Best cordless drill		DEWALT 20V Cordless Drill		SEE IT	This powerful drill can reach speeds of up 1,500 rpm and features an LED light for added visibility.
Best pressure washer		Greenworks Electric Pressure Washer		SEE IT	This tool can not only wash the outside of your house, but is great for washing your car, driveway, and patio.
Best stackable toolboxes		beyond by BLACK+DECKER Stackable Storage System		SEE IT	This ingenious storage system helps DIYers organize their tools, protect them from theft, and easily transport them.

DIY is more popular than ever, with 73 percent of millennials identifying as do-it-yourselfers, according to the market research firm The Farnsworth Group. Whether your favorite DIYer is into home renovation, woodworking, or tinkering with their car, you can show your appreciation for their handiwork by rounding out their tool set with some new models. Or give them the gift of bins and boxes to help them organize all those tools (and the storage shed). These are the best gifts for DIYers our writers have used this year.

• Best cordless drill: DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill
• Best cordless drill-driver set: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill Combo Kit
• Best power drill: CRAFTSMAN CMCD710C2 Power Drill
• Best mechanics tool set: DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set
• Best power tool kit: BOSCH Power Tools Combo Kit
• Best multi-tool: Ryobi 18V Multi Tool
• Best screwdriver set: Klein Tools 80031 Screwdriver Set
• Best impact driver: Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hex Hydraulic Driver Kit
• Best angle grinder: DEWALT 4-1/2” Angle Grinder
• Best jigsaw: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw
• Best chainsaw: ​​Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw
• Best circular saw: DEWALT DCS573B Flexvolt Advantage 20V Circular Saw
• Best random orbital sander: beyond by BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander
• Best heat gun: DEWALT Heat Gun Kit
• Best smart tape measure: LEXIVON 2 in 1 Digital Laser Tape Measure
• Best laser level: DEWALT Line Laser
• Best work table: WORX WX051 Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse
• Best work light: CRAFTSMAN LED Portable Work Light Bundle
• Best work gloves: Ironclad Workhorse Leather Work Gloves
• Best toolbox: DEWALT Tough System
• Best stackable toolboxes: beyond by BLACK+DECKER Stackable Storage System
• Best cordless vac: DEWALT 20V MAX Hand Vacuum
• Best shop vac: Bissell MultiClean Wet Dry Vac
• Best leaf blower: DEWALT Cordless XR Leaf Blower
• Best log splitter: Fiskars IsoCore 36-Inch Maul
• Best pressure washer: GreenWorks Pressure Washer

Best cordless drill: DEWALT 20V Max Cordless Drill

SEE IT

This cordless drill is rugged and powerful enough to be worthy of a pro job site while remaining affordable enough for a gift for a DIYer. Powered by a 20-volt battery, DEWALT’s cordless drill can reach speeds of up to 1,500 rpm, making it fast enough to handle jobs that require a lot of fasteners. A slower speed option with a max of 450 rpm adds versatility and maximizes the drill’s torque output. 

At 8-1/2 inches long and weighing 3.6 pounds, this is one of the bulkier drills on the market, but DEWALT makes up for that with an ergonomic handle that makes it comfortable to hold for longer jobs. DEWALT’s drill has other useful features, including a ratcheting chuck that makes it easy to secure bits by hand and an LED light with a 20-second delay for added visibility. — Tony Carrick

Best cordless drill-driver set: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill Combo Kit

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If you want to fill out a DIYers entire power tool library in one fell swoop, you should start with CRAFTSMAN’s V20 Cordless Drill Combo Kit. This drill set comes with all the essentials, plus a carrying case and impact driver. The star of the show is its powerful 20-volt drill, which can rotate at speeds of up to 3,400 rotations per minute. An impact driver may look like a drill, but it wraps around a screw or lag bolt to rotate them and is best suited for heavy-duty tasks. This isn’t the type of tool DIYers are likely to have in their garage already, and while you may be unfamiliar with it, its applications will become apparent as projects arise. Both of CRAFTSMAN’s tools have an LED light, which will help in dark areas—think attics or nooks and crannies in a basement or garage. — Brandt Ranj

Best power drill: Craftsman CMCD710C2 Power Drill

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We could tell the quality of Craftsman’s CMCD710C2 from the moment we took it out of its packaging, and our expectations were exceeded the first time we used it for a project. It drove screws through plaster and a wooden beam during a TV wall-mounting project like a hot knife running through butter. 

This was the most powerful power drill we tested, but it was also the heaviest. Despite its increased power, it made roughly the same amount of noise as other drills we tested—if not a little less. There’s no technical downside to using this power drill beyond its weight, but you should also consider its price. The CMCD710C2 is expensive, though it does come with a battery and charger. If you want to gift the DIYer in your life the absolute best performance from a power drill and to be safe in knowing they’ll never need to upgrade again, this is the one to get. — Brandt Ranj

Best mechanics tool set: DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set

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If you never want to buy a socket set ever again, then this is a good place to start. The sturdy carrying case includes three 72-tooth ratchets, more than 150 sockets, and a full run of hex keys. Made of steel and hand-stamped for easy identification, this set is designed to endure. It’s great for people who enjoy tinkering around with their vehicles. — Stan Horaczek and Jen McCaffery

Best power tool kit: BOSCH Power Tools Combo Kit

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If someone in your life is just getting started with DIY projects, a basic tool combo set like this one from Bosch is a great place to get started. The 12-volt set features a compact yet powerful 3/8-inch drill/driver that operates at a range of speeds up to 1,300 rpm, a lightweight reciprocating saw, a bright worklight that lasts for three hours on a single charge, two batteries, and a charger. And they all fit back nicely into the included bag. — Jen McCaffery

Best multi-tool: Ryobi 18V Multi Tool

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While it’s easy to get excited about a garage full of tools, sometimes it’s helpful to have some options that are capable of performing more than one function well. Ryobi’s 18-volt Multi-Tool is a great tool for DIYers working with various materials. Capable of up to 20,000 OPM (oscillations per minute), this tool comes with plunge cut and flush cut blades and can be used to cut metal, wood, plastic, and drywall. At 1.5 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight, and it vibrates less than comparable models. The Multi-Tool also comes with a sanding pad to help your DIYer put the finishing touches on their projects. — Jen McCaffery

Best screwdriver set: Klein Tools 80031 Screwdriver Set

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Tools don’t get much more basic than the humble screwdriver. This five-piece set from Klein Tools, which has been making tools since 1857, includes the most commonly used types: two Phillips head, two slotted, and one square-tipped screwdriver. The shanks are chrome-plated, and the tips are cut for precision. And the handles are cushioned for an easier grip. — Jen McCaffery

Best impact driver: Milwaukee M18 Fuel Hex Hydraulic Driver Kit

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Technology sets the Milwaukee M18 Fuel impact driver apart from the rest. Its hydraulic drive sustains torque better than other impact drivers, allowing it to drive faster and with more power. With so much torque, impact drivers always risk stripping out a screw head. The Milwaukee M18 solves this problem by featuring a self-tapping screw mode that helps to start the screw without stripping it out. With its four drive modes, the user can tailor the speed of this driver to suit any job. We also like the small profile of this driver. At less than 5 inches long, this driver is compact enough to fit into tight spaces, and it’s one of the quieter models on the market. Its hydraulic drive technology eliminates the metal-on-metal contact that makes other impact drivers scream like a jackhammer. — Tony Carrick

Best angle grinder: DEWALT 4-1/2” Angle Grinder

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DEWALT’s 4-½-inch angle grinder is a tough, high-quality tool aimed at those who need consistent, trouble-free performance. The 11-amp motor is the most powerful in its class, with a speed of 11,000 rpm. With the correct wheel fitted, this angle grinder will cut concrete or steel with equal ease. Although fairly slender, the tool is 12 inches long and relatively heavy, so it isn’t as maneuverable as some. It’s more a professional tool than one for the average DIY user, but keen home auto restorers and anyone taking on major remodeling could well find it worth the investment.  — Bob Beacham

Best jigsaw: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Jig Saw

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A jigsaw allows users to cut curved lines, circles, and other shapes into a range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, laminate, and more. This 20-volt model from Craftsman operates at speeds from zero to 2,500 spm (strokes per minute). It comes with three orbital settings that let the user control the aggressiveness of the cut and works with both T and U shank blades. Its beveled shoe also allows the user to cut at 45-degree angles. Plus, it features a contoured handle for a more comfortable grip. — Jen McCaffery

Best chainsaw: ​​Worx Nitro 40V Chainsaw

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Worx offers a number of very versatile tools in its Nitro series, and the chainsaw is no exception. The 16-inch bar is ideal for most typical users who don’t need to go chopping through Middle Earth-style forests. A pair of sturdy grips give both hands a comfortable place to rest and lots of control over the tool. During our testing, we chopped through tons of 3- to 4-inch sticks and some larger, full-grown trees.

With two powerful batteries installed, it quickly gets up to speed, and we barely had any issues with kicking or getting stuck. Installing and adjusting the chain is simple, and it self-lubricates as users run it, so it doesn’t require much in the way of maintenance. We spent several hours cutting away with this tool and ran into almost no issues, which is exactly what we’re looking for.  — Stan Horaczek

Best circular saw: DEWALT DCS573B Flexvolt Advantage 20V Circular Saw

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The DEWALT circular saw offers numerous user-friendly features that suit both professionals and amateurs who are prepared to invest in quality. This powerful 20V cordless model runs at 5,500 rpm, providing faster cutting than many rivals. The brushless motor maximizes battery life. Thanks to the Flexvolt Advantage system, this saw can also use DEWALT’s high-capacity 60V batteries, which the manufacturer claims can result in a 77-percent power increase. An LED light makes it easier to see cut lines and improves accuracy in low-light conditions. An electric brake stops the blade quickly, so it’s safe to put the saw down after a cut. A rafter hook, favored by framers and other carpentry trades, is also included. — Bob Beacham

Best random orbital sander: beyond by BLACK+DECKER Random Orbit Sander

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For those people who want to strip old furniture before repainting, sand lumber, or perhaps ease a sticking door, the Black+Decker could be the ideal tool. This random orbital sander may not be especially powerful, but it will get the job done. The fixed speed doesn’t give it great versatility, but it is fast enough for ripping through old paint or varnish and good for sanding store-bought softwoods. Weight is under 3 pounds, and rubberized areas make it easy to use at different angles. It comes with three sanding disks of different grits, which won’t last very long but will get the new user started, and acclimate them to how each type cuts if this is their first sander. — Bob Beacham

Best heat gun: DEWALT Heat Gun Kit

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A heat gun is a versatile tool that can help with a range of DIY and pro tasks, from thawing frozen pipes and removing tiles to repairing electrical equipment. This compact model from DEWALT comes with an LCD display that allows users to adjust the temperature within 50-degree increments. It also features built-in overload protection, and hang ring for storage, a cord protector, and a kickstand for stability. The heat gun comes with a range of attachments to fine-tune work, including a cone nozzle and fishtail surface nozzle. At 2.3 pounds, this tool is lightweight, and the handle is ergonomically designed for more comfortable use. Note that the battery and charger have to be ordered separately. — Jen McCaffery

Best smart tape measure: LEXIVON 2 in 1 Digital Laser Tape Measure

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Smart DIYers subscribe to the maxim, “Measure twice, cut once.” Lexivon’s 2-in-1 Digital Laser Tape Measure allows them to do just that. This device combines a traditional 16-foot tape measure with a laser that measures out to 130 feet. It features an LCD screen that displays measurements and is accurate up to 1/16th of an inch. Powered by two AA batteries, this tool also allows users to make stud center markings and comes with a rubberized case and belt clip. — Jen McCaffery

Best laser level: DEWALT Line Laser

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DEWALT is known for constructing well-designed, durable tools; this laser level is no exception. Like many other options, it offers both horizontal and vertical leveling. What sets this model apart is the durable construction that ensures you won’t be buying another one should it happen to take a tumble or spend time out in the rain. That’s because DEWALT protects this level with an over-molded housing that can endure drops from heights of up to a meter. It also has an IP54 rating, which means it will withstand being splashed with water. 

In addition to being ruggedly built, this laser level is also easy to use, thanks to its self-leveling capability and a versatile mounting system that’s compatible with a tripod. Its 100-foot range is ample distance for most indoor and outdoor applications. — Bob Beacham

Best work table: WORX WX051 Pegasus Folding Work Table & Sawhorse

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With all these tools, a DIYer also needs a reliable workspace. This folding work table from WORX that converts into a sawhorse fits the bill. Made of durable ABS plastic with steel reinforcements, it supports up to 300 pounds as a work table and up to 1,000 pounds at a workhorse. Yet at just 25 pounds, this work table is relatively lightweight and easy to store. It features two integrated clamps and a lower shelf that’s great for storing power tools. If your DIYer needs more workspace, these tables can also attach together to expand the work surface. — Jen McCaffery

Best work light: Craftsman LED Portable Work Light Bundle

SEE IT

DIYers also need dependable lights that can illuminate dark corners when fixing things around the house or under the hood. This Craftsman work light features an LED light that provides up to 2,000 lumens of light. At just three pounds, this cheery red light is easily transportable, and it has a 5-foot power cord. The head rotates 360 degrees, so DIYers can point it in whatever direction they need light. It’s also rated IP65, so it’s safe to use in wet locations. And when the project is completed, this lamp is also great for camping, fishing, and hiking.

Best work gloves: Ironclad General Utility Work Gloves

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Reliable safety protection is essential for DIY projects. These classic work gloves from Ironclad are made of synthetic lever and feature thermoplastic protection on the fingers to protect the knuckles from impact and abrasion. The gloves have a hook-and-loop closure for a secure fit and even include a terrycloth sweat wipe at the back of the thumb. When the job is completed, these gloves are also machine-washable. 

Best toolbox: DEWALT Tough System

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The DEWALT Tool Box is a medium-sized hand-carry case that’s a great choice for home use or on a busy job site. This toolbox comes with a deep storage compartment that is large enough to fit a drill, saw, or a cordless tool battery and a charger. Sitting on top of this compartment is a removable tray where users can store hand tools, like screwdrivers, wrenches, or a hammer. 

This box is made with durable structural foam that protects against impact damage, cuts, slices, dust, and water. Made with metal locking brackets and awarded an IP65 water- and dust-resistance rating, this is an excellent option for DIYers and pros alike. — Tim Dale

Best stackable toolboxes: beyond by BLACK+DECKER Stackable Storage System

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Tools can get heavy and disorganized, especially when a DIYer needs everything from a cordless drill, hammer, tape measure, and nails to complete a job. BLACK+DECKER provides an ingenious solution with its stackable storage system. The three-piece set features a rolling tote with rubber wheels designed for power tools, a deep toolbox for hand tools, and a small organizer toolbox divided into compartments. The stackable set is designed with lockable latches, and DIYers can roll the whole set together to a job or easily remove one of the toolboxes. This unit can also double as storage, so DIYers can also set the boxes against the wall in the garage and use them there. — Jen McCaffery

Best cordless vac: DEWALT 20V MAX Hand Vacuum

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When it comes time to clean up, an easy-to-use vac is indispensable. This hand vacuum from DEWALT is designed with 20 volts of power, making it capable of removing debris and removing water. This versatile wet-dry vac comes with a half-gallon tank, a utility nozzle for targeting messes, and an extendable rubber hose. Powered by a DEWALT battery pack, this cordless vacuum is easy to transport and lightweight at 4.5 pounds. It also features a washable HEPA filter that traps more than 99 percent of dust.

Best shop vac: Bissell MultiClean Wet Dry Vac

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There’s the fun of working on a DIY project … and then there’s the cleanup. If they’d appreciate a wet-dry shop vacuum that handles anything, the Bissell MultiClean vac covers all the bases. This versatile cleaning tool comes with a variety of features and functions, including a blowing function for clearing leaves or blowing up inflatables, a wet suction tool, and a toolkit of different brushes for vacuuming various surfaces and crevices. The tank is on wheels for easy movement while vacuuming, and its balanced body keeps it from tipping over when it’s pulled. This machine is sleek and easy to use for both small at-home messes and bigger shop cleanups. — Amanda Reed

Best leaf blower: DEWALT Cordless XR Leaf Blower

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DEWALT’s cordless leaf blower offers an excellent combination of both power—courtesy of its 20V motor—and cost. This battery-powered model can push out air at up to 125 miles per hour, covering an area of 450 cubic feet per minute. A flat concentrator nozzle helps blow away heavier debris. At 5.4 pounds, this leaf blower is lightweight, and it’s designed with an ergonomic handle and also quieter than most at about 68 decibels. It is worth noting, however, that the battery generally only lasts from 15 to 20 minutes per charge — David King and Jen McCaffery

Best log splitter: Fiskars IsoCore 36-Inch Maul

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This manual log splitter is built to last with a forged, heat-treated steel head with a rust-resistant coating. Plus, the sculpted, soft-grip handle fits the contour of your hand and promises to transfer two times less shock and vibration than wood handles. The wedge-shaped maul head is specifically designed for, and highly efficient at, splitting—significantly better than the thin, relatively lightweight head of an axe. At only 7.43 pounds and requiring almost no storage space, this tool punches well above its weight. — Mark Wolfe

Best pressure washer: GreenWorks Pressure Washer

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Does your resident DIYer start to turn green when they notice the outside of the house needs a good wash? They’ll appreciate the range of the Greenworks Electric Pressure Washer. The pressure hose can extend up to 20 feet, and the 35-foot power cord is safe to use with exterior outlets. It also comes with two nozzle tips, a soap applicator, and an attachable detergent bottle for added convenience at clean-up time. This GreenWorks pressure washer blasts at an impressive 1,600 PSI to dislodge dirt and get your house looking primo once again. This pressure washer is also great for cleaning your car, fence, patio, and more. — Jeremy Helligar and Jen McCaffery

The post The best gifts for DIYers appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best bike computer		Garmin Edge 1040 Solar		SEE IT	This computer provides nutrition and hydration alerts, ride-specific maps, turn-by-turn directions,  group ride features, and more.
Best headphones		Shokz OpenRun Pro		SEE IT	These comfortable, lightweight headphones allow cyclists to stay aware of their surroundings while listening to their favorite tunes.
Best multi-tool		Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool		SEE IT	Lightweight and encased in durable aluminum, this gadget features 19 tools that should help cyclists fix all kinds of bike emergencies.

Whether the cyclist in your life commutes to work on a bike or trains for triathlons, having the right gear is important. But it can get expensive. In the United States, households collectively spent about $8 billion a month on bicycles and accessories, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. In the interest of cutting down on waste and gear that never gets pulled out of the closet, we’ve rounded up the best devices and accessories available to help cyclists ride safely, track performance and health metrics, and still have fun. Here’s some of what your favorite cyclist might be hoping they get to unwrap before their next century.

• Best bike computer: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar
• Best power meter pedal: Garmin Rally RS100 or Rally RS200
• Best heart rate monitor: Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor
• Best indoor trainer: Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer V6
• Best indoor bike with classes: Peloton Bike Plus Indoor Stationary Bike
• Best electric bike: Ride1Up Rift
• Best phone mount: Peak Design Out Front Bike Mount + Mobile Universal Adapter
• Best bike bag: Rapha Bar Bag
• Best multi-tool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool
• Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best tail light: Garmin Varia RTL515
• Best bike light: Garmin Varia UT 800 Smart Headlight
• Best bike lock: Kryptonite Combo Bike U-Lock 
• Best bib shorts: Pearl Izumi Pro Bib Short
• Best water bottle: Camelbak Podium Chill

Best bike computer: Garmin Edge 1040 Solar

SEE IT

Even if the cyclist in your life isn’t focused on collecting data from their rides, a bike computer is still an important and worthwhile tool. The Edge 1040 provides nutrition and hydration alerts, a range of ride type-specific maps, turn-by-turn directions, incident detection, bike alarm functionality, and group ride features. It will help keep your rider safe, fueled up, and on course. The Garmin Edge 1040 also accurately tracks distance, provides training tools and recommendations, syncs training plans, and measures cycling dynamics. The large display is easy to see at a glance, and the solar display adds to the already impressive battery life that can last up to 45 hours in demanding use cases. If you like the idea of picking up a bike computer but want a more budget-friendly option, the Edge 530 is also a fantastic device.

Best power meter pedal: Garmin Rally RS100 or Rally RS200

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Power meters are a must if the cyclist in your life is data-obsessed or serious about their performance. These devices measure the force on the bike pedals using strain gauges and convert that to power, measured in watts. The Garmin Rally series provides extremely accurate data, and lots of it. It can provide insight into power, cadence, left and right balance, pedal smoothness, and time spent standing or sitting. The Rally is very easy to swap between pedal bodies using a conversion kit, making it the best choice for those who may have a bike for mountain biking and one for road rides. It pairs seamlessly with Garmin’s bike computers as well.

You can purchase a single pedal (RS100) to save some money or a dual-sensing version (RS200) for even more precise data. Also, Garmin makes different versions of the Rally that are compatible with different types of cleats. The RK line works with Look Keo cleats, the RS line is for Shimano SPD-SL cleats, and the XC line is made for Shimano SPD cleats. Functionally, they are all the same, but the cleat compatibility differs.

Best heart rate monitor: Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor

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The Polar H10 Heart Rate Monitor works with many different sports watches and fitness apps, including Garmin, Apple, Strava, and Nike. It can support iOS mobile devices with iOS 13 or later, BS Android mobile devices with Bluetooth 4.0 capability, and Android 7 or later. That versatility makes this chest strap one of the best heart rate monitors for cycling. But it excels as one of the best monitors for Peloton and cycling in general, as its accurate reader and comfortable fit don’t falter at high speeds thanks to silicone dots that help it stay firmly in place. — Andrew Waite

Best indoor trainer: Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer V6

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For most of us, there are, unfortunately, days when getting outside on the bike isn’t feasible. Whether it’s because of a gnarly ice storm or nonstop rain, riding inside can unlock new training opportunities. The Wahoo KICKR Smart Trainer V6 is among the best trainers, thanks to its accurate speed, distance, cadence, and power data. It’s easy to set up and provides a smooth, realistic, yet silent ride, so your cyclist can easily watch a movie during their ride without turning the volume way up. The built-in WiFi also makes this direct drive trainer stand out from the competition, as it allows for faster data transfer and easier firmware updates.

Best indoor bike with classes: Peloton Bike Plus Indoor Stationary Bike

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If the cyclist in your life is motivated by live instruction and competition, the Peloton Bike provides an unrivaled experience. Purchase of the bike and a $44 monthly membership provides access to thousands of classes, including live sessions, bike boot camps, boxing, and yoga. The 21.5-inch HD touchscreen lets you feel like you’re right in the studio, and the two stereo speakers help complete the immersive experience. With a 4-foot by 2-foot footprint, this bike can fit in a range of spaces. Peloton also tracks your heart rate, output, and cadence in real-time and you can measure your progress against other members.

Best electric bike: Ride1Up Rift

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Think your favorite cyclist would appreciate a new electric bike? Consider the Ride1UP Rift for those leisurely days when they want to stretch their legs, but their calves and quads need a little rest and recovery. Almost ready to go out of the box, it provides a stupendously smooth ride whether they’re upgrading from a different electric bicycle or have always ridden an analog bike. It strikes the right balance between easy assembly, ease of use, comfort, and overall design. Learn more about our picks for the best electric bikes. — Brandt Ranj

Best phone mount: Peak Design Out Front Bike Mount

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The Out Front Bike Mount easily installs onto bike handlebars, putting the phone front and center at an optimal viewing angle. Your cyclist will be able to quickly see their maps or keep an eye on the time. The mount also flips up so that they can film their ride. They will need either the Mobile Universal Mount Adapter or a Peak Design phone case, as the bike mount utilizes the company’s magnetic locking system, called SlimLink. This magnetic system is ultra secure, so they won’t need to worry about their phone falling off when they hit some bumps on the road. And it makes their phone compatible with all sorts of other Peak Design accessories like the phone tripod, wallet, and more.

Best bike bag: Rapha Bar Bag

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Having a space to stow essentials like your phone, keys, and maybe a snack is important on a commute or long ride. Rapha’s sleek bike bag is made of waterproof polyester, so essentials will stay dry during an unexpected downpour. It provides a roomy 2 liters of space and comes with two durable straps cyclists can attach either to their handlebars or the frame. The buckles are quick-release, and once the rider arrives at their destination, this versatile bag easily converts into an over-the-shoulder bag.

Best multi-tool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool

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A bike multi-tool is a must for every cyclist, both on rides and in a home tool kit. This Crankbrothers tool includes a range of hex wrenches, spoke wrenches, multiple screwdriver types, a t-25 drive, and a universal chain tool. All in all, there are 19 different tools in this one device. Whether you’re fixing your bike or adjusting your cleats, this multi-tool likely has the right option. Everything is encased in lightweight aluminum and only weighs 6.2 ounces. And the 3.5-inch length means that it will easily fit in a small saddle pack for rides.

Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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Bone conduction headphones are great for cyclists because they allow you to hear your music and podcasts while still staying alert to the world around you. The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones offer a secure, lightweight fit under your helmet that’s comfortable even for long rides. They produce clear, high-quality sound with plenty of volume, even when you’re near traffic. They also feature a mic so that you can call your cyclist when they are out. And the 10 hours of battery life will keep them from needing to charge their headphones constantly.

Best tail light: Garmin Varia RTL515

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A quality tail light is a crucial safety item for road cyclists, whether riding day or night. It alerts drivers to your presence long before they would otherwise see your bike. The Garmin Vari RTL515 is a bit of a splurge, but it is the best out there, thanks to the built-in radar. This light pairs with your phone, Garmin Edge bike computer, or other Garmin wearables and alerts you with both visual and audio queues that cars are approaching from up to 153 yards away. It’s super bright, providing daylight visibility up to one mile away. There are multiple modes, including a low-intensity light for group rides. And it offers up to 16 hours of battery life in day flash mode to last for your longest rides.

If you want the utmost safety for your rider, you can bundle the front light below with the Varia RTL515. Or, if the Garmin is too much of a splurge, the Bontrager Flare RT is also a great rear light with a budget-friendly price, albeit without the radar.

Best bike light: Garmin Varia UT 800 Smart Headlight

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When the days are shorter, your favorite cyclist is likely getting some miles in when it’s dark. A reliable bike light is essential for safety. Garmin’s Varia UT 800 Smart Headlight is visible up to a mile away. It provides 800 lumens of light for up to 1.5 hours—about the same amount as a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb. Cyclists can switch between five light modes: high, medium, low, night flash, and day flash. This bike light can also sync with compatible Garmin Edge computers, which can detect the ambient light to control brightness. And it’s available in versions that attach either to the handlebars or to a helmet.

Best bike lock: Kryptonite Combo Bike U-Lock 

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As much fun as biking can be, theft is unfortunately common. More than 200,000 bikes are stolen in the United States each year, according to the FBI. That’s why a reliable bike lock is important. Kryptonite’s Combo Bike U-Lock is designed with a 12mm steel shackle that protects against wire cutters. The U shape makes it easy to attach the lock to a variety of locations, from bike racks to fences. It features a combination lock that you register with the company website, so you don’t have to worry about lost keys. And weighing in at just a pound, it’s lighter and more affordable than many of the other bike locks on the market.

Best bib shorts: Pearl Izumi Pro Bib Shorts

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A quality pair of bibs can make a surprising difference in the comfort of your bike ride. After trying numerous brands, Pearl Izumi’s bibs, including the Pro version, have firmly landed the spot as my favorite thanks to the material the company uses. It is incredibly soft, smooth, and stretchy, unlike anything from other brands. It breathes well and easily wicks away sweat, keeping me comfortable even on the hottest, most humid days. The seamless design means that there’s less chance of chafing even on long rides. And the chamois offers just enough padding in all the right places without being overly thick. They come in both men’s and women’s and are available in a handful of colors and designs.

Best water bottle: Camelbak Podium Chill

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Most of us can’t have too many water bottles. They have a tendency to get scuffed and dented, start leaking, get lost, or stay filled up for far too long and start molding, needing replacement. However, weight has to be considered when it comes to a ride. The Camelbak Podium Chill is an insulated bottle that keeps drinks cool even on hot rides. It is designed to fit securely in most bottle cages and is easy to squeeze to get water out efficiently. The cap is self-sealing, so it won’t leak when it inevitably gets thrown in the backseat of the car. And it’s available in a range of colors, so you can pick something up that matches the color scheme of your cyclist’s bike.

The post The best gifts for cyclists from Garmin, Wahoo, Peloton, and more appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best health tracker		Apple Watch Series 8		SEE IT	Encourage the grandparents to get their daily steps in and stay connected to their health metrics with this easy-to-use smartwatch.
Best for birdwatchers		Nikon Aculon A211 8 x 42 Binoculars		SEE IT	This affordable set of binoculars can encourage your grandparents to take up birdwatching or see their favorite players up close at a baseball game.
Best for tidying up		iRobot Roomba i4		SEE IT	Help the grandparents spend less time on chores and more time with the grandkids with this entry-level robot vacuum.

One “World’s Best Grandpa” mug or T-shirt is great, but you probably don’t need to expand a collection beyond that. That is to say, grandparents are people, too. With interests! And hobbies! And tastes! So what are the best gifts for them? Something that’s specifically suited for them. Easy, huh? You want to get them something they’ll use, not a trinket that will become clutter. This can understandably feel like a hurdle since many grandparents have already acquired almost all they need (sometimes more), but it actually presents an opportunity to come up with creative gift ideas. What can you provide to make that thing they like just a little bit better? What new spin on something might they not have heard about or tried out yet? Here are suggestions for some of the best gifts for grandparents, whether they’re sentimental, useful, or in between.

