The Best Tech Gifts Under $100 for Christmas 2016

Dec 04, 2016 08:10 AM EST

With Christmas coming in a little over three weeks' time, it is best to purchase presents way before the holiday rush where stores are filled with avid and time-constrained shoppers. For the gadget savvy relative or friend, it can be particularly difficult to choose a present from the wide variety of options.

Tech gifts always have the reputation of being pricey, but many are not and do not have to be. Here we've compiled a list of under-$100 tech gifts. Surely, these won't break the bank:

1. Amazon Echo Dot: $50

Amazon Echo Dot is an all-around 'smart' speaker run by an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered assistant named Alexa. It is a small device packed with so much features, ranging from the automatic building of playlists just with the user saying out song names, to the setting of alarms and reminders with Alexa saying out loud when these schedules are due. It is the perfect companion for busy people who want an instant virtual assistant.

2. Incase Diamond Wire Slim Sleeve for Apple MacBook: $60

For MacBook owners, this slim sleeve is a well thought-of present as it features sturdy fiber wirings that protect the laptop in cases of weather, altitude and pressure changes. It is also made with light materials making it easy to pack around backpacks when traveling.

3. Logitech G Pro Gaming Mouse: $69.99

For gaming fans, this Logitech mouse is a big giveaway as gaming mouses usually start at $300. It is light and has adjustable movement sensitivity features depending on the user's feel for speed and mouse weight. Adjustments are also saved in the computer so the gamer does not have to keep on readjusting every time the laptop or PC is turned off.

4. Nomad Key for iPhone: $20

Nomad Key is a smart innovation based on a simple idea initially launched on Indiegogo. It is a lightning-to-USB cable attached to a keychain, making it easier for Apple users to charge and connect to computers whenever they need to. It is a common problem for Apple users to find cables once they leave theirs at home, as cables are different per device and far off from Android devices.

5. Skullcandy Ink'd Wireless Earbuds: $38

This is one of the most affordable and reliable Bluetooth-powered wireless earbuds around. It is lightweight, offers good sound quality, and has a lasting battery. It is also very stylish with many designs and colors to choose from.