Affordable Technology Gifts for 2017 And Beyond
Just a few decades ago, the idea of handheld computers in our pockets was almost unthinkable and none of us carried mobile phones or had internet access. While there was plenty of technology available, it carried a price tag far higher than the average salary could achieve.
Today, technology is developing at a sensational rate and there are thousands of high tech consumer products available to buy at relatively cheap prices. Products that would have been major investments several years ago are now affordable gifts for your friends and family.
Where to find great deals on technology
You can also start saving money on a gift by using online offers. In fact, most people nowadays appreciate frugality and getting a good deal. At VoucherBin, you can find stores with leading tech products, where the latest vouchers are collated and sorted for you. You can also pick up deals through manufacturers’ social media pages, and discover offers through retail outlets and catalogue stores. There are hundreds of ways to save online. Give a tech gift without worrying about the cost – check out the internet for cheap tech presents that everyone will love.
Take a look at stores such as Argos, Debenhams, Currys PC World and Dixons to find the latest tech products including computers, mobile phones, smart watches, laptops and more. No matter who you are buying a gift for, you can find affordable items that will carry out a wide range of functions and prove extremely useful for the owner.
New tech gifts for 2017
The hottest gadget of the year in 2016 has undoubtedly been the mobile phone. Smartphones are now owned by 7 out of 10 people. If you know someone who does not currently have an internet-enabled phone, this could be an ideal gift for them. Phones often include a whole range of other features – a mobile is also an alarm clock, an organizer, a pocket computer and a video camera. Laptops and tablets also remain popular. However, there are some more unusual tech items that stand out from the crowd: check out our list below.
● Drones
These flying cameras can feed live video and pictures back to the user and are controlled in a similar way to a remote controlled helicopter. These cool camera toys were once the stuff of James Bond movies: now they are being used to shoot them those movies! Drones are available on the consumer market for relatively little cost, and they make great gifts. Look for deals online and give a gift they will really appreciate without spending a fortune.
● Smart appliances
Give someone the gift of convenience and time with internet-enabled gadgets that carry out general household functions. From vacuum cleaners to doorbells and from air conditioning units to blenders, a whole host of household appliances are being connected to the Internet of Things – a growing tech network which allows smart control of home products. Get that space age kitchen where everything works at the touch of a button – or even using voice commands.
● Fitness trackers and smartwatches
These are the hot new devices that everyone wants. Research before Christmas revealed that the Fitbit was the most in demand tech gift of 2016, and development of these devices is set to continue. These trackers can monitor everything from heart rate and steps taken to temperature and altitude.
They can also be linked with smartphones and used in conjunction with payment apps, music players, calendars and more – some can even answer mobile calls!
● Wireless headphones
This seemingly simple gadget is in high demand as it makes listening to music so much easier. The wires on standard headphones are restrictive, while Bluetooth-enabled headphones allow free movement. The wearer can walk, work, dance and move without worrying about tangling, and can wander several feet away from the music source without losing connection. Prices start at around £30 per set, and there are many choices from your favourite audio brands.
● Smart vehicle apps and products
While self-driving vehicles are not in most people’s typical gift budget, tech that makes driving easier does make for a great gift and can work out pretty cheap as well. Consider the gift of a smart navigation system that includes voice commands and links with a mobile phone to answer calls. Dashboard accessories that play music without the need for hand controls are also great gifts for drivers, and there are many driver gadgets available for less than £10.
Even if your budget is tight, you can find great tech gifts for the special people in your life. If these ideas are a little above your price range, consider pocket-sized tech like the Google Cardboard VR kit (available from just £2.99) or an electronic key finder (average RRP £3.99). Vouchers for the Apple Store, iTunes and Amazon are also ideal choices for tech lovers if you are stuck for ideas – they can shop for something they will love, and you can set your budget right down to the nearest penny.