TechCrunch staff name the gadgets they recommend as holiday gifts
Journalists at the US tech site TechCrunch have compiled a holiday gift list based on devices they reviewed this year. It covers e-readers, kitchen appliances, an AI hardware device for coders, screen-time limiters and a smart ring.
Editors at the US technology news site TechCrunch published a list on November 15 of the devices they tested this year and recommend as holiday gifts. They say some products impressed them enough that reporters bought them with their own money. The list is split by who the gift is for, and prices are in US dollars.
For readers
The staff reviewed many e-readers this year, and pocket-sized models stood out. The budget pick is the Xteink X3 at $55 during the Black Friday sale. It is small enough to fit in a wallet or magnetize to the back of a phone, but it takes some tinkering to set up and does not work with Kindle, Libby or other apps. The Xteink X4 Pro, at $99, is slightly bigger but has a backlight. The Boox Palma Pro 2 costs $400, while for a book-sized screen the author recommends the Kobo Libra Colour at $259.
For food lovers
The Ember Mug 3 ($99) keeps drinks warm, and its temperature no longer has to be changed through a phone app. The Ninja Crispi ($449.99) combines a microwave and an air fryer. The GoveeLife Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro ($499.99) is aimed at people who care about so-called good ice.
For AI enthusiasts
The OpenAI Codex Micro ($230) is OpenAI's first attempt at hardware. Some hard-core coders have found it unsatisfying, but TechCrunch reporter Lucas Ropek said he enjoyed working it out.
For those who want less time online
Brick ($59) and Brick Night ($129) use an NFC chip and a companion app to block phone use, with Brick Night doing so when the phone is in the same room. The Dumb Phone ($20 plus a service plan) is a TCL flip phone loaded with Dumb Co software that lets users run apps such as WhatsApp, Spotify and Uber.
For the health-minded
After testing several rings and wristbands, reporter Aisha Malik named the Oura Ring 5 ($399–$499 plus $5.99 a month) the winner. She notes it is more durable, has better battery life and looks more premium than earlier models.
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