TechCrunch's Favorite Things of 2021: The Ultimate Gift Guide

Year in Review: TechCrunch's Favorite Things

Another year has concluded. While it wasn't the conventional year many hoped for, progress was made for numerous individuals.

Perhaps it represented advancement, even if accompanied by occasional setbacks. It’s undeniable that the past year presented its share of unusual circumstances.

Reflecting on the Past Year

At TechCrunch, we traditionally conclude each year by compiling a selection of our most appreciated items from the preceding 365 days. The definition of “items” is intentionally broad.

This encompasses a wide range of categories, including books, podcasts, ideas, and even individuals. Games, songs, and anything else that brought joy are also considered.

The key criterion is whether something enhanced an individual’s year, irrespective of its original release date. Inclusion on this list is based solely on personal impact.

Why We Compile This List

We enjoy creating this list, and our audience has expressed their appreciation for reading it. It offers a unique insight into the perspectives of those who contribute to this online platform.

Furthermore, it may serve as a source of inspiration for last-minute gift ideas. Let's proceed with the list!

— Greg

Greg Kumparak

Project Hail Mary

I delayed beginning this book, as while I thoroughly enjoyed Andy Weir’s The Martian, his subsequent novel, Artemis – though still well-written – didn’t capture my attention to the same degree. However, upon finally starting Project Hail Mary, I found it completely captivating and unable to be put down.

The narrative immediately establishes a compelling mystery. Without revealing any plot details, the story centers around a man who awakens aboard a spacecraft with no recollection of his identity or the circumstances that led him there. As he investigates his surroundings, his memories gradually return, revealing the reason for his departure from Earth. This is a book you should definitely experience.

Robin Robin (Netflix Christmas short)

This charming stop-motion Christmas short, created by the studio responsible for Wallace and Gromit, is a recent release that has quickly become a beloved classic. The animation is visually stunning, the musical numbers are delightful, and every aspect of the production is meticulously crafted. My three-year-old child has repeatedly requested to watch it since its debut, and I wholeheartedly approve.

The Attraction, an escape room in SF

Having participated in numerous escape rooms, many have begun to feel similar. However, the expanding array of rooms at San Francisco’s Palace of Fine Arts consistently stand out. The quality of the sets, the artistry of the design, and the strength of the narratives are exceptional. Their newest offering, “The Attraction,” while not my personal favorite at the Palace (the Edison room holds that distinction), remains an impressive achievement. If you have a group of astute puzzle-solvers with a proven track record in escape rooms, these experiences are essential.

Jordan Crook

Bond Vet - NYC

Becoming a new puppy owner (a result of the pandemic, admittedly) has been simultaneously delightful and stressful as I navigate proper care. Bond Vet, with numerous locations throughout New York City, provides excellent urgent care services.

Their team is readily available by phone to address a wide range of concerns. A convenient app allows for easy access to medical records and appointment scheduling.

Furthermore, Bond Vet maintains an in-house pharmacy, ensuring prescriptions are dispensed during appointments or shipped following telehealth consultations. The service is commendable, the pricing is competitive, and I highly recommend them.

PlayStation 5

I recently acquired a PlayStation 5, and the improvement over the PS4 is substantial. For a dedicated gamer, system sluggishness can be incredibly frustrating.

The PS5 boasts exceptional speed, stunning graphics, and delivers a superior gaming experience overall. However, expanding the storage capacity may be necessary for those who frequently switch between multiple games.

Despite this, the upgrade is well worth it!

Formula 1: Drive to Survive (Netflix) / Formula 1

I consume a significant amount of television content, and Formula 1: Drive to Survive on Netflix has had the most profound impact. The influence of the “Netflix Effect” on the sport of Formula 1 has been widely documented.

I will simply state that Formula 1 is a remarkably intricate, complex, and captivating sport. The series provides an excellent introduction by offering a personal look at the drivers and team principals.

Moreover, the 2021 season was exceptionally competitive and engaging, and I eagerly anticipate seeing how the narrative continues to develop in future seasons of Drive to Survive.

Natasha Mascarenhas

Wired Headphones

The popularity of AirPods feels somewhat dated, and this isn't solely based on when I initially acquired my own pair. The increasing prevalence of audio-based social platforms like Clubhouse and Twitter has led me to revisit using traditional wired headphones.

I find they deliver superior voice clarity. A significant benefit is also the elimination of the need for charging.

Farmer’s Market Tomatoes

I habitually compare prices on all purchases, and will even go out of my way to save a small amount, such as fifty cents on almond milk. Consequently, I’ve generally been hesitant to spend more at farmer’s markets.

However, over the last year, my partner and I have made it a habit to conclude our longer runs with a visit to a San Francisco farmer’s market to purchase fresh tomatoes. Unlike some produce, like bell peppers, the taste of truly fresh tomatoes is noticeably different and, coming from someone who prioritizes frugality, they are consistently worth the additional cost.

Furthermore, the vendor who provides complimentary samples consistently brightens my day.

Griefbacon

Do certain authors inspire you to write more through their work? For me, that author is Helena Fitzgerald, who writes under the name Griefbacon – and whose Substack is the only one I currently subscribe to.

Her “long, weird essays” resonate with me deeply, fulfilling needs I hadn’t previously recognized. She expertly captures the essence of holidays and the significance of physical spaces.

