TechCrunch's Favorite Things: The Ultimate Gift Guide

Our Favorite Tech of the Year

As technology journalists, we form many opinions. We consistently evaluate new products throughout the year, and we maintain high standards. Therefore, a positive assessment from us indicates genuine quality.

This has led us to compile a selection of our most appreciated items. This list encompasses everything from computer peripherals to headphones, productivity software, and unique gadgets.

A Critical Yet Passionate Approach

While we can be discerning in our evaluations, our work is driven by a genuine enthusiasm for technology. Occasionally, we discover an application, device, or component that compels us to share our excitement.

Our suggestions differ from standard gift recommendations. Many are already aware of the utility of devices like AirTags. However, we aim to help you discover something unique and enjoyable.

Discovering Delightful Tech Solutions

Perhaps you'll find satisfaction in establishing your own home media server. Alternatively, you might be seeking a way to remain comfortable during a busy commute.

We are confident that you will find something to suit your needs within our curated collection. Here are some of the items that have particularly impressed us:

• Computer Accessories: Items designed to enhance your computing experience.
• Headphones: Providing immersive audio for work or leisure.
• Productivity Apps: Tools to streamline your workflow and boost efficiency.
• Unique Gadgets: Interesting and innovative devices for everyday use.

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Headphones: A Review

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones represent a unique approach to audio, as highlighted by editor Julie Bort.

Open-Ear Design and Situational Awareness

These bone-conduction earphones facilitate music listening during activities like running, while crucially maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment.

Unlike traditional headphones, they don’t obstruct or enter the ear canal, allowing users to hear approaching bicycles, vehicles, or pedestrians.

Sound Quality and Comfort

Despite their open design, the OpenRun Pro 2 deliver surprisingly high-fidelity sound.

A precise fit isn't required for optimal audio performance, simplifying the user experience.

The headphones are designed for compatibility with accessories like sunglasses and hats, even when worn simultaneously.

Enhanced User Experience

A significant benefit of these headphones is the avoidance of the pressure and potential discomfort associated with in-ear earbuds.

Users won’t experience the sensation of diminished hearing often linked to direct sound transmission into the ear canal.

In essence, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 offer a blend of audio enjoyment and safety, making them ideal for active lifestyles.

Brain.fm: A Focus-Enhancing Gift

For individuals prone to distraction, a Brain.fm subscription presents an ideal gifting solution. This streaming platform delivers music meticulously designed through scientific principles.

The music offered is specifically crafted to be free of lyrical content, thereby minimizing potential diversions. This feature assists in centering a wandering mind and promoting sustained concentration.

Benefits for Focus and Productivity

Brain.fm proves particularly beneficial for those who struggle with task-switching. It aids in maintaining attention on a single activity, reducing mental fragmentation.

Furthermore, the integrated timer functionality allows for seamless integration with productivity methods like the Pomodoro Technique.

This combination enables users to structure their work periods effectively, maximizing output and minimizing burnout.

As highlighted by Rebecca Bellan, the service is exceptionally helpful in curbing the tendency to jump between multiple tasks simultaneously.

The platform’s core strength lies in its ability to foster a focused mental state, essential for both work and study.

It’s a practical and thoughtful present for anyone seeking to improve their concentration and overall productivity.

Focus Friend (Anna Heim, writer)

Recognized as Google Play’s application of the year, Hank Green’s Focus Friend has also become a personal recommendation. The app strikes an ideal equilibrium between playful engagement and practical functionality, aiding in concentration.

While the complimentary version provides sufficient features for initial use, the lifetime subscription represents a particularly thoughtful gift option.

Key Features and Benefits

• Enhanced Focus: The application is designed to improve concentration levels.
• Playful Interface: It incorporates elements of fun to maintain user engagement.
• Accessibility: A free version is available for immediate access.
• Gift Potential: The lifetime subscription offers extended value as a present.

This tool is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking a novel approach to productivity. It’s a unique way to combat distractions and maintain attention.

Anna Heim, the writer, highlights Focus Friend as a standout discovery. Its blend of entertainment and utility makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to boost their focus.

Omnilux Contour Mask: A Review

The Omnilux Contour mask is highly recommended. This red-light therapy device is designed to diminish redness and enhance skin texture and tone.

