The holidays are exciting, fun, and even a little bit magical, but they can also get hectic. The longer your nice list, the more likely you are to feel the pressure of getting everything done on time.
If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. And if you're trying to save money the next time you go shopping, we've got you covered. That's why we've scoured the internet to curate a list of our favorite tech gadgets under $50, perfect for great last-minute gifts.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
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Anker Nano Power Bank
Price: $41.24 (on sale from $54.99)
Phone batteries have come a long way in how long they can hold a charge, but we've all had those moments when we're skating close to the 0% power mark.
This super slim power bank slides right in and replenishes the battery without overheating.
Anker Prime 67W USB C Charger
Price: $49.99
If you've ever ordered a gift for someone only to discover it doesn't come with a power block, this tech gift comes to the rescue for anyone on your list.
Two USB-C ports and one USB-A port accommodate a variety of devices.
Apple Air Tag
Price: $29
Even if the person you're shopping for already has an Apple Air Tag, odds are good that they could use another one (or three).
This is one of our favorite gifts under $50 as it can be a useful, practical lifesaver in so many situations.
Bee Pioneer
Price: $49.99
For the person on your list who needs to keep track of conversations for work, school, or creative purposes, the Bee Pioneer is a great tech gift.
The gadget records and transcribes your conversations, ensuring you can save them, upload them, and search them. You can customize your priorities as needed, too.
Chefman Rapid Boil 1.2L Electric Tea Kettle
Price: $15 (on sale from $24.99)
Yes, you can get that one friend or family member to stop microwaving their tea. This kettle boils water in a mere three minutes.
While electric kettles may not be cutting-edge technology, they are kitchen workhorses that are exceptionally useful and versatile.
Desloc C110 Keyless Entry Door Lock
Price: $29.99
For the person who's prone to losing keys, a smart deadbolt replacement can spare them endless headaches.
This practical tech gift uses a fingerprint or code to unlock the door, and can be assigned to multiple users. Reviewers appreciate the ease of installation and use.
Glocusent Hands-Free Book Light
Price: $19.99 (on sale from $28.99)
Analog books are still very much a thing, and having light that illuminates the page when reading in the dark is a must.
This hands-free model has obvious appeal in that it frees your grip up for the book.
Joyeky Camping Lantern
Price: $29.98
If someone on your list enjoys extended time outdoors or has to prepare for storm season, this last-minute gift could be a lifesaver for them.
This dual lantern and charger can be powered by hand-cranking so you can generate power with good old elbow grease.
Minix Neo P1
Price: $26.90 (on sale from $36.90)
Whether it's for work or pleasure, world travel is made easier with this small brick that can charge three devices simultaneously.
Since some countries have different outlets than the U.S., this handy tech gift comes with U.K. and E.U.-compliant attachments.
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Oral-B Pro 1000 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush
Price: $39.94 (on sale from $69)
Too practical for gifting? We say no, as electric toothbrushes are the gold standard in dental care. Using one properly can save you serious money over the years.
Reviewers praise this toothbrush for its efficiency and price.
Rocketbook New Core Reusable Spiral Notebook
Price: $34.99
Another great gift under $50 for analog fans, this extremely popular notebook takes your handwritten notes and uploads them to your computer or device.
Afterwards, you simply wipe the page clean and start over. It's a game-changer for folks who need a break from typing all the time.
Secura Electric Wine Opener
Price: $35.99
A good bottle of wine deserves to be opened the right way, and not with a manual corkscrew that risks breaking the cork. That's where a little tech comes in handy.
Reviewers love this opener for its durability, efficiency, and the clean, effortless way it removes the cork every time.
The Brick
Price: $47.20 (on sale from $59)
Cutting down on screen time is something many of us strive for, and this last-minute gift can help make that a reality.
The Brick (which literally "bricks" your smartphone) can be customized to block specific distracting apps, helping your recipient reclaim their focus.
Twelve South AirFly SE Wireless Adapter
Price: $34.97
We have ample ways to occupy our time on flights, thanks to smartphones and tablets.
But if you want to use the in-flight entertainment with your own Bluetooth headphones (and not the cheap airplane headphones), this gadget will do the trick.
Vobaga Coffee Mug Warmer with 15oz Set
Price: $30.99
For the coffee or tea lover on your Christmas list who happens to sip slowly, this tech gift will warm their heart and their beverage, no additional trips to the microwave needed.
The mug and warmer set has three settings and a safety shutoff.
Bottom line
Finding the right gift doesn't have to be stressful, especially when there are so many great tech options to choose from. These under-$50 gadgets prove you can still surprise someone with something useful, fun, and thoughtfully chosen — and if you're using one of the best cash back credit cards, you might even save a little extra in the process.
With a little creativity and effort, even last-minute shopping can feel intentional and even a little bit fun.
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FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment.
Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
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