In my circle, and perhaps in yours too, some people struggle with tech devices. Anything connected, smart, or trendy often fails to win them over. It’s either too complicated to use, not intuitive enough, too expensive, not really useful, or lacking any added value compared to a similar non-connected device they may have been using for years. So when it’s time to give them a Holiday present, I seize the opportunity to try to change their minds. I give them a tech device, yes, but above all, a device that is handy, easy to use, and easy to integrate into their daily life.
From super handy health devices to time-saving home gadgets and tech toys for entertainment, here are my gift ideas for non-techie parents, who are sure to become tech-savvy!
Thoughtful smart home gifts
Home security, energy savings, simplified daily routines: these smart home devices are easy to use, highly practical, and make life at home simpler.
Blink 1440p Wi-Fi video doorbell system
Gone are the days of quietly peeking through the curtain to see who rang the doorbell. Give peace of mind with this Blink smart doorbell, which lets you have a head-to-toe view of who’s at your door, no matter where you are, thanks to easy access through the app. Plus, motion sensors send instant alerts whenever there’s activity outside your home. Reassuring, isn’t it?
Google Nest hub smart display
This smart hub simplifies your daily routine by providing easy access to news, alarms, weather, or music—all through a simple voice command. Additionally, the Voice Match feature recognizes your voice to offer personalized schedules, reminders, and playlists.
TP-Link Tapo Mini smart Wi-Fi plug
How can non-techies resist tech devices that make life easier? This TP-Link Tapo smart plug is a great solution for managing connected devices remotely. For example, it can turn on your coffee maker or toaster so that your morning toast and coffee are ready when you get up. You can even preset a schedule for hands-free convenience.
Google Nest Wi-Fi smart thermostat
Tech-savvy or not, everyone wants to save on their electricity bill. The Google Nest Wi-Fi smart thermostat can help with that. It optimizes the room temperature and creates an automated schedule for your home, adjusting it when you’re away. Plus, it’s quick to install and comes with all the mounting hardware. Why go without it?
Entertainment gifts that are effortless
If an ultra-connected TV or a cutting-edge smartphone is too much for your parents or tech-averse loved ones, here’s a selection of small, practical, and cool tech gadgets that are sure to make them happy, stress-free and hassle-free.
Bird Buddy Pro solar smart bird feeder with camera
Show them that tech gadgets can go hand in hand with nature with this smart bird feeder with a camera. It features a solar-powered roof to extend battery life and sophisticated AI technology that can recognize over 1,000 bird species. It’s sure to delight parents and grandparents who are more into nature than tech.
Victrola 370B 7-in-1 nostalgic belt drive turntable
What could be better for parents, grandparents, or anyone who isn’t fond of high-tech gadgets than a fully connected device with a vintage vibe? This retro-inspired Victrola turntable combines nostalgia and modernity with its wireless technology. Whether it’s for playing CDs, cassettes, vinyl, or even the radio, it’s a connected device that doesn’t look like one—and is sure to surprise and delight.
Sony WH-RF400 over-ear sound isolating RF headphones
Watching movies is great, but watching movies while enjoying incredible immersive sound is even better! This Sony home theater headphone with noise cancellation lets you watch films or listen to music like never before. Plus, its transmitter dock makes it easy to connect to your TV for private listening without disturbing anyone.
Aluratek digital photo frame with touch screen
A digital photo frame is the perfect gift for parents and grandparents. Gone are the days of yellowed, forgotten photos. Display precious moments on a high-quality screen with sharp, clear images. The app makes it easy to send photos instantly to the smart frame from anywhere, allowing you to update them regularly.
Roku streaming stick 4K media streamer with remote
Are your parents avid movie buffs who can spend hours deciding what to watch? Treat them to this Roku media player. It gives them access to all their favourite shows from popular streaming platforms like Crave, Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video (subscription required).
Health and wellness gifts that just work
Show them that connected devices can also support their health with this selection of tech gift ideas for parents. Functional, practical, and low-maintenance, these tech gadgets will help them stay healthy with ease.
Renpho Eyeris smart heated eye massager
Give the gift of relaxation with this Renpho heated eye massage mask. It relieves eye fatigue with soothing warmth, gentle vibrations, and light compression. Bluetooth connectivity lets you play music through the built-in speakers for a spa-like moment of comfort. It’s an ideal gift for parents or grandparents, who will truly appreciate any moment to relax.
HoMedics Sleep Aura sound machine
Give your loved ones a practical gift with this sound machine that doubles as both a high-tech gadget and a nighttime companion. With 28 relaxing sounds, a seven-colour ambient light, and an ultra-easy-to-use Bluetooth speaker, it’s a device that will help parents or grandparents sleep better and get the rest they need—all without a screen.
