Electronics are generally a top item on most people’s Christmas list, but the latest gadgets often cost you an arm and a leg. What do you buy for your techie spouse or child when your budget is limited to $100? We’ve rounded up this list of seven ideas to get your gears turning.
1.) Garmin nüvi 30 3.5-inch Portable GPS Navigator – $99.99
Gone are the days of asking for directions and jotting them down on paper. This 3.5” GPS device gives step-by-step directions which are spoken aloud by an automated voice. Its touchscreen interface makes entering a destination easy, and its memory is loaded with maps for the United States and Canada. Other features include a speed limit indicator to tell you the limit on most major roads, an emergency locator in case you get lost, and lane assist to help you know which lane you’ll need to make a turn or get off an exit.
2.) uNu Power DX-1700B External Battery Case for iPhone – $39.99
As amazing as iPhones are, it seems like they’re constantly running out of battery when you need it most. The uNu is a perfection solution, protecting your phone from drops and scratches, while simultaneously recharging a dead battery. There are four LED lights on the back to conveniently keep you updated on its battery status. The case is compatible with both the iPhone 4 and 4s.
3.) The Kindle – $79.00
Amazon recently released an even smaller and lighter version of its popular e-reader, yet still managed to reduce the price. It weighs in a less than 6 oz and is compact enough to be thrown in your purse. The Kindle is a wiser choice than ever now that it can be used to electronically check out books from thousands of local libraries. The tradeoff is that you will sometimes have to view “screensaver” ads. The Nook Simple Touch is a great option as well, and although it comes in a little higher ($99), you won’t have to deal with the ads.
4.) Livescribe Smartpen – $100
This amazing gadget allows you to take school or work notes on a special paper, then upload them to your computer. Current owners rave about its convenience, and especially love that the pen has the ability to record lectures while they write. It’s a little wider than the average pen, but it’s more than worth the tradeoff. Software can be purchased separately to transcribe the recordings into text.
5.) Vizio Sound Bar – $112.50
Many people want the sound quality of theater sound systems, but don’t have the budget (or space) for expensive speakers. Enter the VSB200: A long speaker that is exactly what its name implies – a bar. You can set it in front of your TV without compromising viewing and it provides excellent sound that is surprisingly comparable to surround sound.
6.) Samsung Blu-Ray Player with Wi-Fi – $92.44
To keep up with the constantly improving image quality of movies, in addition to popular streaming services, you’ll need a blu-ray player that’s wi-fi ready. The Samsung BD-5300 offers quick start-up and loading time, wireless capabilities, and Samsung’s Allshare, which allows you to sync up with your other digital media devices and get music, movies, and pictures right on your TV screen. Keep in mind however, in order to take full advantage of the wi-fi streaming option, you will need to purchase an adapter separately.
7.) Audioengine AW2 Premium Wireless Adapter for iPod – $119
Plug this small adapter into the bottom of your iPod, iPhone, or iPod and you can send its music straight to your stereo. Referred to as the “dockless dock”, you can now have the same capabilities of your old iPod dock without having the clutter. It can work anywhere in the house, making it easy to turn music on and off from the other room.
While the latest technology usually comes with a high price tag, there are lots of options available for a smaller budget as well. Checking accessories for gadgets your recipient already owns is a great way to find a less-costly item they’ll love.
About the Author
Brandon Mercury is a writer for InGoodMeasure.net. He grew up on the beaches of the Deep South before moving to the mountain tops of Salt Lake City. He focuses his writing on home improvement and interior design topics. Brandon is an avid football and basketball fan. You can find Brandon on Google+