• Best health tracker: Apple Watch Series 8
• Best foot relief: Renpho Foot Massager Machine
• Best for entertaining: Halsted Five-Piece Wicker Patio Seating Set
• Best for outdoor lovers: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Fire Pit
• Best for cyclists: Ride1Up Rift Electric Bike
• Best for the DIYer: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Combo Kit
• Best for plant lovers: Ferry-Morse Modern Indoor Bamboo LED Growhouse
• Best for birdwatchers: Nikon Aculon A211 8 x 42 Binoculars
• Best for bird feeders: Nature Gear Window Bird Feeder
• Best for nostalgia lovers: Upcycled Record Coasters
• Best throw blanket: Double Stitch by Bedsure Throw Blanket
• Best slippers: Baabushka Unisex-Adult Slippers
• Best for audiophiles: Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones
• Best for bibliophiles: Kindle Paperwhite
• Best for the (kids’) art lover: American Flat Kid Artwork Frame
• Best for capturing memories on the spot: Polaroid Originals 600 Express Instant Camera
• Best for saving photos (analog): Printique Custom Fabric Cover Photo Book
• Best for displaying photos: Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame
• Best for the coffee lover: Bonavita 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker Machine
• Best for the tea aficionado: Tea From Around the World
• Best for hydration: Hydros Water Filter Pitcher
• Best for home cooks: Grandma and Me in the Kitchen
• Best for tidying up: iRobot Roomba i4
• Best for the absent-minded: Apple AirTag
• Best gift under $15: Magic Custom Photo Color Changing Coffee Mug Cup

Best health tracker: Apple Watch Series 8

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Physical activity and mobility are essential to healthy aging, and the Apple Watch Series 8 makes it easier for grandparents to keep tabs on their health. Less expensive than the new Series 9, this watch tracks steps, distance, and calories burned on the bright, easy-to-read Retina display. This fitness tracker also incorporates an ECG that can detect irregular heart rhythms, lets users monitor their blood oxygen levels, and provides explanations of health metrics and recommendations for improvement. If your grandparent has difficulty sleeping, the Series 8 also drills down on their sleep cycles. And it’s equipped with fall and crash detection, allowing for extra peace of mind. Looking for other options? Check out our Apple Watch comparison.

Best for foot relief: Renpho Foot Massager Machine

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Treat your grandparent to some TLC they can use daily with a foot massager. The RENPHO shiatsu foot massager encases the foot and applies different massage motions and types to the foot to target pressure points. It applies air compression to the top and heel of the foot. This helps to press the bottom of the foot into the kneading, scraping, and rolling motions that work over the foot’s bottom. You can also add heat and set a timer. And a bonus? This model comes with a removable, washable liner.

Best for entertaining: Halsted Five-Piece Wicker Patio Seating Set

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One of the best gifts for grandparents (or, really, anyone) is a nice table and chairs set to eat, drink, and be merry outdoors. This patio seating set does one better, too: it’s beautiful, comfortable, and space-efficient, but also comes with two ottomans that tuck away beneath the armchairs. (They work great as seating for grandkids, as well as a way to pu put their feet up.) Sturdy backs, arms, and seat cushions ensure a supportive sitting posture, and the all-weather wicker and steel frames will keep the seating in great shape for many seasons.

Best for outdoor lovers: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Fire Pit

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Few things rival a good wood fire, especially for those who love the outdoors. But the work it takes to build, stamp out, and clean up makes it more of an endeavor than many are willing or able to expend on an average weeknight. It’s why we’re very excited about the Solo Stove, which does basically for the fire pit what BioLite did for the camp stove: make it clean-burning, efficient, and easy with a very high-performing flame. Weighing in at 16.5 pounds, remaining smokeless due to smart design, and leaving only ash behind, this gift will literally warm your grandparents’ hearts … and hands.

Best for cyclists: Ride1Up Rift Electric Bike

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Do your grandparents enjoy bike riding, but might appreciate some pedal assist? Consider the Ride1UP Rift. Almost ready to go out of the box, it provides a stupendously smooth ride whether they’re upgrading from a different electric bicycle or have always ridden an analog bike. It strikes the right balance between easy assembly, ease of use, comfort, and overall design. Explore more of the best electric bikes. — Brandt Ranj

Best for the DIYer: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Combo Kit

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Grandpa may be great at fixing things around the house, but some of his tools may have seen better days. This cordless drill set from trusted tool maker DeWalt comes with essential tools he’ll rely on over and over again for tasks around the house: a one-and-1/2-inch drill driver and a 1/4-inch drill driver. Both are cordless and designed with ergonomic handles that make them easy to hold for long repairs. The LED light provides 110 lumens of light, helping illuminate tricky spaces, while the charger keeps the included lithium ion batteries charged. And the contractor’s bag keeps everything together and organized.

Best for plant lovers: Ferry-Morse Modern Indoor Bamboo LED Growhouse

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Got a grandparent who can’t wait to get their hands dirty in the garden come spring? Ferry-Morse’s Modern Indoor Bamboo LED Growhouse lets them cultivate plants all year. They can pop houseplants in for much-needed light during the colder months. The growhouse features 10 light intensity levels and comes with a timer. And the 14-inch grow space provides plenty of room for green thumbs to start seeds for an in-home garden or for eventual transplanting. If your grandparents require more space for their plants, consider one of the best greenhouses. And if they are new to the greenery game, we’ve got gifts for that, too.

Best for birdwatchers: Nikon Aculon A211 8 x 42 Binoculars

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Give grandparents some new insight and entertainment when they’re out exploring with a pair of good binoculars. And whether they’re in a city (just look up NYC birdwatching, it’s big time), the country, or the suburbs in between, wildlife abounds for them to watch—ditto if they’re out on a boat or hiking in the woods. Different binoculars suit different uses, but the 8×42 pair we recommend comes with quality Nikon lenses and is a great full-size option in the ideal size for birding, whale watching, and wildlife viewing. If your grandparent would appreciate a set of the best birdwatching binoculars with a smartphone attachment for photos, consider the Celestron 71009 SkyMasters.

Best for bird feeders: Nature Gear Window Bird Feeder

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If your grandparents would prefer the birds come to them, consider this window bird feeder from Nature Gear. Strong suction cups keep this charming acrylic window bird feeder attached securely to their window. The feeding tray and house detach for easier cleaning. A circular cutout helps to increase the visibility of birds from inside their home for a first-row view. Got a grandparent who appreciates both birdwatching and photography? Help them capture all the avian antics with the best bird feeders with cameras.  — Julian Vittorio

Best for nostalgia lovers: Upcycled Record Coasters

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Does your grandparent have a killer vinyl collection? While some records are consigned the attic, designer Jeff Daniels has given vinyl new life. In his Philadelphia studio, he’s repurposing the labels cut from the center of these records and turning them into stylish sets of coasters. The discs are sealed to prevent moisture damage from beverages. And each set features a range of albums that span musical genres, which will likely start some conversation.

Best throw blanket: Double Stitch by Bedsure Throw Blanket

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A good throw blanket doubles as decoration and a source of warmth. Designed in a Manhattan studio, Double Stitch by Bedsure features a subtly striking geometric design. It’s made of 100% cotton, and the yarn is specially woven for durability. This blanket also meets OEKO-TEX 100 standards for high-quality textiles and using water responsibly. And this versatile, cozy looks at home everywhere from the couch to the patio.

Best slippers: Baabushka Unisex-Adult Slippers

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Sometimes there’s nothing better at the end of the long day than sliding into a cozy pair of slippers. These pull-ons are handmade from wool felt in New Zealand, and the material allows for airflow to prevent overheating. These slippers also feature a rubber sole for cushioning and are designed with a non-skid tread. They’ll be a treat to grandparents who wouldn’t necessarily buy slippers for themselves.

Best for audiophiles: Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones

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Whether your grandparents are fans of Bob Marley or Beethoven, Bose’s Quiet Comfort 45 Headphones are a gift they will appreciate. Made with soft leather, these headphones are incredibly comfortable to wear. These noise-cancelling headphones also let users choose between quiet and aware modes, so they can block out sound or still hear what’s going on around them. Dedicated audiophiles can also adjust the EQ to their personal taste or choose from some presets. These wireless headphones also have a range of up to 30 feet and provide up to 22 hours of battery life on a single charge. They’re also great for enjoying podcasts and audiobooks.

Best for bibliophiles: Kindle Paperwhite

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There are plenty of reasons the Kindle Paperwhite topped our list of best Kindles. For grandparents who love to read, they’ll appreciate the convenience of a device that lets them take their library to bed with them or when they travel. At just under half a pound, it’s easy to carry and the 6.8-inch screen is larger than many paperbacks. The 300-dpi display is easy to read and users can adjust the light levels provided by the 14 LED lights. And it’s priced in the middle of Kindle offerings, often on sale for less than $100. Undecided? Read our full review of the Kindle Paperwhite.

Best for capturing memories on the spot: Polaroid Originals 600 Express Instant Camera

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The first self-developing Polaroid camera was made in 1948, and they rose to prominence in the mid-’60s, where they stayed for decades before having a trendy resurgence in recent years. Have some non-smartphone family photo fun with a gift your grandparents will almost certainly have experience with and memories tied to. Best of all, with an instant camera, they can keep these mementos for years to come.

Best for the (grandkids’) art lover: Americanflat Kid Artwork Frame

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Grandkids create a lot of adorable art, and it can be challenging to hold onto it in an organized way. The Americanflat Kid Artwork Frame makes it easy. Grandparents will appreciate its capacity to store up to 100 pieces of paper art. It also doubles as an attractive frame with a mat and shatter-proof glass. Available in sets of two or four that accommodate 10-inch by 12.5-inch creations, these frames come in black, white, silver, walnut, oak, light wood, and multicolors and the apparatus necessary to hang them. They open easily like a book and come with elastic straps for when grandparents want to store the art.

Best for saving photos (analog): Printique Custom Fabric Cover Photo Book

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For the grandparents who have everything, the best gift doesn’t take up too much space and does offer a lot of joy. The surest route there? A custom-made clothbound photo book. Customizable from 10 to 100 pages with a whole host of layouts (full bleed, collages, and more), Adorama’s Printique provides quick and high-quality photo book-making. It’s simple to get professional-looking results with their system—including on the exterior, where you can add a die-cut with a photo (we love this option) or foil printing, too. Interested in more options for storing photos? Here’s are more of the best photo albums.

Best for displaying photos: Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame

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Physical photos are great, but so many of our images are digital these days. Fortunately, the Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame is designed so that people take photos and videos on their phones and send them directly to the frame for display. Named the best overall in our roundup of digital picture frames, the Aura allows for vacation photos to show up in real time in your grandparents’ living room. Grandma and Grandpa can also invite friends and family to see their latest adventures and their privacy is secured. What’s more, the 9.7-inch screen is color-calibrated for a vibrant display and the frame is available in sandstone, graphite, white quartz, and pebble. And storage is unlimited.

Best for the coffee lover: Bonavita 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker Machine

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If your grandparents love to start the day with coffee, but don’t have the space or inclination to invest in an espresso machine or a latte machine, the Bonavita 5 Cup Drip Coffee Maker Machine provides a high-quality brew with less space and energy. This drip coffee maker meets the Golden Cup Standard for artisan brewing and its temperature range of 198° to 205°F allows for optimal flavor. They can also use the Pre-Infusion Mode to enhance the flavor of the beans prior to brewing. And the coffee brews into a stainless steel carafe that will keep it warm for hours.

Best for the tea aficionado: Tea From Around the World

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If Grandma’s an Earl Gray fan, she’ll appreciate the opportunity to sample some more flavors from around the globe with this set. It comes with 10 tubes of loose leaf tea, including Milky Oolong tea from Thailand, Long Jing green tea from China, Darjeeling Margaret’s Hope black tea from India, and Kenya Kirinyaga black tea. Each tube makes a cup of tea between 6 and 8 ounces. She’ll also receive a book that tells her more about the history of the teas and provides brewing tips for the perfect cup.

Best for hydration: Hydros Water Filter Pitcher 

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Hydration is important at any age, and this attractive pitcher and water filter in one makes it easy. Grandparents will appreciate the this lightweight container, which holds 64 ounces of water and is designed with a filter Hydros says works five times faster than its competitors. Its filters are made from coconut shell carbon in a casing that is free of potentially dangerous BPAs. At 14 inches high, it should fit on the shelf of most full-size fridges and it’s sleek enough to leave on the table for everyday meals.

Best for the home cook: Grandma and Me in the Kitchen

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Making treats in the kitchen around the holidays is a tradition for many families, but this cookbook encourages the culinary collaboration to continue throughout the year. Created as part of the Little Chef series for kids ages 4 and older, Grandma and Me in the Kitchen starts out with basic kitchen skills, then progresses to simple recipes with fun illustrations. Soon enough, the grandkids will be the ones making the snacks.

Best for tidying up: iRobot Roomba i4

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By the time someone’s a grandparent, they’ve probably done more than their share of vacuuming. Their kids aren’t around to do chores anymore, so why not treat them to a robot vacuum pitch in? iRobot’s Roomba i4 arrives almost ready to go out of the box. Just plug in the charger, bring the i4 close, and it will attach magnetically. The iRobot app makes it easy to connect new device to WiFi through a series of fun screens. Then, all they have to do is press “Clean” and the iRobot will map their home with its sensor and get busy dispensing with the dust bunnies.

Best for the absent-minded: Apple AirTag

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For the tech-savvy grandparent who also has a tendency to misplace things, the Apple Air Tag can help reduce hours of fruitless searching. They can set it up using their iPad or iPhone in one step. Once they’re connected with the Find My app, they can place the AirTag with anything they don’t want to misplace and also check on its location. The AirTag is also voice-assisted, so they can just ask Siri to help them find whatever they’re looking for. Let’s be honest, you’re ordering some for yourself, too.

Best gift under $15: Magic Custom Photo Color Changing Coffee Mug Cup

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Yeah, we know we said enough with the mugs, but this one is worth the exception. It’s an affordable, personalized gift for grandparents, and yes, it would pair nicely with our pick for best useful gift, now that you mention it. Pick a handle shape and inner mug color, pick a photo, pick your text, and add a little bit of fun to your grandparents’ morning cuppa.

The post Here are 20+ of the best gifts for grandparents appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best solar generator		Jackery Solar Generator 1000		SEE IT	Harness the power of the sun to keep your devices and appliances juiced with this portable generator.
Best for hydration		Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid		SEE IT	Keep water ice-cold all day long while reducing plastic waste.
Best for students		Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook		SEE IT	This smart notebook lets users save their scribblings to the cloud, then erase and start all over again.

It’s a great feeling when you give a gift that delights a loved one—and it probably means that you scoured through plenty of ideas before landing on a true winner. But while gift-giving can be fun, knowing the impact these new products can have on the environment can take some of the holiday spirit out of shopping. Though any new product will contribute to emissions due to its manufacturing and shipping processes, these environmentally friendly options can help cut down on waste and carbon footprint. From replacing single-use plastics like water bottles and coffee cups to going green by riding a bike to work, these are our picks for sustainable gifts that are a must-have for anyone who wants to help the planet. 

• Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker
• Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug
• Best for students: Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook
• Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter
• Best compost bin: Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-Fill Compost Bin Food Waste Caddy
• Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle
• Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000
• Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Towels
• Best for new cooks: The Everlasting Meal Cookbook: Leftovers A-Z
• Best for home cooks: The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook: 500 Inspired, Flexible Recipes for Eating Well Without Meat
• Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Acaciaware Set
• Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can
• Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags
• Best for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers
• Best for hydration: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid
• Best reusable straws: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws
• Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers
• Best slippers: Glerups Wool Slip-On Leather Slippers
• Best for puzzle lovers: Party Fowls Trick Puzzle
• Best for music lovers: House of Marley Champion True Wireless Earbuds
• Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag
• Best for neat freaks: Me Mother Earth Quick Dry Diatomaceous Stone Bath Mat
• Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush
  

Best for coffee lovers: Bruvi Coffee Maker

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Pod coffee makers aren’t typically known for being sustainable (or providing delicious brews), but the Bruvi Coffee Maker is aiming to change that. Its pods—which pack in 40 percent more grinds than typical competitors—are a curated selection from around the globe. You can select from coffee, tea, espresso, Americanos, espresso, and cold brew in 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, or 12-ounce sizes. And when it comes to sustainability, the pods can also biodegrade 84 percent in an anaerobic environment in less than two years, according to the company’s testing, unlike plastic pods. Plus, you can use the Bruvi app to remotely ensure the WiFi-ready IoT brewer has the coffee ready in the morning and automatically reorder favorite blends. For more options, check out best coffee makers.

Best for office workers: YETI Rambler Stainless Insulated Mug

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We’re not immune to the appeal of a specialty latte or coffee while on the go, but those quick trips to your local cafe quickly add up. Globally, 16 billion paper cups hit the waste bins each year, which equates to roughly 6.5 million trees cut down and four billion gallons of water wasted. It’s also a common misconception that your coffee cup can be tossed in the recycling—paper cups are lined with a plastic moisture barrier called polyethylene, which actually contaminates the other recyclables in your bin.

The simple solution to limiting your own personal waste? A reusable travel mug. The YETI Rambler comes in 30 different colorways, is BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and has an insulated design to keep your beverage at the desired temperature for longer (take that, paper cups). Not to mention that many coffee shops give you a small discount for bringing your own mug as an incentive to help our planet.

Best for students: Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook

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Your favorite student can take notes or draw but save paper with the Rocketbook Core Reusable Smart Notebook. This 6-inch by 8.8-inch, 36-page digital notebook works with an app to save your notes and drawings to the cloud, should you wish. The set comes with a pen for your scribbling and a cloth to wipe the page clean when you’re finished. Plus, it’s got the traditional spiral rings of a notebook for the classic experience, comes in executive and letter versions, and is available in 16 fun colors and patterns.

Best composter: Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter

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Composting is good for the Earth, but it can take months for food scraps to decompose into soil in the backyard. But with the Lomi Smart Waste Kitchen Composter on the counter, users can turn the remnants of dinner into nourishing feed for plants in a matter of hours with the touch of a button. This unobtrusive appliance also serves as an odor-free compost bin and lets users cut down on what they send to the landfill and pay for fertilizer.

Best compost bin: Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-Fill Compost Bin Food Waste Caddy

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We’ve all had that bag of spinach rotting in the back of our fridge, or berries that sprout mold after just a few short days. While your instinct might be to toss them in the garbage, composting provides a more sustainable way to dispose of food. As food scraps and garden waste account for almost 30 percent of our garbage, starting your own compost bin reduces your overall waste stream and cuts down on methane emissions produced by organic decomposition in landfills. 

Our pick for the best compost bin to get you started? This pick reduces the peskiest part of composting—the smell. The ventilated design allows air to circulate through, which results in less moisture and odors. It also features a replaceable odor filter to trap any potential smells, a polypropylene body for easy cleaning, and a flip-top lid with a wide opening,

Best for commuters: 6KU Track Fixed Gear Bicycle

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Cars represent the greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, contributing almost 30 percent of the country’s total emissions. Riding a bicycle is one of the only modes of transportation that requires no fossil fuels or pollution.

This fixed-gear bicycle from 6KU is perfect for cruising through most towns and cities, as it maintains speed to make riding simpler. While this sustainable gift is more of an investment than some other options, a high-quality bicycle is a functional pick that can be used for years to come—and as far as commuter road bikes go, this one is on the affordable end.

Best solar generator: Jackery Solar Generator 1000

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Whether you’re on a long camping trip or setting up lights in your backyard, a portable generator is an eco-friendly way to power up devices without resorting to a gas-guzzling generator. Not only is the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 significantly more portable than its gas counterparts, but it also saves money in the long run, as you won’t need to continue buying gas for refueling. 

With 1,000 watts, a topped-off power station can run even large appliances like refrigerators, TVs, and electric grills. While many people might turn to solar generators for journeys off the grid (i.e., camping, road trips), you can also use the Jackery Solar Generator to power your outdoor appliances, like Christmas lights, electric heaters, and electric lawnmowers. Simply set up the solar panels (some included here, more sold separately) facing the direction with the most sun and plug in your tech. And if you like this idea but want more options, we’ve got the best solar generators coverage, well, covered.

Best for new homeowners: Coyuchi Temescal Organic Towels

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Moving into a new home is exciting but also a big expense. Treat some new homeowners to a gift that will last: Coyuchi’s Temescal Organic Towels. Hand-woven from organic cotton in Turkey, these towels are both plush and lightweight, with ribbing for extra drying power. The six-piece set includes two bath towels, two washcloths, and two hand towels. It’s available in four rich colors (Alpine White, Deep Ocean, Terra, and Shadow), plus an undyed version that will go well in any bathroom. This set is also certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for extra peace of mind. 

Best for new cooks: The Everlasting Meal Cookbook: Leftovers A-Z

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Cooking from home is an excellent way to save money and know exactly what’s in the food you’re eating. But for new cooks, the prospect of whipping the disparate ingredients in the fridge and cabinets into a tasty meal can be daunting. Fortunately, The Everlasting Cookbook: Leftovers from A to Z provides a comprehensive guide to combining everything from a leftover burrito to aging scallions to even potato chip crumbs into something delicious. Written by award-winning cookbook author Tamar Adler, The Everlasting Cookbook features more than 1,500 recipes with beautiful illustrations that show how even those last few black olives in the jar can transform into a work of art.

Best for home cooks: The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook: 500 Inspired, Flexible Recipes for Eating Well Without Meat

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Speaking of vegetables, if someone you know could use some inspiration to get three to five servings a day, consider The Complete Plant-Based Cookbook. With 500 recipes developed by America’s Test Kitchen, this book also provides a primer on plant-based eating and includes a section of gluten-free recipes. Everyone from vegans to people just exploring meat alternatives and looking to get more veggies on their plate will find plenty to like in these easy, budget-friendly recipes that draw on culinary traditions from around the globe.

Best for healthy eaters: Pacific Merchants Acaciaware Set

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The USDA recommends three to five servings of vegetables each day, and that should include some leafy greens. This wonderful 12-inch round bowl comes with two servers, all made from natural acacia wood. Fill it up with some nice field greens, or just live the dream of making an all-crouton salad. Just don’t put it in the microwave or dishwasher because that will ruin the wood. Round out your table with more of the best serving bowls.

Best for gardeners: Sporgard Galvanized Steel Watering Can

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Whether your giftee is a new plant parent or has a green thumb, they will certainly appreciate the utility of a good watering can. This one-gallon steel container is both practical and decorative and can be used on indoor and outdoor plants alike. And not only is this can designed to endure, but the steel can also be recycled. The double handle makes it easy to manage, even when it’s totally full of liquid. We recommend using water and not energy drinks.

Best for families: Nordic by Nature Reusable Sandwich Bags

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Living sustainably can be challenging when you’ve got a family to feed 365 days a year. Nordic by Nature’s Reusable Sandwich Bags make it a little easier. The set comes with four bags: two large, one medium, and one small in a pretty floral pattern that zips closed. They’re free of toxic chemicals such as BPAs and lead and they come at an affordable price. Plus, cleanup is super easy: just toss them in the dishwasher.

Best for kids: Tiny Land Wooden Train Set for Toddlers

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There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a kid opening a brand-new toy. But as kids grow and change interests, over 80 percent of these new toys will ultimately end up in the trash. And as 90 percent of toys are made of plastic, these playthings will stay in our environment for over 450 years after they’re discarded. 

So—how can you give your kiddo a new gift that won’t further contribute to our climate crisis? The best option is toys made of biodegradable materials like wood, silicone, or recycled fabric. While these toys still produce emissions, once discarded they will have less dire impacts on the environment. This 39-piece polished beach wood train set allows your kid to create a variety of paths using the curved and flat tracks, and the bridge, people, engine, car, and hauler will keep them playing for hours. Ultimately, your little one will thank you for looking after their future planet. 

Best for hydration: Hydro Flask Water Bottle with Straw Lid

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Globally, 1 million plastic bottles are purchased every minute, 1.3 billion bottles every day, and 481 billion plastic bottles every year. With only 20 percent of plastic successfully recycled and reused, the best alternative to cutting down on your consumption and carbon footprint is investing in a reliable, reusable water bottle.

And if you’re searching for a nearly indestructible, BPA-free, phthalate-free, stainless steel bottle that will keep H20 chilled all day long, the Hydro Flask is a reliable favorite. You can toss it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning without worrying about the powder coating getting damaged.

Best reusable straws: StrawExpert Set of 16 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws

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From restaurant booths to drive-through coffee shops, single-use plastic straws are a ubiquitous part of daily life for many Americans—with an approximated 500 million straws used in the United States each year. And with a lifetime of 200 years, this relatively small piece of our daily waste adds up. While straws account for less than one percent of the plastic waste in our oceans, taking small measures to reduce your impact can add up. Though compostable straws are a step in the right direction, reusable straws are the best way to cut down on production and landfill waste. They are a staple in most sustainable gift guides.

This set of stainless steel straws from StrawExpert can last a lifetime—with enough sizes and shapes to suit any kind of tumbler or cup. The 10.5-inch straight and bent straws fit up to 34-ounce tumblers, while the regular 8.5-inch straws are great for 16- to 20-ounce water bottles or mugs. And if you hate the feeling of metal on your teeth, these straws also come with a small silicone mouthpiece for added comfort. 

Best sneakers: KOIO Men’s Sneakers

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For a person that just any footwear won’t do, consider KOIO Men’s Sneakers. Handmade in Tuscany, these kicks combine buttery Italian leather with recycled rubber soles that use up to 40 percent recycled materials. The hand-painted trim also provides a sleek look. Available in more than 30 colorways, these laced low tops are also water-resistant and come with a removable insole for extra comfort. The recycled foam and rubber insoles also make them perfect for all-day wear. We highly recommend checking out the boot, sneaker, and slip-on options for both men and women.

Best slippers: Glerups Wool Slip-On Leather Slippers

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The Danish are well-known for their appreciation of coziness. So it’s no surprise that these comfy, rustic slippers are made by Glerups, a company based in Denmark. It all began in 1993 when the co-founder started making felt boots as a hobby from the wool of her Gotland sheep for friends and family. Now, Glerups makes a line of slip-ons, shoes, and boots using natural textiles and dyes and designed for comfort. Plus, the company practices regenerative agriculture and recycles its wool and leather. So, if your giftee isn’t into bunny slippers, these Glerups slip-ons are unisex and available in seven muted colors (gray, charcoal, cranberry, petrol, red, blue, forest).

Best for puzzle lovers: Party Fowls Trick Puzzle

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This head-scratcher of a jigsaw puzzle features some tricky chickens. At 1,000 pieces and 20 by 27 inches, the Party Fowl Trick Puzzle is a project. But your puzzle lover will also be in for a surprise, as the final product doesn’t exactly match the box. It’s all in good fun, and you can also feel good about this purchase, as the puzzle is made of 100 percent recycled chipboard and paper.

Best for music lovers: House of Marley Champion True Wireless Earbuds

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Made by a company inspired by the late singer, these wireless earbuds provide up to 28 hours of high-quality audio on a single charge and feature a microphone for hands-free calls. Designed for a snug fit, these earbuds are also made from sustainable materials, including bamboo, environmentally-friendly silicone, and natural wood fiber. And they’re sweat- and water-resistant, which also makes them great for fitness lovers.

Best bag: Troubadour Sling Bag

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We’ve all got a handful of essentials we need to take with us, but hauling a pocketbook or tote everywhere can be a hassle, while traditional fanny packs can scream tourist. Troubadour’s Sling Bag elegantly bridges the divide, with a sleek bag that can fit your phone, wallet, charger, water bottle, keys, sunglasses case, and more. Made from recycled plastic, it’s waterproof and comes with a cleanable anti-microbial lining. Plus, the shoulder strap comes with a magnetic buckle that you can easily adjust for maximum utility.  

Best for neat freaks: Me Mother Earth Quick Dry Diatomaceous Stone Bath Mat

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Say goodbye to soggy bath mats! The lucky recipient of the Me Mother Earth Quick Dry Stone Bath Mat won’t have to step over puddles on the bathroom floor anymore. It’s made from diatomaceous clay, which is derived from fossilized algae and is the same material used in swimming pool filters. This 6.4-pound, non-slip stone mat is capable of absorbing 150 percent of its weight within seconds (and it’s fun to watch wet footprints disappear). Plus, it’s easy to clean with soap, water, and vinegar.

Best toothbrush: SURI Electric Toothbrush

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Oral health can provide a window into someone’s overall well-being; for example, periodontitis has been linked to the development of diabetes, according to the World Health Organization. Fortunately, good oral hygiene goes a long way. So why not help a loved one ditch the plastic toothbrush for some cutting-edge teeth technology? The SURI Electric Toothbrush uses 33,000 sonic vibrations a minute to deep clean teeth between dental checkups. The body of the device is made from aluminum and slim enough to fit into a travel pack. And it comes with plant-based replaceable heads, so there’s no need to get a new brush every time they visit the dentist.

Final thoughts on sustainable gifts

Our sustainable gift guide allows you to keep the holiday spirit of giving while staying environmentally conscious. Whether you’re trying to send a hint to the aunt who gets a to-go coffee every day or you’re in search of a plastic-free present for the kid in your life, these picks are a gift to your loved one and our planet.

The post Sustainable gift guide: 20+ gifts that keep on giving appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

For a botanical intervention		Plant Life Support		SEE IT	Save your plants that are past their prime.
For creating a veritable jungle		Levoit Smart Cool Mist Humidifier		SEE IT	Keep the air just the right amount of moist.
For the sun-starved		Soltech Large White Aspect LED Grow Light		SEE IT	Grow lights can fit in with your space.

House plants can quickly become an obsession. What starts out as a pot here or there can rapidly become an at-home garden center. If you or a loved one knows—or is—a plant lover, you may find yourself stressed around the holidays, unsure of what more they could possibly use. Luckily for you, the world of plants and plant-adjacent products offers a seemingly endless array of options. Here are our picks for the best gifts to help, well, grow the enthusiasm and tool shed of would-be plant parents, seasoned growers, and everyone in between.