Fitbit Inspire 3 fitness tracker with heart rate monitor
The Fitbit Inspire 3 fitness tracker monitors heart rate, sleep quality, skin temperature, blood oxygen levels, and stress. It’s a practical and smart gift that helps keep an eye on vital signs, stay healthy, stay active without overdoing it, and build healthy habits and better rest.
PureGuardian Elite warm & cool smart mist humidifier
Give your parents or grandparents a useful gift with this smart humidifier. It automatically adjusts the humidity at home based on your preferences and works in both warm and cool mist modes. Its large tank and up to 120 hours of runtime make it simple and hassle-free to use, making it a nice gift for non-tech-savvy people.
Philips Sonicare 5100 electric toothbrush
The Philips Sonicare 5100 is the perfect connected device for making a smooth transition from a manual toothbrush to an electric one. It protects gums with its pressure sensor and simple brushing modes. Easy to use, it’s an ideal tech gift for parents or grandparents who appreciate simplicity but still want to take care of their oral health.
Tech that’s helpful (even if they don’t call it “tech”)
A perfect gift should also be a useful one. Here are a few gift ideas for parents that they’ll love not because they’re connected, but because they’re handy.
Aromatherapy lamp wax melting lamp
Give a touch of warmth and relaxation with this flameless aromatherapy lamp. It gently melts candle wax while emitting a soothing light that can be adjusted with a simple switch. It’s handy for creating a cozy atmosphere at home and makes an elegant, comforting gift for parents or grandparents.
Touchless soap dispenser with motion sensor
This automatic soap dispenser makes daily hygiene simple and effortless. Its sensor instantly detects your hand to dispense just the right amount of soap. USB-C rechargeable and featuring a waterproof base, it’s practical and durable. It’s an easy-to-use gadget that makes life at home easier. And it also complements any kitchen or bathroom style.
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 Bluetooth tracker
Give a handy and reassuring gift. This small device easily tracks lost keys, bags, and even pets with a simple smart tag. Just pair the device with a phone, and a button lets you locate the item instantly. Compact, durable, and effective, it’s a discreet and useful high-tech gadget.
Tineco Go Mini cordless bagless handheld vacuum
The Tineco Go Mini vacuum makes it easy to clean anywhere, without cords or bags. Ultralight (under 4 lbs) and easy to handle, it allows for quick and simple cleaning of all surfaces in the home. Thanks to its quiet operation and approximately 20-minute runtime, this tech gift is great for fast and efficient use.
Simple but smart gift ideas under $100
Discover budget-friendly gift ideas that are practical and easy to use for parents and grandparents. Smart gadgets that bring comfort, entertainment, and simplicity to everyday life, all for under $100.
Beurer daylight therapy lamp
Winter sets in, bringing gray days and less sunlight. Brighten up dark days and stay energized all winter long with this light therapy lamp. It emits a bright, even, flicker-free, and UV-free 10,000 lux light that mimics natural daylight. Plus, it turns on and off with a single button, making it intuitive to use without any complicated settings.
Energizer 2-in-1 15W Qi wireless charging stand
Even the least tech-savvy parents have a phone. To keep it charged, give them a tech gadget that makes life easier. With this Energizer wireless charging station, simply place the phone on the stand, and it starts charging immediately. No cables, no buttons, and an intuitive design—the best gift for parents.
Energizer MAX 10000 mAh USB-C/USB-A power bank
Staying on the theme of charging, this portable charger for phones and tablets is a smart choice. Its LCD screen clearly shows the remaining charge, eliminating any guesswork. Compact and intuitive, it fits easily in a bag or on a nightstand, with no complicated settings. It’s a practical gift designed for anyone who wants peace of mind and the ability to charge their device anywhere.
TP-Link Tapo multicolour smart Wi-Fi light LED bulb
This smart bulb, controllable via app or voice command, offers benefits even the least tech-savvy people will appreciate. It screws in like a regular bulb, connects quickly to Wi-Fi, and can be set up in just a few clicks. After that, all that’s left is to enjoy: schedule timers, control it remotely, and customize the brightness and colour.
$25 $, $50 and more gift cards
This holiday season, give a practical and flexible gift with gift cards ranging from $25 to $200. Apple, Netflix, audiobooks, e-books, or more—choose the gift card that will delight your loved one the most. Easy-to-use gift cards allow them to explore apps, movies, music, or books without any hassle. It’s an useful gift for parents or grandparents: simple and always appreciated.
Treat your loved ones to a gift that’s both smart and handy.
Find the perfect gift for parents, grandparents, and all the less tech-savvy people in your life. These gift ideas cater to every interest and concern. It will help them embrace high-tech gadgets and smart devices, showing that technology can also be simple, handy, and fun.
