Top 10 affordable gadgets for Father's Day [gift guide]
That time of year is almost here. That's right: it's almost Father's Day, and the time to has come to show your appreciation for Dad.
Why not get him a gizmo he'll really like?
("But haven't I been showing him appreciation all year?" you might ask. Perhaps. But that doesn't mean he won't enjoy a shiny, new tech toy to play with, either.)
Whether your Dad is a technocratic BlackBerry power user who can out-text a teenager with glee -- or is a curmudgeonly fellow whose latest tech upgrade was touch-tone dialing and who thinks Ubuntu is an ancient African tribe (almost!) -- this year brings a fantastic crop of goods that are sure to put a smile across Pop's face.
So if you're in the market for a great Father's Day surprise for Dad, here are 10 gadgets and gifts he's sure to love (and you're sure to afford):
When it comes to giving Dad directions on the cheap, this TomTom's a winner. Available for as low as $110, this personal navigation device is easy to use and accurate, and it's small enough to use on foot, bike or car. Best of all, it won't break the bank.
[read the review] [check prices]
JVC Everio GZ-MS120 digital camcorder
It's not easy finding a good camcorder for less than $300, but the JVC latest Everio handheld fits the bill. With good video quality for its class, flash memory, a 35x optical zoom and a traditional digital camcorder profile, the GZ-MS120 will please Dad's hands and eyes the way a straight-to-YouTube, candybar-shaped mini camcorder might not.
[read the review] [check prices]
Black and Decker BullsEye Auto-Leveling Laser with Stud Sensor
Dad doesn't have to be a full-on handyman to appreciate this auto-leveling laser, which eschews a bubble in a glass tube for a more tech-friendly way of getting home improvement jobs done (including hanging photos of the kids on the wall for Mom). At about $50, it won't break the bank, either.
Dell G2410 24 in. desktop monitor
Dad's been using that funky old monitor that came with his original computer for years, and his eyes aren't getting any better. Make sure he can see all the family photographs you send him with a bright, new monitor. At $209 $299, Dell's 24-in., 1920 by 1080 pixel display is worth every inch.
[read the review] [check prices]
Most men have a love/hate relationship with shaving, and Dad's no different. Make sure the job's easy on him in the wee hours of the morning with the Philips Norelco Arcitec, which offers nearly 360 degrees of pivot -- meaning Dad won't have to bend his wrist to get a clean shave.
An increasing number of states in the U.S. have banned talking on a mobile phone while driving, and it's probably not a great idea for Dad, either. Make life in the car a little easier with an inexpensive ($40) Bluetooth speakerphone, which can be clipped to a visor for hands-free talking.
[read the review] [check prices]
Solaire Anywhere Infrared Portable Grill
Dad may prefer the smoky sweetness of a charcoal grill, but his backyard or tailgating friends will be impressed by the Solaire Anywhere Infrared Portable Grill, which packs 14,000 BTU in marine-quality stainless steel shell, weighs just 20 lbs. and runs on either disposable propane bottles or a full 20 pound tank.
Sony HT-CT100 soundbar home theater system
Dad's always wanted surround sound in the living room, but Mom never liked the idea of wires running all over the place. A soundbar is a great home theater compromise, and there's no system that has more value than Sony's HT-CT100, which has a super-easy setup, a small footprint and an even smaller price tag.
[read the review] [check prices]
Ultrasone HFI-580 closed-back full-size headphones
Skip the earbuds and get Dad a pair closed-back, full-size headphones so he can listen to Clapton let loose in "Crossroads" in bed without Mom hearing a note. This pair of Ultrasone cans looks the part, with professional details, powerful sound and a comfortable fit. They also fold up for travel.
[read the review] [check prices] [Update: Ultrasone June promo: $149]
Logitech Harmony One universal remote control
If you really want to impress Dad, tell him to ditch his old universal remote and get him the tech-infused Logitech Harmony One. Sculpted with precision for Dad's hands and offering a touchscreen and touch-sensitive buttons -- not to mention a handy recharging dock -- it might just be the most refined remote control in existence.