By now you’ve probably already seen our 2016 Christmas Catalog and novelty gift guide, so we’re keeping this year’s stocking stuffer list short and sweet. Enjoy!
Elago’s R1 Intelli Case for Apple TV remote. ($14)
Elago R1 Intelli Case for Apple TV Remote »
Elago’s R1 Intelli Case is a grippy silicone sleeve that not only protects your Apple TV remote, but also lets you magnetically attach it to any metal surface (including the sides of some televisions). It’s also got a lanyard so you don’t have to worry about dropping it during use. Not much else to say here; it’s just a great Apple TV remote case.
The Roku Streaming Stick. ($35)
Roku Streaming Stick »
As much as we love our Apple TVs at home, they’re not exactly ideal for traveling. It’s way easier to bring along a Roku streaming stick. Besides being a lot smaller, you also don’t ever have to fuss with the mess of wires behind hotel TVs.
While the original Roku streaming stick was underpowered, the 2016 model contains a quad-core processor (8x faster than the original). Roku has access to Amazon, Netflix, Hulu and countless other streaming services.
It also allows you to use your headphones that are connected to your iOS or Android device for late-night listening.)
Anker’s Powerdrive 2 dual-USB car charger. ($9)
Anker PowerDrive 2 — 24W Dual-USB Car Charger »
If you need the ability to charge multiple devices while driving, the Anker PowerDrive 2 is where it’s at.
Made by the same folks as our favorite 5-port USB hub, the PowerDrive 2 offers two USB ports for charging a couple iPhones, an iPhone and an iPad, or even two iPads simultaneously, and at full speed. It outputs 4.8 amps for a single port, or 2.4 amps each when they’re being used together.
Most dual-USB car chargers are crappy; this one leaves them all in the dust.
The AccuSharp 001 knife sharpener. ($10)
AccuSharp 001 Knife Sharpener »
The AccuSharp 001 may be the last knife sharpener your stocking recipient will ever need, and it only costs ten bucks. All they have to do is run it over a blade edge two or three times, and the knife will feel like new again. It’s trusted by America’s Test Kitchen, so you know it’s good.
DUX’s adjustable brass pencil sharpener. ($17)
DUX Adjustable Brass Pencil Sharpener »
Sometimes, even when it comes to the littlest things, you just have to treat yourself (or a loved one) a little. DUX’s classic adjustable brass pencil sharpener is a prime example of an analog indulgence in today’s digital world.
Precision-made from solid brass with a raw finish, it can be adjusted between one of three sharpening settings — blunt, normal, and fine — with a click of its knurled dial. Maybe one setting is all you’ll ever need, or perhaps you switch between types of pencils for different applications. Whatever the case (and yes, speaking of cases, it includes the genuine leather one pictured above), this is a sharpener that will last a lifetime.
Kai’s 003 S nail clippers. ($7)
Kai 003 S Nail Clippers »
For anyone who’s sick of dollar drugstore nail clippers and would like something a step up without dropping money in the double-digits, check out the Japanese-made, Kai 003 S stainless steel clippers. Their curved blade is quite sharp — as well it should be, given the company’s track record of making professional-level cutlery — and the lever’s movement is incredibly smooth.
Perhaps the best part though is the removable plastic cover that surrounds the base, which acts as a nail catcher to keep the whole process nice and tidy.
Note: Keep in mind that their jaw opening is sized for those with smaller fingers; for larger sizes, check out the 003 M and 003 L models. (The latter option works great for clipping toenails.)