Key Benefits

It is also marketed as a solution for wrinkle reduction, though longer-term use would be needed to fully assess this benefit.

A significant advantage of the Omnilux Contour is its cordless design. This allows for convenient use while multitasking.

Practical Usage

The device boasts a long-lasting charge, enabling extended periods of operation. It can be easily incorporated into a daily routine.

For example, the mask can be utilized during activities like checking emails, as noted by Emma Comeau during events.

Its portability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to a skincare regimen.

Audio Hijack: A Journalist's Essential Tool (Tim De Chant)

For my essential software, I rely heavily on Audio Hijack, a Mac application developed by Rogue Amoeba.

As a journalist, and like many professionals, a significant portion of my time is dedicated to phone and video conferences.

Consequently, I frequently record these conversations, always ensuring I have obtained prior consent.

Streamlined Audio Recording

Audio Hijack simplifies the process of capturing audio from virtually any input source.

It allows me to precisely control which audio streams are included in the final recording, eliminating unwanted background noises like system notifications.

For instance, I can direct the audio from my microphone to one channel and the audio from the other participant to a separate channel.

This separation is invaluable when speakers talk simultaneously, enabling me to isolate and clarify individual contributions.

Advanced Features and Future Hopes

The application’s integrated transcription feature and the assurance of locally stored files further enhance its utility.

Audio Hijack provides nearly all the functionality I require for professional audio work.

My only wish is that Apple would facilitate the development of an Audio Hijack version compatible with iPadOS or iOS.

• Key Feature: Versatile audio capture from any source.
• Benefit: Precise control over recording content.
• Advantage: Isolated channel recording for clarity.

Ultimately, Audio Hijack is an indispensable tool in my workflow.

Ozlo Sleepbuds: A Review (Sarah Perez)

The Ozlo Sleepbuds represent a specialized audio solution, engineered for comfort during sleep. While possessing a relatively high price tag, they are currently available for $274, reduced from their standard retail price of $349, according to the manufacturer’s website.

Noise Masking and Sleep Enhancement

These earbuds are particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with external disturbances. They effectively mitigate sounds such as traffic or the disruptions caused by a snoring partner or a noisy roommate, aiding light sleepers in achieving uninterrupted rest.

Although the cost positions Sleepbuds as a premium item, especially considering alternative options, they offer distinct advantages. Simply playing music or utilizing standard AirPods presents compromises; the former may not fully block noise, and the latter can be uncomfortable or even cause pain.

Design and Functionality

The Sleepbuds feature soft, pliable in-ear components designed for extended wear. They are capable of streaming pre-loaded sleep sounds, music, or audio content directly from a paired smartphone.

A notable feature is their secure fit, even for those who sleep on their sides or move frequently during the night. Furthermore, the Sleepbuds can be programmed to automatically halt audio playback upon detecting sleep onset, a useful function for those who rely on audiobooks to fall asleep.

Potential Drawbacks

It’s important to acknowledge that the product isn’t without its imperfections. Occasional instability in the Bluetooth connection and streaming can occur. Charging issues, where one earbud fails to charge correctly, have also been reported, sometimes necessitating a device reset.

Optimal Bluetooth performance requires close proximity between the smartphone and the Sleepbuds charging case. Loading sleep sounds directly onto the earbuds themselves generally provides a more reliable experience. Despite these minor issues, the ability to effectively block out external noise and enjoy comfortable sleep makes them a valuable investment.

The Kidee Neck Fan: A 2025 Favorite (Lauren Forristal)

The Kidee neck fan has emerged as my most valued tech accessory of 2025. Available for purchase on Amazon at a price of $33.99, this device has proven invaluable for maintaining comfort throughout the year.

Its utility extends beyond summer, providing relief during intense activities like brisk walks in New York City’s heat and commutes on the busy 4 subway line, even in winter.

Key Features and Observations

The fan operates with minimal noise, emitting only a subtle hum at its lowest speed setting. This quiet operation has led to a surprising number of inquiries, with individuals often assuming it's a new headphone model.

It’s a product that unexpectedly became essential, and is now a constant companion on all my outings. I find myself unwilling to depart without it.

Network Attached Storage (Zack Whittaker, editor)

The benefits of purchasing a network-attached storage (NAS) device are considerable. It represents a worthwhile investment, potentially leading to significant cost savings. Synology and Western Digital offer reliable starting points for those considering a NAS solution.

