Fool Proof Gadget Guide
It’s that time of year again, can you believe it? Christmas has a way of just appearing out of nowhere, even though we have an entire 12 months to prepare for it! The thing that gets me the most, however, is the question that starts popping up around about this time of year… “Hey honey, what do you want for Christmas?”
Personally, that question bothers me, but that might have something to do with me actually (not actually) being the Grinch. If you are anything like me and hate being asked, but need to supply an answer in the name of not getting more socks and BBQ utensils this Christmas simply pass on this guide to said wife, partner or significant other, and hopefully your Christmas wishes will be fulfilled. I trust I now have the woman of the house’s attention. I have put together some great gadgets that your partner is guaranteed* to love, to help make things easier for your gift giving decision this year. *Not in any way actually guaranteed….
JBL Flip 4 Speaker
This is something that 100 percent should be on your beach day packing list. Having good music playing, while sitting on the beach with a cold brew in hand is essential for a good Kiwi summer. This bluetooth speaker is water, dust and sand-proof and will become your partner’s most enjoyed device. Plus, everyone loves the guy that bring the tunes to the party! Aside from beach use, this wireless speaker is perfect to have on hand for picnics, BYC tournaments and even just to listen to music in the house. At just $179.90, this is basically a steal and will get tonnes of use.
Brownie Point Factor: 7 / 10
Sony WH-1000XM2 Headphones
A good pair of headphones is a necessity in every man’s life. And, if you get these, you know he will get years and years of good use out of them. Also look at the other side of this picture, you will no longer have to hear him playing games and you will be able to watch you own Netflix programmes in peace! These noise-cancelling headphones from Sony are sleek and stylish and are known across the market as one of the best devices you can buy. For only $599.95 this is a great investment, and you will also get to reap the rewards, and sometimes get steal them for your own use!
Brownie Point Factor: 9 / 10
DJI Mavic Drone
What man in 2017 hasn’t wanted to fly a drone? Imagine you have a relaxing trip to Mykonos, everything is magical and with the DJI Mavic Drone, you could relive some special moments by filming some unimaginable shots with this new toy. What is special about the DJI Mavic is that it folds down to about the size of a kitten, you can throw it into your backpack and send it up in the air when you get to that picture perfect location. Aside from your man thinking he is immediately a professional camera-man (slight downfall) this is quite possibly the best gift. Cashing in at around $1200, this is something that will bring joy and memories for years to come.
Brownie Point Factor: 10 / 10
DJI Goggles
So if your man already has a drone in his life, or you are splashing out on the entire package, then the DJI Goggles are a great idea. You wirelessly connect these to your drone, whack them on your face and they become the steering and filming controls, and the virtual screen of the drone. They show you everything that the drone sees to really immerse you in the flight experience. To control the drone with these you simply stand in a safe area, and as you turn your head to the left or right, the camera pans with it. Then use the touch-pad on the side of the headset to control the flight. They take a bit to get used to but are really a game changer in the UAV industry. These will set you back about $750 and are really worth it if you plan on spending a lot of time (watching) your partner fly his drone.
Brownie Point Factor: 7 / 10
Leica D-Lux
Speaking from experience, there is really nothing your partner will enjoy more than shooting with a really nice camera like a Leica. Ok so that might only be true for me, and other males that are total camera enthusiasts but this will apply to some of you reading! The Leica D-Lux is an entry-level camera from Leica (considering other cameras in their range sell for prices north of $15,000 (yip that comma is in the right place). But this is a great little camera. It is something I would gladly shoot with when shooting with a giant DSLR seems a bit awkward, don’t deny it, we’ve all laughed at that guy before. Lightweight, robust and reliable is a brilliant way to summarise this camera. And just imagine the stunning shots your man can take of you for your Instagram! Coming in at $1879.90, this is a good buy for what you are getting!
Brownie Point Factor: 9 / 10
iphone x
The iPhone X has been the most anticipated device to hit the technology market this year… well, in fact, has been the most anticipated device since rumours about the bezel-less device started years ago. As an avid iPhone user, and honest reviewer, I can totally vouch for this device. It is a good size, slightly smaller than the Plus models, yet bigger than the standard size 7’s and 8’s. However, due to the bezel-less design of the OLED screen, the device boasts the largest screen surface area on an iPhone to-date. Sporting an amazing camera dual lens camera, and portrait mode now also available on the internal camera (thanks to the incredible facial ID technology) you can take 10/10 selfies with your man… maybe. Despite Apple removing everything we have ever gotten used to, first the AUX port and now the home button, (personally think these were the best decisions ever, but keeping this unbiased) it is very dust and waterproof so this will (hopefully) stand the test of time. But starting at $1799, you’d hope it would be good.
Brownie Point Factor: 11 / 10