• For precision pruning: Gonicc Professional Bonsai Scissors
• For watering in style: HB Design Company Indoor Watering Can
• For the data-obsessed grower: Wanfei Plant Monitor
• For creating a veritable jungle: Levoit Smart Cool Mist Humidifier
• For creating a miniature jungle: YINGJEE Mini Cactus Humidifier
• For the forgetful: Costa Farms ZZ Plant
• For the sun-starved: Soltech Large White Aspect LED Grow Light
• For dark apartments or houses: Solatmos Metal Plant Stand with Grow Lights
• For the art lover: Modern Sprout Grow Frame
• For someone with plant baby fever: Virtune Small Succulent Pots
• For performing plant miracles: Flying Pig Hanging Plant Holder
• For a ‘70s aesthetic: SCADINORDICA Disco Ball Planter
• For those with no yard: N/C Square Meter Plant Repotting Mat
• For a botanical intervention: Plant Life Support Automatic Watering System
• For lazy waterers: Jucoan Plant Self-Watering Globes
• For the serial propagator: Mkono Plant Propagation Tubes
• For expanding the jungle: Besgrow Spagmoss Premium New Zealand Sphagnum Moss
• For those bugged by insects: Grow Margo Yellow Sticky Trap for Indoor Gnats
• For those who love fresh veggies: Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System
• For when you’ve got less green to grow greens: SereneLife Smart Starter Kit 
• For someone with green thumbs and blue toes: Plants Get Me Blue Q Women’s Ankle Socks

For precision pruning: Gonicc Professional Bonsai Scissors

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Plants need occasional tough love, and that includes chopping your plant babies back every once in a while. These thin-bladed shears give you the precision to snip your plants right where you want to without mangling the stems. Since they’re made for the precise art of shaping bonsais, you can rest assured that they will fit the needs of even your most particular plants. Carbon steel construction makes them strong and durable, but make sure to wipe them and store them inside to maximize longevity.

For watering in style: HB Design Company Indoor Watering Can

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This isn’t your grandma’s rusty watering can (though that’s pretty cool, too). This quart-sized can nestles right next to your plants, waiting for its next use without taking up too much extra space. You can buy this stainless steel container in white, black, or copper to match your friend’s design preferences. And its long spout makes it ideal for precisely targeting dry soil, keeping water focused on the roots, not the floor or leaves.

For the data-obsessed grower: Wanfei Plant Monitor

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Plants can’t outwardly tell us what they need, at least not through words, so caring for them requires a lot of guesswork. With this plant sensor, you can give the gift of a little more certainty. Stick the sensor in the soil, connect it to an app, add a plant’s information, and it’s ready to track. This Bluetooth plant monitor will check the nutrient levels and moisture of the soil, as well as the surrounding temperature and amount of light. Then, the sensor will alert the user if anything drops below optimal levels, allowing the plant to be tended to meticulously.

For creating a veritable jungle: Levoit Smart Cool Mist Humidifier

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We may not realize how dry our homes get, but plants sure do. This Levoit humidifier will help provide a taste of the jungle-like humidity many plants need. Every day, this humidifier releases 3 liters of water into the air and automatically shuts off when it runs out. It can be filled directly from the top, which means no awkward trips to the bathtub to top it off, and it can be remotely turned off via a smartphone app. If you want to get really precise, this system can aim for a target humidity to make finicky houseplants feel right at home.

For creating a miniature jungle: YINGJEE Mini Cactus Humidifier

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If you care more about looks or just have a smaller space, this cactus humidifier can get the job done, too. This quiet cactus charges via USB and also functions as a night light. Since it’s so small, it can blend right into any plant setup.

For the forgetful: Costa Farms ZZ Plant

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Maybe the only thing that could kill a ZZ plant is too much care, making this beauty the perfect fit for any aspirational plant lover who worries they’re more of a gardening grim reaper. This plant thrives in indirect light, so no worries if there are no south-facing windows around, and it can tolerate long periods of drought. In other words, you can set it and forget it, at least for a couple of weeks. This particular ZZ comes pre-planted in a large pot for even less effort and can make a beautiful green statement in any home.

For the sun-starved: Soltech Large White Aspect LED Grow Light

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Plant parenthood 101: plants need light to grow. Even “low-light” plants require sufficient illumination to keep photosynthesis flowing. But the truth is, unless you happen to live in a greenhouse, some areas of your home probably get a lot less light than plants are used to in the wild. That’s where grow lights come in. Ideally, a grow light will mimic natural sunlight as closely as possible, and this one gets fairly close. Natural light has a color rendering index rating of 100, so the closer a light can get to that, the better for plants, and this light is at 97. Plus, this light offers a more stylish design than many of the most popular grow lights on the market. The light itself is sleek and modern, while the light it produces is a pleasant white, unlike the purples and pinks of a lot of grow lights out there. This Soltech aspect light can be raised or lowered to ensure plants of all light needs get the pseudo-sun they crave.

For dark apartments or houses: Solatmos Metal Plant Stand with Grow Lights

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And for your friend whose plants are craving some individual attention, try this stand with built-in grow lights. It’s also just a nice aesthetic display for your burgeoning family.

For the art lover: Modern Sprout Grow Frame

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You don’t have to be Vincent van Gogh to paint your walls with color, you just have to take care of some plants and mount this steel frame to a wall. Help someone treat their plants like the works of art they are by gifting them these grow frames by Modern Sprout. Equipped with LED grow lights and a timer, plants will thrive in these frames, even if they’re on a dimly lit wall. 

For someone with plant baby fever: Virtune Small Succulent Pots

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Indoor plants deserve a solid pot that will keep in the dirt and protect shelves and floors from moisture. Whether covering up nursery pots, preventing water from running all over your house, or just looking cute, a solid pot can elevate a plant and make them even cuter to place around a home. This two-tiered pot is the perfect way to free up some counter space or proudly display a successful propagation next to its mother plant.

For performing plant miracles: Flying Pig Hanging Plant Holder

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Hanging pots are especially great for freeing up space. And if your friend always said they’d be able to keep a plant alive when pigs fly, well, here’s a way to call them on that.

For a ‘70s aesthetic: SCADINORDICA Disco Ball Planter

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When plant fever and disco fever combine, the result is totally groovy. This hanging planter is a great statement piece for anyone who has a, well, ball, nurturing their plants. It comes in both six- and eight-inch sizes depending on the size of the plant going inside.

For those with no yard: N/C Square Meter Plant Repotting Mat

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Potting or repotting is, well, dirty work. This waterproof transplanting mat keeps soil and water from going everywhere while making clean-up quick. Plus, the mat fits great in the trunk of a car, which can make trips from the local plant nursery a lot less stress-inducing when your new plant friend inevitably tips over.

For a botanical intervention: Plant Life Support Automatic Watering System

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Okay, things happen. Sometimes we might forget to water a plant for a couple of days, weeks, or months, and it might need a little TLC and consistency to come back to life. This plant life support kit comes with a 350ml bag and stake set to give neglected plants the lifeline they may need. Just hang the IV bag, connect the dripper to the soil, and set the flow regulator to give a withering plant consistent fluids. And if water isn’t enough to save a neglected plant, you might need to get a second opinion or run some more tests.

For lazy waterers: Jucoan Plant Self-Watering Globes

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If overtly suggesting that your friend is a ruthless plant murderer isn’t what you’re going for, these water globes can also do the trick. These glass garden friends can keep soil moist for up to three weeks, giving even your most forgetful plant-loving friend some much-needed grace.

For the serial propagator: Mkono Plant Propagation Tubes

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Successfully creating new houseplant life is something to be proud of—so display it! This propagation station has no shortage of spots for cuttings to root in water. The setup comes in three different wood stains with 15 spots for plant babies to be shown off until they get big enough to plant in a bigger pot or the ground.

For expanding the jungle: Besgrow Spagmoss Premium New Zealand Sphagnum Moss

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The best gift for a plant lover: more plants. Cut your own plants right below the node, package them up in a moisture-retaining material like some sphagnum moss or a wet paper towel, wrap them up in cling wrap, add a little bow, and voila—a bouquet of cuttings ready to propagate into more leafy little ones. 

For those bugged by insects: Grow Margo Yellow Sticky Trap for Indoor Gnats

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It’s all fun and games in plant parenthood until you spot the dreaded fungus gnat. But these sticky traps can rid you of some of your insect woes. Just pop the trap right in the soil like a stake, and wait for gnats to be attracted to the bright yellow sticky trap. Although the yellow might be a bit bright, these traps are shaped like monstera leaves, making them a little less of an eye-sore than the usual sticky traps. Plus, they come in a pack of 30, so they can be used until all the gnats are gone. 

For those who love fresh veggies: Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System

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For someone who’s into eating their plant babies, not just looking at them, an indoor gardening setup might be just what they’re looking for. Although the entire structure takes up only two square feet, the Gardyn 2.0 hydroponics growing system can grow 30 plants at once and looks beautiful in the process. And the results will taste even sweeter. With the accompanying app, the system will tell you when it needs maintenance and when your plants are at their peak, and can even slow down the growth of your plants while you’re away on vacation. It’s kind of like having an AI gardener tend to your crops 24/7. 

For when you’ve got less green to grow greens: SereneLife Smart Starter Kit 

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But not all of us have five vertical feet of space, not hundreds of dollars, to dedicate to gardening indoors. If that’s the case, try a smaller countertop version to grow a few small plants at a time.

For someone with green thumbs and blue toes: Plants Get Me Blue Q Women’s Ankle Socks

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Just because you’re focused on giving your plants just the right amount of sunshine doesn’t mean you should neglect your own chilly feet. These cotton and nylon socks let any plant-lover express their passion outside of their house. When the world gets busy, and you desperately wish you were lounging in your houseplant jungle, these socks can remind you of your foliaged friends back home and keep you warm in the process. Socks make great gifts.

The post 20+ gifts to help your new plant parent friends grow their love of plants appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

BEST OVERALL		Brava Smart Oven		SEE IT	The Brava smart oven’s multi-functionality is matched only by its genuine utility.
MOST THOUGHTFUL		MadeIn Engraved 8-Inch Chef Knife		SEE IT	MadeIn’s engraved chef knife is an incredibly thoughtful gift that’ll be used every day.
BEST FOR BAKERS		OXO 11-Pound Food Scale		SEE IT	OXO’s kitchen scale will make your baker’s bakes more consistent.

A good home cook will already have the basic tools they need—so you can use the holiday season to buy them the best kitchen gifts they might not even know they need. It could be a big fancy gadget, but it could also be a small upgrade to a simple, classic one. Either way, they can put these accessories to good use cooking delicious food all year long … and maybe sharing some with you. Win-win!

• Best multicooker: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1
• Best smart oven: Brava Smart Oven
• Best water purifier: AquaTru Connect
• Best pepper grinder: MANNKITCHEN Pepper Cannon
• Best toaster: Tineco Toasty One
• Best stand mixer: Wolf Gourmet High-Performance Stand Mixer
• Best sheet pans: Great Jones Little Sheet
• Best Dutch oven: Smithey Ironware 7.25 QT Dutch Oven
• Best microwavable cookware: Anyday Everyday Set
• Best for small kitchen: Kuhn Rikon 4th Burner Pot
• Best saucier: Misen 3 QT Stainless Steel Saucier
• Best bread maker: Panasonic Bread Machine
• Best air fryer: Cuisenart TOA-95
• Best electric knife: BUBBA Kitchen Series Cordless Electric Knife
• Best indoor smoker: Weston 2-in-1 Slow Cooker & Electric Indoor Smoker
• Best kitchen scale: OXO 11-Pound Food Scale
• Best for bakers: PantryChic Smart Storage System
• Best cordless appliance: KitchenAid Go Cordless Hand Mixer
• Best juicer: Hurom H310A
• Best water carbonator: Ninja Thirsti Drink System
• Best ice cream maker: Ninja Creami
• Best premium cookware: Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Cookware Set
• Best cutting board: Fifth & Cherry F&C 14
• Best colander: Dreamroo Collapsible Multi-purpose Colander
• Best knife: MadeIn Engraved 8-inch Chef Knife
• Best mandoline: Benriner Mandoline Slicer
• Best grater: Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Grater
• Best spice grinder: FinaMill Pepper Mill & Spice Grinder
• Best for travelers: Nordic Ware Cakes and Cupcakes Carrier
• Best sous vide: Breville Joule Turbo

Best multicooker: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1

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Look, we know this is an obvious choice for a kitchen gift. Instant Pots are just the new sous-vide machines in terms of go-to gadgets. But here’s the thing: They’re popular for a reason. Want to make slow-cooked stews on a weeknight? Or perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs every time? Who doesn’t? The basic version is affordable, even for the largest size. If you want to upgrade to the 10 in 1, go for it, but rest assured this one will get all of the jobs done.

Best smart oven: Brava smart oven

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Brava’s smart oven seeks to answer two questions home cooks face at least once a day: What should I cook, and how long will it take? The 10-in-1 countertop appliance provides you with answers to both by presenting you with an ever-growing list of recipes that cater to any diet or dietary restrictions. In our tests, we cooked everything from s’mores to fried eggs, and the results were both fast and tasty. You can control the oven using an app, or by navigating through its controls via a touch screen on top; either way, you’ll be guided through recipes from conception to execution. Part of this appliance’s appeal is its size: The Brava Oven will heat up a lot faster than a full-sized one, which allowed us to cook s’mores in just three minutes. By cutting down on the cook time, we were encouraged to cook more often rather than opting for takeout. This is an ultra-luxe gift, but smart ovens are well worth it if you know someone who loves to cook but struggles to come up with new meals for their rotation.

Best water purifier: AquaTru Connect

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All of us should be drinking at least 2.7 liters of water per day according to the Mayo clinic, but that’s difficult if you’re uneasy about what’s coming out of your tap. If you know someone in that situation, AquaTru’s Connect makes for an excellent gift. The appliance uses a three-stage filtration system and reverse osmosis to purify water and remove everything from rocket fuel and radium to pesticides and herbicides. Naturally, it’ll also filter out unwanted tastes and odors. We could easily pick up on those last two factors during our tests but felt good about the other nasty stuff getting filtered out, too. Using the AquaTru connect is equally simple. All you have to do is fill up its tank and press a button. AquaTru’s app lets you know the status of all three filters, so you know when they need to be replaced, along with stats on how much water it’s filtered. Looking for other options? Not a problem.

Best pepper grinder: MÄNNKITCHEN Pepper Cannon

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Giving a pepper grinder as a gift may seem odd, but Mäankitchen’s is the exception that proves the rule. We were impressed not only by its ultra-solid build quality but by the level of control it gave us over our grind. The company says its grinder is 10 times faster than a typical one, and you should believe the hype. A simple knob on the bottom of the pepper grinder allows you to switch from coarser to finer settings, so you can find the perfect one for your salad and steak and switch between them very quickly. Yes, the Mäankitchen Pepper Cannon is overkill, but that’s exactly why it’s such a great gift.

Best toaster: Tineco Toasty One

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If you know someone who can’t start their day without toast, a bagel, or an English muffin, Tineco’s Toasty One will blow their minds. The smart toaster allows you to select your preferred level of doneness using a visual indicator, which is far more useful than figuring out whether you like setting number two or three on a traditional toaster. There’s no app required to use this toaster, as its main feature is the 4-inch touch screen. We were impressed by the performance of this toaster, especially the ability to select individual settings for the left and right slots. It also helps that the toaster actually looks cool on a countertop, with just the right mix of futurism and minimalism.

Best stand mixer: Wolf Gourmet High-Performance Stand Mixer

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Wolf Gourmet’s Stand Mixer is the most luxe gift in our guide, but it’ll astonish any home baker who receives it. The company paid meticulous attention to small details, like how easy the power knob is to turn, the click that happens when the large-capacity bowl is in the correct position, and how long it takes for the mixer to increase its speed. The mixer comes with a whisk, paddle, and dough hook attachment, which we’ve used to make cakes, cookies, and bread respectively.

This mixer has an extraordinary amount of power under the hood, so much so that we casually made double or triple batches of a recipe without thinking twice. A half-full bowl of cookie dough never impeded the paddle attachment from spinning, nor did it make the mixer shake violently, which has happened when we tried the same test with another machine. Wolf Gourmet includes an indispensable accessory in addition to its attachments: A plastic shield that goes over the top of the mixer’s bowl to prevent dry ingredients from flying everywhere when you first incorporate them with wet ingredients. The shield has a slot that allows you to slowly feed ingredients into the mixer as it’s being used.

Wolf Gourmet’s Stand Mixer isn’t your average gift, but it’s one that its recipient will treasure for the rest of their lives. We could easily see this mixer get passed down from generation to generation, along with handwritten family recipes. Looking for something more affordable/traditional? We always love a KitchenAid.

Best sheet pans: Great Jones Little Sheet

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Sheet pans are essential for the home cook who bakes or roasts food often, and this eye-catching pair of quarter-sheet trays from Great Jones will liven up every kitchen. They’re dishwasher safe, and the perfect size for a personal pizza, small sheet of cookies, or cornbread. We’re especially fond of their raised lips, which makes it possible to use them for small sheet cakes. Most home cooks have half-sized sheet pans but may be sleeping on smaller ones. Great Jones also offers a bundle that includes these two trays and a larger one.

Best Dutch oven: Smithey Ironware 7.25 QT Dutch Oven

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Smithey Ironware’s 7.25 QT Dutch Oven is a luxe gift for serious home cooks who routinely cook big batches of food for an entire family. One could easily bake a massive loaf of bread, fry an entire broken-down chicken, or slow cook an entire pork butt while still having room to spare. The company says you’ll be able to cook acidic foods like sauces in it after the first few cooks without the risk of ruining its coating. If you go to one specific person’s house every year for the holidays, and have watched them struggle to get enough food out at one time because their cookware was too small, this gift could seriously help them out.

Best microwavable cookware: Anyday Everyday Set

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There’s “microwave-safe” cookware and then there’s the Everyday Set from Anyday. The frosted glass cookware is dishwasher safe, freezer safe, non-toxic, and comes in multiple sizes, which is why we’re inclined to jump in with both feet and gift the Everyday set. We’ve been pleased not only by how well this cookware performs—our from-scratch and reheated microwaved foods have never been cooked so consistently—but by how each size is perfect for different applications. The home cook with this set will be able to make everything from a full pot of rice to a small chicken completely in the microwave. The company’s website offers a bevy of new recipes for the microwave skeptic, too, in case you’re shopping for a skeptic.

Best for small kitchen: Kuhn Rikon 4th Burner Pot

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Kuhn Rikon’s 4th Burner Pot was specifically designed to be used on the smallest burner found on a stovetop. If you’re shopping for a home cook who cares about efficiency, this gift will please them immeasurably. The pot comes with a steam basket, which can also be used to boil smaller vegetables or thick pasta (think rigatoni) and easily lift them out of boiling water. Small touches, like the covering on the top and side handles that make both parts grippier are especially nice touches. We guarantee the chef in your life doesn’t have this tool in their arsenal, and they’ll immediately begin figuring out the most efficient ways to use it.

Best saucier: Misen 3 QT Stainless Steel Saucier

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Misen’s 3 Quart Saucepan is the type of kitchen tool that many home chefs aspire to use, and giving it as a gift could make that a reality. The 5-ply stainless steel saucepan heats up evenly, but its handle is designed to be easy to hold and reduce its heat exposure. Three of this saucier’s layers are made out of aluminum, which conducts heat more quickly to cut down on the cook time. This construction also allows the saucepan to withstand heat of up to 800 degrees if you need to prepare food in the oven. Whether they want a fresh bowl of rice, homemade popcorn, or reheated soup, this is the tool they’ll continue to reach for.

Best bread maker: Panasonic Automatic Bread Machine

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Aspiring bakers can tripped up in bread baking because there’re so many things that can go wrong, from taking a loaf out too soon, or accidentally overworking or under-proofing the dough. Panasonic’s Automatic Bread Maker lives up to its name, allowing you to make everything from brioche to sourdough with a few button presses. It even has a slot where you can pour in mix-ins like seeds or dried garlic and other spices to ensure they’re incorporated evenly. We’re typically skeptical about single-use kitchen gadgets since counter space is such a premium resource (especially in apartments), but the Automatic Bread Maker more than earns its spot. If they make bread often enough, the person you gift it to may never put it away.

Best air fryer: Cuisinart TOA-95

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If you’re shopping for someone with limited counter space, Cuisinart’s TOA-95 should be one of the first gifts to consider. The sleek-looking appliance can bake, broil, roast, reheat, toast, and air fry, with dedicated buttons for preheating, slow cooking, and air frying. The TOA-95’s display makes it easy to see which setting is selected, and the function and time/temp knobs are easy to navigate its interface. Many people associate air fryers with french fries (the TOA-95 excels at making them ultra crispy), but it’s large enough to roast an entire chicken. Overall, Cuisinart’s TOA-95 is a winner, and we highly recommend getting it for any home cook. However, we’ve got you if you just want dedicated air fryers!

Best electric knife: BUBBA Kitchen Series Cordless Electric Knife

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Know somebody who has the honor of carving up the main dish at every holiday party? Bubba’s Cordless Electric Knife will become their new best friend. The knife is extremely efficient at cutting through thick cuts of meat — even through bone—to delivery clean-looking perfectly portioned slices. Bubba includes three blades for different applications, though we typically stuck with the seven-inch carving blade during our time with it. We have to admit we were impressed at just how well this knife fit in our hand. The curved hilt allowed us to get a solid grip, and the thumb rest on top allowed us to put constant pressure on what we were cutting while keeping the blade steady. Bubba even cared about the quality of its carrying case, which makes the knife easy to store safely when not in use.

Best indoor smoker: Weston 2-in-1 Slow Cooker & Electric Indoor Smoker

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Nothing bums out a pit master quite like winter, when the smoker has to go away until springtime, which is why they’ll love Weston Brands’ slow cooker. The appliance doubles as a smoker, with a small canister for wood chips and settings for hot, cold, or combo smoking. A temperature probe will prevent them from overcooking their meat, which is particularly helpful during long cooks. The countertop-friendly appliance can cook a 6-pound chicken or 4-pound roast, which is more than enough to feed a group, especially when you factor in side dishes. There’s nothing quite like this indoor smoker (most home cooks rely on liquid smoke during colder months), so whoever you gift it to will be very pleasantly surprised.

Best kitchen scale: OXO 11-Pound Food Scale

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Everybody knows a home baker who uses measuring cups instead of weighing ingredients, and you can help them seriously up their game by gifting them a kitchen scale. Their bakes will turn out consistently, and the scale can be used in savory applications to portion meat and vegetables before cooking them. We like OXO’s scale because of its magnetic slide-out screen, which makes it possible to use the scale when weighing food in a large container. These containers would block the display of a lesser scale, which defeats the purpose of using it. OXO is one of our go-to cookware companies, and we can recommend its salad spinner as another great gift idea for picky chefs.

Best cordless appliance: KitchenAid Go Cordless Hand Mixer

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Counter space is a kitchen’s most premium real estate, and KitchenAid’s new Go Cordless Hand Mixer offers power and precision without taking up an inch. One of six appliances in the company’s new “Go” line, the 7-speed mixer can be used for everything from whipping up egg whites for a meringue to thoroughly mixing batters for cakes and brownies, to whipping cream. One of this hand mixer’s big features is its removable, rechargeable battery, which lasts up to 60 minutes per charge. This battery is compatible with all of the handheld appliances in KitchenAid’s Go line, so you can swap them whenever necessary. If you know a home cook with tired hands but limited space, this hand mixer is the ultimate gift.

Best for bakers: PantryChic Smart Storage System

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It’s ultralux, but PantryChic’s Smart Storage System is a kitchen tool your giftee will treasure for years to come. The appliance allows you to store your dry ingredients in a BPA-free container and then dispense them in the perfect quantity—down to the gram—thanks to a built-in scale. This is helpful in cutting down the time it takes to bake by reducing, if not completely eliminating, the need for measuring cups and spoons. PantryChic’s machine can be used with over 100 ingredients, from flours and coffee grounds to nuts and seeds. Baking is mostly an exact science—though creativity is encouraged—and PantryChick’s Smart Storage System can help amateurs and experienced bakers alike get the best results every time.

Best juicer: Hurom H310A

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Hurom’s H310A is so good it may well convert your favorite home chef from someone who orders overpriced juice at a specialty shop into someone who makes them at home. The juicer’s self-feeding hopper will continually ingest chunks of fruits and vegetables, while its blade mimics the amount of force used for manual juicing. Hurom says the H310A wrings as much juice as possible from fruits and vegetables, and that’s been true in our tests. The H310A consistently made tasty juice from whatever we threw at it, and cleaning it by hand was a quick affair. The best part about this juicer is its small size. This juicer offers the same level of performance as a bulkier one in a far more svelte package. Fresh, organic juice is very expensive if you order it out, so gifting this juicer will actually save the person you’re shopping for money without using a lot of time.

Best water carbonator: Ninja Thirsti Drink System

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If you’re shopping for someone who loves fizzy water—or wants to cut down on the number of energy drinks, alcoholic beverages, and sodas they buy—Ninja’s Thirsti Drink System should be your go-to gift. The appliance can make carbonated water at three levels of intensity in 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-ounce batches. Water is fed to the machine from an external tank, which should be kept in the fridge for the best results. The Thirsti also comes with a set of flavor pods, and you’re able to flavor intensity of your drink in addition to its level of carbonation and size. The results are always consistent, and you can even mix the flavor of two pods together for a more customized taste.

Best ice cream maker: Ninja Creami

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The Ninja Creami is the only gift you should consider for someone who loves ice cream. The set-it-and-forget it nature of the Creami allows you to make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, Italian ice, and other frozen treats with minimal intervention. After freezing the ice cream base in the included pint container overnight, you stick it into the Creami, hit one button, and the machine takes care of the rest. Blades will churn the ice cream to the correct consistency based on the frozen treat you’ve selected. You have the option to pause midway through to fold in mix-ins, but beyond that all you have to do is wait for the machine to do its job. This deluxe package comes with a pair of XL-sized prints, each of which holds 24 ounces of ice cream. Additional XL pints can be purchased separately if you want a constant supply of ice cream.

Best premium cookware: Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Cookware Set

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Luxe doesn’t even begin to describe Le Creuset’s 10-piece Signature Enameled Cast-Iron Cookware Set, the premium set of cookware we could wholeheartedly recommend. The set comes with an enameled dutch oven, saucier, skillet, roaster, grill pan, braiser, and four lids. Each piece in this collection is at the top of the class in its respective kitchen tool category, and to have them all bundled together will leave the person you gift this to completely gobsmacked. They can reach for these tools while baking bread and brownies, browning a steak, making a sauce, frying foods, and just about everything in between. We’d go so far as to say these are the only kitchen tools a home cook could ever truly need—though the appliances, accessories, and other tools we’re recommending would be a big help.

Best cutting board: Fifth & Cherry F&C 14

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Fifth & Cherry’s F&C 14 is a statement piece that deserves a place in any home cook’s kitchen. The 14-inch cutting board is thick cutting board thick enough to feel substantial, but still easy to move around when necessary. Fifth & Cherry went the extra mile to make sure its cutting boards immediately catch the eye, but their attention to detail is more than skin deep. We chopped, scraped, kneaded, and served food on this board and it held up very well after repeated use. The cutting board will accumulate cut marks over time, but the nicks shouldn’t go deep enough to impact its performance. If they do, Fifth & Cherry offers a free refinishing service. It may seem odd to call a cutting board beautiful, but the F&C 14 earns that distinction — and many more.

Best colander: Dreamroo Collapsible Multi-purpose Colander

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Every sink and recipe is a little different, but your giftee won’t have to worry about that with Dreamroo’s colander, which can expand and contract between 14.5 and 19.5 inches. This feature allows you to use the same colander to clean a pint or quart of fruit without reaching for a separate tool. If you’re cooking pasta for yourself or a couple of friends, this is the colander to reach for. We like this colander because it’s the type of gift nobody expects but will immediately wonder how they lived without. It’s even offered in multiple colors (we’re particularly partial to the blue), so you can get one to match their style.

Best knife: MadeIn Engraved 8-Inch Chef Knife

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A chef knife is the most versatile piece of cutlery in a home cook’s arsenal and an investment that with care can last decades, with many of them costing upwards of $200-$400. MadeIn offers its professional-grade 8-inch chef knife for just $99 and allows you to personalize its blade for an extra $30. This is a really nice touch that a home cook would appreciate every time they chop, dice, or chiffonade their favorite produce. This French-made knife, which combines the approach of German and Japanese blades, is made from a single piece of stainless steel hardened with nitrogen. It’ll make quick work of tomatoes, potatoes, pineapples, avocado, or anything else that’s thrown at it. If it’s taken care of properly, the chef who gets this knife will be able to use it for the rest of their life.

Best knife set: Cangshan N1

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If you need an incredibly generous gift idea for a home cook who’s just moved out onto their own, our top recommendation is Cangshan’s N1. The six-knife block has everything a chef needs to cut, chop, slice, and filet meat, vegetables, fruit, and anything in between. The star of the show is arguably the wooden block, which is cut at an angle so each knife is easy to grab and use. The blades themselves are forged out of a single piece of German steel, so you never have to worry about a handle falling apart. If they’re taken care of and sharpened a few times a year, this gift will last a lifetime.

Best dinnerware set: Stone + Lain Porcelain 16 Piece Dinnerware Set

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Another great gift for folks just leaving home for the first time is a good-looking set of dinnerware, which should be fancy enough to impress guests, but comfortable enough to use every day. Stone + Lain knocked it out of the park with this 16-piece set, which is a table setting for four people. Plates, bowls, and mugs are all included, so they’ll have everything they need in a single package. We loved how nice Stone + Lain’s dinnerware set looked in person, and the porcelain material felt fancier than we expected. Importantly, every piece in this set is microwave and dishwasher-safe.

Best mandoline: Benriner Mandoline Slicer

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It’s not generally good practice to give people products they could hurt themselves with—but if you’ve got a friend or family member who loves cooking up elaborate meals, this mandoline will be a godsend. It lets you quickly shave thin slices off even the hardiest veggies, making everything from salad prepping to gratin layering much faster and easier. Plus it comes with a little gripper so your loved ones don’t accidentally slice their fingertips off.

Best grater: Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Grater

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Yes, you could use a microplane to grate your ginger. But that’s assuming you want to clog up the tiny blades with fibers and spend twice as long doing it. Instead, you could just get this little Japanese device designed to perfectly mash up your ginger root (or garlic or fresh turmeric) without the hassle. It’s simple. It’s easy. It’s ceramic. And it’s got a silicone ring on the bottom to keep it from slipping.

Best spice grinder: FinaMill Pepper Mill & Spice Grinder

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FinaMill’s spice grinder is the type of gift an avid home cook wouldn’t expect but would definitely enjoy. The battery-powered grinder comes with clear pods, which have blades attached and can be filled with whole spices. Sticking the grinder on top of the grinder will initiate the blades and pulverize the spices to your preferred level of coarseness. The best part is that the spice can stay in these pods to retain their freshness over time. And because each spice is sequestered to its own pod you’ll never get cross contamination, which can alter their taste. You can also stick spices into the pods and use the FinaMill as a grinder to season your food with pepper or the spice of your choice.