Beyond Simple Storage

A NAS isn't merely an externally connected hard drive residing on your home network. It functions as a self-contained server, capable of hosting a variety of applications, services, and your personal data locally.

Self-Hosting Capabilities

With a NAS, you gain the ability to host numerous applications independently. These include a personal recipe organizer, a customized news feed, a private photo album, and task management tools.

Enhanced Network Control

A NAS allows for network-wide ad-blocking, protecting all devices connected to your home Wi-Fi. Furthermore, you can establish a private, at-home media streaming service.

Data Management and Security

Create, modify, and securely store your documents utilizing free alternatives to popular suites like Google Docs and Microsoft Office. Access to your data is also possible remotely, through a secure VPN under your exclusive control.

Ease of Use and Learning

NAS devices are engineered for straightforward setup and operation for the average user. While occasional technical challenges may arise, requiring research on forums or Reddit, the learning process itself can be both enjoyable and beneficial.

Troubleshooting can be a valuable experience, fostering a deeper understanding of your home network and data management.

BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 (Connie Loizos, editor-in-chief)

While arguably not essential, the BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 offers a compelling user experience. It does add some weight to the monitor, causing a slight downward tilt.

However, the intuitive and responsive touch controls, coupled with the aesthetic of a high-tech command center, justify the investment.

Key Features and User Experience

The device creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a cybersecurity professional’s workspace. This is particularly appealing for late-night work sessions.

In practice, the ScreenBar Halo 2 is frequently utilized to enhance the ambiance during extended writing periods. It fosters a feeling of focused creativity.

Despite its non-essential nature, the ScreenBar Halo 2 provides a unique and enjoyable addition to any workstation.

The tactile feedback from the controller is particularly noteworthy, contributing to the overall premium feel of the product.

Ultimately, the combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal makes this a worthwhile purchase for those seeking to elevate their workspace.

Kindle Remote Control and Stand

Last winter, as feelings of seasonal depression began to emerge, a purchase was made that initially felt regrettable: an automated page-turning device for a Kindle, accompanied by a cushioned, round pillow featuring an integrated stand. This stand was designed to hold the Kindle comfortably while in bed.

There was a concern that this acquisition would prove to be a significant financial misstep – a typical impulse buy driven by a desire for immediate gratification, destined for disuse. However, after a year of consistent use, it’s clear this combination has been incredibly valuable.

Versatile Device Compatibility

The utility of this setup extends beyond just the Kindle. Included with the stand are magnetic attachments, allowing for the secure placement of virtually any e-reader or tablet of comparable size.

Integration into a Nightly Routine

The Kindle stand and page-turner have now become integral components of a regular evening ritual. On nights when prioritizing restful sleep is achievable, this setup is favored over mobile gaming.

The process begins with placing a smartphone on a nightstand, activating sleep mode, and setting an alarm. Then, attention shifts to what has been affectionately termed “Kindle donut time,” referencing the stand’s circular shape.

A Relaxing Reading Experience

Under the warmth of a heated blanket, with the remote page-turner in hand, reading continues until sleepiness takes over. This dedicated reading period has become a cherished and restorative practice.

The simple act of reading before bed, facilitated by this convenient setup, is a truly enjoyable experience. May “Kindle donut time” continue to thrive!

SpaRoom Candle Warmer: A Review

Initially skeptical about the benefits of candle warmers, I received a SpaRoom model as a gift and found myself genuinely appreciating its functionality.

A key advantage is the elimination of the fire hazard associated with traditional open flames.

This allows for the enjoyment of candle fragrances without the production of smoke, a significant benefit for those sensitive to airborne particles.

Even Wax Melting and Scent Consistency

For individuals who dislike the uneven burning often seen in candles – known as “tunneling” – a candle warmer provides a solution.

The SpaRoom ensures the wax melts uniformly, maximizing the candle’s lifespan and fragrance output.

Furthermore, the scent diffusion appears to be both more potent and consistently maintained when utilizing a candle warmer compared to burning the wick directly.

SpaRoom offers a safe and effective alternative for fragrance enthusiasts.

The consistent scent throw is a notable improvement over traditional candle burning methods.

This makes it a worthwhile addition for anyone looking to enhance their home fragrance experience.