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32 cheap tech gifts under $25, from smart bulbs to wireless earbuds

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There are plenty of great tech gifts available for under $25.

Alyssa Powell/

  • Tech gifts can be expensive, but there are tons of affordable options out there for shoppers on a budget.
  • Some gift ideas under $25 include the Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker, Fire TV Stick, and more.
  • For more recommendations, check out all of our gift guides.

Tech products make great gifts, as there are plenty of cool gadgets and accessories available in the $25 and under range.

These affordable items are often designed to solve little problems or complement other products, making them easier to use. Better yet, they’re usually things that friends and relatives never think about getting for themselves, making them excellent gift ideas.

For under $25, you can find all sorts of fun, useful, entertaining, and creative tech gifts. With different needs in mind, we rounded up several budget-friendly products perfect for that special tech fan in your life. You’ll probably find a little something for yourself in here, too.

A streaming device to bring popular apps to any TVFire TV Stick 4K Max plugged into a TV - best streaming stick with Alexa

Amazon

Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, available at Amazon, $19.99

This inexpensive media device brings access to apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and many more to any TV with an HDMI port. It can also make an older smart TV that’s become sluggish feel snappy again.

The Fire TV Stick plugs right into your TV’s HDMI input and includes an Alexa voice remote. This model maxes out at HD quality, though, so you’ll need to pay more for a device that can stream in 4K.

A pair of wireless earbudsPerson wearing JLab GO Air POP True Wireless In-Ear Headphones

Best Buy

Jlab Go Air Pop True Wireless Earbuds, available at Best Buy, $14.99

There’s no need to spend big to ditch the wires and get on the popular wireless earbuds train. The Jlab Go Air Pop may lack premium features like noise cancellation, but they do a great job focusing on the basics and punch way above their price tag in sound quality. 

Jlab says the earbuds get a total of 32 hours of music playback, with the case’s charge included. We also love the built-in USB charging cable that means you’ll never have to fish for a cable when you’re out and about. 

More storage for their Nintendo SwitchA person holding an SD card for Nintendo Switch

Amazon

SanDisk 128GB microSDXC Card for Nintendo Switch, $20.95

Nintendo’s standard Switch model comes with a paltry 32GB of storage space, which can easily become full with just a few games. This SanDisk 128GB microSDXC card quadruples the console’s storage space, and it has all the proper standards so you know it’ll work with any Nintendo Switch. 

A high-speed HDMI cable ready for next-gen gamingA wire connecting a computer to another device

Amazon

Amazon Basics 48Gbps HDMI 2.1 cable (6 feet), available on Amazon, $9.74

Between streaming boxes, video game consoles, Blu-ray players, AV receivers, and computers, there’s never a shortage of devices we need to plug into a TV or monitor. HDMI cables always come in handy, and this Amazon Basics high-speed model is rated for all the latest and greatest video specifications. 

With a bandwidth capability of 48Gbps, this HDMI 2.1 cable will properly transmit 4K and HDR content, even at 120Hz. This makes it a great fit for next-gen gaming consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X. 

A plug-in for more Wi-Fi coverageTP Link AC750 Wi-Fi extender plugged into an outlet

Amazon

TP-Link AC750 Wi-Fi Extender, available on Amazon, $23.99

Wi-Fi signals can sometimes struggle to reach every corner of large living spaces. This can be especially challenging if you’re working from home. The TP-Link AC750 WiFi Extender can plug into most common outlets to cover up to 1,500 square feet in your home. 

After you hit the WPS button on your home router, you’ll have to hit the range extender on your TP-Link device. After that you’ll be able to get dual-band speeds of up to 750 Mbps in otherwise difficult-to-reach areas in your home.

A charger without the hassle of untangling wiresYootech Wireless Charger

Amazon

Yootech Wireless Charger, available on Amazon, $12.99

The Yootech Wireless Charger covers a number of bases. It supports a 7.5W charging mode for select iPhones, a 10W charging mode to cover select Samsung Galaxy Notes, and a 5W charging mode for Google Pixel models and other Qi-chargeable phones.

As long as these types of phones have a case less or equal to 4 mm, the charger should be able to charge them. And aside from smartphones, the charger will let you charge AirPods and AirPods Pro as well.

A fun phone casecase mate

Case Mate

Case-Mate Phone Cases for iPhone and Samsung, available on Amazon, from $19.95

For the colorful types out there, Case-Mate has a wide range of cases for iPhones and Samsung phones, including ones that are iridescent, full of glitter, or covered in real pressed flowers. 

Colorful, shiny, and glittery isn’t everyone’s style, and Case-Mate has a selection of more reserved and sleek cases, including leather cases, clear cases, and stylish plastic cases that offer protection for that person who simply won’t get a case for themselves.