Best for travelers: Nordic Ware Cakes and Cupcakes Carrier

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We all have that one person in our lives that loves bringing baked goods to parties, but frets about them getting there in one piece. Nordic Wae’s Cakes and Cupcakes Carrier is the perfect gift for such a kind soul. The kitchen tool will allow them to transport 12 cupcakes or a 9-inch x 13-inch cake safely. The cupcake holder even has individual slot, so delicate pipework isn’t ruined by one cake rubbing up against the other. A hard plastic shield prevents anything from accidentally touching the cakes, and handles make it easier for the carrier to take bakes from a car seat into a home and vice versa. Sometimes you can’t beat practicality. Nordic Ware also has a baking pan and lid set that serves a similar purpose, but won’t require them to transfer their bake from its baking dish into a separate container.

Best sous vide: Breville Joule Turbo

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OK, sure … we did start this whole list saying that Instant Pots are the new sous-vide machines. But that doesn’t mean the real things went away. If anything, they’re just hitting their stride. Breville’s Joule Turbo is the latest model in the company’s successful sous vide line, and it succeeds in solving the biggest issue with this style of cooking: the time commitment. The Turbo modulates the temperature of the water bath rather than keeping it at a set temperature to dramatically reduce the cook time of certain dishes. You still get all the benefits of sous vide cooking, including getting consistently perfect results with little to no fuss, just more quickly. The amount of time you’ll save will vary based on what’s being cooked, but some cook 50% faster. The home chef who “already has everything” will undoubtedly love this kitchen upgrade.

The post The best kitchen gifts for the everyday cook appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best sneakers		Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes		SEE IT	These sneakers are designed specifically for cold weather, with water-repellent features and grooves to keep you from slipping.
Best smartwatch		Garmin Forerunner 965		SEE IT	Designed for serious athletes, the Garmin Forerunner 965 tracks advanced performance metrics and provides up to 23 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
Best hydration vest		Salomon Adv Skin 12		SEE IT	This well-fitting vest features two soft flasks, and extra bladder for water, and plenty of pockets for snacks and other essentials.

Running seems simple enough: Put one foot in front of the other in a semi-speedy fashion. It’s free, it’s safe, and dare we say, it’s fun. The equipment, too, seems appealingly uncomplicated. All you need are clothes and running shoes, right? While that’s technically true, some specialized running gear can make jogging a whole lot more pleasant. Plus, when you feel good, you run good. It’s simple science. Here’s our list of some of the best gifts for runners:

• Best smartwatch: Garmin Forerunner 965
• Best heart rate monitor: Garmin HRM-Pro
• Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best treadmill: NordicTrack T Series
• Best massage gun: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun
• Best cold-weather sneakers: Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes
• Best outerwear: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody
• Best underlayer: Ibex Men’s Woolies Tech Long-Sleeve 1/4 Zip
• Best safety gear: Brooks Run Visible Collection
• Best running vest: Nike Aeroloft Women’s Running Vest
• Best running tights: Reebok Women’s Puremove Leggings
• Best gloves: Arc’teryx Venta Gloves
• Best socks: Smartwool Run Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Sock 
• Best face covering: Nike Therma Sphere Hood 3.0
• Best hat: TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat 
• Best compression sleeves: Hyperice Normatec Go
• Best hydration vest: Salomon Adv Skin 12
• Best T-shirt for trail running: Arc’teryx Cormac Crew SS Shirt
• Best running shorts for women: Kari Traa Nora 2.0
• Best running skort: Outdoor Voices The Exercise 3″ Skort
• Best sunglasses: Tifosi Sunglasses

Best all-weather running gear

Best smartwatch: Garmin Forerunner 965

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While you don’t need a watch for running, it certainly helps if you are aiming to track your progress and work toward goals. Garmin’s smartwatches are some of the best around for all types of physical activity, but that’s especially true for running. Its Forerunner lineup is the company’s dedicated running line, with the Forerunner 965 sitting at the top. 

The Forerunner 965 features a vibrant AMOLED touchscreen display with up to 31 hours of battery life in GPS mode and up to 23 days in smartwatch mode. As with any Garmin watch, it offers advanced training metrics and tools, including VO2 max, performance condition, training effect, wrist-based running power, load ratio, and more. You can plan your race strategies and receive daily suggested workouts right on your wrist. It also offers built-in mapping, music storage, Garmin Pay, and safety features. It’s a watch built for serious athletes and adventurers, so if you know a newer or more casual runner, the 265 would be a cheaper, smaller, more approachable option.

Best heart rate monitor: Garmin HRM-Pro

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Most running watches provide wrist-based heart rate measurements, but the accuracy of those tools still doesn’t match what you can get with a chest-based monitor. The Garmin HRM-Pro is a premium heart rate monitor with dual ANT and Bluetooth Low Energy technology. It easily pairs with Garmin devices, online training apps like Zwift, or compatible gym equipment. Beyond heart rate, this monitor also gathers running dynamics, including vertical oscillation, ground contact time, stride length, vertical ratio, and more. It can even store data when your watch is out of range, such as during a swim. And it’s comfortable to wear; I barely notice it, even on long runs or bike rides.

Best headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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Most people prefer to run with music or podcasts, but traditional in-ear headphones can pose some safety concerns. Bone conduction headphones are a fantastic option for runners because they allow you to hear your music while still staying alert to the world around you. The Shokz OpenRun Pro headphones offer a secure, lightweight fit that is comfortable even for long runs. They produce clear, high-quality sound with plenty of volume, even when running near traffic. It also features a mic so that you can call your runner when they are out. And the 10 hours of battery life will keep them from needing to charge their headphones constantly.

Best treadmill: NordicTrack T Series

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Whether it’s a blizzard or extreme heat, there are times when it’s not safe to run outside. That’s why it can be helpful to invest in a treadmill. We recommend NordicTrack’s T series. There’s a reason why NordicTrack treadmills are considered some of the best treadmills on the market: they’re reliable, durable, long-lasting, and come with several luxe features to mirror gym-quality workouts. 

This model comes with incline controls up to 15 percent, a 10-inch interactive HD coaching touchscreen, and 30 days free iFit membership, which comes with several on-demand and live workouts with automatic trainer control. also easily folds up and can be stored away for more space-saving. While it’s more expensive than other models, we believe it’s the best if you’re serious about running, want to invest in a higher-end product for the long haul, and are looking for a piece of equipment that mimics what you’d find in a high-end gym.

Best massage gun: Turonic GM5 Massage Gun

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Recovery is key for runners. A massage gun can help relieve those tired leg muscles to promote recovery after runs, preventing injuries and keeping your runner active even during busy training schedules. The Turonic GM5 is a relatively affordable massage gun that still packs a punch. It comes with a range of attachments for different parts of the body and a handy case to keep it all organized even during travel. It offers variable intensity between 1200 and 3200 rpm, so they can fine-tune how intense their massage is. And it’s quiet, so they can even massage their muscles while you watch a movie.

Best cold-weather running gear

Best cold-weather sneakers: Nike Air Pegasus Shield 37 Running Shoes

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Let’s get started with the basics: sneakers. There’s nothing worse than missing a carefully calculated step and landing right into a puddle on a cold and rainy day. To avoid this mishap, Nike took one of its most popular running shoes, the Pegasus, and winterized it with a water-repellent upper material and an outsole with wet weather traction to keep you from slipping on the slick pavement. The outsole’s micro grooves feature multidirectional shapes that displace the water when the shoe makes contact with the pavement, so your feet can leave and arrive home dry and warm.

Best outerwear: Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody

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Layers are essential when it comes to cold-weather running. Arc’teryx’s sleek Squamish hoodie provides plenty of assistance, keeping you warm without slowing you down. The lightweight shell is windproof yet protects you against rain and snow. It’s also made from nylon that is moisture-wicking and allows sweat to escape, helping to keep your body temperature steady during frigid runs. Plus, this minimalist option is a cinch to roll up into a backpack or carry-on. It’s available in men’s and women’s styles.

Best underlayer: Ibex Men’s Woolies Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt

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Speaking of layering, a merino wool base is the way to go for those frigid days. This long-sleeve base layer has a nylon lining that will help keep you warm and dry all day. The company’s Pro Tech fabric is comfy and lightweight, but still wicks moisture away and keeps odor under control. They’re available in four matte colors (Deepest Red, Deep Ocean, Black, and Ginger Bisquite), you can pair the zippered top with the Woolies Tech Bottoms for full-body coverage.

Best safety gear: Brooks’ Run Visible Collection

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Some of the best gifts for runners aren’t only about keeping warm—they’re about keeping people safe. When North America is experiencing the shortest days of the year—with the sun rising around 7 a.m. and setting by 5 p.m.— that means if they’re trying to squeeze in a run before or after work, they’re probably going to be doing at least some of those miles in the dark. Brooks Running’s Run Visible collection features clothing—from hats to windbreakers and leggings—that all come equipped with 3M Scotchlite Carbon Black Stretch Reflective material with neon colors. The material and coloring (which covers the most visible part of the light spectrum in low-light conditions) are strategically placed in so-called motion zones. That includes the joints that move the most while you’re jogging, like elbows, wrists, and ankles, so they can run safely no matter when they’re able to get that jog in.

Best running vest: Nike Aeroloft Women’s Running Vest

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In addition to keeping hands and feet from freezing, maintaining a warm core will keep the rest of your body toasty without adding too much bulk that could make you overheat mid-run. When looking for the best gifts for runners (or yourself), Nike’s Aeroloft running vest provides necessary warmth where you need it most. It also has pockets to store your keys, cell phone, or anything else you might need mid-run.

Best running tights: Reebok Women’s Puremove Leggings

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Many runners have a love-and-hate relationship with running tights. You need a pair that fits in just the right places for them to work well and feel comfortable. To make that happen, Reebok used its Motion Sense Technology (that the company originally designed for sports bras) to fill its tights with a material that stays liquid-like when in stasis and becomes more solid upon impact. This gives you a full range of movement on a run, while adding support precisely

Best gloves: Arc’teryx Venta Gloves

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Running in the cold sometimes feels like a tease. When you first step outside, the frigid temperatures can be startling, making you want to bundle up with extra pant and shirt layers. But as you ease into the miles, you can quickly overheat with all those clothes. Instead, wear lighter layers (unless the conditions are truly frigid) and focus on making sure your core and extremities are well-protected. Arc’teryx’s Venta glove uses Gore-tex’s Infinium material, which protects from water and wind and is extremely thin and light. Plus the mitten design allows your body heat to keep all your fingers tight and warm.

Best socks: Smartwool Run Cold Weather Crew Socks

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In addition to keeping their hands warm, snuggly and comfy feet also make for a happy run. Smartwool’s Run Cold Weather Socks are made of sweat-wicking wool that also provides comfort and durability. The mid-crew length hits that perfect sweet spot of not too short to let wind in but not too long to cause overheating. Lastly, the socks have the company’s Light Elite cushioning that provides targeted support in the ball and heel of the foot. Otherwise, too much layering between your feet and shoes can restrict blood flow.

Best hat: TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat

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When cold weather hits, a good hat is essential. But for those with longer hair, stuffing your long locks into a hat can be annoying at a minimum and cause a headache at the worst. Trailheads’ ponytail hat features an opening in the back to fit your hair through so it doesn’t get trapped, tangled, or bungled in your hat as you run. The piece is also made of quick-drying polyester fleece and flaps so your head and ears can stay warm for the duration of your run.

Best face covering: Nike Therma Sphere Hood 3.0

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When the wind is howling and moisture from your eyes is starting to freeze on your face, it’s time to call in the reinforcements. Nike’s Therma Sphere Hood is a balaclava-style head covering that’s made with Therma-Sphere fabric that helps wick moisture away. It’s designed to be comfortable and customizable, with a foldover design you can adjust to cover more or less of your face and neck as the day warms up.

Best compression sleeves: Hyperice Normatec Go

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Colder weather can cause arteries to tighten and restrict blood flow. Runners can recover better from workouts with Hyperice’s Normatec Go. These wearables are designed to be strapped to the runner’s calves and provide a symmetrical massage to increase circulation and reduce pain in the lower body. The Bluetooth-enabled controls and associated app allow the runner to choose between seven levels of compression for a better recovery and the battery lasts up to three hours.

Best warm-weather running gear

Best hydration vest: Salomon Adv Skin 12

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For those who enjoy long runs or running in all sorts of weather, a hydration vest is a critical tool. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 comes with two soft flasks that fit snuggly on the chest straps, providing quick and easy access to hydration without stopping. It can also hold a hydration bladder for hot days that call for extra water. Additionally, the pack offers plenty of pockets to hold a jacket, snacks for fueling your run, and attachment points for stashing poles. It fits snugly and comfortably without jiggling around on runs, and the pockets are easily accessible so as not to slow you down. It will keep the runner in your life prepared when hitting the trails.

Best T-shirt for trail running: Arc’teryx Cormac Crew SS Shirt

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When the warm weather comes and a runner is out everyday in the sun, it’s great to have a trusted T-shirt to rely upon. Arc’teryx’s Cormac Crew SS Shirt is designed for trail running and hiking. Made with recycled fabric, this T-shirt is designed to wick moisture away and is odor-resistant. Should the gift recipient get caught in a shower, this shirt also repels water. When the sun is out, this T-shirt provides 50+ UPF protection. And it’s available in five colors.

Best running shorts for women: Kari Traa Nora 2.0

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Good running shorts can be hard to find, but the Nora 2.0 shorts from Kari Traa are a fantastic choice and have been my favorite pair since discovering them. They feature a loose fit with no liner to keep airflow going. The material is very lightweight and effectively wicks away sweat. They feel dry even when running in the Florida heat and humidity, which is very impressive. The elastic waistband offers a drawstring, and there’s a small zippered pocket at the back to store keys or a gel. They are definitely the most comfortable running shorts I’ve used in a long time.

Best running skort: Outdoor Voices The Exercise 3″ Skort

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Running skorts are a great alternative to shorts in part because they feature built-in compression shorts to help prevent chafing. The skirt design also means that you won’t be constantly adjusting the legs of your shorts while running. Outdoor Voices’ The Exercise is one of the best skorts for running that I’ve tried for many reasons. The compression shorts are made with sticky grippers at the bottom hem to keep them in place, and they are long enough to prevent chafing successfully. The liner also offers pockets to hold a phone, and there’s a zippered side pocket on the skirt for keys or snacks. The material of the skirt is very flexible and sweat-wicking to keep you moving freely and dry on runs.

Best sunglasses: Tifosi Sunglasses

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If you haven’t heard, Tifosi Sunglasses makes some of the most brilliantly colored UVA-/UVB-protected sunglasses on the market. With frames that come in enough colorways to match nearly any aesthetic, the Swank and Swick lines (and more), offer bright polarized lenses that will keep your eyes safe even on the snow or sand. These sunglasses are one of the best gifts for runners, as well as people who like extreme sports, desert hikers, and skiers alike.

The post The best gifts for runners who put in the miles all year round appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best game console		Nintendo Switch		SEE IT	The Nintendo Switch’s hybrid-console approach makes it the best pick for new and lapsed gamers.
Best TV		Samsung S95C OLED		SEE IT	The S95C OLED will make both modern PC and console games look incredibly sharp and vibrant.
Best gaming laptop		ASUS ROG Strix G16		SEE IT	The ROG Strix G16 will allow you to play the highest-end games anywhere in the world.

If you’re into video games like I am, you know the struggle—there are always those friends that look at you funny when you bring up a difficult Bloodborne boss or try explaining the Legend of Zelda timeline. We know they’re missing out on masterful storytelling, adrenaline rushes, breathtaking fantasy worlds, and triumphant feelings, but even getting them to try a Pokémon game is hard. Still, I have hope that these misled non-gamers can be turned into full-fledged gaming connoisseurs. And the holiday season is the perfect time to get them to take the plunge. Gaming is more popular than ever thanks to the rise of streaming services, smartphones, and cutting-edge game consoles. Still, most people who want to game are in it for the experience of kicking back on a couch and spending a few hours running, jumping, slashing, shooting, or using magic. Whether you’re shopping for a hardcore or lapsed gamer, these gaming gifts include some core components they’d appreciate.

• Best game console: Nintendo Switch
• Best controller: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller
• Best handheld PC: Asus ASUS ROG Ally
• Best handheld PC Dock: Syntech Mini Dock
• Best TV: Samsung S95C OLED
• Best monitor: Samsung Odyssey G30A
• Best mouse: Razer Viper V2 Pro
• Best keyboard: 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard
• Best headset: Logitech G PRO X
• Best mobile gaming controller: Backbone One
• Best compact gaming computer: GEEKOM Mini PC
• Best gaming laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16
• Best for streaming: Elgato HD60 S+
• Best WiFi routers: Eero 6+
• Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2
• Best microphone: SteelSeries Alias

Best game console: Nintendo Switch

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If you’re in the position to give someone (or yourself) their very first console this holiday, don’t chase after the flashy new PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. The Nintendo Switch is a better starter piece because it has something for everyone, whether that’s classic Mario or Zelda games, online team shooters like Overwatch, or even a game where you walk around as a goose, honking and messing with people. Nintendo also offers the Switch Lite for $100 less, but you can only play it handheld-style instead of connecting it to your TV. I’d suggest opting for the original version if you can swing it—the option to switch from TV to handheld is a delight. If you want to go a little more luxe, you can spend an extra $100 on the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, which has a larger, more vivid screen and plays all the same games.

Best controller: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller

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8Bitdo’s Ultimate Bluetooth controller lives up to its name. The gamepad, which works with both the Nintendo Switch and Windows PCs, feels great in the hand, has a familiar button layout, and can switch between Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz wireless connection. Additionally, buttons on the back can be programmed on the back to trigger custom commands in compatible games. Perhaps the coolest thing about this controller is the included charging dock, which makes topping up its battery a lot easier. If you keep the controller docked when you’re not playing, it’ll never run out of juice. Xbox and PlayStation players shouldn’t feel left out, as the official first-party controllers for the Xbox Series S/X and PlayStation 5 are available. If you’d like a wired option, PowerA has you covered.

Best handheld: Asus ASUS ROG Ally

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The ROG Ally is one of the most innovative gadgets we’ve reviewed in 2023, and it’s a fierce competitor to Valve’s venerable Steam Deck. The Ally runs a full version of Windows, which means you can play games from multiple digital game stores, from Steam to Xbox Game Pass. ASUS packed the ROG Ally with a 7-inch 1080P display, custom processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage, so it’s stacked enough to play the AAA games from 2023 at high settings. If you’re catching up with games released years ago, you should be able to push them to ultra settings while maintaining a steady framerate. Like the Nintendo Switch, you can connect this handheld to your TV to play games at higher-than-HD resolutions, too. As handheld gaming PCs go, the ASUS ROG Ally is the top of the heap, and any Windows gamer will sink hundreds of hours of games over the holiday season and beyond.

Best handheld PC Dock: Syntech Mini Dock

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If you’re going to connect your gaming handheld to a TV, you’ll need to get a dock. The best one we’ve tested is this six-port model from Syntech, which doubles as a stand. An integrated USB-C cable connects the dock to your portable computer and allows you to plug in accessories (via USB-A), a wired internet connection (via Ethernet), and a TV or monitor (via HDMI). The dock required no software to run and was instantly recognized by the ROG Ally as a compatible accessory. There’s even a USB-C port on the dock, which you can plug into an outlet using a USB-C cable and power adapter to keep the handheld charged. If you’re going to get someone a handheld gaming PC—or know someone who already has one—this is the accessory we recommend gifting them.

Best TV: Samsung S95C OLED

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If the gamer in your life demands the absolute best fidelity from their games, Samsung’s S95C OLED is the ultimate screen. Samsung decked its high-end display with four HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing console and PC gamers to play the latest titles in 4K at up to 120 frames per second. Our reviewer played Returnal on a PlayStation 5 during his testing time and was extremely impressed with the results, even in a brightly lit room. The advantage OLED TVs have over their LCD counterparts is far better contrast and color reproduction. These are key specs for gamers since they’ll want the most immersive and lifelike experience possible. The good thing about this gift is that it can be enjoyed by non-gamers who want to watch TV shows and movies that look their best.

Best monitor: Samsung Odyssey G30A

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Speaking of monitors, PC and console gamers will all appreciate Samsung’s Odyssey G30A. Its 144Hz refresh rate will make games look super smooth, and support for AMD’s FreeSync technology will prevent abnormalities like screen tearing (distortion) from getting in the way of online matches or intense sequences with a lot of movement. Additionally, its large size means gamers will feel immersed while playing titles at their desk. We also like that the G30A has multiple HDMI ports so that multiple consoles can be plugged into it simultaneously. We understand not everybody has enough room for a 27-inch display, which is why we feel like 24-inch LG’s 24GN600-B is another good option. If the person you’re getting this gift for has expressed interest in curved monitors, Samsung’s 34-inch Odyssey G5 deserves a look.

Best mouse: Razer Viper V2 Pro

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Regular mice are too slow to keep up with the split-second movements necessary to play PC games competitively, which is why we recommend getting serious gamers Razer’s Viper V2 Pro. The wireless optical mouse provides peak performance on any surface and can survive up to 90 million clicks without faltering. Razer even allows you to change the mouse’s sensitivity by pushing a button instead of managing it through software. The most impressive feature of this mouse is that it’s wireless, which is atypical for gaming mice as it can lead to latency (lag) between your input (movement or a click) and how long it takes the PC to respond. Razer feels like it’s cracked the code on how to offer premium performance without a cumbersome cable. If wires aren’t an issue, Razer’s Basilisk V3 is another good pick; its optical sensor is almost as good, and it’s equipped with RGB lights and even more programmable buttons. Not sure? Check out additional cheap gaming mice we recommend.

Best keyboard: 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard

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Gaming keyboards are nothing new, but 8BitDo’s Retro Mechanical Keyboard is more than just a nostalgia trip. The mechanical keyboard’s color scheme is themed after the original Nintendo Entertainment System, complete with red “B” and “A” buttons. But Windows users can use 8BitDo’s Ultimate Software 2 to customize its function row and other buttons to your liking. If you’re playing games, changing these macros can help give you a leg up—or stay competitive in popular titles. MacOS users won’t be able to use Ultimate Software 2, but that platform isn’t known for gaming. That said, the keyboard’s stock functions are completely compatible with the Mac. This keyboard can be connected to your computer in three ways: with a USB cable, over Bluetooth, or using the included 2.4GHz USB dongle. If you’d like the best-looking mechanical gaming keyboard around, this is it. If you’d like a keyboard with a slightly more modern design, SteelSeries’ Apex 3, has most of the same other features of its higher-end models for under $50. We’ve got other picks if you’d like even more options.

Best headset: Logitech G PRO X

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Hearing and speaking to teammates is essential when playing competitive multiplayer games online, which is why Logitech’s G Pro X is such a great gift. The headset can create a virtual 7.1 surround sound environment, so players will be able to hear opponents approaching from any direction. This makes a huge difference when playing games where every second counts. The G Pro X’s large, 50mm drivers will deliver clear sound regardless of which game they’re playing. The headset’s microphone is flexible, so gamers can move it around to find the perfect place for them. Communication is key during online matches, so having a microphone that’s always near and ready is a huge plus. This headset is compatible with PCs, the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch (Xbox gamers should check out this headset instead). Or, if you’re feeling extra giving, there’s Audeze’s $299 Maxwell wireless headset.

Best mobile gaming controller: Backbone One

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The Backbone One effectively turns your iPhone 15 or Android smartphone into a Nintendo Switch. This controller shell connects directly to the smartphone’s USB-C port and grips itself to both sides of the device. Once connected, gamers can play iOS titles that support external controllers with traditional buttons, triggers, and control sticks. The Backbone One can also be used by iPhone gamers who want to stream cloud games using services provided by Microsoft, Sony, and NVidia. This accessory brings out the full gaming potential of the iPhone or Android device. If you have an iPhone 14 or earlier, you’ll need to get the version of this controller with a Lightning jack instead.

Best compact gaming computer: GEEKOM Mini PC

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One of the biggest barriers to entry for would-be computer gamers is finding enough space for a desktop, but GEEKOM’s latest Mini PC is an interesting solution. This compact gaming PC can run many newer titles at 1080P with medium to high settings enabled, and you may be able to eke out even more performance on a game-by-game basis. That’s due in large part to the machine’s 13th Generation 14-core Intel i9 processor, 32GB of RAM, and 2TB NVMe SSD. There are less expensive mini PCs out there, but GEEKOM’s is one of the few that can offer excellent performance without a dedicated graphics card, and in a form factor this small. If you’re shopping for a lapsed PC gamer, or someone who wants to give gaming on Windows a try, this is the gift to get.

Best gaming laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G16

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Gaming laptops used to be incredibly compromised, but ASUS’ ROG Strix G16 proves how far technology has come. The Windows laptop has an Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, 16GB of RAM (memory), 1TB SSD, and a GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card with 8GB of dedicated video memory under the hood. Its 16-inch HD display has a refresh rate of 165Hz, which is better than most gaming monitors. A higher refresh rate allows the screen to keep up with fast-paced games without lagging. This laptop’s specs are overkill for casual gamers who mostly stick to indie titles, but it’s the right machine for gamers who like to live on the cutting edge, but travel too often to justify getting a high-end desktop. The laptop is also chock full of ports, so connecting accessories won’t require an adapter; it even has an HDMI port, so plugging it into a monitor or TV is a single cable affair. Razer’s Blade Stealth 13 is a good alternative if you’d like to get them a similarly specced machine with a smaller footprint.

Best for streaming: Elgato HD60 S+

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Elgato’s HD60 S+ simplifies the complicated process of getting console game footage onto your PC for editing or live streaming. The unassuming puck has HDMI ports and a USB port, which is all you’ll need to connect your console to a computer. The HD60 S+ can capture 1080P high dynamic range video at up to 60 frames per second. It’s compatible with all current-generation game consoles and Windows PCs. If ever there was a great gaming stocking stuffer, this is it.

Best WiFi routers: Eero 6+

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You might not think WiFi routers are a great gaming gift until you realize it’s impossible to stream or download games without a solid connection. This set of three Eero 6+ routers can blanket an area of up to 4,500 square feet with a wireless WiFi 6 network that supports speeds up to 1,000 megabits per second. In all likelihood, that means you’ll get the top internet speed you’re paying for without having to plug your console or PC into your cable modem. If the gamer you’re shopping for complains about getting dropped from matches constantly, this gift will solve the issue once and for all. We prefer mesh WiFi routers because they can cover more ground, but Netgear’s Nighthawk Pro is the best single-point option for gamers, thanks to its ultra-fast top speed.

Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2

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A webcam is another essential accessory for game streamers, and we can’t recommend Obsbot’s Tiny 2 highly enough. The 4K webcam sits on a rotating stand and uses AI to follow a subject as they move. During active streams, the streamer will always stay in frame, which is especially important during games like Dance Dance Revolution or any title with motion controls. If you’re shopping for a streamer who records VR games, they need a webcam that can keep up with them since they can’t manage their video stream while playing. It doesn’t hurt that the Obsbot’s video looks crystal clear, and that its microphone is surprisingly good, too. Static streamers may enjoy Logitech’s C922x, which has similar specs but won’t move around.

Best microphone: SteelSeries Alias

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It’s almost impossible to build an online audience for game streams without talking to them while you play, which is why SteelSeries’ Alias microphone is such an excellent gift for gamers. The microphone connects to ones computer over USB, and LEDs on the mic itself will let you know whether your levels are peaking if you’re not monitoring your sound, and a knob on its front side allows you to quickly adjust your gain. This microphone is designed to work with SteelSeries’ Sonar software, which lets you adjust innumerable audio settings to get your voice sounding just right. A more budget-friendly USB alternative is Senheisser’s Profile USB Microphone, which doesn’t match up to the Alias feature-for-feature but will make streamers sound better than their laptop mic would. Feeling spendy enough to assemble a broadcast-quality rig complete with external interface? Bump up to the SteelSeries Alias Pro, which comes with its own.

The post The best gifts to get your friends into gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best subscription box		Bean Box Sample Coffee Subscription		SEE IT	Let your giftee celebrate their birthday every morning with this premium coffee subscription box.
Best for cocktail drinkers		Flithy Margarita Mix		SEE IT	Mixing up a pitcher of margaritas doesn’t get any easier or more delicious with this package of all-natural ingredients.
Best for wives		Theragun Elite		SEE IT	Endear yourself to your wife with this powerful yet quiet massager that will help get the kinks out.

There’s a specific pressure to birthday gifts since the entire idea of the birthday is celebrating that one particular person. The best gifts show you know them, you get them, and you want their life to be a bit more pleasant from what you buy. So…how do you know what to buy? Let us help. We researched and narrowed down a huge selection of what’s on offer to find 10 top-notch gifts that are as useful as they are enjoyable, things they’ll love and maybe wouldn’t have thought of or followed through on for themselves. Which, really, is what makes the very best birthday gift ideas.

• Best gift basket: Carmen & Lola A Little Bit of Spain Gift Box
• Best subscription box: Bean Box Sampler Coffee Subscription
• Best for cocktail drinkers: Filthy Margarita Mix
• Best for dads: Casaluna Chunky Knit Bed Blanket
• Best for moms: Apple AirPods Pro 2
• Best for wives: Theragun Elite
• Best for husbands: YETI Roadie 24 Cooler
• Best for girlfriends: Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
• Best for boyfriends: Patagonia Retro Pile Fleece Jacket

The best birthday gift ideas: Reviews & Recommendations

Go ahead and light the birthday candles, because your gift shopping for those closest to you is just a few clicks away from finished. Find the best birthday gift ideas here.

Best gift basket: Carmen & Lola A Little Bit of Spain Gift Box

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Travel has been limited and snacks have been saving us, so what better contents for a birthday gift basket than an assemblage of specialty meats, cheeses, and other accouterments from Spain? In particular, name-controlled cheeses like creamy Manchego (sheep’s milk from La Mancha region) and nutty Mahon (cow’s milk from Menorca), or smoky V de Navarra from Basque Country. Add in some chorizo, jamón, quince jelly, and Marcona almonds, and that, dear friends, is a birthday feast. Ordering a gift basket online can be dicey (we’ve spent a long time in the murky depths of reviews sections), but this set from the purveyor of fancy Spanish hams Dao Gourmet Foods (a.k.a., Carmen & Lola Eat España!) gets only top marks.

