Get or SkipAll guides
  • Apple AirPods 5 with charging case

    Image: Amazon.com

    For iPhone users

    AirPods 5

    $129

    Apple's open-ear earbuds, now with Active Noise Cancellation on both models. Easy pairing with an iPhone and good for calls and commutes.

    Skip it if they want a sealed fit with ear tips or listen for a full workday without a break. Battery is up to 4 to 5 hours with noise cancellation on.

  • Apple AirTag (2nd generation)

    Image: Amazon.com

    For travelers with an iPhone

    Apple AirTag (2nd generation)

    $99 for four

    Four trackers for keys, a backpack and two suitcases, at about $25 each. Louder and longer-range than the first model.

    Skip it if anyone in the house uses Android. AirTag only works with Apple devices.

  • Roku Ultra streaming player with Voice Remote Pro

    Image: Amazon.com

    For movie nights

    Roku Ultra

    $149.99

    Roku's top 4K streaming box with Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and Wi-Fi 6, plus AirPlay for casting from an iPhone or Mac.

    Skip it if they hate ads on the home screen. Roku shows an ad banner.

  • Ring Battery Doorbell 2K

    Image: Amazon.com

    For renters and new homeowners

    Ring Battery Doorbell 2K

    $99.99

    A wire-free 2K video doorbell that installs without an electrician and shows who is at the door on their phone.

    Skip it if they will not pay a monthly fee. Saved video clips need a Ring plan from $4.99 a month.

  • Xbox Wireless Controller in Carbon Black

    Image: Amazon.com

    For Xbox and PC gamers

    Xbox Wireless Controller

    $64.99

    Microsoft's standard controller works with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows PCs.

    Skip it if they want motion aiming or back paddles. It has neither.

  • PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller

    Image: Amazon.com

    For PS5 players

    DualSense Wireless Controller

    $74

    Sony's PS5 controller with haptics and adaptive triggers. A second controller is what couch co-op needs.

    Skip it if they play on PS4 or Xbox. It does not work with either.

  • Anker Zolo Power Bank 20K 30W

    Image: Amazon.com

    For anyone whose phone dies by 6 p.m.

    Anker Zolo Power Bank 20K 30W

    About $42.99

    20,000mAh with a built-in USB-C cable and 30W fast charging for one phone.

    Skip it if they want MagSafe or wireless charging.

Prices checked October 14–17, 2026. Prices move, so check today's price before you buy.

Before you buy

Match the ecosystem

AirPods and AirTag suit iPhone owners. Check which console a gamer has before buying a controller.

Watch for subscriptions

Ring needs a paid plan for saved clips. Most of the others have no ongoing cost.

Common questions

What is a good tech gift under $100?

An AirTag 4-pack at $99, a Ring Battery Doorbell at $99.99, or a second game controller at $65 to $74 are all useful and easy to set up.

What tech gift works for both iPhone and Android users?

The Anker power bank and the Roku Ultra work with both. AirPods and AirTag are best with an iPhone.

More gift guides