Keep in mind, however, that while Case-Mate offers several models in the $25 and under range, some of its cases do exceed that budget, including some of its new iPhone 13 models.

A ring light to upgrade your Zoom callsringlightzoom 2x1

Amazon

LED Ring Light with Tripod Stand & Phone Holder from UBeeSize, $21.99

Now that working from home has become more common, we’re relying on video calls more than ever — often in less than ideal lighting conditions. This ring light can help improve the quality of your daily Zoom calls with three different lighting modes, a tripod for your phone, and a Bluetooth remote so that you can control your phone while it’s in the stand.

Give AirPods a protective homeairpods pro case insignia

Insignia / Best Buy

Insignia Case for Apple AirPods Pro, starting at $11.99

This AirPods Pro case by Insignia is a super easy and inexpensive gift that AirPod owners will appreciate. The case is made of protective silicone that not only prevents scratches and damage from drops and impacts, but reduces the amount of dirt and dust that can make its way into an AirPods charging case. 

The carabiner is a great little touch that lets the user attach their AirPods case to anything they often carry out with them. It’s a nice solution to keep AirPods where you know they’ll always be found. The case is available in a variety of different colors, too.

A desk stand for your phone that doubles as a chargerankerchargingstationstand 2x1

Amazon

Anker Wireless Charger, available on Amazon, $19.99

This desk stand from Anker makes it easy to prop up your phone on any surface and wirelessly charge it at the same time. It can charge Android phones at up to 10W charging speeds, and iPhones up to 7.5W. 

A PopSocket GripPopSocket

PopSocket

PopSocket Grip, available on PopSocket, from $8

PopSocket grips stick on the back of any phone or tablet to provide a comfortable grip, but they can also be used as a stand. The thing that makes PopSockets so giftable is their affordability and sheer usefulness — people love them, as they help devices keep more secure in your hands and help prevent accidental drops. That, and they come in so many different styles. You can give your loved one a PopSocket with their favorite sports team, pop culture fandom, or animal on it.

A smart light bulb that can add some color to your living roomkasa lightbulb 2x1

Amazon

TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Bulb, available on B&H, $9.99

You don’t need to spend a lot of time or money to add some smart lighting to your living room. This color-changing smart light bulb from TP-Link could make a great gift for anyone looking to spice up their home lighting with different color and brightness options to fit the mood. It also doesn’t require any extra equipment like a hub or a bridge; just connect it to your home Wi-Fi, download the Kasa app, and you’re good to go. It works with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant, too.

A compact Bluetooth speaker for everywhereanker soundcore bluetooth speaker

Anker / Walmart

Anker SoundCore Mini Bluetooth Speaker, available at Amazon, $24.99

The SoundCore mini is compact wireless speaker with a 15-hour battery life, a 66-foot Bluetooth range, and 5W of sound. It doesn’t have water resistance, but it’ll still work just fine in a bathroom. It brings better sound and louder volume than a phone can deliver, and it’s perfect for listening to podcasts and music around the house, chilling outside, and on camping trips. 

 

Replacing those lost headphone dongles for iPhonesiPhone 7 headphone dongle

Hollis Johnson/

Apple Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter dongle, available on Amazon, $7.20

Apple’s iPhones used to come with a headphone adapter but new models no longer include one. This is one of those items that shoppers ache to buy for themselves because it shouldn’t cost you an extra $10 to use your wired headphones. This makes the dongle an excellent gift, however, as many iPhone owners can make good use of it.

Tech-friendly touchscreen glovesAchiou Winter Knit Touchscreen Gloves

Amazon

Achiou Winter Knit Touchscreen Gloves, available on Amazon, from $10.99

Anyone who lives in a place where it gets cold in winter knows that you have to remove gloves to use a smartphone outdoors. Essentially, a phone’s screen doesn’t register a finger’s touch through a standard glove’s material. But Aichou’s bestselling winter gloves have special pads on the thumb, forefinger, and middle finger that can be registered by your phone’s screen, letting the wearer keep the gloves on when it’s freezing outside.  

A next-level screen cleaning kitWHOOSH

Amazon

Whoosh! Screen Cleaner Kit, available on Amazon, $17.50

The Whoosh! Screen Cleaner Kit is an alcohol and ammonia-free screen cleaner that’s safe on phone screens. Unlike harsher cleaners, it won’t strip screens from the factory coatings, namely the oleophobic coatings that prevent screens from getting all gummed up with finger oils. 

Coming with a pocket-sized bottle of cleaning spray and two cloths, this kit will also clean tablets, e-readers, TVs, Kindles, and almost anything else with a display. We should note, however, that Whoosh doesn’t claim that its cleaner kills bacteria or viruses. Also, we’ve had mixed results with the Whoosh cleaner on MacBook screens, so you may want to avoid using it with Apple laptops.