Best subscription box: Bean Box Sampler Coffee Subscription

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The best thing about a birthday gift subscription box? Presents keep coming! The worst thing about a birthday gift subscription box? Stuff can start to pile up. The solution: A subscription to something consumable, with bonus points for something they wouldn’t splurge on for themselves. Enter: this coffee sampler, which sends four pouches of award-winning small-batch beans each month (you choose light, medium, dark, decaf, or espresso roast). Sourced from independent roasters in the coffee haven that is the Pacific Northwest, it’s a way for the recipient to try out an abundance of makers and blends they’ve seen on coffee IG. Want to make the first month extra bright?

Best for cocktail drinkers: Filthy Margarita Mix

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If your loved one is a fan of a chill margarita but doesn’t want all the sugar an additives in traditional mixers, consider a gift of Filthy Margarita Mix. This all-natural mix is made with 100 percent Florida lime juice and organic agave nectar from Jalisco, Mexico. No concentrates or preservatives here. The mix comes in a recyclable foil packet that’s made from recyclable material and easy to carry. You can opt for one 32-ounce pouch or a set of six, 8-ounce travel size packets.

Best for dads: Casaluna Chunky Knit Bed Blanket

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It’s been a long, long homebound year, we’re all tired of being in the same place, and your dad is no exception. Except that you can easily supply him with a quick fix by way of a shot of color to liven up his relaxation time or TV-watching. Saturated colors and a textural knit make this blanket stand out, while its simplicity means it will look great anywhere. It’s not a weighted blanket, but it does have a nice heft of 6-plus pounds, which means that not only will it be comfortable, it will be calming too. And no matter the stage of fatherhood, it’s a perfect birthday gift for dad: Empty-nester dads can cozy up with Netflix or a book, and dads of toddlers snuggle the kiddos underneath…or temporarily hide when needed.

Best for moms: Apple AirPods Pro 2

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In-ear noise-cancellation may sound like something dreamed up by a coach passenger stuck in the middle seat on a transatlantic flight (definitely not speaking from personal experience…), but Apple made it happen in an earbud, a big step up in convenience and in comfort—particularly for people who wear glasses—from the over-the-ear variety. All to say: This year, your birthday gift for mom can be all the sound she wants, and none that she does not. The AirPod Pros are worth the upgrade from the standard AirPods for their variable-fit earpieces, which allow not only for noise cancellation but for better sound, and more secure (and comfortable) fit. If this price point seems crazy for headphones, we hear you, but we strongly counter: Even Luddite-leaning technophobes (again, definitely not speaking from personal experience…) have been quickly won over after trying these out.

Best for wives: Theragun Elite

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Whether due to work stress or a hard workout, tense muscles are miserable. And while we are sure your wife does love your neck rubs, we are also sure you aren’t coming in with up to 40 lbs of force at a variety of programmable speeds to actually release deep into soft tissue. That is, unless, you’re the one holding the Theragun. So, a birthday gift for her (that you are likely to borrow, if not steal): Now in its fourth iteration, this Theragun is quieter than its predecessors, and it comes with a variety of attachments to swap out depending on the problem muscles. Theragun also offers a host of guided videos and tutorials, as well as an app that connects to the tool to provide personalized massage programming.

Best for husbands: YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

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As at home at a barbecue or tailgate as it is at a campsite, the YETI Roadie 24 is an updated model with more space and insulation, less weight. More space in a cooler-specific way, too, as it’s sized for wine bottles to be able to be packed in vertically, and can fit 18 beers plus ice. (Do note that there’s not a drain plug—our educated guess: insulation reasons—so be sure to empty and dry it out at the end of each use.) We like YETI for its marrying of form and function for a truly useful item that you—or your husband, it’s him we’re shopping for—will actually enjoy using. For example, the quick-to-use, super-secure latches, as well as the cloth-strapped, hard-gripped handle that makes for steady carrying without adding awkward bulk for storage. A great birthday gift for husbands who like the outdoors, whether it’s their own backyard, the beach, or the woods.

Best for girlfriends: Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

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It looks good. It smells good. It’s basically a scented candle that lasts forever and can change at your whim—and that you can safely leave going when you’re asleep or out of the house. It is something like the Platonic ideal of a “birthday gift for girlfriend.” The main areas where Vitruvi succeeds that other diffusers fail: its sturdy stone build that means it won’t easily get knocked over and spill; being designed for easy cleaning means no questionable residue also being diffused into your air; its sleek shape means the mist diffuses efficiently, without a clunky thing taking over a shelf. If we may, we’d suggest pairing it with this bundle of Vitruvi oils. If spending a hundred bucks is outside of your budget, try this more-affordable Kumi model.

Best for boyfriends: Patagonia Retro Pile Fleece Jacket

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A good men’s jacket is surprisingly hard to find, and this jacket is a great one. (For the earth, too: Patagonia uses 100 percent recycled materials to make it.) With a tailored cut that doesn’t limit mobility and three sewn-flat pockets, this fleece wears well on the street or the trails. It also washes well and comes from a brand known for durability, which is to say: This is a gift for him that will last well beyond his next birthday, too. If you’re budget won’t allow for our premium pick, take a look at the Amazon Essentials fleece jacket, which comes in a ton of great colors.

Final thoughts on the best birthday gift ideas

• Best gift basket: Carmen & Lola A Little Bit of Spain Gift Box
• Best subscription box: Bean Box Sampler Coffee Subscription
• Best for cocktail drinkers: Filthy Margarita Mix
• Best for dads: Casaluna Chunky Knit Bed Blanket
• Best for moms: Apple AirPods Pro 2
• Best for wives: Theragun Elite
• Best for husbands: YETI Roadie 24 Cooler
• Best for girlfriends: Vitruvi Stone Diffuser
• Best for boyfriends: Patagonia Retro Pile Fleece Jacket

You want the best birthday gift ideas so you can give cool, unique gifts to those close to you. That is, after all, why you are reading a gift guide. Good news: You have read the gift guide! You are ready to do this! Now listen to your gifting gut, scroll back through, and get to clicking.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best birthday gift ideas in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best sand toy		National Geographic Play Sand		SEE IT	Help kids learn about sea creatures and make sand castles even during the off-season with this kit.
Best introduction to numbers for toddlers		Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank		SEE IT	Teach kids how to count and save in a fun way with this adorable piggy bank.
Best STEM toy for tweens		Thames & Kosmos Chemistry Chem C500 Science Kit		SEE IT	Turn your home into a chemistry lab with these hands-on guided experiments for future scientists.

You know that glazed look in a child’s eyes when they’ve been zonked out on their electronic devices for too long? There is a time and place for a little zoning out, of course, and parents don’t complain too much about a few hours of quiet while the kids are placated with zombies or candy gems. But, of course, there are better and more productive ways to whittle away the hours, too. We’re talking about the best science gifts for kids.

Science gifts for kids can be fun and educational, and you will find loads of options are all that and then some. From build kits to robots to marble runs, there are some pretty amazing options. You can build on existing interests—if you heard that the child is interested in dinosaurs, a dinosaur fossil digging set would be a great choice. Or it’s a good bet that tactile science gifts that allow kids to mix and pour and get their hands dirty will be pretty fun. When in doubt, it’s a good idea to find a science gift that sticks to the basics for the appropriate age group. For example, building blocks have been a popular choice for decades, and with good reason, they allow for free-form creative play, elementary building, and engineering skills, all without tiresome rules and branded characters. Here are some picks for the best science gifts for kids that are the right level of challenging and fun so they’re ready to excite children, and possibly their parents and teachers too!

• Best STEM toy for kids 5 to 7 years old: Educational Insights Design & Drill Space Circuits
• Best STEM toy for kids 8 years and up: Ravensburger Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run
• Best STEM toy for tweens: Thames & Kosmos Chemistry Chem C500 Science Kit
• Best for future world travelers: PlayShifu Orboot Earth Globe
• Best DIY kit: Soap & Bath Bomb Making Kit for Kids
• Best for future astronauts: Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm Portable Refractor Telescope
• Best introduction to numbers for toddlers: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank
• Best for dinosaur lovers: TACTO DINO by PlayShifu
• Best wooden educational toy for toddlers: TOP BRIGHT Toddler Toys
• Best magnetic building toy: Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Clear Colors Set
• Best sand toy: National Geographic Ultimate Ocean Sand
• Best splurge: Wonder Workshop Dash Coding Robot for Kids

The best science gifts for kids: Our Recommendations

Best STEM toy for kids 5 to 7 years old: Educational Insights Design & Drill Space Circuits

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This is a fun choice for younger children because the parts and tools are easy to use, while the challenge and rewards keep the child interested. The STEM toy set includes challenge cards that help guide their natural problem-solving skills. It feels more like playtime than education which, after all, is the point.

Best STEM toy for kids 8 years and up: Ravensburger Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run & STEM Toy

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A popular kid’s toy and fun game, The Gravitrax STEM toy inspires building creativity as well as teaches problem-solving. Although there are 24 problem-solving activity starter instructions included, the tracks can also be set up freeform as well. We appreciated the clear instructions and the set-ups are easy to follow. The set will also appeal to kids who are into video games as it shares a lot of the same “customize it and try it out” mentality as some popular games.

Best STEM toy for tweens: Thames & Kosmos Chemistry Chem C500 Science Kit

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This chemistry gift set has won a Parent’s Choice award for its ability to make chemistry experiments fun, safe, and educational. Help kids understand basic chemistry with simple experiments designed to make them want to put on their lab coats. Some experiments require additional basic supplies (not included in the set), and it’s recommended that this set be used with adult supervision.

Best for future world travelers: PlayShifu Orboot Earth Globe

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How about challenging your favorite little explorer to a scavenger hunt around the world? PlayShifu’s interactive globe allows kids ages four to 10 to learn about animals, cultures, inventions, and foods from around the world. You just need a compatible iOS or Android device for this AR experience. And the 10-inch globe comes with passports, stickers, flags, and more to boot.

Best DIY kit: Soap & Bath Bomb Making Kit for Kids – 3-in-1 Spa Science Kits For Kids

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This DIY kit comes with all the supplies needed to create your own bath soap, salts, and bath bombs. All the ingredients have been tested and are safe for real use (but please note the dyes can cause temporary staining). Younger kids might need help with setup, but older kids should be able to handle the set on their own. Plus, it’s a gift they’ll use to (likely) make gifts for you!

Best for future astronauts: Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm Portable Refractor Telescope

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Encourage a lifelong love of the cosmos with the Popular Science AstroMaster 80mm Portable Refractor Telescope. Designed in partnership with noted telescope manufacturer Celestron, this device is tailored toward beginners. This portable telescope comes with two Barlow eyepieces (10mm and 20mm) and an 80mm objective lens for closeup views of the stars and the planets. The Bluetooth-enabled device works with smartphones and a tripod that let users take photos and video of what they observe. And the included software program will help them get started.

Best introduction to numbers for toddlers: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Piggy Bank

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This is a cute and popular toy well-reviewed and rated by parents. The appeal of the happy, bright piggy bank toy for kids and the task of dropping in coins entertains small children, while also teaching them the basics of counting. Smart technology allows for more advanced songs and phrases as a child grows.

Best for dinosaur lovers: TACTO DINO by PlayShifu

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Take kids back in time to the Mesozoic Era, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Tacto Dino is an interactive game that teaches them more than 500 facts about these magnificent creatures through story-based adventures. They’ll develop problem-solving skills along the way with this visual game, which works with a range of tablets.

Best wooden educational toy for toddlers: TOP BRIGHT Toddler Toys

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This classic wooden toy lets kids experiment with the basics of momentum, inertia, and gravity as they roll cars off edges, drop them down to ramps below, and then let them continue on. Just enough of a challenge to make it fun, this simple toy is a great choice for toddlers. While the child is entertained, they also learn hand-eye coordination in addition to the basic fundamentals of motion.

Best magnetic building toy: Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Clear Colors Set

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Building sets are classic science toys that have been popular for many generations of children. The Magna-Tiles offer creative free-form building, but with the fun addition of magnets. Magnets help kids build 3D shapes, which in turn helps them develop STEM skills. This set can be combined with additional Magna-Tiles as desired or just used on their own.

Best sand toy: National Geographic Ultimate Ocean Sand

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This kid’s toy is a great choice for kinetic learners who love hands-on play. The bright blue “magic” sand allows for perpetually wet sand that holds its shape, but also easily returns to loose form. Just be warned: Play sand can stain light carpets.

Best splurge: Wonder Workshop Dash Coding Robot for Kids

SEE IT

This cute and colorful robot for kids comes fully charged for up to five hours of open-ended coding play. Kids can create voice commands, loops, and coding sequences via the five free corresponding apps. Kids as young as six can use picture-based puzzles and games to learn the fundamentals of coding, and start to learn more advanced concepts to make the robot act out specific behaviors.

It can be tricky, but also kind of fun to find science toys for kids. The best science gifts for kids will be fun, challenging, and hands-on, and give kids the freedom to learn by doing.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best science gifts for kids for all ages appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best kitchen upgrade		Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer with Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity		SEE IT	Let this Bluetooth monitor do a lot of the work while cooking at the grill.
For the aspiring drone enthusiast		DJI Mini 2 SE		SEE IT	Get sky pics without breaking FAA rules.
Best watch		Citizen Men's Star Wars Eco-Drive with Stainless Steel Bracelet		SEE IT	Encourage your dad’s nerdy tendencies (just the good ones) with this Star Wars-themed timepiece.

There are plenty of reasons to celebrate dads, or granddads, this Father’s Day: Where would the field of meteorology stand without dads looking out the window, putting their hands on their hips, and exclaiming, “Sure is coming down hard” whenever it rains or snows? Who else pours hours into creating a pristine, luxurious lawn or beefing with the neighbors over tree limbs and property lines? Without dads, society would not have an encyclopedias-worth of corny jokes and a reason to go to therapy. Truly tasteless jokes and trauma aside, here are our recommendations for gifts he’ll actually use, which will make his life easier, light up his face with a smile, or both.

• Best for the outdoorsy dad: Rux Waterproof Bag
• Best for the dad that loves to cook: Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer
• Best for the coffee-loving dad: Bruvi Bundle
• Best for the coffee-loving dad in a hurry: Cometeer
• Best for the wine-loving dad: Ullo Wine Purifier with Hand-Blown Decanter
• Best for dads who love to try new things: Sampl Summer ’23 Gift Box
• Best for the stressed-out dad: Onyx + Rose Feelin’ Good Gummies
• Best for beardy dads: Bevel Beard Trimmer for Men
• Best for the WFH dad: Lillipad 42 Standing Desk
• Best for working from the back room to the backyard: Netgear Orbi 960 Black Edition
• Best for movie-loving dads: Dangbei Mars Pro 4K Projector
• Best for vinyl-loving dads: Victrola Stream Onyx Turntable
• Best for pizza-loving dads: Ooni Koda 12
• Best for dads with good taste: Terra Delyssa Organic Virgin Olive Oil Gift Set
• Best for dads who hunt: Epicurean Big Game and Butcher Cutting Board
• Best for stylish dads: Highland Duds Weekender Short
• Best for dads who crave comfort: TreeFleece Atlas Sweatpant
• Best for dads who love denim: HNST Noos Relaxed-Fit Jeans
• Best for dads who need comfortable city kicks: ECCO Men’s Street Lite Retro Sneaker
• Best to help dad’s foot arches during his short game: AllBirds Men’s Golf Dashers
• Best to help dad’s short game: Callaway Golf Chrome Soft Golf Balls
• Best for dads who want to clean up their act: Tineco Pure ONE S11
• Best for gamer dads: Nintendo Switch OLED Model
• Best for handy dads: DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Hammer Drill
• Best for dads who need an everyday carry: Gerber Gear Armbar Slim Drive
• Best for dads who want to work out but have to stay in: Hydrow Wave Rower
• Best for dads with a green thumb: Gardyn 2.0
• Best for dads who crave the perfect picture: Samsung QN77S95CAFXZA
• Best for dads who crave perfect sound: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best for Android-loving dads who need new earbuds: Galaxy Buds2 Pro
• Best for music-loving dads who want something custom: V-MODA Headphones
• Best for dads who grill: Everdure FURNACE 3-Burner Gas Grill
• Best for dads who love breakfast: Cuisinart WAF-F40 Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker
• Best for dads who tailgate: RTIC 52 Quart Ultra-Light Wheeled Hard Cooler
• Best for dads who love the beach: Sunflow Beach Bundle
• Best for the dad who is tired of mowing the yard: Husqvarna Automower 415X Robotic Lawn Mower
• Best for dad relaxing in the backyard: Solo Stove Mesa
• Best for the aspiring drone enthusiast: DJI Mini 2 SE
• Best for the fanboy dad: Citizen Men’s Star Wars Eco-Drive with Stainless Steel Bracelet
• Best of the cozy dad: Glerups Wool Slip-On Rubber
• Best for the messy dad: Modular Closets Custom Modular Garage Organization System
• Best for the plant dad: Bromeliad Collection

How to shop for the best Father’s Day gifts

Mark your calendars: Father’s Day 2023 is Sunday, June 18, so there’s still time to secure a great present if you order something quick! And while the options may be overwhelming, never fear; there’s something for everyone, and we’re here to help with enough recommendations to suit anyone. You can help fuel your dad’s current interests or get him a gift that sparks a new one. Here are our picks for some of the best Father’s Day gifts:

For the outdoorsy dad: Rux Waterproof Bag

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From hitting the waves to hitting the slopes, outdoorsy dads need something that will carry all of their (for lack of a better term) crap. Other bags and backpacks crumble when stuffed with hiking shoes, an insulated water bottle, and a few beers—not the Rux Waterproof Bag. This packable, durable bag is waterproof (as the name suggests) and built to last, and comes with a lifetime warranty if it falters before that. It’s seamless, radio frequency-welded (read: made with magnets), and has 360-degree lash points that make it attachable to almost everything. It also rocks as a grocery bag—score! 

Best kitchen upgrade: Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer

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Regardless of whether your dad is getting into Keto or is a strict pescatarian, a meat thermometer is a must-have kitchen device. No one wants to develop a case of food nasties from an undercooked cut of meat in their own home! The Yummly Smart Meat Thermometer requires no wires, thanks to a Bluetooth connection. Dad won’t even need to stand like a hawk over the grill or oven—the thermometer, with a coordinating app for iPhone and Android, sends notifications when it’s time to flip the food, reduce the heat, when it’s done cooking, and how long to let it rest. There are even presets to completely take the guesswork out of getting the perfect medium rare doneness—no “Dirty Work” here. 

For the coffee lover: Bruvi Bundle

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So your dad got a “Don’t talk to me until I’ve had my coffee” mug in Father’s Day past? Give Pops a better coffee system this year with the Bruvi Bundle. The bundle comes with a Bruvi BV-01 coffee brewer, a variety pack of biodegradable 20 B-Pods, a water filter, and a reusable Japanese Knot Bag. The optional mobile app will let Daddio brew a cup of Joe remotely, schedule brews in advance, re-order B-Pods, and access a personal consumption dashboard if they’re super specific about their morning cuppa. It can even fit a 6.5-inch travel mug—we recommend the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Mug on that front. 

Best instant coffee: Cometeer

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Take the hassle out of your dad’s morning routine, whether he’s gearing up to deal with blistering heat or numbing cold. We’ve wanted to try Cometeer since it popped up on the ole Instagram feed, and we’re glad we finally did. The flash-frozen, recyclable brew capsules produced a more balanced and complex cup than most bland instant coffees and are insanely easy to make. Toss a pod or two in a glass of liquid (hot or cold) and you’re ready to go. We threw two pods into a to-go container with about 14 ounces of water and ice, shook, and it was ready to drink. Cometeer grinds the beans at their freshest, brews the coffee into a 10x concentrate, and then uses a nitrogen shower to capture its peak flavor before shipping it to your door. And you can customize the roast and delivery preferences. If you’re looking to gift an elevated quick fix in the morning, a Cometeer subscription is the way to go. It became one of our favorite coffee gifts instantly (appropriately).

For the wine lover: Ullo Wine Purifier with Hand-Blown Decanter

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Enjoying a bottle of wine is all fun and games until a few glasses warrant a hangover the next day. Help prevent them with the Ullo Wine Purifier, which uses a selective filtration system to remove sulfites and reduce the histamines that can cause headaches and hangovers—all while preserving the wine’s flavors and aromas. A built-in aeration dial lets you choose the amount of air to incorporate, from off for light whites to full air for rich red varietals—perfect for those big, bold, leathery wines that go so well with the perfectly marbled steaks a grill-loving dad obsesses over. And the decanter offers the opportunity for a slow ox and a nice controlled pour.

Best for dads who love a subscription box: Sampl Summer ’23 Gift Box

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Is your dad curious about wine but doesn’t know the difference between Syrah and Malbec? He’s not alone. If you’ve ever walked into a wine store and felt overwhelmed by the selection, take heart, it’s a weekly occurrence for me. I’m a dog dad—I know, not the same—but sometimes her occasional romp and roll through a pile of deer poop sends me straight to a glass or two of vino to relax. While she’s in the dog house, I opt for a random bottle based on an interesting design rather than Wine Spectator ratings. If your dad is like me and doesn’t want to encounter the same taste bottle after bottle, get him some expert help. California-based Sampl’s wine subscription service delivers a one-time shipment of seven small-production, 100-milliliter test tubes of wine for his tasting pleasure. Or you can set it to auto-deliver every three months. Treat him to their Summer ’23 gift set, which features vino from Paso Robles, California, known as the “wild west” of wine country.

For the stressed-out dad: Onyx + Rose Feelin’ Good Gummies

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Does your dad need something a bit stronger than CBD? Have you recently learned they were a grass enthusiast back in the day? The Onyx + Rose Feelin’ Good Gummies use HHC, an isomer (minor chemical variant) of Delta-9 THC (the illegal stuff). This provides a similar head and body high to the federally regulated stuff, all while following federal regulations. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, THCs (tetrahydrocannabinols) in hemp are legal provided they have a THC concentration less than .3%—these gummies meet those requirements. Pass if dad is subject to random drug screening. If they’re not, we’re partial to the peach flavor.  We also love CBD prerolls from aptly named company Dad Grass.

Best for beardy dads: Bevel Beard Trimmer for Men

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An electric razor is a gift your dad will actually use every day, and this one from Bevel may actually help encourage him to dedicate a little more time to his morning routine. The razor offers pinpoint precision, so he can get the exact shave he wants, and a grippy handle that makes it easy to hold with wet hands. Its battery lasts up to eight hours, so he can use it for several weeks (or one if he’s very particular about his facial hair) without charging it. This is the type of gift your dad doesn’t know he needs, but will really appreciate.

For the WFH dad: Lillipad 42 Standing Desk

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Home offices can easily become a mess of monitors, coffee cups, keyboards, and tangled cords. But if the dad in your life would appreciate an organized workspace that also empowers them to get out of their office chair, the Lillipad Work Station fits the bill. This electric desk is available in two versions that rise from 6 inches to either a 42- or 48-inch standing height (recommended for people 5’9” and taller). At 67 pounds and 72 pounds each, and with metal legs, these desks are more substantial than many other options on the market but are designed with wheels for portability. 

Advanced functionality doesn’t equal advanced set-up in this case: The Lillipad comes fully assembled out of the box. Dad can plug it in, unlock the safety lock, and use the buttons on the right corner of the desk to raise and lower it to the ideal height for a chair or standing. The 46-inch-wide workspace provides plenty of room for desktops and keyboards, and you can purchase either a single monitor or dual-monitor stand separately. The workstation also features three outlets, three USB ports, and one USB-C port, so dad can plug everything in and charge their devices. And when he’s done for the day, they can easily lower it back down and use the wheels to slide it away for storage. Add a Grovemade Wool Felt Desk Pad to add some soft style to their workstation.

Work from the backyard: Netgear Orbi 960 Black Edition

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Give your dad a chance to brag about their router. Netgear’s Orbi 960 Mesh Wi-Fi kit can cover up to 9,000 square feet with super-fast connectivity up to 10.8Gbps. That means anyone and everyone can take meetings or stream content in the backyard, front yard, basement, or just about anywhere else he can think of. Wi-Fi 6E technology and Netgear’s quad-band design allow for an absurd number of devices to connect to your local network without bogging everything down. The Black Edition is only available directly through Netgear’s own online shop, which also gets you a free year of the Netgear Armor security tech. It’s advanced enough to do anything a dad needs and reliable enough that you won’t have to play tech support whenever you go to their house.

Best for movie-loving dads: Dangbei Mars Pro 4K Projector

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Movies and TV shows can look great on a TV, but nothing beats watching them on a projector, which offers a true movie theater-like experience. Dangbei’s Mars Pro 4K is among the best we’ve tested, offering exceptional visual clarity, color, and surprisingly good sound. It runs Android, which means dad can stream their favorite media without any additional accessories. That said, the Mars Pro 4K has multiple HDMI ports, making it easy to easily connect game consoles and other peripherals. It’s luxe, but Dangbei’s Mars Pro 4K will ensure they have the best home theater system on the block.

Best for dads who love vinyl: Victrola Stream Onyx Turntable

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Does Dad go on and on about how much he wishes he could play his Steely Dan albums while explaining that Pretzel Logic is superior to Can’t Buy A Thrill? If so, let him relive his glory days with Victrola’s Stream Onyx Turntable. The sleek-looking, belt-driven deck has RCA outputs so that it can be connected to a traditional home audio system, but its luxe allure is support for wireless audio streaming to Sonos speakers. The record player even offers the option to play music through multiple sources at the same time. Best of all, the Stream Onyx is easy to assemble and operate, as we found out firsthand, and comes with an Audio Technica AT-VM95E cartridge so he can enjoy his collection immediately.

Best for dads who love pizza: Ooni Koda 12

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If your dad complains that pies and slices aren’t how they used to be, Ooni’s Koda 12 will allow him to make them to his exact specifications. This portable pizza oven can get up to 950 degrees Fahrenheit and cook personal-sized pizzas in roughly 60 seconds. Ooni has a wide range of pizza ovens, but we like the Koda 12 because of its size and the fact that its fuel source is gas, which is easier to manage and more reliable than wood or pellets for first-time pizzaiolos. Ooni’s oven can also be used to roast meat and vegetables on non-pizza nights. Just remember to get dad a pizza peel and Toque to complete the experience.

Best for dads with good taste: Terra Delyssa Organic Virgin Olive Oil Gift Set

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Has your dad continued to tell food stories from his trip around the Mediterranean right out of college? If so, Terra Delyssa’s flavor-infused olive oil can help take him back to those days. The olives are all harvested from Tunisian orchards rather than mixed with ones from different regions, which can impart a different taste. We like this gift set because each oil is infused with a different strong taste—rosemary, chili pepper, lemon, and garlic—which are all good for different applications. He’ll immediately be able to taste the difference, which means you may also be signing up for even more culinary stories from his past.

Best for dads who hunt: Epicurean Big Game and Butcher Cutting Board

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A butchery board is essential for cutting, cleaning, or carving large cuts of meat or fish. We like Epicurean’s because it’s made sustainably, has a rim around the edge to catch juices before they get onto your countertop, and can be cleaned in a dishwasher—if yours is large enough. Despite the board’s large size—the smallest one is nearly two feet long—it weighs under six pounds. That weight is distributed evenly, so it’ll feel even lighter to hold using the board’s handle, which is perfectly centered. Any dad who regularly hunts or fishes will instantly recognize this board’s utility, and put it to work as soon as possible. If he likes to keep his gear in perfect condition, pick up a can of Epicurean’s Board Butter, which will keep his Butcher Board in tip-top shape.

Best for stylish dads: Highland Duds Weekender Short

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Add a little pop of color to your dad’s wardrobe with Highland Duds’ Weekender Shorts. The ultra-comfy summer-friendly short pants are mostly made of cotton and very comfortable to wear. Their slim pockets are surprisingly roomy, too. Highland Duds offers the shorts in khaki and grey if he’s less flashy. Help him complete an outfit with the Maverick Long Sleeve Shirt, made from the same materials.

Best for dads who crave comfort: TreeFleece Atlas Sweatpant

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If your dad spends several hours a day sitting in front of a computer working, he deserves to be comfortable doing it. TenTree’s ultra-soft eco-friendly sweatpants are available in four colors, size sizes, and are made from an organic cotton blend featuring TENCEL™ Lyocell and recycled polyester. There’s even a back pocket, so he can carry his wallet around the house—or outside when running quick errands; we won’t judge. The only problem you’ll have after getting your dad a pair of these sweatpants is convincing him to wear anything else.

Best for dads who love denim: HNST Noos Relaxed-Fit Jeans

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If your dad has been wearing the same pair of jeans since the Eagles’ first reunion tour (Google it), this is the upgrade he deserves. HNST’s Noos Relaxed-Fit Jeans come in a wide variety of sizes, so he’s guaranteed to get a perfect fit. The jeans are not only stylish, but made sustainably thanks to a construction process that requires significantly less water, no plastic fibers or coatings, and a lot less CO2. Even the jeans’ buttons—yes, no zippers here—were designed to be durable and replaceable. We guarantee these will not only become his favorite pair of jeans but one of the most coveted pieces in his wardrobe.

Best for dads who need new kicks: ECCO Men’s Street Lite Retro Sneaker

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Does your dad need a new pair of shoes while trying to convince everyone the ones he’s wearing are “perfectly fine?” If the answer is yes, get him a pair of ECCO’s Men’s Street Lite Retro Sneakers. The shoes are available in 11 colorways and sizes between 5 and 13.5. Their all-leather construction screams class, as does their low-top style. A polyurethane sole provides grip, so he won’t accidentally slip while walking on wet surfaces. Speaking of water, ECCO developed a new leather-making process that requires 20 fewer liters compared to traditional manufacturing processes. Your dad might feel a little better about slipping on a new pair of shoes if he knows their environmental impact is lower than normal. And if your dad is a bit more about the impact of his foot on the Earth than his purchase, the ECCO Soft 7 City Sneaker offers top-notch cushioning in a stylish silhouette.

Best to help dad’s foot arches during his short game: AllBirds Men’s Golf Dashers

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If your dad complains about walking from one hole to another, they’ll appreciate the cushioned midfoot and heel lockdown that stops foot cramps and blisters. This pair from AllBirds has no flashy logos or synthetic materials and is comfortable and stylish. Dad will also love the company’s variety of running shoes and sneakers for everyday life. The company itself is dedicated to sustainability, so you can feel good gifting them.  

