Nintendo. This handheld console allows you to play classic SNES games on the go, fulfilling the childhood dreams of gamers everywhere. It’s a gift that combines retro gaming with modern portability, offering hours of nostalgic fun. The imaginative scenario of a 13-year-old’s head exploding at the idea highlights the nostalgic appeal.
Portable Super Nintendo, a handheld gaming console playing a Super Nintendo game, showcasing its portability and appeal to retro gaming enthusiasts.
Milkshake Maker, $30. For the milkshake aficionado, a dedicated Milkshake Maker is a delightfully specific and slightly absurd gift. While a blender can make milkshakes, this appliance is solely dedicated to the task, adding a touch of fun and single-purpose dedication to milkshake creation. Its single-purpose nature – “you can’t use this milkshake maker to make anything but milkshakes” – is its quirky charm.
Milkshake Maker, a classic milkshake maker with a metal cup, highlighting its retro design and dedicated function for creating milkshakes.
Feather Mobile, $48. Delicate and artistic, the Feather Mobile is a beautiful and unusual decorative gift. Handmade from goose feathers by LAtelier dexercices and designed by TiO, it’s a piece of mobile art that adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to any space. Its handcrafted nature and delicate materials make it a unique and thoughtful gift.
Feather Mobile, a hanging mobile made of delicate white feathers, showcasing its artistic design and light, airy aesthetic as a decorative gift.
Yoshida The Crow Model Airplane, $25. For the aviation enthusiast or model builder, the Yoshida The Crow Model Airplane is a historically inspired and engaging gift. Based on an 1889 design that studied crow wingspans, it’s a model airplane kit with a story. Building and displaying it offers a connection to aviation history and a hands-on crafting experience. The historical inspiration from crow wingspans adds an intriguing backstory.
Yoshida The Crow Model Airplane kit, showcasing the wooden parts and design of the model airplane, emphasizing its historical inspiration and buildable nature.
Secret Passageway Book Switch, $50. Inject a bit of playful intrigue with a Secret Passageway Book Switch. This hidden switch disguised as a book adds a touch of mystery and fun to home décor. It’s a conversation starter and a unique gadget that appeals to those who appreciate hidden details and playful design. “Secret passageway book switch!” – the name itself evokes a sense of playful mystery.
Secret Passageway Book Switch, a book that cleverly hides a switch, showcasing its disguised design and playful functionality as a hidden gadget.
Bismuth Chunk, $6. For the scientifically curious and aesthetically appreciative, a Bismuth Chunk is an unusual and visually stunning gift. Bismuth’s iridescent, crystalline structure is described with poetic flair, contrasting its low market value with its inherent wonder. It’s a gift of natural beauty and scientific curiosity, a “geological, physical, emotional and spiritual invert of coal.”
Bismuth Chunk, a colorful, iridescent crystalline chunk of bismuth, highlighting its unique geological formation and visually striking appearance.
This Wirecutter-inspired gift guide moves beyond the typical gadget recommendations, offering a curated selection of thoughtful, unique, and memorable presents. From musical instruments to vintage design pieces, from cozy comforts to whimsical oddities, these gifts are chosen to evoke emotion, spark conversation, and be cherished for years to come. So, ditch the generic gadget gift guide and embrace the art of thoughtful giving – your friends (and especially your gadget-loving friends) will thank you for it.
ONWARD TO THE NEXT AND FINAL SECTION: ENHANCERS OR FIXERS, BOOKS, GIFTS FOR AN INSTANT and DISCONNECTORS
