Ask Yourself These Questions Before Buying That Tech Gift

In year’s past this question may have been framed as “How old is the person I’m buying this for?” But these days your grandma could be just as tech-savvy (hey, maybe more!) than your 19-year-old cousin. Think about how you’ve seen them interact with technology before. You want to be sure to either buy something in their league or be prepared to act as tech support, which can be great addition to your gift if you’re up to it!

2. Is this tech gadget going to get used (or end up collecting dust)?

It’s easy to get blinded by the year’s flashy new technology. Think about if this piece of tech is going to add value to their life. Another way of thinking about it is, “Does this tool solve a problem for them?” Also ask yourself if it matches their style (especially important if you want to get them a piece of wearable tech). If not, you may want to rethink your gift and get something they’ll have more use for.

3. When will this piece of tech become obsolete?

Technology is constantly updating and advancing. You may want to hold off on buying someone something if that tablet, phone, smartwatch, or other gadget is about to get an upgrade.

4. How accident prone is the person getting this gift?

Consider the potential for your loved one breaking this gift if they are a klutz. That’s not to say you shouldn’t get them something nice if they’ve broken a few screens in the last year. You should just be sure to include insurance and protective accessories.

5. How will the person getting this gift feel about its cost?

While it’s generous of you to want to give a nice present, the price tag could make some people uncomfortable. What’s your relationship to this person? Have you exchanged expensive gifts in the past? Is it likely that they’ll give you a gift of a similar value? Will they (or you) feel badly if they don’t? Think of a less expensive version of the gift or an accessory for a piece of tech they already have if you’re uncertain of how they’ll feel.

6. Might another person in their life be buying the same gift?

While having two brand new tablets might sound exciting in theory, this probably doesn’t do your friend or family member much good. If you’re planning on getting your girlfriend that Kindle she’s been hinting at, check with her parents to make sure they didn’t have the same idea. If they did, you could divide and conquer by hooking her up with all of the accessories or a different piece of tech to add to her arsenal.

Did we leave anything out? Let us know in the comments below what you think about before buying someone a tech gift.