To help your dad’s short game: Callaway Golf Chrome Soft Golf Balls

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Golf balls make a great gift because it’s hard to splurge on something you might whack way into the woods or chunk straight into a water hazard. Callaway’s Chrome Soft golf balls are versions of the balls pros play on tour—they won’t have to be a pro to play them. These balls promise a high launch angle, low spin off the driver, and high ball speed off the club face. In case you’re not big on golf ball specifics, those are all very helpful things for improving overall scores. The Triple Track design sports three parallel lines on the ball to help Pops lineup shots just right. Dad will think of you and your great gift as they reach into their bag and grab another ball after slicing one across the highway next to the first fairway. 

Best for dads who want to clean up their act: Tineco Pure ONE S11

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If you have a dad who wants to take a more active role in household chores—or has been using the same vacuum since the mid-’90s—Tineco’s Pure One S11 is the upgrade he needs. The cordless stick vacuum can run up to 40 minutes per charge, and comes with various attachments for different scenarios. At 12 pounds, it’ll be easy for your dad to pick up and move around, and all of its controls are conveniently located within reach of his thumb. If dad enjoys his gadgets, he’ll enjoy the fact that the Pure One S11 can be connected to your home’s Wi-Fi connection, allowing him to see how much battery is left on the vacuum and the state of its filter through an iOS or Android app.

Best for gamer dads: Nintendo Switch OLED Model

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The Nintendo Switch is the least-powerful current-generation console, but it’s still the one we recommend for Father’s Day because of its hybrid design. The Switch can be played portably, and the 7-inch OLED HD screen really makes games pop. When dad’s home, they can connect it to a TV or projector to play on a larger screen. The Switch’s extreme popularity is matched only by its deep catalog of games, which can satisfy players regardless of their preferred genre. Whether Pops is playing games as a distraction on a long work trip or taking time to clear his backlog at home, there’s no way this gift will go unappreciated.

Best for handy dads: DeWalt Atomic 20V Max Hammer Drill

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A drill is the type of gift a handy person will appreciate but never expect. This battery-powered model from DeWalt has a compact design but plenty of power for any indoor or outdoor housework. At only 2.5 pounds, a home improvement-minded dad can carry it around easily, and the drill’s LED will make it easy for them to see what he’s doing in dark environments. Despite its size, the drill can rotate up to 1,650 times per minute. A good drill will last a dad a lifetime, and if they’re still making do with a screwdriver—or a drill that needs to be plugged into an outlet for power—this upgrade will make him smile.

Best for dads who need an everyday carry: Gerber Gear Armbar Slim Drive

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Power tools are great, but every dad won’t be able to use them everywhere, which is why you should equip him with Gerber’s Armbar Slim. The pocket-friendly multi-tool consists of a bottle opener, plain-edge blade, and a screwdriver. It even has a belt clip, so he can keep it securely fastened to the inside of his pants pocket like a boss. If your dad is the practical type, he’ll immediately see the utility of each of this tool’s functions and keep it on him at all times. The screwdriver alone (with a reversible bit, we might add) will likely save him a couple of trips to the garage each month.

Best for dads who want to work out but have to stay in: Hydrow Wave Rower

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You may not send your dad on a trip to the Charles River in Boston to relive his crew days for Father’s Day, but he can compete virtually whenever he likes with the Hydrow Wave Rower. This rowing machine is more compact than the original Hydrow Rower but doesn’t skimp on features. The 16-inch screen (and the $44 monthly membership) give you access to Olympic rowers’ wisdom and training. Dad will soon find himself virtually rowing in the fjords of Norway. He can take live classes and pit his stroke against rowers worldwide if he’s competitive. And when he needs to wind down, the membership also provides stretching, mobility, yoga, and other fitness offerings to round out his workouts. The Hydrow Wave Rower is on sale for $1,695, down from $1,895. If you prefer the original Hydrow Rower, that’s also on sale for $1,995 (down from $2,495). And it comes with Hydrow’s Polar Verity Sense Heart Rate Monitor and a machine mat.

Best for dads with a green thumb: Gardyn 2.0

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Does dear old dad wait all year for the weather to be fair enough to grow a garden? With the Gardyn 2.0, they can enjoy growing fresh herbs and vegetables all year long. The indoor garden comes with an assortment of pods containing plant seeds. A water tank on the bottom keeps the plants hydrated, while LED strips provide them with enough light to flourish regardless of the weather conditions. The lights and water pump work automatically so that the plants will be cared for on a continuous basis without any need for much intervention. Dad will have to prune dead leaves and harvest their crops after they’re fully grown, but that’s part of the fun.

Best for dads who grill: Everdure FURNACE 3-Burner Gas Grill

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If your dad been waiting months for grilling season, Everdure’s FURNACE 3-Burner Gas Grill is the ideal gift. The sleek-looking gas grill has a large cooking area, built-in temperature gauge, durable aluminum body, and up to 27,000 BTU of power. The grill is perched on top of a two-tiered wheeled stand, which is easy to move and has enough room for all your accessories. Each of the grill’s three burners can be controlled independently for perfect heating, while flame tamers below prevent unwanted flair-ups. This mix of aesthetics and performance will ensure your dad has the ideal grilling experience each time he turns it on. (And you can always take it up a notch next year with a pellet grill!)

Best for dads who crave a perfect picture: Samsung QN77S95CAFXZA

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Sometimes a dad just wants a new TV to watch his favorite movies, shows, and sports. But if you want to blow his mind (and your own if he invites you over to watch the big game), spoil him rotten with Samsung’s QN77S95CAFXZA, a 77-inch OLED set. This is a no-compromise cream-of-the-crop 4K TV with built-in Dolby Atmos speakers, native 120Hz refresh rate, and a custom-designed processor that continually calibrates the TV to make it run as smoothly as possible. It’ll even upscale 1080P video to look crisp on a 4K TV, so his collection of Blu-rays and older TV shows will still look good. Because the QN77S95CAFXZA is an OLED TV, it offers incredible contrast and color reproduction, so videos and games will look as realistic as possible. One quirk about this TV is that it’s actually so thin that it can basically sit flush on the wall. The set gets connected to a separate box (called the One Connect Box), which has an assortment of HDMI ports and other inputs. There’s no performance hit for this system, but something to keep in mind if you’re setting the TV up for him. Whether he wants to play Xbox, PS5, stream blockbusters, or even listen to music in the background, the QN77S95CAFXZA is the best choice.

Best for dads who crave perfect sound: KEF LS50 Wireless II

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CDs promised perfect sound forever in the 1980s, but we’ve since moved on to a world of streaming. However, that doesn’t mean your dad has to sacrifice a single detail of a favorite Yes, Dire Straits, or Eagles track. The KEF LS50 Wireless II network speakers not only achieve what CDs are capable of, but they go above and beyond to the pinnacle of digital audio enjoyment. These powered speakers sport a variety of connectors, including an AUX in, Ethernet port, coaxial input, optical audio input, and HDMI port, so you can still set up any ole physical source. Those ports are complemented by Bluetooth and WiFi/AirPlay 2/Roon/Spotify Connect support for direct wireless streaming. KEF says that the DAC in the LS50 Wireless II speakers can natively play 24-bit/384kHz audio files with no compression. Each speaker is driven by a 280-watt low-frequency amplifier and 100-watt high-frequency amplifier. If those numbers don’t mean much to you, here’s the upshot: music can sound really, really good and very, very loud through these speakers (especially if you pair them with the pint-sized but extremely potent KC62 subwoofer). If your father loves music more than most people (family excluded, of course), these speakers will rock (or jazz, R&B, hip-hop, classicial, reggae, and pop) his world. And if that college education dad invested tens of thousands into is paying off, you can truly get him back and blow his mind with the KEF LS60 floorstanding wireless system.

Best for Android-loving dads who need new earbuds: Galaxy Buds2 Pro

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Maybe your dad doesn’t spend enough time at home to fully appreciate good speakers but still likes wants to enjoy his favorite playlists; if that’s the case, get him a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro. These true wireless earbuds support active noise cancellation, 360-degree audio, and last up to eight hours per charge. A built-in microphone will allow your dad to take calls on the go, while the Buds2 Pros’ IPX7 durability rating will allow him to take runs in the rain without the risk of damage. None of this would matter if the Buds2 Pro didn’t sound great, but we promise they’ll be a sonic upgrade over the cheap earbuds he’s been rocking for years—and probably complaining about.

Best for music-loving dads who want something custom: V-Moda Headphones

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If your dad wants a truly unique present, take advantage of V-Moda’s free customization service, which allows you to choose the color of its ear plates and add an engraving. The company offers this service on its Crossfade M-100 Master (pictured above), Crossfade 2 Wireless Codex Edition, and Crossfade 3 Wireless edition headphones. The engraving is laser-etched, which means it won’t fade or peel off over time—if anything, a little patina might make the headphones look even cooler. Whether you choose a custom glyph, sentimental phrase, or important number, we’re sure your dad will appreciate having something nobody else does. Best of all, if you order before the end of June, customization is free!

Best for dads who love breakfast: Cuisinart WAF-F40 Double Flip Belgian Waffle Maker

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Breakfast is considered by many to be the most important meal of the day, and Cuisinart’s WAF-F40 will turn waffles from an occasional brunch food at restaurants into an at-home staple. This model can cook two-inch-thick Belgian waffles simultaneously at one of five pre-set doneness levels. If the cook gets distracted, a loud beep will get his attention, so waffles will never get overdone. Getting two waffles onto a plate at once will allow dad (and you!) to start eating more quickly.

Best robot mower: Husqvarna Automower 415X Robotic Lawn Mower

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Robotic lawnmowers seem like a perfect gift for a lazy pop. But, there are more practical reasons you might want to consider an automower as a gift this Father’s Day. Husqvarna’s surprisingly powerful little mower is great for people who have issues with mobility and can’t get out there to mow on their own. It’s also great for tricky yards as it can cut up to 40 degrees on a slope. If you’ve ever mowed on a steep hill like that, you know it’s not fun. It requires the installation of a guide wire to keep it contained within its own yard, but following setup, mowing is simple. A trio of extremely sharp blades can cut grass as short as 0.8 inches or as long as two inches if you want something more lush. Plus, an onboard object avoidance system means your dad (or grandad) won’t run over a rock and cause collateral damage.

Best for dads who tailgate: RTIC 52 Quart Ultra-Light Wheeled Hard Cooler

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A wheeled hard cooler will help your old man get beverages to and from the parking lot, backyard, or beach without straining his arms or back. We like this cooler from RTIC because of its large capacity, thick wheels, lite weight, and overall performance. RTIC says it can retain ice for up to six days if its latches remain closed, which means he can use it for a backyard cookout on Sunday and keep drinks cold for a concert he’s attending the following Saturday. Another benefit to getting a cooler is that it’ll likely last a lifetime, so get ready for many compliments. We like the classic look of RTIC’s white cooler, but it also offers a red, white, and blue variant if he wants to stand out.

For dads who love the beach: Sunflow Beach Bundle

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Whether your dad actually likes the beach or only goes because the rest of the family insists he’ll have a good time out of the house, this bundle from Sunflow will sort him out. It includes the company’s beach chair, which has a flip-over top to keep him in the shade, and a beverage cooler on the side to help keep his thirst quenched. The chair’s angle can be adjusted, so he can find the most comfortable spot, and a dry bag on the right side will keep his belongings from getting sandy. When heading back to the car or beach house, a pair of straps will allow dad to carry this beach chair like a backpack for easy transport.

Best outdoor accessory: Solo Stove Mesa

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We’re huge fans of the full-sized Solo Stove fire pits, but this mini version fits nicely on a patio table or by the pool. Despite its tiny size, the Mesa relies on Solo Stove’s signature airflow system to create a clean fire with almost no smoke. It starts quickly and cleans up easily, so you can fire it up and make s’mores whenever you want without having to wait for a full-sized fire to die down at the end of the night. Solo even sells miniature firewood specifically meant for use in the Mesa. It’s adorable, but not too adorable. The company has also launched a set of limited-edition Father’s Day cards, which are free with any purchase over $99.

For the aspiring drone enthusiasts: DJI Mini 2 SE

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Getting started with drones can be tricky. Not only are they hard to fly, but most drones require registering with the FAA before taking to the skies. The DJI Mini 2 SE is different. It weighs just 249 grams, which fits conveniently under the FAA’s 250-gram limit for registration. Despite its being lightweight and a small size, the Mini 2 SE captures 2.7K video and employs an object avoidance system to keep it away from power lines or other hazardous obstacles. We love travel drones and think an adventurous dad will as well.

Best watch: Citizen Men’s Star Wars Eco-Drive with Stainless Steel Bracelet

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Your dad’s a nerd, and that’s OK. In fact, we recommend you encourage their nerdy tendencies as much as possible. This Citizen watch is a full-on Eco-Drive model, so it doesn’t require winding. It draws enough energy from light in its environment to keep on ticking. The handsome stainless steel bracelet makes it totally appropriate for work or classy events. But, your pop can always look down and think about Star Wars while they’re wearing it. Find a more versatile piece of nerd merch than that. We dare you. 

Best of the cozy dad: Glerups Wool Slip-On Rubber

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Wool in warm weather sounds counterintuitive, but it’s a self-regulating material—meaning your dad’s feet won’t be swampy while walking around the house. Wool also has natural anti-microbial properties, which equals no nasty smells. There are plenty of colors, sole varieties, and styles available—so every dad can finally get the perfect slipper they’ve sought after.

Best for the messy dad: Modular Closets Custom Modular Garage Organization System

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If your dad’s garage is more nightmarish than workspace-worthy, consider the gift of organization with a modular cabinet system from Modular Closets. The system is 20 parts in total, with plenty of cabinet options available. There are even nine options of butcher block lengths to choose from—talk about customizable.

Best for the plant dad: Bromeliad Collection

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If your dad has gotten really, really, really into plants once the kids have flown the coop and they are one step from becoming The Orchid Thieves themselves, consider pulling them from the brink of plant-based madness with these colorful bromeliads from Bloomscape. These plants aren’t fussy (if that green thumb is more of a death knell) and yield long-lasting blooms (to give them planty serotonin), making them an easy and bright addition to the nursery.

Final thoughts on the best Father’s Day gifts

You don’t need to sweat over finding a cool gift for your dad this year. If you get him a Father’s Day gift that he’ll be able to use long-term—or, even better, something he can use with the whole family—it’ll be something he treasures. Consider it a success if you find fun presents that complement one of his hobbies or unique gifts that spark interest in a new pastime. And using this gift guide should help narrow down the best options for cool gifts for any and every dad.

The post The best last-minute Father’s Day gifts that say, “Thanks, Dad!” appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best for campers		Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock		SEE IT	A durable option that doesn’t hurt the bank.
Best for hikers		Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks		SEE IT	These socks are made of Merino wool, which will keep your feet warm and dry.
Best solar generator		Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300		SEE IT	Power small appliances while camping.

It feels safe to assume that—after spending the better part of many years cooped up inside classrooms, libraries, cafeterias, and/or dorm rooms—any grad is ready for a change of scenery, especially grads who love the actual outdoors. Once all their schoolwork is done, grades have been entered, and degrees are in hand, these grads will surely feel it’s time some exploits braving the elements, and you can help by giving graduation gifts for outdoor lovers that travel well. Wherever their love for the outdoors takes them, we have you covered with the best graduation gift guide for well-accessorized adventurers.

• Best for campers: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  
• Best for grad parties in the backyard or backcountry: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best for hikers: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks
• Best for interval training to interviews: Garmin epix Pro and Garmin fēnix 7 Pro
• Best for your grad’s new apartment: Fuzzy Ink Wilderness Print
• Best for outdoor athletes: CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack
• Best personalized gift: Engraved Compass
• Best useful: Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Knife
• Best thoughtful: Paddywax Candles Parks Collection
• Best for day trips: YETI Packable Lunch Bag
• Best wearable: Outdoor Life Tee
• Best for dirty hiking clothes: STNKY Bag Pro Wash Bag
• Best portable firepit: Colsen Tabletop Portable Fire Pit
• Best fire starter: Pull Start Firestarter
• Best hard cooler: RTIC Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler
• Best for post-trail drinks: Hydro Flask 25 oz Ceramic Reusable Wine Bottle
• Best unbreakable glasses: Silipint Silicone Pint Glasses
• Best for ski lodge lounging: Chaco Ramble Puff Ankle Boot
• Best for camp comfort: Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down
• Best for camp chefs: Opinel Nomad Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit
• Best hiking boot: Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot
• Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro
• Best solar generator: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300

Best for campers: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  

SEE IT

If your favorite grad is equipped with just about everything they need to make it through a backcountry trip, get them camping gifts to introduce even more relaxation and fun to their next outdoor escape. A camping hammock is a perfect way to sit back, take a nap, read a book, or drink a calming beverage outdoors. This is the best hammock from Wise Owl and weighs under 2 pounds, including the hanging straps, so it’s perfect for campers who prioritize portability. When packed down, it’s about the size of a grapefruit, so your grad should be able to easily carry it with them or keep it stashed away in their car. Each hammock comes with tree straps and carabiners for easy setup, with no need for any additional equipment. It comes in over 10 colors so that you can choose their favorite. It’s 9 feet long and 4.5 feet wide, with a 400-pound weight limit, which should be suitable for just about any user. You can even grab a two-person hammock (weighing only 5 ounces more) if they tend to go camping with a partner or friend.

Best for grad parties in the backyard or backcountry: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3

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No graduation gift guide would be complete without some great speakers. If your recent grad is always on the go—heading out for day hikes, camping trips, beach hangouts, long bike rides, and more—you can’t go wrong gifting them a portable Bluetooth speaker. No matter where they are or what they are doing, a smartphone and a compact speaker will provide the perfect soundtrack for any outdoor activity. The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is an excellent option, weighing under 1 pound and equipped with a flexible handle that can easily attach to a backpack, bike basket, or belt loop. It’s only 4 inches tall, but the small, compact design doesn’t mean you sacrifice anything when it comes to sound. The portable speaker can reach up to 87 decibels (equivalent to standing next to a loud blender or vacuum) and produces full 360-degree sound coverage. This powerful Bluetooth speaker can also withstand the elements and is one of our favorite waterproof speakers for a good reason; it has an IP67 rating, which means it can survive being dropped into a body of water up to a meter deep for half an hour, plus it’s dirt/dust-resistant. In addition, the battery lasts a full 13 hours, so your grad can jam outside all day long. And, if they want to be a party-goer and a party-thrower, you can up the energy with a portable party speaker.

Best for hikers: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks  

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A hiker is only as good as their socks are strong, so give a grad who loves to ramble amongst the rocks a pair that will last. While socks may seem like a simple gift, a quality pair or two is one of those hiking gifts that can go a long way. You’ll be taking care of an essential need any avid hiker has and investing in their overall outdoor experiences. Take it from us: nothing ruins a hike faster than angry blisters and constant friction. Smartwool hiking socks come in various colors and sizes, both men’s and women’s. From a tried and true brand, these socks are designed for rugged day hikes and moderate backpacking. An elasticized arch brace provides extra support, medium cushioning absorbs impact, and a flat-toe seam keeps things comfortable. Made from Merino wool and nylon, these socks will keep their feet warm even during cold winter hikes. If your loved one likes to embark on a variety of adventures, you can check out Smartwool’s other socks specifically designed for activities like running, cycling, skiing, and more. There’s a reason we listed them as our favorite wool socks.

Best for interval training to interviews: Garmin epix Pro and Garmin fēnix 7 Pro

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Whether your grad is thinking more about the backcountry or the boardroom, they could use a smartwatch that helps them get where they need to be when they need to be there. And when it comes to multi-band GPS smartwatches, Garmin makes the best adventure accessories out there. Endurance athletes to purposeful wanderers can benefit from the rugged, sensor-embedded case, metrics-rich displays, and accurate navigation resources found in Garmin’s newest Pro editions of the company’s multisport timepieces—available in multiple sizes and colors with different types of scratch-resistant/solar-charging glass.

Best for your grad’s new apartment: Fuzzy Ink Wilderness Print

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The perfect grad gifts for outdoor lovers aren’t always the ones they’ll bring on their adventures—they can be ones they’ll appreciate before and after an excursion. A woodsy print or poster is a great present for a graduate who needs a little help decorating their new apartment. At this point, they might have all the gear they need, but what they probably don’t have are elegant pieces that express their personality but also provide a sense of maturity for an adult abode. This print from Fuzzy Ink is an artistic way for your grad to stay inspired. It measures 18 inches by 24 inches and is printed on coated paper with a matte finish, so they won’t have any trouble finding a great spot to display it. This print quietly depicts the beauty and awe that many outdoor enthusiasts find so mesmerizing about being in nature. From the crackling campfire to the expansive display of fir trees, this piece will surely bring joy to a grad who longs to roam around the forest.

Best for outdoor athletes: CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack

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Any outdoor lover knows how important it is to stay hydrated. Whether hiking, cycling, or running, drinking water is key to preventing heat stroke, dehydration, fatigue, and other issues. Of course, a water bottle is the first thing we think of when it comes to H2O on the go; however, bottles can be bulky and cumbersome. So, if you want to get your grad a great outdoor gift that prioritizes function and efficiency, we recommend a CamelBak Hydration Pack. This multisport hydration backpack can hold 50 ounces of water and easily straps to your back with a long drinking tube and trap management to make hydrating hands-free. All they need to do is bite down and suck to get as much water as necessary—no need to stop during a long run or bike ride to grab a water bottle. The 3D vent mesh provides lightweight comfort and airflow, while front harness pockets can hold snacks, sunscreen, and other essentials. Reflectivity strips are added for extra safety during early morning or nighttime exercise. Your grad will be able to get a run in anytime, anywhere, and stay hydrated all the while. If you’re looking for more options, consider our list of the best hydration packs.

Best personalized gift: Engraved Compass

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A personalized gift is always a good idea, especially when you’re celebrating a significant achievement. Giving a gift designed specifically for them—something special that only they will have—will let your grad know how much you care for and support them. If you want to give a personalized gift suited for the outdoors, check out these engraved compasses. You can choose from existing mountainscapes or upload your own favorite photos and illustrations to be perfectly recreated on the compass’s cover. Practically any part of the compass can include etching, so you won’t have to choose between a picture or a message. You can even ask for your own handwriting to be impressed on the metal so your graduate can take a piece of you with them no matter where they travel.

A useful graduation gift for the outdoors: Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Knife

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Outdoor enthusiasts know that it’s essential to prioritize gear that is lightweight, portable, and multipurpose. You will rarely find a seasoned camper lugging around a toolbox, though the need for various utensils and instruments is frequent. From quick repairs to food preparation, a survival tool or multipurpose knife is a helpful gift for anyone who spends a lot of time outside (they can also be pretty practical for indoor use). A Swiss Army knife is practical, classic, and cool. A household name when it comes to compact knives, the Trekker lives up to the hype. Its attached tools include a wood saw, large blade, 3-millimeter and 5-millimeter screwdrivers, wire stripper, can opener, tweezers, toothpick, and more. It’s one of those camping gifts that offer pretty much everything you need to make it through the trek without any issues. A knife like this is a thoughtful graduation gift that they are guaranteed to use for years to come.

Best thoughtful: Paddywax Candles Parks Collection

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A candle is a fantastic gift for any graduate, signifying new beginnings and ordaining their adult apartment, or childhood bedroom, with sophisticated, balanced scents to keep them calm as they figure out their next steps. We’re a fan of scented gifts in general. But if your recent grad pines for the outdoors but doesn’t have time to travel just yet, a candle that brings nature to them is even more highly recommended. Paddywax has created a National Park Service-inspired collection that features the complex aromas of our country’s natural wonders. “Yellowstone” has hints of sagebrush and fir, the “Great Smoky Mountains” features Maplewood and moss, “Acadia” has seagrass and driftwood, while the “Grand Canyon” smells like cactus flowers and fern. Each candle is 11 ounces and has a burn time between 50 and 60 hours. When they’ve used up every drop of wax the candle has to offer, grads can upcycle the jars and repurpose them as plant pots, beauty tool holders, catch-alls, and more. Best of all, Paddywax donates a minimum of $25,000 per year to the National Parks Foundation, so your gift will not only go to your graduate but support the beautiful natural landmarks they love so much.

Best for day trips: YETI Packable Lunch Bag

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There is only one thing better than a day outdoors, and that is a day outdoors with snacks. Whether they plan on packing a lunch for a mountaintop picnic or bringing a few celebratory drinks to a grad party on the beach, beverages, and munchies are a must-have for your graduate’s next outside hang. A cooler is the best way to keep their tasty treats fresh all day long, so they never have to worry about their food heating up in the sun while they hike or swim. This YETI lunch bag is the perfect gift for grads to take food outside or pack a tasty lunch for their new job. Available in two sizes, a standard box or larger bag, and a variety of colorways, this pack uses Coldcell Flex insulation” technology and a “thermosnap” closure to keep food at the correct temperature, hot or cold. The adjustable grid means you can set the size by simply closing the top hook into any one of the available hoops. That way, the lunch bag can easily fit under a desk or be stuffed with snacks and drinks using all of its available 15.75 inches. This bag will pair well with just about any outdoor excursion, so your grad will be able to pack all the necessities and then some.

Best wearable: Outdoor Life Tee

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If you want to get sweet, versatile graduation gifts guaranteed to make them smile, go with cute graphic tees like this one from Outdoor Life. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, the “Go Play Outside” slogan is a fun way for you to tell everyone you see where your priorities lie. Made from 100-percent cotton and available in five colorways, this T-shirt will complement any hunter, angler, hiker, camper, surfer, sailor—just about any outdoor enthusiast you could think of. The soft material makes these tees particularly great for lounging around a campfire, though we recommend sizing up for maximum coziness—your grad will thank you.

Best for dirty hiking clothes: STNKY Bag Pro Wash Bag

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STNKY’s Bag Pro Wash Bag is the simple gift our adventurous grad didn’t know they needed. The zip-up laundry bag can hold all of their dirty clothes during multi-day camping and hiking trips to prevent unwanted odors and bacteria from getting onto their clean ones. When it’s time to wash their clothes, the STNKY bag can be unzipped and turned inside out, at which point the clothes will fall into the washing machine without being touched. The bag itself is also machine washable, which is a nice bonus. Anyone who struggles to stay organized and sanitary during their next outdoor trip will love this gift.

Best portable firepit: Colsen Tabletop Portable Fire Pit

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Sometimes setting up a big outdoor fire pit isn’t feasible or reasonable, but that doesn’t mean giving up s’mores for the night. Colsen’s Tabletop Portable Fire Pit runs on the company’s odorless liquid fuel, can be set up and ignited within a few minutes, and produces flame up to one foot tall for roughly 45 minutes. This is the ideal gift for someone who’s into glamping or wants a fire pit they can use indoors and out at any point during the year. The fact that you don’t need firewood to ignite it is particularly important because rainy weather can make dry fuel hard to find. And if you happen to have a grad living somewhere with a sizeable backyard/patio, you can give them a tasteful taste of the campfire life at home with a Solo Stove Bonfire firepit.

Best firestarter: Pull Start Firestarter

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On the other hand, if you’re shopping for someone who spends days upon days out in the woods, they’re going to need Pull Start Firestarter. The fire starter is literally ignited by pulling a string built into its small box. Smoke will begin to billow from the box, indicating that the fire starter will be fully ignited within three seconds. It lasts up to 30 minutes once fully ignited. Beyond the convenience of not having to strike a match, keeping a pack of these around can be helpful during an emergency. It’s very difficult to light wet wood with a match, but prolonged exposure to a fire starter can do the trick. Whether they’re trying to save time or their own life, your grad will appreciate having a three-pack of Pull Start Firestarter in their pack.

Best hard cooler: RTIC Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler

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No campsite or boat is complete without a cooler that can reliably keep foods and beverages cold for hours—or days—at a time. If you’re shopping for a grad who’s planning a big summer trip, there’s a good chance Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler is the perfect gift. The high-capacity cooler has three inches of insulation to maintain a consistent temperature inside, but it was engineered to be nearly a third lighter than the competition. This means it’ll be easier to carry when filled with ice, food, and dozens of cans. A cooler is one of the few gifts that may actually last your grad a lifetime, so it’s important to make the right choice. If you know they tend to pack extra light, RTIC also offers a 32-Quart model of this same cooler. Want more options? Check out more of the best coolers for camping.

Best for post-trail drinks: Hydro Flask 25 oz Ceramic Reusable Wine Bottle

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Enjoying a bottle of wine on a mountain sounds like a dream—but wine bottles and hiking don’t exactly mix. Give your grad the gift of sneaky boozing with this ceramic reusable wine bottle from Hydro Flask, which fits one 750 mL bottle of wine. It’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and BPA-free for peace of mind. TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation keeps whites chilled and reds at room temp, and a ceramic-lined interior prevents flavor transfer. Although it’s advertised for wine, we think it’s also perfect for any spirit: Our favorite nature-inspired aqua vitae is Tin Cup Whiskey, cut with water from the Rocky Mountains and named after the tin cups miners used to drink. Need a more traditionally shaped option? Check out our favorite insulated water bottles.

Best unbreakable glasses: Silipint Silicone Pint Glasses

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We’ve included the Silipint in our best camping gifts guide, but we think it makes a great gift especially for someone who may be too transient for real drinkware. These shatterproof “glasses” are made of 100% food-grade silicone, meaning you don’t have to deal with dangerous broken glass. Plus, they’re a fun, bright way to reduce the amount of plastic your grad may use between graduation and their very first job.

Best for ski lodge lounging: Chaco Ramble Puff Ankle Boot

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Chaco is known for its rugged and arch-supporting sandals, but we think their covered shoe offerings deserve some praise. The Ramble Puff Ankle Boot feels like a down parka for your feet, and they’re perfect for throwing on after a day of skiing or hiking. And, water-resistant rip-stop nylon means they’re not just indoor shoes—they can hold up in the great outdoors. If you’re looking for something that slips on, the Ramble Puff also comes in a clog style just as comfy and dreamy as its boot brethren. Our staff writer lives in both the clog and boot for women—don’t ask her to pick her favorite. Speaking of puffy stuff …

Best for camp comfort: Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down

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We all know the importance of having appropriate layers for hiking—but what if you want to stay warm without having to wear the same jacket you’ve worn all day. The Honcho Poncho from Therm-a-Rest (also makers of excellent sleeping pads) combines the lightweight, warm properties of 650-Fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down with a water-resistant 100% recycled polyester shell for a wearable sleeping bag. You can wear it around the campsite or campfire or lay it out in your tent and use it as a blanket. Its front pocket doubles as a stuff sack to make it easy to stow away back into your pack (or to use it as a lite pillow).