An iPhone tassel cable with chargingOneenjoy Lightning to SUB Leather Tassel $9.99

Amazon

Oneenjoy Tassel Cable for iPhone, available on Amazon, $11.59

This handy leather tassel keychain includes a hidden USB-to-Lightning cable for charging an Apple device on the go with an external battery or with a charging brick. 

A water-resistant smartphone armbandTribe Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband Case $10.98

Amazon

Tribe Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband Case, available on Amazon, from $14.98

A great gift for runners and fitness enthusiasts, the Tribe cell phone armband case secures your phone to your arm in a case that repels rain. The arm band is fully adjustable elastic, and it comes in three sizes that can accommodate pretty much any phone size. Your phone retains full touchscreen functionality while it’s in the case, and the band also includes a handy key holder and headphone jack. 

A charging brick to quickly power phonesAnker Nano Pro chargers in various colors on a table

Amazon

Anker 20W Nano Pro USB-C charger, available at Amazon, $19.99

Anker’s USB-C 20W Wall Adapter will charge iPhones and most Android phones at their top capable speeds. Anyone who has a newer iPhone will appreciate being able to take advantage of faster charging speeds. Just note, this item does not include a cable.

Grips for the Nintendo Switch’s Joy Con controllersnintendo switch controller grips

Amazon / Fyoung

Fyoung Controller Grips for Nintendo Switch Joy Con, available on Amazon, from $10.99

These Joy Con controller grips by Fyoung give players a better and more comfortable traditional console-style grip on the small Switch Joy Con controllers. They have full-size left and right bumper buttons, and they stay in place, even when you move them and shake them around for certain games. 

These are a no-brainer for Switch-owning friends and family. They come in a variety of colors to match controller colors, too. 

An adjustable phone standlamicall phone stand

Amazon

Lamicall Adjustable Phone stand, available on Amazon, from $9.99

The Lamicall Phone Stand lets you (or your loved ones) mount your phone at an adjustable angle, which works great when you don’t want to hold or touch your phone. Think streaming a video while you cook or sitting at a table, holding a video call with friends or family, or keeping a recipe visible while cooking. 

It fits any phone and can accommodate most cases, but thicker cases may not fit in the stand’s lower arms. It’s also easy to adjust, and can flip between portrait and landscape modes. The stand is made of metal and comes in a variety of colors, too.

A headphone holder for their deskBrainwavz Hengja Headphone Stand $12.99

Amazon

Brainwavz Hengja Headphone Hanger, available on Amazon, $14.99

The Brainwavz Hengja is an essential gift for a friend who has on-ear or over-ear headphones. This adjustable headphone hanger clamps horizontally or vertically onto a table, shelf, or even a thin wall. The clamp is tightened onto a surface with a flat piece of metal that you can screw to tighten with the included tool.

It’s made entirely of metal, so it’s quite sturdy and will fit and support pretty much any headphone size. It only comes in a black color option. 

A Wi-Fi smart plug for smart homesKasa Smart WiFi Plug Mini $16.28

Amazon

Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini (2-pack), available on Amazon, $17.99

You can connect any device to the Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug Mini, from lamps to fans and air conditioners, to make it a smart device that you can control from a phone via the Kasa app, or via a smart assistant like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant. 

Some of the “smart” things you can do with the Kasa smart plug includes adding routines to turn your plugged-in devices on or off. You can also check up and turn on or off those electrical devices remotely via the Kasa app, which works great to give you peace of mind when you’re away from home. 

Glasses with a blue-light filterCyxus Vintage Retro Blue Light Filter Glasses $8.86 $19.99

Amazon

Cyxus Vintage Retro Blue Light Filter Glasses, available on Amazon, $19.99

It seems every day, more and more research is coming out about the dangers of over-exposure to blue light from phone and computer screens. A 2018 study showed that too much blue light can increase your risk of blindness.

The Cyxus Vintage Retro Blue Light Filter Glasses filter out 90% of the blue light emitted from screens and barely affects the image. Blue light filters prevent eye dryness and general fatigue from staring at a screen too long, and these glasses are a good, affordable gift for anyone who you know to work in front of a computer screen for long hours.

A cheap but effective laptop bagamazon basics laptop bag

Amazon

AmazonBasics Laptop Bag, available on Amazon, $13.15

Amazon is full of laptop bags of all prices, but the AmazonBasics Laptop Bag is one of the top-rated, and it gets the job done for an affordable price. It comes in 10-, 11.6-, 14-, 15.6-, and 17.3-inch models to accommodate different laptop sizes, as well as a smaller version for tablets. Plus, it has extra pockets for mice, cell phones, pens, and other small gadgets you might be carrying. 

