Between popular devices and new product launches, it is safe to say that everyone will receive a gift of technology this year—from gamers to grandmothers.

As the end of the year approaches, with hundreds or even thousands of technology products to choose from, shoppers are preparing for one of the most competitive holiday shopping seasons to date. When comparing specifications, compatibility, bundles and even warranties, finding the perfect technical gift for everyone on your list requires some creative product research.

It's no secret that some technology products are often sold out. Although this is partly due to their popularity, it is also due to the continuing shortage of microchips and supply chain disruptions.

There are several variables that affect product availability, and given the increased demand for technological gifts during the holiday season, popular products are likely to remain scarce. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are glorious examples; both consoles were released in November 2020, and they are hardly to be found today.

However, the demand for technology products tends to fluctuate, which means that some products will be easier to find this year. For example, Apple AirPods Pro were hard to find last holiday. This year, they are widely used. So, while you may have difficulty buying popular products such as game consoles or brand new devices this season, you may be able to easily snap up some of last year’s popular products—and the prices are much lower.

Even if you are not a "technical person", you can still be a smart consumer of technology. Once you learn how to compare device specifications to accurately understand the product you are buying, it will be easier to understand the superposition of models.

Devices usually have a long list of specifications detailing everything from size to operating system. Some retailers, such as Amazon, generate comparison tables between similar devices for easy reference. However, when these forms are not available, you need to know which specifications are the most important-and it varies from device to device.

Some consumers delve into the product to understand the details of electronic products, even the most subtle technical differences. Other consumers choose a more practical route and simply compare the top-line features of the product. Take wireless printers as an example-many people just want to compare the printing speed, resolution, device compatibility, and basic functions of different models.

Device compatibility can determine the success or failure of a technology purchase, because you can use the product on your existing device or not.

Before you give someone a gift of technology, it’s important to know whether the device is actually suitable for the electronics they currently use. For example, some of the best-selling smart home devices are compatible with Alexa, but not with Google Assistant or Siri.

To be safe, always check the product’s minimum requirements for operating systems, software, and device models. Experienced technology consumers also recommend researching which devices, operating systems, or software are not suitable for the technology gift you are considering.

At some point in every shopper’s life, they will be tempted by bundles. In the technology sector, bundles may include additional remotes, controllers, chargers, games, speakers, or protective cases.

Bundles attract many consumers because they are competitively priced-or so it seems. Although it is worth spending a little more on some accessories, please keep the following considerations in mind:

An extended warranty period may appeal to those who buy technical gifts, especially when they want to ensure the long-term usefulness of the product. Therefore, devices with extended warranty periods are a popular holiday gift combination.

The extended warranty can be obtained through the manufacturer or retailer, and equipment replacement or free technical support is usually provided within a specified time frame. Recently, the company has begun to provide warranty coverage for accidental damage, such as spilled coffee that blows up the keyboard.

However, some shoppers will feel regret for extending the warranty period. For example, when a device exceeds its warranty period, in hindsight, the increased cost may not be worth it. Other shoppers expressed disappointment with the fine print, including exceptions or exclusions that made using the warranty challenging. Some warranties require that defective equipment be mailed for diagnosis or inspection, which means that the user does not have the necessary equipment for several weeks.

Basically, if you are skeptical about buying a warranty, weigh the pros and cons-and be sure to read the fine print.

Fitbit Luxe Fitness and Wellness Tracker: Available at Amazon, Kohl's and Dick's Sporting Goods

The exquisite shape of this new Fitbit complements everyday and formal attire. This low-key tracker is equipped with stress management tools and offers a 6-month trial version of Fitbit Premium.

Echo Show 5: Available on Amazon and Kohl's

The upgraded 2021 Echo Show 5 is the favorite of the bedside table, and the upgraded 2MP camera can achieve clearer video calls. When it is not busy organizing your life, it can double as a smart photo frame with customizable slideshows.

Ring Video Doorbell 4: Available at Kohl's, Bed Bath & Beyond and Home Depot

The new and improved ring video doorbell enhances dual-band Wi-Fi, extends battery life, and sports alerts with video previews. It has a two-way conversation function to facilitate communication with visitors.

Apple AirTags: Available on Amazon

Use Apple AirTags to easily track valuables. AirTags, released earlier this year, uses Siri, ultra-wideband technology and Find My network to help users locate misplaced items immediately.

Dyson Airwrap Complete Styler: Available at Ulta, Sephora and Bed Bath & Beyond

This dynamic Dyson styler offers endless possibilities to bend, curl, smooth and blow dry hair without overheating. The lightweight, upright design is comfortable to hold and easy to operate.

Nixplay Smart Digital Photo Frame: Available on Amazon

This smart digital photo frame allows users to share up to 15 seconds of photos and videos through the Nixplay application. The framework connects to cloud storage and photo sharing applications for seamless uploading.

Bose Frames Audio sunglasses: available on Amazon

These smart lampshades are not only beautiful and protect your eyes, they are also equipped with mini Bose speakers that can play your favorite music. They have onboard controls that allow users to switch between immersive and open audio.

Keurig K-Supreme Plus SMART coffee machine: Available on Amazon, Kohl's, Bed Bath & Beyond and Keurig

Use this smart Keurig to manage your favorite brewing programs or schedule morning brews. It is equipped with Multistream technology to extract the full flavor and aroma from the ground to provide cafe-quality beer.

DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo Foldable Drone: Available on Amazon

No need to find a compact, travel-friendly drone, it has many high-tech features in a full-size model. It uses a 4K camera to shoot crystal-clear videos with a maximum flight time of 31 minutes.

HidrateSpark STEEL Smart Water Bottle: Available on Amazon

This smart bottle can easily track water consumption through a free companion app. The bottle uses a vacuum-sealed stainless steel body, which can keep the beverage cold for up to 24 hours.

Callaway 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder: Available on Amazon and Callaway

Use this new rangefinder using precise distance technology to maximize your gaming potential. The updated design is lighter and more compact, and is ergonomically designed and comfortable to operate.

Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma Wired Game Controller: Available on Amazon

If you want to adjust the character through more precise hits, this game controller has a har trigger mode and a trigger stop switch, which can be executed quickly. It is compatible with Xbox Series X or S, Xbox One and PC.

Withings Thermo Smart Thermometer: Available on Amazon

This smart non-contact thermometer can record readings in the companion app, making it easy for up to 8 users to track. The app also allows users to add notes about medications and symptoms, and provide reading reminders.

Shark IQ robot vacuum cleaner with XL empty base: available at Amazon, Kohl's, Macy's and Bed Bath & Beyond

Use this Shark sweeping robot to master daily cleaning tasks at any time, allowing users to start the cleaning program through the app, Alexa or Google Assistant. It can be cleaned line by line, and is equipped with a convenient trash can base, which only needs to be emptied once a month.

Furbo Wi-Fi Dog Snacks Dispenser: Available at Chewy

Thanks to two-way audio and automatic snack distribution, dog parents like to use Furbo to interact with their dog when they are not at home. The device has a barking sensor and sends push notifications, so you can check what's happening at home anytime, anywhere.

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