The past year has been rough. COVID-19’s impact on the world cannot be understated. Socializing, work, leisure: the way we look at all of it has changed. That said, life still goes on, and events like birthdays, holidays and anniversaries help people retain some sense of normalcy. And if you have a special occasion coming up, you should go ahead and order a gift if you haven’t already! Finding the perfect gift can be difficult, but some ideal tech gifts would be great for your loved ones, especially during the lockdown.

1. A VPN Subscription

Source: cnet.com

A VPN, short for “Virtual Private Network,” is a service that encrypts all data that the user’s device sends out on any network. In other words, a VPN allows users to establish an encrypted connection.

With it, the recipient will be able to stay secure on any network and will be able to keep their data encrypted at all times. Along with extra security, a VPN will also allow them to watch content only available in other countries thanks to its ability to connect to servers all around the world.

2. A Subscription to an Online Gaming Service

Source: littlelioness.net

Both PlayStation and Xbox require an online subscription to PlayStation Plus and Xbox Live, respectively, to play online. And there’s nothing more than a gaming friend or family member will appreciate more than a free few months tacked onto their subscription(s).

With a subscription, they not only will be able to play games online, but they’ll also be able to get free games, extra perks, and more. When in doubt, get them an extension on their subscriptions!

3. A Modern Turntable

Source: vinyloftheday.com

If the person you’re buying a gift for loves music and just so happens to collect types of vinyl of their favorite albums, then you can’t go wrong with getting them a turntable.

Why would someone need a turntable? Well, vinyl has a signature sound that streaming services and regular CDs can’t match. Therefore, getting your friend or a family member a turntable to go with their vinyl’s means granting them a new way to experience the music they love.

4. A New Pair of Headphones

Source: nytimes.com

If your music-obsessed loved one doesn’t collect vinyl’s, however, you could always get them a new pair of headphones. After all, who doesn’t love headphones?

With a good set of headphones, your loved one will be set for a long time. All you need to do is figure out what type of headphones you should get them. Do they exercise often? If so, you could get them in-ear headphones designed around exercise. Are they surrounded by loud noises often, like kids or an office? Get them a pair of headphones designed around canceling noise.

5. The Ember Smart Mug

Source: hgtv.com

Do any of your family or friends drink coffee? Do they like to sip on said coffee throughout the day and complain that it gets too cold too quickly? If you said yes to these questions, then get them an Ember smart mug!

The Ember Smart Mug (version 2) allows the user to set the perfect temperature for their coffee. The 10oz version will maintain the chosen temperature for up to one and a half hours, while the 14oz will do so for 80 minutes.

6. A Smart Watch

Source: wrerw.xyz

It’s been a few years since smartwatches hit their stride in the market, and while they can still be considered niche, they make for amazing gifts.

With a smartwatch, the giftee can take calls and texts from their wrist (no need to pull their phone out in a public setting awkwardly), as well as mess with a select few apps without their phone as well. Plus, smartwatches look good with any outfit, making them the perfect wrist accessory.

7. A New Soundbar

Source: tech-lifestyle.com

TVs have come far, with manufacturers like LG and Sony pushing the limits on what TVs are capable of with fantastic displays, smart features, and great integrated software. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for most TV’s audio features.

While TV speakers have come far, they’re still inadequate for serious gaming or movie viewing. If you know someone in need of a better audio solution for their TV, you can’t go wrong with gifting them a soundbar.

Soundbars offer amazing sound quality without requiring the space that home theaters ask for. And with prices ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars, there’s no shortage of soundbars to find!

Conclusion

Life may feel different because of the past year—because of COVID—you can retain a sense of normalcy by celebrating your friends and family with gifts. Fortunately, there is no shortage of gifts available, especially when it comes to tech!