Best for camp chefs: Opinel Nomad Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit

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These knives are great for a grad who trying to step up their outdoor cooking game. The kit comes with a serrated folding knife, a folding corkscrew knife, a pocket peeler, a beechwood cutting board, and a microfiber cleaning cloth that doubles as a travel pouch. A Virobloc safety ring is attached to all knives/peelers to make it safer to open and transport the kit. Your grad never has to struggle to cut a piece of campfire-cook beef or a hunk of crusty bread again.

Best hiking boot: Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot

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Your grad deserves a new pair of hiking boots for successfully climbing the mountain that is college. This one from Vasque is comfortable—our assistant managing editor (his ankles and dog shown above) says, “Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to … boot … the Vasque Breeze immediately impressed me by requiring zero break-in, then continued to impress me with its stability and traction.” This means grads can climb the highly-graded mountain of post-grad life and worry more about their rent than getting blisters. They’re waterproof and made of sustainable, durable materials for years and years of adventures.

Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro

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Grad gifts are all about shiny new things, and this new headlamp from BioLite should excite your night crawler. It packs 800 powerful, bright Lumens to illuminate any dark trails … or the way to the bathroom at night. Your grad will get 150 hours of power on low; seven hours on high; and 8 hours on reserve. It recharges using a micro USB port, and includes a Constant Mode for full illumination without auto-dimming. Plus, 3D SlimFit tech gives you bounceless, slipless, and near-weightless wear. Being comfortable and able to see where you’re stepping? Sounds like a win.

Best solar generator: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300

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Jackery topped our list of the best solar generators, and we love the company’s small-but-mighty portable power station that can be charged by a wall outlet, car outlet, and the sun (!!!). The solar panel isn’t included, but you can get this bundle that solves the lack of solar panel upon purchase. It’s easy to carry at 7.1 pounds and can charge up to six devices while your grad is on outdoor adventures. Your grad may go outdoors to unplug, but you’ll get peace of mind that their phone or other powered essentials won’t die out in the wilderness.

Things to consider when picking gifts for folks who love the outdoors

From lite hiking gifts to entertaining accessories to full-on camping gifts, you can help recent graduates prepare for whatever their next exploration entails. Or, for graduates moving to a new city or starting a new job and unsure they’ll get out much in those early post-grad days, give graduation gifts that remind them of what they love, from naturally scented candles to beautiful nature prints. The key is determining their favorite outdoor activities, skills, comfort level, and existing accouterments, allowing you to match the grad with the gift.

Final thoughts on the best graduation gifts for outdoors enthusiasts

• Best for campers: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock  
• Best for grad parties in the backyard or backcountry: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best for hikers: Smartwool Hiking Crew Socks
• Best for interval training to interviews: Garmin epix Pro and Garmin fēnix 7 Pro 
• Best for your grad’s new apartment: Fuzzy Ink Wilderness Print
• Best for outdoor athletes: CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack
• Best personalize gift: Engraved Compass
• Best useful: Victorinox Swiss Army One-Hand Trekker Knife
• Best thoughtful: Paddywax Candles Parks Collection
• Best for day trips: YETI Packable Lunch Bag
• Best wearable: Outdoor Life Tee
• Best for dirty hiking clothes: STNKY Bag Pro Wash Bag
• Best portable firepit: Colsen Tabletop Portable Fire Pit
• Best fire starter: Pull Start Firestarter
• Best hard cooler: RTIC Ultra-Light 55 Quart Hard Cooler
• Best for post-trail drinks: Hydro Flask 25 oz Ceramic Reusable Wine Bottle
• Best unbreakable glasses: Silipint Silicone Pint Glasses
• Best for ski lodge lounging: Chaco Ramble Puff Ankle Boot
• Best for camp comfort: Therm-a-Rest Honcho Poncho Down
• Best for camp chefs: Opinel Nomad Camping Kitchen Utensil Kit
• Best hiking boot: Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot
• Best headlamp: BioLite 800 Pro
• Best solar generator: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300

We hope this graduation gift guide for grads who love the outdoors has filled you with ideas and inspiration for the perfect present. Whether you’re celebrating a trekking champion, kayaking aficionado, or dedicated camper, you’ll find grad gifts for outdoor lovers that fit their specific interests. After all, a graduation gift, whether it’s hiking gifts or camping gifts, or apartment decor, is about celebrating their accomplishments and encouraging them to follow their dreams while holding onto their passions. 

PopSci wants to help you find the most useful shopping recommendations for the best gifts regardless of occasion or preoccupation. Searching for more unique gifts? Check out our additional expert gift guides, including Best Gifts for Travelers, Sustainable Gifts, Gifts to Turn Any Kitchen Into a Café, New Gear for those New Year New You Resolutions, and Science Toys for Kids.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post A graduation gift guide for grads who love the outdoors: From practical tools to personalized accessories appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best sustainable gift		Lomi		SEE IT	Turn egg shells, banana peels, and apple cores into compost for the garden.
Best robovac		iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop		SEE IT	You can control this mop and vacuum combo with Alexa or your phone.
Best cooking aid upgrade		Vitamix Propel 750 Blender		SEE IT	This blender can tackle tough veggies and fruit to make yummy soups and smoothies for the whole family.

Mother’s Day provides an excellent opportunity for you and your siblings or children to try and one-up each other in an effort to prove yourself as The Favorite. Yes, being supportive is not a competition, but you can’t be the one who gives mom a gift that doesn’t suit. Thankfully, the PopSci staff has extensive experience in gift-giving of almost every variety. If you’ve spent years cultivating the perfect gift for mom—or grandmom, or the mother of your children—and have run out of ideas, we have recommendations to make her smile and you shine. Win-win! 

• Best coffee: Zend
• Best coffee maker alternative: SAKI Electric Turkish Coffee Maker
• Best for loud children: Vibes Ear Plugs
• Best wine upgrade: Ullo Open Wine Purifier
• Best cookbook: Eataly Contemporary Italian
• Best cooking aid upgrade: Vitamix Propel 750 Blender
• Best snacks: Spirit Almonds
• Best for new moms: Birthdate Pendant
• Best shoes: Allbirds
• Best for working moms: Troubadour Ember bag
• Best for outdoorsy mom: Backpackers Pantry 
• Best sustainable gift: Lomi
• Best for traveling: Monos Carry-On Pro
• Best to recreate the spa at home: Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket 
• Best splurge: Dyson AirWrap
• Best for those expecting: Proxies Tasting Set
• Best for music-loving moms: Sony WH-1000XM5
• Best robovac: iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop
• Best for working out: OMORPHO G-Vest+
• Best for sore muscles: Theragun Mini 2.0
• For grandmas: Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame
• Best cozy: Big Blanket Co. Original Stretch Blanket
• Best watch: Garmin vivoactive 4S
• Best for crafting: Cricut Explore Air 2 Lilac Machine Bundle

Best coffee: Zend

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These coffee beans go way beyond that crummy old can of Folgers mom keeps on her counter. Zend coffees give a mom the option to enjoy the coffee on its own, or they can infuse them with one of three functional blends: Beauty, which supports hair, skin, and nail health; Recovery, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation; Serenity, which supports stress relief and balance. Mom deserves plenty of caffeine for everything and most definitely deserves to feel beautiful, healthy, and serene. If a single cup of coffee accomplishes both, we can’t think of a better gift. Unless …

Best coffee maker alternative: SAKI Electric Turkish Coffee Maker

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Turkish coffee is rich, silky, and delicious, but you can’t expect moms to master the copper pot method of making it with the little free time they have. To use this electric Turkish coffee maker, simply fill the pot with water, add Turkish coffee, and insert it into the machine. Choose how many cups you want (you can choose between 1-2 or 3-4), and you’ll have a hot, frothy, yummy cup of coffee within seconds, sans accidental spills and overflow. If mom is a caffeine connoisseur, they’ll appreciate taking advantage of one of the oldest ways to brew coffee.   

Best for loud children: Vibes Ear Plugs

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Let us be frank: babies are not quiet. Toddlers are cacophonous. Kids make a lot of noise. You only reach silent nirvana when they ship off to college. Before then, you’ll still need to hear in case they break something or start a fight with each other. By gifting a mom these reusable high-fidelity earplugs, you’ll give them a little peace without being completely unaware of what the kids are up to. 

Best wine upgrade: Ullo Open Wine Purifier

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Enjoying a bottle of wine is all fun and games until two glasses warrant a hangover the next day. Help prevent them with the Ullo Open Wine Purifier, which uses a selective filtration system to remove sulfites and reduce the histamines that can cause headaches and hangovers—all while preserving the wine’s flavors and aromas. A built-in aeration dial lets you choose the amount of air to incorporate, from off for light whites to full air for rich red varietals. Plus, it’s easy to transport and use: just place the device over your glass and pour. Don’t worry about mess, either—the Ullo’s lid can be used as a base to rest the filter on when not used, making it perfect at home and easy to take to book club.

Best cookbook: Eataly Contemporary Italian

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“What should we eat for dinner?” is sometimes the hardest question to answer. Make the decision process 100 times easier with the “​Eataly: Contemporary Italian Cooking cookbook, which packs 300 recipes, including pasta with cavolo nero pesto and clams. With clear instructions and helpful tips, mom won’t want to ditch the entire recipe and just order takeout (although we’re not judging if they do).

Best cooking aid upgrade: Vitamix Propel 750 Blender

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Kitchen gadgets shouldn’t make life more difficult and this Vitamix, with a powerful 2.2 horsepower motor, can crush ice into a smooth slushie consistency and demolish vegetables to make hearty, yummy soups. A 64-ounce cup means that mom can make enough servings for the whole family with enough for seconds for themselves. We also think the Yummly—a wireless smart meat thermometer that’s app-controlled—is also a great choice if she already has a swaggy countertop appliance setup and is a fan of roasting, grilling, broiling, and more.

Best snacks: Spirit Almonds

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If there’s a mom-on-the-go in your life who can appreciate always having a snack packed, look no further than Spirit Almond. Each protein- and healthy fat-rich nut gets one of six Japanese-style flavorings: black garlic, curry, koji salt, miso, mustard, and seaweed. It comes in a handy single-serve pack to easily throw in a purse or bag (making it easy to snag one for yourself, since one gift box comes with three packs of each flavor). If they’re more of a sweet snack mom, consider the Sahale Snacks Glazed Nut Variety Pack, which adds dried fruit and expands the nut varieties to pistachios, cashews, and pecans. 

Best for new moms: Birthdate Pendant

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Technically, these pendants are meant as a lovely wearable to show off the wearer’s astrology (if they’re into it). However, between the unique collection of stones for every day of the year and personal engraving, we think it makes for a great gift to celebrate a firstborn. Each stone tells the story of their birthday, including their birthstone. Talk about a personalized gift. 

Best shoes: Allbirds

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Moms are always on their feet, between running after grandkids or working off all the child-related stress at the gym. Between their lack of flashy logos and synthetic materials, Allbirds is a natural gift for moms: they’re stylish, comfortable, and come in plenty of styles: Need some business-professional flats? They have that. Need some running shoes? They have those, too. The company itself is dedicated to sustainability, so you can feel good gifting them.  

Best for working moms: Troubadour Ember bag

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Work backpacks don’t have to be boring. This leather-and-neoprene variety has a waterproof lining to keep things dry, a sturdy grip handle that won’t break on the go, and a trolley sleeve for use as a carry-on. The main compartment folds down once opened for easy access to essentials, and a separate laptop compartment can fit a 16-inch laptop. Plus, there are plenty of pockets for essentials, like keys, a phone, or an emergency pacifier. A five-year guarantee means a mom always gets quality in case something goes wrong in manufacturing. 

Best for outdoorsy mom: Backpackers Pantry

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Camp cooking can involve a lot of grilled cheese, reheated soups, and boxed mac and cheese. These aren’t bad meals, but sometimes that mom deserves something a little more five-star after a long day of hikes. Backpackers Pantry has breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert covered with various dried and dehydrated foods. These meals aren’t wimpy, either—each averages around 15 grams of protein, which energizes you on your hike. We like to start our outdoor morning with the company’s Blueberry walnut oats and a cup of coffee. Once we get to basecamp, we sit down and enjoy some lasagna (it’s what Garfield would want), followed by the most important meal: dessert. Our choice? Dark chocolate cheesecake. 

If you want to give a mom the outdoor experience at home, we love the Solo Stove Mesa tabletop fire pit, which makes it safe and easy to roast some marshmallows on the balcony or porch.

Best sustainable gift: Lomi

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Mom’s coffee grounds, egg shells, and banana peels can live second lives as compost in the flower garden with this gift. Lomi makes composting easy: It’s odor-, pest-, and mess-free, and turns food waste into compost in less than four hours. It easily fits onto countertops and is discreet. With all that compost, your special someone’s rose garden—and kitchen—will be the envy of the neighborhood. 

Best for traveling: Monos Carry-On Pro

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Jet-setting moms will appreciate the gift of nice luggage that makes traveling a little less stressful. Our pick is the Monos Carry-On Pro, made for organization and easy access. It comes in eight standard colors and four limited-edition colors and includes an integrated TSA-approved lock for keeping belongings safe. An aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell prevents breaking from TSA agent rough-handling, and a built-in front compartment lets you store a laptop, passport, and other need-haves in one easy place. All-paid vacation not included.  

Best to recreate the spa at home: Sun Home Infrared Sauna Blanket 

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If there’s something a mom rarely rues and can most likely use, it’s a trip to the spa. Instead of giving a gift card to a spa, why not bring the spa along with the Sun Home Saunas Infrared Sauna Blanket, which allows you to feel the heat without even needing to become vertical. It helps relieve stress and anxiety and can help treat chronic pain. It’s like a sleeping bag that makes mom feel like a Hot Pocket in a microwave. 

Best splurge: Dyson AirWrap

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The Dyson AirWrap is the hair styler to have—it dries, curls, and styles hair, combining at least four styling tools into one. We’ve gone hands-on with it before and love that it gives salon-quality, shampoo commercial blowouts at home. It comes with two barrel sizes (both with switches to change airflow direction), a soft smoothing brush, a firm smoothing brush, a round volumizing brush (our favorite attachment), and a blow-drying attachment. If the AirWrap is out of your budget, consider the Shark FlexStyle, which has a bendable arm and a diffuser attachment for curly hair. Protect strands beforehand with the K18 molecular repair oil, and help keep hair healthy when it’s shower time with the Kitsch Pre Wash Scalp Oil and K18 leave-in conditioner. For the in-between days, we recommend the Act+Acre Plant-Based Dry Shampoo, which uses rice and tapioca powders—along with fulvic acid—to keep tresses bouncy and fresh.

Best for those expecting: Proxies Tasting Set

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If a pregnant person in your life wants to enjoy a fancy little beverage sans alcohol (we happen to have tons of recommendations), nothing looks better in a wine glass than Proxies. There are de-alcoholized wines on the market, but some may have traces of alcohol left after the process. Proxies, however, is boozeless from the start, made from wine grape varietals without the fermenting. The resulting product has a similar mouthfeel and taste to wine but without the “Am I hurting baby?” anxiety. They’re perfect to pair with pizza, fish, pickles, and any other pregnancy cravings. 

Best for music-loving moms: Sony WH-1000XM5

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If mom has a killer vinyl collection and puts you on to some of the best artists, you should give them a gift that says, “Thanks for giving me good taste.” We think the Sony WH-1000XM5 is an excellent choice. They’re sleek and comfortable on the head, including some killer noise cancellation (perfect for tuning out nosy neighbors) and four beamforming microphones to be heard clearly on work calls. If they’re more of an earbud person, the easily pocketed Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II have excellent sound and the most effective noise cancellation on the market. 

Best robovac: iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop

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Messes happen, and if you’re not going to help clean them up, at least buy a robot that will. This Roomba is both a mop and a vacuum cleaner, and it’s pretty smart for a robot: It can sense objects and pet accidents (meaning no poop smeared around your home because of the dog, at least), and detects when changing from flooring to carpet. It lifts the mop head to prevent soggy carpets and self-empties. It connects to Alexa (meaning you can control the robovac with your voice) and can be controlled via the iRobot app. Mom will appreciate someone finally helping out around here. 

Best for working out: OMORPHO G-Vest+

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Up any workout with this weighted vest from OMORPHO, which adds five pounds of resistance to level up burpees, sprints, and more. However, it doesn’t feel like a five-pound vest, thanks to even weight distribution. It’s a comfortable piece of workout gear that fits great (adjustable cables and straps help, too) and doesn’t limit your range of motion. Connecting the vest to the OMORPHO app gives you workouts that are quick but effective. If someone wants to outrun the other soccer team moms, gifting this vest is a great start. This leads us to our next pick …

Best for sore muscles: Theragun Mini 2.0

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For soothing sore muscles after working out—or anytime, really, especially for someone actually outrunning the other soccer team moms—we recommend the Theragun Mini 2.0, which is small enough to throw into a gym bag or hide in a drawer away from small hands. It comes with three attachments, but we love the thumb attachment, which is great for lower backs and pinpoint therapy. My back hurts, I don’t even have children, and even I could benefit from a percussion massager—we’re sure your mom will get a lot of use from the Theragun.

For grandmas: Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame

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Although it’s perfect for any and every generation of moms, we think grandmas especially will love the Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame. Grandmas love showing people pictures of their extended family (including granddogs), and this WiFi-connected cloud-fed frame makes it easy to update those photos from anywhere. Add photos and videos to the Aura app, and they’ll show up on your loved one’s frame as long as it’s connected to a network—there’s no work they need to do to get the photos up after the initial connectioon. You don’t need to worry about storage, either—it’s unlimited. And, you don’t need to worry about photo orientation, since the Aura automatically rotates and resizes based on whether it’s placed landscape or portrait. PopSci’s associate managing editor sent one to his mother for their birthday—take their word for it: “What I have enjoyed the most … is the burst of joy every time I see a photo of a loved one or a picture a loved one has shared with me!” You can get an Aura Mason Luxe Smart Frame for the entire family, or you can check out some other digital picture frames we recommend. 

Best cozy: Big Blanket Co. Original Stretch Blanket

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If you know someone that hogs the blanket, or someone tall who deserves to have their feet covered when sleeping at night, the Big Blanket—providing 100 square feet of blanket—was made for them. This extra-large, giant soft blanket gives whoever is in the nap trap plenty of real estate to turn into a blanket cocoon, with room for you. We’re not kidding. It’s huge and soft—just like mom’s heart.

Best watch: Garmin vivoactive 4S

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The Garmin vivoactive 4S is just as smart as is it beautiful—it has a standard watch face with 20 built-in apps, including GPS, yoga, running, swimming, and more. Mom gets seven days of battery life, and Gamin Pay lets them pay for a post-jog coffee without having to bring their wallet with them. They don’t even need to bring their phone, thanks to the ability to download music onto the watch. People won’t even know it’s a sports watch until Mom turns and says, “Thanks, it’s a smartwatch!” when they get a compliment on it.

Best for crafting: Cricut Explore Air 2 Lilac Machine Bundle

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If mom is crafty and they don’t already own a Cricut, change that with this bundle gift that combines an Explore Air 2 machine with everything they need to get started on making their own bespoke goods for family, friends, and themselves. Heck, they could even start a small business! Built-in Bluetooth allows for wireless cutting, writing, and scoring, and the included spatula, weeder, scraper, scissors, and tweezers make it easy to lift and transfer your designs onto cups, mugs, sunglasses, and more. And if they already have a crafty corner, consider a Cricut Bright 360 lamp to help them capture and cherish all the details of their hard work customizing.

The post The best last-minute Mother’s Day gifts to show your appreciation appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best candle		Yankee Candle Fresh Cut Roses Scented Candle		SEE IT	Give them a bouquet of roses they won’t have to worry about watering.
Best lube		Maude Shine Organic Lube		SEE IT	This lube is organic and vegan.
Best for cuddling		Bedsure Oversized Big Fleece Blanket		SEE IT	Say goodbye to fighting over the blanket with this giant throw.

Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift seems like an impossible task—it’s made even harder if you’re shopping last-minute. There are so many candles, wallets, and whiskey stones in this world—how are we ever supposed to know if those items are something your partner wants that’s also in stock? Sure, they could tell you what you should buy them for Valentine’s Day, but that takes the fun and mystery out of gift-giving. And, there’s no other feeling like finding the perfect gift, agonizing over the wait to give it, and finally watching your partner’s face light up at your thoughtful present. Our last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts are as close to perfect as one could get.

• Best topping: Whipshots Vodka Infused Whipped Cream
• Best last minute gift: PopSci+ subscription
• Best candle: Yankee Candle Fresh Cut Roses Scented Candle
• Best lingerie: Adore Me Yolandi Babydoll
• Best vibrator: MysteryVibe Poco
• Best lube: Maude Shine Organic Lube
• Best for a couple’s shower: hai Smart Shower Head & hai Fuse
• Best NA wine: Surely Dealcoholized Sparkling Brut and Rosé
• Best wallet for men: Fossil Men’s Leather Bifold Wallet with Flip ID Window
• Best wallet for women: Kate Spade New York Staci Medium Compact Bifold Wallet
• Best face mask: Dermalogica Hydro Masque Exfoliant Hydrating and Exfoliating Face Masque
• Best electric razor for men: Braun Series 9 Electric Razor
• Best splurge for her: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum
• Best splurge for him: Salvatore Ferragamo Mens IP Yellow Gold 38 mm Vega Bracelet Watch
• Best for backyard dates: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
• Best that says “USB-Mine?”: Asus ROG Swift PG32UQ
• Best for the classroom: American Greetings Scratch-Off Space and Astronauts
• Best for gamers: Nintendo Switch
• Best for home chefs: Anyday Large Dish
• Best for audiophiles: U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus Turntable
• Best for music lovers: Klipsch R-51 PM Speakers
• Best for bakers: Brightly Reusable Pan and Bowl Cover Set
• Best for kids: LEGO Icons Wildflower Bouquet
• Best for movie lovers: XGIMI Halo+
• Best for cuddling: Bedsure Oversized Big Fleece Blanket
• Best for remembering memories: Aura Carver HD WiFi Digital Picture Frame
• Best fitness watch: Garmin vívomove Sport Hybrid Smartwatch

Best topping: Whipshots Vodka Infused Whipped Cream

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This is Valentine’s Day, after all. This Cardi B-sponsored treat adds vanilla, mocha, caramel, and limited edition peppermint flavoring and vodka to everyone’s favorite sundae topping. Throw it on your favorite sweet treat or lick it off your sweetie—we won’t tell anyone how you decide to use it.

Best last minute gift: PopSci+ subscription

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With stories on sex toys as medical devices and deep dives into dinosaurs doin’ it, the sexiest gift you can give for Valentine’s Day is a PopSci+ subscription. It’s only $12 a year—that’s $1 a month to help you and your honey get deep into the hottest science topics today. If you’re single, a PopSci+ subscription can give you tons of material to talk about on dates, like how marine biologists depend on a discontinued pot scrubber to do their work. We’ll stop talking and let you find out the benefits of a PopSci+ membership yourself.

Best candle: Yankee Candle Fresh Cut Roses Scented Candle

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If you can’t buy them an actual bouquet, this candle makes for a great last-minute Valentine’s Day replacement—and a perfect standalone gift. We recommend getting a Classic Large Jar, which yields 110 hours of burn time. That’s lots of time to relish in the sweet scent of roses and love.

Best lingerie: Adore Me Yolandi Babydoll

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Impress your partner by buying them lingerie they’ll look stunning in. You won’t have to guess their cup size and risk buying the wrong size thanks to straight sizing, which is imperative when you’re shopping last-minute; fully adjustable straps and a mesh skirt add to the garment’s size flexibility. And, it’s just the right amount of revealing without making your partner feel exposed. This one is also machine washable for easy care.

Best vibrator: MysteryVibe Poco

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This bendable targeted G-spot vibrator adds a bit more excitement to the boudoir thanks to its discreetness: it fits in your palm, meaning it won’t be as clunky while using it with your partner or during solo time. It’s also showerproof, bendable, and can be used externally or internally—talk about versatility. And, app connectivity allows you to customize vibration and save your favorites. Or, you can hand your phone off to your partner and give them the controls.

Best lube: Maude Shine Organic Lube

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You’re not using lube? You’re missing out. This vegan and cruelty-free lubricant adds a bit more slip for easier insertion or for solo play (save the lotion for your body, please). The organic version is aloe-based and can be used with devices or condoms; the silicone version should not be used with silicone toys, but it can be used underwater and with condoms.

Best for a couple’s shower: hai Smart Shower Head & hai Fuse

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Speaking of using lube underwater … upgrade your shower with this Bluetooth-compatible option that’s colorful and sustainable, thanks to water usage tracking in the coordinating app. Adjust the shower head from a high-pressure stream to a steamy fine mist—it even works in low-flow environments. Customizable LED alerts let you know when your water is at the perfect temperature or if you’re using too much water. You can even install it yourself in less than five minutes. Throw the hai Fuse into the mix for custom aromatherapy infusions like citrusy Energy Boost with caffeine or Repair with eucalyptus.

Best NA wine: Surely Dealcoholized Sparkling Brut and Rosé

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You don’t need booze to have a good time. We love sipping on the best non-alcoholic drinks when we want to give our partner all of our focus or when we just aren’t in the mood for a high-ABV cocktail. This dealcoholized wine is aged in the barrel and then goes through vacuum distillation to evaporate the majority of the alcohol in the wine. The flavors remain without the next-day hangover or regrets.

Best wallet for men: Fossil Men’s Leather Bifold Wallet with Flip ID Window

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It wouldn’t be a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift guide without a wallet listing. This one is made of 100 percent cowhide leather and is RFID protected, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice style when keeping your banking data secure. It has two ID windows, two slide pockets, and eight card pockets to keep all of your frozen yogurt punch cards organized and at ready.

Best wallet for women: Kate Spade New York Staci Medium Compact Bifold Wallet

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Women carry wallets too, so it’s about time women’s wallets get representation in a last-minute Valentine’s gift guide. This one from Kate Spade will last for years thanks to its high-quality Saffiano leather and timeless design. It’s just as practical as it is beautiful, thanks to eight credit card slots, an ID window, four slip pockets, and a spacious zipped pocket for change, receipts, or a sweet note from your lover.

Best face mask: Dermalogica Hydro Masque Exfoliant Hydrating and Exfoliating Face Masque

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Nothing completes a couple’s DIY spa night like a face mask. But what if you are looking for some exfoliation while they want some hydration? Kill two birds with one stone with this mask that does both: bamboo provides the exfoliation, while snow mushroom tackles hydration. Simply push the top to dispense, apply liberally to face and neck, massage until the spheres disappear, wait 3-5 minutes, rinse, and you’re done. Now you and your partner have baby-smooth skin and can get back to that Love Island marathon.

Best electric razor for men: Braun Series 9 Electric Razor

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If you’re looking to give one of the best electric razors as a last-minute gift, this one from Braun is guaranteed to give a close shave and prevent a close call with gift giving. The battery will keep going up to 50 minutes at full-charge, and a digital display counts down the time left so you don’t have to worry about surprise power outages. For tricky, hard-to-cut hairs, two specialized titanium-coated trimmers use 10,000 micro-vibrations to catch them where they grow. You can also use this razor wet or dry.

Best splurge for her: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum

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TikTok perfumeheads consider this to be the perfume people lust after, thanks to its floral-woody combo that has a powerful, all-day projection and sillage. It’s the Bella Hadid of perfumes at the moment, and it will be well-appreciated even if she occasionally dabbles in perfume.

Best splurge for him: Salvatore Ferragamo Mens IP Yellow Gold 38 mm Vega Bracelet Watch

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This two-tone watch will go with any outfit, and the Guilloché watch face is simple and elegant without being boring. And, Swiss-made means it’s built to last—just like you and your partner.

Best for backyard dates: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

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Sometimes you just want to cozy up by the fire, but not everyone has a fireplace in their home. Enter the Solo Stove, which is easy to use, portable, and less smoky than a traditional fire. We also love the company’s Pi Pizza Oven for pizza night and the Mesa tabletop fire pit in red for a smaller—but equally as romantic—outdoor fire.

Best that says “USB-Mine?”: ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQ

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A computer monitor is an essential tech accessory for remote students or workers, which is why it’s one of the most thoughtful tech gifts you can give this Valentine’s Day. ASUS’ ROG Swift PG32UQR is a 32-inch 4K monitor with multiple inputs, which will allow your partner to use it as a TV for their game console or media streamer when they’re not at work. Gamers will appreciate the PG32UQR’s high refresh rate, which will allow them to play the latest titles at their maximum level of fidelity.

Images, videos, and text will look extremely clear on the screen, and its sheet size will give them a massive digital canvas to work with. The best part about this gift is that you know they’ll use it every day for years to come, and they’ll think of you each time their screen comes in handy.

Best for the classroom: American Greetings Scratch-Off Space and Astronauts

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If you’re a busy parent, you know the anxiety of finding the perfect last-minute Valentine’s cards for your child’s classmates. These feature an astronaut pattern (cool) with scratch-off messages (even cooler), which equals a very happy kid chuffed to have given one of the coolest Valentines in class.

Best for gamers: Nintendo Switch

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In a relationship with a gamer and don’t know what to get them? The Nintendo Switch is the third-best-selling video game console of all time, has a robust catalog including the latest entries in the Super Mario and Legend of Zelda series, and features a hybrid home and portable console design. But what makes this system the perfect game console for a couple is the fact that it comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers, so you and a partner can play the best multiplayer Nintendo Switch games out of the box.

