Laptops and Desktop PCs

If you’re getting a new computer for someone (or if someone you know has a big surprise waiting for him this Christmas), there are plenty of useful – and sometimes necessary – peripherals you might want to get them as well. Desktop PCs, in particular, are pretty useless without a monitor and a pair of speakers. A mouse and keyboard are more likely to come bundled, but they could be especially useful for anyone getting a new laptop.

Slightly less necessary, but still practical, gifts are options, too. A USB flash drive or external hard drive can be useful for transferring files from an old computer to the new one. And software is always handy, too – from Microsoft Office to the latest PC games. A few other things to remember are power cords, surge protectors, and Ethernet cables.

HDTVs and Blu-Ray Players

Each year, more and more households make the switch to HD. A quality HDMI cable is an absolute necessity that many HDTVs don’t include, and most Blu-Ray and other HD devices prefer to bundle poor quality cables. A mounting bracket makes a great gift, too; although, make sure it’s compatible with the TV (and that the recipient plans on mounting it in the first place). And remember, and HDTV isn’t much good without any HD content. Blu-Ray movies will go great with that Blu-Ray player.

Gaming Consoles

Both the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 make use of HDMI connections, but neither typically come bundled with an HDMI cable. The Wii technically isn’t HD compatible out of the box, but there are HD adapters available. Extra controllers are always important to consider (and of course their batteries and chargers) no matter which console you’re getting. There are plenty of other console accessories, too, like headsets, memory cards, and specialized controllers. Don’t forget to include a few games.

Smartphones and Tablets

Smartphones and tablets usually come with everything you need right out of the box, but there’s a lot that is easy to overlook. Most states now have laws against driving while using your phone without a hands-free device. A Bluetooth headset makes an excellent companion gift to a smartphone. Headphones do, too, since the bundled ear buds generally aren’t of the best quality. Vehicle mounting kits can also be useful, especially with all of the GPS features smartphones have these days.

For use as multimedia, tablets and smartphones often need a special HDMI cord in order to connect to an HDTV. Other adapters and battery chargers can be practical gifts, too. The same goes for micro SD cards, for the mobile devices that support them.

1: Jawbone Era

When it comes to high-end features and unparalleled audio quality, none does it better than the Jawbone Era. Not only is it capable of producing CD-quality audio, but it also includes features like “tap to answer” and “shake to pair” and other motion based controls; however, its best feature is the ability to receive software updates through Jawbone’s MyTALK platform. You can even get an Android/iPhone/BlackBerry app to tell you its battery level right on your phone’s screen. It lacks slightly in terms of comfort and also a volume button, but if you’re looking for the best in audio quality and useful, unique features, the Era is for you.

2: Plantronics Voyager Pro UC

Plantronics has been in the Bluetooth business for years, and all of their headsets rank among the best. The Voyager Pro, in particular, offers excellent audio quality as well as a plethora of useful features, such as Smart Sensor, which can automatically route calls and play or pause your music. Its weakest link is its price, which is generally more than competing units.

3: BlueAnt Q2

The BlueAnt Q2 is a slightly more affordable alternative to the Era, featuring great voice clarity and even Text-to-Speech and access to Bing-411. The downside is that the physical controls are quite small and therefore cumbersome. This is remedied slightly be the integrated Voice-Command features, but this list of commands is quite long and difficult to memorize.

4: Sound ID 510

The Sound ID 510 may not look like much with its minimalistic design, but it packs a lot of features. Sound quality is on par with other premium headsets, but where it really excels is comfort. Its power toggle switch also works very well (a problem many Bluetooth headsets share); however, its other controls are managed via touch sensor making use while wearing it difficult. The Sound ID 510 also features an app for iPhone and Android users to customize your experience.

5: Jabra EXTREME

Another more affordable option, the Jabra EXTREME offers sound quality that rivals even the Era’s excellence. It also includes all of the features you’d expect from a premium Bluetooth headset, such as A2DP (which all of the units featured in this article include) and noise-cancellation. It isn’t particularly comfortable for extended use, though, and its volume controls are a bit too cramped to use easily while wearing it. Its price still makes it an excellent buy for those who only use Bluetooth on occasion, such as when driving or doing chores.

Speaking of cases, we’ll start there.

The Best of the iPhone Cases

Anyone who hasn’t been living under a rock for the past few months has probably heard mention of the whole “Antennagate” scandal. For those who missed it, the iPhone 4 was found to have some glaring antenna problems shortly after its release.

In short, holding the phone in certain orientations (which just so happened to be the exact orientations most users would hold it during use) would cause the two antennas on the outside of the phone to short circuit and drop all cell and Wi-Fi connectivity. After a few months of denial and media spin, Apple finally admitted to their gross oversight and settled on a solution: if you want consistent signal quality, get a case.

Of course, these antenna issues aren’t the only reason to get a fancy case for your iPhone. As it is made almost entirely out of glass (yes, seriously, they made it out of glass) you probably want a case to protect that pricey investment.

The Trident Case Kraken Series

The Trident Kraken series is among the most protective cases you can buy for you iPhone, though it does detract slightly from its stylish charm. The best thing about the Kraken case is the amount of thought put into its design. All of the iPhone’s features and buttons are 100% accessible without removing the case, including the 3.5mm headphone jack, camera with flash, and dock connector.

Zagg Invisible SHIELD

The Zagg Invisible SHIELD gives you some protection, mostly against scratches, without compromising your iPhone’s aesthetic whatsoever. It’s perfect for those who love the look of their iPhone but also want to keep it protected. You’ll still want to be careful though; the Invisible SHIELD doesn’t protect much against impact damage.

Stylish Bluetooth Headsets

Hands-free operation is important, whether you’re working around the house or driving the kids to school, but what good is keeping your iPhone in your pocket if you can’t still look good using it. That’s where a stylish Bluetooth headset comes in, but style isn’t everything. You probably want something that functions well too.

Plantronics M100

Plantronics is very well known for quality Bluetooth headsets with state of the art noise cancelling and sound quality. It’s no surprise that the  Plantronic M100 is the top ranked headset on alaTest. The M100 may not be the pinnacle of Plantronics’ lineup, but they look great and offer excellent sound quality compared to most any other headset in its price range.

Killer Quality Ear Buds

Klipsch Image S4I

The Image S4I headphones have been our highest ranked ear buds, and for good reason. Their sound quality is absolutely astonishing, providing amazing bass levels, perfect balance, and stupendous range, all in a compact package. Designed in coordination with Apple, the Image S4I’s 3-button mic and remote work perfectly with the iPhone. They’re a bit pricey, but worth every penny.