A long USB-A to Lightning charging cableAnker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable $19.99

Amazon

Anker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable, available on Amazon, $19.54

No one ever has enough charging cables for their iPhones or iPads. Plus, longer cables like this 10-foot model make it easier and more comfortable to use your iPhone or iPad while it’s charging, as the included 3-foot cables don’t let you get very far from the charging brick.

You don’t want to go cheap with cables, and one way to avoid cheap cables is to go with a well-known brand that’s proven its reliability over the years. The Anker 10-foot Powerline+ is a proven, reliable, and long-lasting cable that also comes in a variety of colors. 

A solid wireless keyboard and mouse combo from Logitechlogitech mk270 keyboard mouse wireless combo

Logitech / Best Buy

Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse, available at Target, $19.99

A full wireless keyboard and wireless mouse combo from Logitech for under $25 is a great deal and an easy gift for someone you know who needs one. There’s no other combo we’d recommend to get someone who needs a mouse and keyboard up and running. 

There’s nothing fancy here, apart from the value. The keyboard is powered by two triple-A batteries, while the wireless mouse is powered by a single double-A battery. The keyboard and mouse communicate with your computer with a tiny USB adapter, and it doesn’t need pairing because it doesn’t use Bluetooth. 

An effective gaming mouseLogitech G300s Optical Gaming Mouse $20.68

Walmart

Logitech G300s Optical Gaming Mouse, available on Amazon, $21.99

The Logitech G300s is a great gift for someone who enjoys gaming, but doesn’t yet have a top-notch gaming mouse. It has a comfortable ambidextrous grip and six programmable buttons you can adjust with Logitech’s gaming software. And, for under $25, it’s been praised by multiple reviewers as the best budget gaming mouse you can buy. Don’t let the price tag fool you: The G300s isn’t a bad mouse; it’s just an older model.

The G300 comes with a gaming-grade optical sensor for better accuracy and tracking than standard mice, and some sleek and modest lighting strips that accent the all-black matte plastic G300s. It plugs into a computer’s standard USB port. 

An big, wide mouse pad for work or gamingcorsair mm100 mouse pad

Walmart / Corsair

Corsair MM100 Cloth Gaming Mouse Pad, available at Walmart, $12.99

A mouse pad seems strange as a gift, but this one is large and well made — it’s one of those things that can make a surprisingly significant improvement to comfort and efficiency while using a mouse for gaming, work, or general use. 

The Corsair MM100 mouse pad is larger than standard office mouse pads at 14.5 x 10.6 inches (370mm x 270mm) with 3mm thickness, making for greater surface area. That means fewer mouse lifts as you’re moving the cursor around the screen. And, of course, it’s great for gaming, which is this mouse pad’s primary intention. 

An effective dashboard phone holderiOttie Easy One Touch 4 Dash Car Mount $24.24

Amazon

iOttie Easy One Touch Phone Holder, available on Amazon, $22.95

If you know anyone who is still using an ancient GPS to navigate, have mercy on them and give them the iOttie Easy One Touch Phone Holder. This car mount has a one-touch release mechanism for easily inserting and removing your phone, and its arm can pivot 225 degrees to ensure a comfortable viewing angle.

The Phone Holder stays on a car’s dashboard via a suction cup, which sticks to an included dashboard pad that sticks firmly on a car’s dash. You can simply use the suction cup on a car’s windshield if the driver would rather not use the dashboard pad that sticks onto the dash.  

A Tile Bluetooth item trackerTile Mate tracker on keyring

Amazon

Tile Mate, available on Amazon, $24.88

Attach the Tile Mate to your keys, luggage, backpack, briefcase, or any other valuable possession to ensure you never lose that item again. If you misplace the object that includes your tracker, just check the Tile app to see its location in seconds. As a bonus, if you lose your phone, you can press your Tile Mate to make it ring. 

The Tile Mate has 250-foot range and it’s water-resistant, making it an actual realistic option to track your pets, too. If items with the Tile Mate are out of range, there’s a chance that the someone else with a Tile can pick it up and relay its location back to you via the Tile Network and Tile app. The Tile Mate supports up to three years of battery life. 

A subscription to a popular streaming serviceHulu Basic vs Hulu Premium 4x3

Hulu/Alyssa Powell/

Hulu gift card, available on Amazon, from $25

This recommendation technically breaks our under $25 threshold, but it’s such a convenient gift that it’s hard not to include. 

Hulu is one of our favorite streaming services thanks to its affordable price and big selection of network shows, original series, and entertaining movies. Though the platform doesn’t sell annual gift subscriptions, you can buy Hulu gift cards. A $25 card will cover three and a half months of Hulu’s ad-supported plan ($7/month), or just under two months of Hulu’s ad-free plan ($13/month).

Once your recipient’s gift credit expires, they must provide another payment method to continue their Hulu subscription. Similar gift cards are also available for Netflix and Paramount Plus.


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