Best for home chefs: Anyday Large Dish

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We get it, the idea of cooking your Valentine’s Day dinner in a microwave sounds like a recipe for disaster, but that’s not the case when you use Anyday’s glass cookware. The company encourages you to use an appliance most of us already have but don’t use to its full potential. Its Large Dish was designed to accommodate roughly four portions of a main dinner dish—the company has dozens of recipes on its site, which you can follow along to make dishes like One-Dish Chicken, Orzo and Feta, Scalloped Potato Gratin, or Momofuku Miso Cacio e Pepe Noodles—in under half an hour. The cookware looks wonderful and the meals we’ve made there have always turned out. Anyday even has a recipe list for desserts, which can help you end the night on a sweet note.

Best for audiophiles: U-Turn Audio Orbit Plus Turntable

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Want to set the mood with some music this Valentine’s Day? Pick up the Orbit Plus Turntable. There are less expensive decks out there, but the Orbit Plus was designed to last a lifetime and was even handmade in the USA. The belt-driven turntable comes pre-loaded with an Ortofon OM5E cartridge, and there’s a version with a built-in preamp if you don’t have one already—or your receiver or powered speakers don’t have a dedicated phono input. We’ve used U-Turn’s record players before, and they’ve offered rock-solid performance and great sound whether we played new or vintage vinyl. Building up a record collection together is a great way for couples to bond throughout the year, and you can relive the memories of picking up a hard-to-find album on special nights.

Best for music lovers: Klipsch R-51 PM Speakers

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What’s a turntable (or home, really) without a good pair of speakers? Klipsch’s R-51 PMs were designed to work with everything from the most analog of turntables—there’s a phono input—to your smartphone via Bluetooth. We’re recommending a pair of powered speakers because it’s an all-in-one audio system, no AV receiver necessary. The R-51 PMs are also outfitted with an optical audio input and USB port, so they can be connected directly to a TV or computer in a home theater or home office respectively. If you and your partner love music, this gift is a slam dunk.

Best for bakers: Brightly Reusable Pan and Bowl Cover Set

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Many baking recipes—breads and doughs especially—require you to cover your creation in single-use plastic wrap while it rises, which is wasteful. Upgrade your favorite baker’s arsenal with this reusable cover set from Brightly, which comes with five pieces specifically designed for bowls and rimmed baking dishes. The machine-washable covers come in a variety of cool patterns that’ll help your partner differentiate between doughs without having to check the size. Brightly’s covers are made out of a food-safe material, so if dough hits them as it rises there won’t be any issues. If you’re in a relationship with a baker—or anyone who wants to make eco-conscious changes throughout the home—this is a very thoughtful gift.

Best for kids: LEGO Icons Wildflower Bouquet

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Bouquets of flowers are a classic last-minute Valentine’s Day gift, but they only last about a week and a half before they need to be discarded (hopefully composted!) The LEFO Icons Wildflower Bouquet will last a lifetime and a kid can help put it together. Once assembled, the 939-piece set looks like a traditional assortment of flowers, and LEGO even includes stems of varying lengths, so they can be arranged on a tabletop or in a vase. If you want even more arrangement options, LEGO recommends combining this set with similar flower sets from its botanical collection.

Best for movie lovers: XGIMI Halo+

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Show the cinephile in your life you care with an HD projector that can be taken anywhere. XGIMI’s Halo+ is an HD projector with built-in stereo Harmon Kardon speakers that runs Android, which means you can access the latest streaming services like Netflix or Hulu directly from the device. If you want to connect a game console, like the Nintendo Switch for instance, you can use the Halo+’s HDMI port—no adapter necessary. This projector’s greatest strength is its battery, which allows the Halo+ to last up to two and a half hours without being charged. You can take this projector anywhere there’s a screen or blank wall, and set up a movie night with your partner. Whether you’re checking our new releases, introducing them to one of your old favorites, or re-watching a movie you’ve seen a zillion times, using a projector is completely different than watching it on TV.

Best for cuddling: Bedsure Oversized Big Fleece Blanket

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Bedsure’s Oversized Big Fleece Blanket is every bit as comfortable as it sounds, and encourages copious cuddling for Valentine’s Day and beyond. The couch-length blanket comes in multiple sizes, can be used as a comforter, and will comfortably cover couples relaxing in the same room. We’ve tested this blanket, and while its size initially seems ridiculous, its utility becomes apparent very quickly. Who doesn’t want a giant blanket, after all? We’ve been especially impressed by how well it’s held up after months of use, with minimal pilling and no sign of wear.

Best for remembering memories: Aura Carver HD WiFi Digital Picture Frame

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This frame, which topped our list of the best digital picture frames, allows anyone with a WiFi connection and a smartphone to add photos in seconds—making it perfect if you want to remind your partner of gorgeous vacations and memories of yore. Unlimited cloud storage also means you’ll never run out of space to store those photos.

Best fitness watch: Garmin vívomove Sport Hybrid Smartwatch

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If you’re looking for a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift for an active person in your life, consider the Garmin vívomove, which has a sleek, analog face with smart features like sleep monitoring, stress tracking, and specific activity profiles for pilates, yoga, running, and more. If you’re looking for other fitness watches to gift last-minute for Valentine’s Day, Gamin has other fitness watch deals that will come in time for the big day.

The post The best last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts to spread the love appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Wi-Fi Routers		Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System		SEE IT	An Amazon eero 6E mesh wifi system will guarantee your giftee a fast, stable connection to the internet.
Best desk		FLEXISPOT Comhar Electric Standing Desk with Drawers		SEE IT	Ample space, accessible USB ports, and a wide drawer make this an indispensable part of any home office setup.
Best TV		Hisense U8K		SEE IT	This luxe TV will help them kick back and relax between meetings or after work is done.

If the 2020s have taught us anything, it’s that the line between your home and office is blurrier than ever. It has become increasingly thoughtful to get someone a gift that can help reduce their list of chores, improve their productivity, or kick back and relax after a long day at the office (in-home or on-site). Gifts in this category run the gamut from incredibly practical to downright extravagant, so there’s something for everybody. We’ve also been conscious of making sure our gift recommendations work whether you’re shopping for someone who rents or owns their place, be it an apartment or house. If you’re shopping for someone you live with, some of our best home and office presents below will also benefit you, so consider that a holiday bonus.

• Best Wi-Fi Routers: Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System
• Best printer: Canon MegaTank G3270
• Best docking station: Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Dock with 100W Charging
• Best office chair: AmazonCommercial Ergonomic High-Back Bonded Leather Executive Chair
• Best mouse: Logitech MX Master 3S
• Best keyboard: Logitech Wave Keys
• Best work desk: Flexispot Electric Standing Desk with Drawers
• Best earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2
• Best headphones: beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X
• Best smart speaker: Sonos Era 100
• Best smart lights: GE CYNC Dynamic Effects Smart LED Hexagon Light Panels
• Best monitor: Dell S2722QC
• Best monitor riser: Grovemade Desk Shelf
• Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K
• Best digital picture frame: Aura Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame
• Best smart decoration: Twinkly Squares LED panels
• Best retro decoration: Lava Colormax lamp
• Best TV: Hisense U8K
• Best soundbar: Sonos Ray
• Best media streamer: Roku Stick 4K
• Best wireless charger: Twelve South PowerPic
• Best gadget charger: Satechi Dock5
• Best whiteboard: Quartet Glass Whiteboard
• Best smart board: Vestaboard
• Best home gardening system: Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System
• Best fire pit: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
• Best trash can: Brabantia Bo Touch
• Most practical tech accessory: SnapPower GuideLight for Outlets
• Best desk lamp: Lume Cube Edge Light 2.0
• Best robot vacuum: Narwall Freo
• Best over-the-top gift: Kül Water Dispenser
• Best for the bathroom: Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead
• Best note-taking tablet: BOOX Note Air2 Plus
• Best surge protector: Austere VII Series Power 8-Outlet 

Best Wi-Fi routers: Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System

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One of the keys to a happy home during the holidays (or any other time) is a fast, consistent connection to the Internet. Eero’s latest Wi-Fi routers support the latest wireless standard (Wi-Fi 6E), supporting speeds of up to 2.3 Gbps. For reference, Netflix recommends just 15Mbps to stream video in 4K, which is only .006% of the routers’ total potential bandwidth. If you’re shopping for someone who pays for a fast internet connection but finds their devices don’t get the speeds promised—or they have places in their home where their wireless connection is spotty—this is the optimal solution. Amazon says this two-pack of Eero routers can cover an area of up to 4,000 sq. ft., which should be enough for most homes, and it can be connected to over 100 devices without slowing down.

Best printer: Canon MegaTank G3270

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Every home or office needs an all-in-one printer for when a document needs to be scanned, printed, or copied. This may only happen a handful of times a year (unless the printer is living in a house with school-age kids), but you’re guaranteed to get a “THANK YOU!” text each time it does. We like Canon’s G3270 because it uses ink tanks rather than in cartridges. Canon says you should be able to print roughly 6,000 black and white and 7,700 color pages without having to refill them.

If the person you gift this to prints 100 pages of each per month, this means they won’t have to buy new ink for several years. Households with kids—or folks who like to craft—will have to change them more frequently. In our experience, the G3270 had no problem printing text and photos without blotches or smudging, even during long jobs. The fact that this printer is wireless is especially appreciated because they won’t have to keep plugging and unplugging it into a computer.

Best docking station: Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Dock with 100W Charging

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The downside to laptops getting thinner and lighter is the loss of ports, which makes it annoying to connect accessories to them. If you know someone who’s always carrying around a bunch of adapters, you can simplify their life significantly by gifting them Plugable’s new Thunderbolt 4 Dock. This tool has four USB-A ports, three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SD card slot, HDMI 2.0 port, headphone jack, Gigabit Ethernet jack, and a USB-C to HDMI adapter.

Your friend and family member can use UGREEN’s hub to connect their computer to three external displays (assuming their computer supports this feature) and nearly a dozen other accessories with a single USB-C cable. The hub can even recharge their laptop while connected, which is an excellent bonus.

Best office chair: AmazonCommercial Ergonomic High-Back Bonded Leather Executive Chair

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Nobody thinks about ergonomics until their body starts hurting, so this gift serves two purposes. AmazonCommercial’s Ergonomic High-Back Bonded Leather Executive Chair is so comfortable that we can recommend it to anybody who works at home. The chair has ample padding, height-adjustable arms, and a satisfying swivel. We recommend gifting a high-back chair, which cradles the back, shoulders, and neck to address multiple potential pain points. This is a type of gift nobody thinks about getting for themselves.

Best mouse: Logitech MX Master 3S

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Logitech’s MX Master 3S is the tech accessory office workers don’t know they needed. The Bluetooth mouse is shaped so an entire hand can fit on top of it, with a dedicated thumb resting on its left side. The MX Master 3S’ design makes it much more comfortable to use over long periods. Additional buttons on the side and top of the mouse give users quick access to different apps or system functions, which can save the person you gift it to several minutes every day. One of this mouse’s coolest features is the ability to pair it with up to three devices, so your friend or family member can use it with their work and personal computer. Nobody thinks about the computer mouse they use, but once you gift someone the Logitech MX Master 3S, they’ll never return to a generic wired one.

Best keyboard: Logitech Wave Keys

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If you’re already gifting someone an ergonomic mouse, pairing it with a mechanical keyboard makes sense. Logitech’s newly released Wave Keys is one of the best we’ve ever tested. It can connect to a PC or Mac wirelessly over Bluetooth, or with a USB-C cable, so it’s great if you’re shopping for someone who works on MacOS and Windows. The sensation of typing on an ergonomic keyboard after years of using the slim ones built into laptops is revelatory. The built-in palm rest will keep their wrists elevated, while the sloped keys are more satisfying to depress. Comfort is key when typing all day, and the person you gift this keyboard to will wonder how they ever got along without it.

Best work desk: Flexispot Electric Standing Desk with Drawers

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If you want to gift surface area to someone with limited space, Flexispot’s Electric Standing Desk with Drawers can help them stay elevated and organized. Its 55-inch work surface is more than sufficient for multiple monitors and plenty of tech accessories. This desk has four memory modes, which will allow the person you gift it to preset their optimal sitting and standing heights. A pair of USB-A ports on the front of the desk offer a convenient way to charge devices, while the drawer can help them get paperwork and other supplies off their desktop.

Best wireless earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2

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Let’s not beat around the bush here: Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are arguably the hottest holiday gift this season. Apple’s latest earbuds sound better, last longer, and cancel out more noise than the pair they replace while keeping the same iconic look, feel, and shape. Active noise cancellation is the biggest feature for office workers, as it’ll allow them to concentrate on work instead of being distracted by the sound of typing keys, swiveling chairs, or idle conversation. One of the most underrated features of the AirPods Pro 2 is the microphones, which are surprisingly good at picking up a speaker’s voice without much room noise. At their price, you won’t find a more well-rounded, fully featured pair of earbuds than the AirPods Pro 2. Apple recently updated its earbuds with a USB-C charging case, which is helpful so your giftee won’t have to use a proprietary charging cord.

Best headphones: beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X

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Need a gift for an audiophile who listens to music in their home office and continues their play session hours after logging off? Maybe someone you know is setting up a starter home studio but also games? Get them beyerdynamic’s DT 700 Pro X over-ear headphones, which come from the makers of our overall best mixing headphones. What separates the DT 700 Pro X apart from the pack is the extremely soft ear cushions, which make the headphones extremely comfortable to wear while simultaneously isolating a listener’s ears from unwanted outside sounds without any tonality-altering circuitry. Additionally, the headphones clamping force (how much pressure the headphones push against a listener’s head to keep them on) was also calibrated to optimize comfort without sacrificing performance. The headphones also sound excellent, with deep bass, wide midrange, and clear-but-not-crispy treble that lets you identify stray frequencies in the mix or threats in the game. And, as we said earlier, anyone who loves listening to music at home will really like these headphones.

Best smart speaker: Sonos Era 100

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If you know someone who’s been thinking about making their home smarter, but doesn’t know where to start, get them Sonos Era 100. Sonos’ latest smart speaker looks modern, has a surprisingly good multi-driver audio system, and will immediately become the hub of their smart home. The speaker can be used with Sonos’ built-in smart home assistant or Amazon’s Alexa. Both of these assistants can be used to control the speaker hands-free. We were enourmously impressed by the Era 100 during our tests, and we encourage you to read our full review for more infomration. If the person you’re shopping for cares about multichannel audio, stepping up to Sonos’ Dolby Atmos-compatible Era 300 is a great idea.

Best smart lights: GE CYNC Dynamic Effects Smart LED Hexagon Light Panels

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Smart lights are the first smart home accessory we recommend gifting people if they already have a smart speaker, and GE’s Cync Smart Hexagon Panels are a lot cooler than a typical smart light bulb. These panels can be attached to one another in any number of configurations, creating a unique art piece. Each hexagon can be adjusted to one of several million colors. You can even have multiple colors on a single hexagon, and blend them together. These smart lights would look great anywhere, and may also become a part of your friend or family’s holiday decorations, accenting other pieces they typically put up.

Best monitor: Dell S2722QC

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An external display will give your friend or family member a lot more digital space to work with, which can help improve their productivity or ability to multitask. There are a lot of monitors out there, but Dell’s S2722QC checks all the right boxes. The 27-inch 4K screen can display 1.07 billion colors and has HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C inputs so that you can connect it to any machine. The USB-C port should be of particular interest if you’re shopping for a MacBook owner since it’ll allow the display to charge their laptop while it’s connected. The S2722QC’s speakers aren’t anything to write home about, but they’re helpful in a pinch, especially if you’re gifting the monitor to someone who likes to keep their laptop lid closed while working. It’s a little more luxe than most monitors on the market, but the S2722QC is the one to get this holiday season.

Best monitor riser: Grovemade Desk Shelf

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Simple problems don’t have to get spartan solutions. Portland, Ore.-based design and fabrication shop Grovemade initially broke into the e-commerce ecosystem with engraved bamboo iPhone 4 cases and has been crafting an expanded range of workspace products ever since. A decade-plus later and the Grovemade Desk Shelf system, available in three sizes and multiple woods/finishes, is yet another product that shows how efficiency and ergonomics can be elegant. It’s a sleek platform to help align your virtual world with your real one, and it comes with shelf space that can store cords and keyboards or additional Grovemade trays, desk pads, and accessories you can add to your cocoon of productivity. Got some flagship headphones that deserve to be showcased? The Grovemade headphone stand is another statement piece that is as appealing as it is functional.

Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K

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Webcams have become an essential home office accessory, and OBSBOT’s Tiny 2 PTZ 4K Webcam is among the best we’ve tried. The camera can stream or record incredibly crisp video, and will automatically compensate for poor lighting conditions to help the person you gift it to look their best. What makes the Tiny 2 PTZ 4K Webcam particularly distinctive is its rotating base, which allows the lens to track a person as they move up, down, left, or right. Free software provided by OBSBOT allows you to position the webcam perfectly and lock it in place, too. If you’re shopping for someone on a video call more than three times a week, this is a slam-dunk gift.

Best digital picture frame: Aura Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame

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Sharing memories with less tech-savvy family members can be tough if you only see them a few times a year, which is why Aura’s Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame makes such a great gift. The 10.1-inch HD display can be loaded with photos remotely, so the person viewing them can keep up with your latest adventures. Multiple people can access the same frame so that siblings can share all of their family photos with parents or grandparents at once. Aura doesn’t charge for cloud storage either, so this picture frame will continue to show new pictures as long as it stays connected to the internet.

Best smart decoration: Twinkly Squares LED panels

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Know someone who would want to automate some ambiance to elevate an environment? With the twinkly Squares, you can change the mood without changing location. These LED panels support 16 million colors and/or warm white light, and you can group them through an app for synced scenes of animated hues or 8-bit art. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow you to connect and control ON/OFF, dimming, timers, etc. Additional accessories like a USB sound sensor allow you to have your setup pulse and cycle to music. Other functions include integrating with Razer Chroma RGB or OMEN Light Studio for reactive lighting, and using voice commands via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This starter set includes 1 master tile and 5 extension tiles (64 RGB pixels total), and someone can add as many as their wall and imagination allow.

Best retro decoration: Lava Colormax lamp

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The Lava Colormax is our best overall lava lamp because it fills your room with psychedelic nostalgia without overwhelming your space. The base, cap, and glass all sport a tri-colored design that would feel right at home in a wood panel & shag carpet rumpus room or maybe the back of a conversion van with a dragon painted on the side of it. Or just bring that vibe to your standing desk. At 14.5-inches tall, it’s not overwhelmingly huge, and the 25-watt bulb makes it glow without bathing much of your room in light. Because it gets its tint from paint on the outside of the glass, the colors look bright and vibrant. It takes a solid two hours to really get the lava moving around inside the glass container but, given the chance, will make video calls to video games way more groovy.

Best TV: Hisense U8K

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We can’t think of a better holiday gift than a new TV, and Hisense’s U8K is the gold standard in its price range. The set is available in sizes ranging from 55 to a whopping 100 inches, but the 65-inch model will be the sweet spot for most people. The U8K has four HDMI ports, two of which support 4K gaming at 144Hz with high dynamic range enabled. This is a big deal if the gamer in your life has a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, as they’ll be able to play cutting-edge titles at their highest levels of fidelity. The U8K’s 1620 local dimming zones allow the TV to offer incredible contrast, while support for Dolby Vision IQ ensures colorful scenes look clear and natural rather than being blown out. If you’ve been saving up to set that special someone up with a really big gift, this should be your first (and arguably only) choice.

Best soundbar: Sonos Ray

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Need a gift for the person who’s already satisfied with their TV (or monitor)? The best answer is a soundbar, specifically the Sonos Ray. The Ray’s short size (only 21-inches wide) allows it to fit on any entertainment center without poking off the sides. Sonos designed the Ray’s drivers to point forward so that sound won’t reverberate off the sides of a shelf or a wall. Despite its small size, we were happy with how the Ray sounded in our tests. It wouldn’t distort during loud movie sequences with explosions or other sudden sound pops. You won’t find a better-engineered soundbar at the Ray’s size price, and avid movie watchers will immediately pick up on the audio upgrade.

Best media streamer: Roku Stick 4K

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If a less tech-savvy member of your friend or family group is trying to get into streaming the latest binge-worthy shows and blockbuster movies, there’s no better gift than a Roku Streaming Stick 4K. The ultra-slim media streamer is intuitive and has a simple remote plus dedicated buttons to take users directly to the most popular streaming services. The Streaming Stick 4K can playback video at its highest possible resolution, and supports every HDR (high dynamic range) standard to deliver vibrant colors. We can also recommend this accessory for people who often travel, as it’s easy to throw into a bag and hook up to a hotel or Airbnb TV, so you’re already logged into all of your streaming service accounts wherever you go.

Best wireless charger: Twelve South PowerPic

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Twelve South’s PowerPic is the most inventive wireless charger we’ve seen yet, and its unique design makes it an especially cool gift. The 10W wireless charging stand is built into a picture frame, allowing you to slip any 5×7-inch photo behind your phone’s resting spot. The picture will be revealed when the phone is not charging, so the PowerPic serves a dual purpose. If you know the person you’re gifting this to well enough, you can stealthily open the package, put in a meaningful picture, reseal it, then watch their face light up when it’s revealed.

Best gadget charger: Satechi Dock5

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Satechi Dock5 is a practical gift for anyone with several family members or roommates. The accessory has two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports, with dividers between each port so several gadgets can charge without looking messy. A Qi wireless charging pad toward the front of the Dock5 can recharge a pair of wireless earbuds or another small tech accessory. We all have someone in our lives with a messy, cable-filled section of their kitchen or living room, and this gift can resolve that issue.

Best whiteboard: Quartet Glass Whiteboard

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Quartet’s Glass Whiteboard is an unexpected gift that fully remote workers and students will immediately understand and appreciate. The large canvas is perfect for sketching ideas, collaborating on tough problems, or something as simple as a hand-drawn calendar. Most of us are used to having all this information on a screen. Still, something is satisfying about being able to directly write, slash, and erase your work immediately rather than fiddling with a mouse cursor or stylus. Plus, Quartet’s Glass Whiteboard looks so nice that it practically invites people to use it right out of the box.

Best smart board: Vestaboard

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We’ve never seen anything quite like the Vestaboard, which perfectly typifies the concept of ambient computing. The internet-connected smart board contains 132 “bits,” which flip to reveal different characters or colors. You can send messages to the Vestaboard through the company’s app, which is intuitive to use and comes pre-loaded with a few quotes and color patterns to show you its potential. A paid service called Vestaboard+ allows you to use applications to automate the board in even more creative ways, like displaying the current song you’re listening to through a streaming service, current sports scores, or playing a word game.

This is the ideal indulgent gift for someone who spends a lot of time in their home office or wants a fancy family bulletin board in their living room. Vestaboard owners can grant other people access to their board, allowing friends and family to send messages. The Vestaboard is a unique canvas for people to display meaningful quotes, words of encouragement, or mini works of art. We guarantee the person you gift it to won’t have seen anything like it.

Best home gardening system: Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System

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In our tests, the Gardyn 2.0 has fulfilled the promise of being a (mostly) hands-free gardening tool for anyone who lacks a green thumb but wants to grow food. Once it’s set up, the Gardyn will automatically provide the correct amount of light (via LED light strips) and water (through a refillable tank), so there’s no room for error. It takes up to six weeks for plants to reach their full size, and it’s inspiring to see the plants sprout and grow over time. Two cameras on the LED light strips will automatically take pictures of your crops at regular intervals so that you can chart their progress at any time.

The Gardyn is a premium gift, but one that’ll quickly become the hit of your home. Children can learn about how food (and plant life in general) grows and the value of patience. After a few months, you can have a feast featuring fresh vegetables you’ve grown yourself—even if you live in a New York City apartment like I do.

Have a backyard or balcony and an interest in growing greens? Another option is the Lettuce Grow Farmstand starter set. This vertical hydroponic growing system starts with 12 pre-sprouted plants in a tower just under 4-feet tall, but can be customized to your space and budget. It only takes minutes each week to add the water and nutrients necessary and, within a month, you’re enjoying pesticide-free veggies, leafy greens, herbs, fruits, and lettuce.

Best fire pit: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

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If you’re shopping for someone who’s into backyard glamping , Solo Stove’s Bonfire 2.0 is the fire pit we recommend. It was designed to be “smokeless,” meaning a continuous flow of air, and an intelligently placed ash pan, prevent tons of smoke from billowing out of it constantly. There’ll still be some smoke but not enough to make your eyes water, which means campers can sit closer to it (but not too close) to enjoy its warmth. Solo Stove addressed our one complaint with the original Bonfire by making this model’s ash tray easily removable, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Best trash can: Brabantia Bo Touch

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Yes, we recommend you get someone in your life a trash can, but hear us out. Brabantia’s Bo Touch has a modern design that’s surprisingly eye-catching in person. Everybody needs a trash can, so why not gift them one they won’t mind looking at several times a day for decades? We also like the Bo Touch’s namesake feature: the ability to open and close its lid by lightly pressing it. Brabantia offers the Bo Touch in a handful of configurations, but the one we recommend has a single 9.5-gallon slot for trash. The person you gift this to may be confused initially, but they’ll quickly change their tune.

Most practical tech accessory: SnapPower GuideLight for Outlets

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We’ve all used a phone flashlight to navigate around the house, which is why we’re certain about gifting SnapPower’s GuideLight to just about anybody in your life. The plate attaches to any duplex outlet and has a couple of small, downward-facing LEDs, which get triggered every time somebody walks by. All you need to install the GuideLight is a screwdriver; no previous electrical engineering experience is required. There’s not much to say about the GuideLight, but it’s an incredibly practical tool that’ll fit in anybody’s home.

Best desk lamp: Lume Cube Edge Light 2.0

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An LED desk lamp is an essential accessory for anyone who works from home. It’s especially helpful as a source of illumination when making video calls. The Edge 2.0 is Lume Cube’s latest desk lamp; it has several points of articulation, which allows you to get the perfect angle below or beside a computer monitor. Its touch-sensitive base makes it easy to adjust the lamp’s illumination (up to 700 lumens) and color temperature (between 2700 and 7500 kelvin with a single swipe. Ease of use, flexibility, and design make this the perfect addition to anybody’s home office setup.

Best under-desk seated elliptical: Cubii MOVE

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Ever feel like you’re just shuffling your feet, waiting for people to get back to you or for everyone to join a video conference? Feel like you’re just spinning your wheels, waiting for tech support to figure out what’s wrong with your laptop? Well, you—or your gift recipient—can turn purgatory (or any other time) into a type of productivity with one of the many compact Cubii under-desk elliptical systems. Aimed to help folks “get fit while you sit,” the low-impact apparatus turns fidgeting into function as you activate multiple muscle groups at the pedaling intensity you prefer, thanks to six selectable resistance levels. Whisper-quiet, the MOVE can live underneath your desk for daily use without distracting others but, at under 20 lbs, can also be easily moved if needed.

Best robot vacuum: Narwall Freo

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Narwal’s Freo Robot Vacuum and Mop can do two annoying chores and does a surprisingly good job making your floors look neat. The vacuum’s sensors allow it to clean around obstacles like chairs, shoes, and walls without bumping into them and will prevent the Freo from falling down a flight of stairs. Additional sensors will know when the robot vacuum has hit a particularly dirty flooring patch and focus its energy there. A feature called “smart swing” will position the vacuum to to better clean around corners.

Once the Freo is done cleaning, it will base to charge and empty its dirt and dirty water into two chambers built into its base. The Freo Narwal can be set on a schedule to clean when your friend or family member is out of the house, so they won’t have to hear the whirring sound of a vacuum ever again. Ultimately, this is one of the few smart home tools that will truly save your friend or family member time.

Best over-the-top gift: Kül Water Dispenser

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If you’re shopping for someone who’s really into health and hydration, or really misses the office experience of gathering around the water cooler to talk about the latest must-see TV, throw caution to the wind and get them the Kül Spark. The $1,500 water purification system can be hooked up to their plumbing and create cold, hot, ambient (room temp), or sparkling water free of over 80 contaminants. Don’t worry, there’s also the option to use a refillable water tank. We’ve tried the Kül Spark for ourselves, and the difference in taste is real. The Kül Spark’s ability to dial in the perfect temperature is equally impressive. A touch-sensitive control panel on the right-hand side of the machine makes it easy to choose which type of beverage you’d like to make or change certain settings. You can even see stats like how long it’s been since you’ve changed your filter, or how full your CO2 cartridges are. Yes, it’s luxe, but the Kül Spark is an incredibly generous gift for anyone who’s overly confident that their kitchen or home office has “everything.”

Best for the bathroom: Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead

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Do you know a bathroom karaoke superstar? Or someone who likes to start their day catching up on podcasts? No gift will make them happier than Kohler’s Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead. Installing it requires you just twist off your old showerhead and spin on the new one, a process that takes two minutes. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker sits in the center of the shower head, pumping out tunes or talk for several hours before needing to be recharged. The speaker was developed by Harman Kardon and sounds pretty good. Importantly, it’s easy to turn on and off with wet and soapy hands. This is one of those gifts they’ll never see coming, and will use every day.

Best note-taking tablet: BOOX Note Air2 Plus

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BOOX’s Note Air2 Plus is a large e-ink tablet for reading and note-taking. It’s expensive but well worth the price if you need a big gift for someone whose work or school program requires them to take copious notes. The 10.3-inch e-ink tablet runs Android, so the person you gift it to will have access to download specific apps for reading, note-taking, or opening specific file types like PDFs. Much of this functionality is built into the Note Air2 Plus, but, if they’re already familiar with an app, or need a specific piece of software as part of their workflow, the Note Air2 Plus will accommodate their needs far more than a Kindle or other e-Ink tablet. The tablet comes bundled with a stylus, which was remarkably responsive in our tests, allowing us to confidently write on it without worrying about missing a line or digital pen stroke. This is a very specific gift, but if you know someone who has filled up their fair share of notebooks, and wishes they could take all that information with them, this will become their go-to gadget.

Best surge protector: Austere VII Series Power 8-Outlet 

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This gift may not immediately impress, but is incredibly important for the home office worker. Austere’s VII Series Power 8-Outlet will protect their equipment in case of a sudden power surge, which could fry their computer, monitor, and other expensive tech accessories. Gifting someone this surge protector could save them thousands of dollars in the long run. We like Austere’s VII Series Power 8-Outlet because of its sturdy construction, seven-year guarantee, and USB ports, which allow you to charge smaller devices without taking up one of the outlets with a power adapter. Is this gift practical? Extremely. But no home office is truly complete without one.

The post The best productivity presents for home and office appeared first on Popular Science.