Devin Coldewey

Backpacking

For years, I enjoyed car-camping and found it incredibly rewarding. It was only recently that I ventured into the world of true backpacking.

Hiking ten miles through stunning and untouched landscapes with close companions, carrying all necessities, offers a uniquely fulfilling experience. Furthermore, I have a passion for researching gear and conveniently live near an REI store.

I am surprised it took me so long to discover the joys of backpacking.

Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou

I discovered this exceptional pianist through a curated list of essential jazz recordings. She was the first girl from Ethiopia to receive education abroad, marking a significant achievement for women in the country.

Upon her return, Guèbrou faced imprisonment during wartime in the 1930s. Subsequently, she intentionally downplayed her musical talents for several decades. Her compositions, recently recorded, blend elements of blues and Chopin, resulting in a sound that is both distinctive and captivating.

Genshin Impact

Acknowledging a potential “nerd alert,” this free-to-play game often receives criticism for its gacha mechanics and anime-style characters. However, I’ve spent countless enjoyable hours exploring its expansive world.

Collecting treasures, solving puzzles, and battling monsters within the game provides genuine entertainment. It has proven to be a welcome distraction during periods of stress and anxiety.

Alex Wilhelm

Naps

I will reach the age of 33 in the coming year. Interestingly, I recently had forgotten my current age. My partner pointed out during a discussion that we were both 31, but I am actually 32 years old. Because her birthday occurs five months after mine, she has the opportunity to playfully refer to me as being older for half of the year.

However, I had completely overlooked the fact that I was 32, simply agreeing that we were indeed 31. Regardless, let’s discuss naps. These short periods of rest are beneficial for my body as it ages, especially when I wake up, consume coffee, and then settle at my desk.

This often results in my spine adopting a curved shape, resembling an ampersand, and my brain feeling like overcooked pasta. To counteract these issues, I occasionally take 20-minute naps. These brief rests help to clear my thoughts and improve my focus. However, let’s keep this between us and not mention it to TechCrunch.

Grand Strategy Video Games

A significant advantage of marriage is the diminished importance of appearing “cool.” I am now able to fully embrace the more enthusiastic, perhaps even nerdy, aspects of my personality without reservation.

This leads me to Grand Strategy Games. Consider a game that is incredibly intricate, yet simultaneously unpredictable, challenging, and deliberately paced. Does that sound appealing? It certainly does to me. I’ve dedicated a considerable amount of time to playing Crusader Kings III over the past year, perhaps more than I’d like to admit.

Adding a few other titles to the list makes the total time spent even more substantial. However, this investment of time has yielded some rewarding experiences. For instance, I once successfully captured all of the Christian holy sites in the Old World.

I then established a new Christian denomination that prioritized female leadership over male, and subsequently converted the world to this altered version of religious history. While such triumphs are memorable, I frequently find myself facing assassination attempts by disgruntled subjects, but that’s part of the game.

Airheads

Engaging in these complex video games can be mentally draining. Therefore, maintaining energy levels is crucial. This is where sugar comes into play, specifically concentrated, artificially flavored sugar in the form of Airheads.

With that said, I must return to flossing my teeth.

Kirsten Korosec

Yoga

Yoga proved remarkably beneficial in lifting my spirits – both mentally and physically – during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It offered genuine relief, particularly on days when overwhelming news and the monotony of the pandemic felt particularly difficult to manage.

The practice was truly a lifeline, providing a much-needed escape and sense of well-being.

Lofi Air Traffic Control

A unique blend of lo-fi music and air traffic controller communications creates an unexpectedly soothing audio experience. Brian Heater, our hardware editor, introduced me to this concept, and my initial reaction was amusement.

However, it genuinely works. Users can select a specific airport to listen to and adjust the ratio of music to communication within the settings.

Community Supported Agriculture

Much of my time is spent working at a computer, leaving little opportunity for gardening. Fortunately, my participation in a local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program provides a weekly supply of fresh, seasonal produce and fruit sourced directly from local farmers.

We briefly paused our CSA subscription, but I am pleased to have resumed it, even during weeks with a larger proportion of root vegetables like turnips.

Rebecca Bellan

Brain.fm

During my time studying journalism, I authored a piece titled ‘This is your brain on music’. This article detailed how musical stimulation activates the brain’s reward systems, potentially enhancing concentration.

For a considerable period, I frequently utilized YouTube channels featuring lo-fi music. However, my discovery of Brain.fm proved transformative.

Brain.fm delivers specifically engineered, LYRIC-LESS music intended to promote focus, relaxation, or meditative states. The company possesses patents for its technology.

This technology aims to induce robust neural phase locking, facilitating coordinated activity among neuronal populations, according to the company’s claims.

Regardless of whether the effect is attributable to a placebo or genuine scientific principles, I’ve found that my writing process doesn’t truly begin until I’m wearing headphones and listening to this uniquely generated music.

The music is created through a combination of human artistry and artificial intelligence.

Gardening

A recent relocation brought me to Auckland, New Zealand, and a home with an existing garden.

While initially overgrown and untidy, it was evident that the garden had once been cherished.

Hidden amongst the weeds, I uncovered thriving patches of parsley, arugula, and fennel.

Over the past months, I’ve dedicated myself to clearing the weeds and revitalizing the garden beds with fresh compost collected by the household.

There’s a uniquely invigorating and peaceful quality to daily gardening, even if the task is simply removing unwanted plants.

Amanda Silberling

Libby

The sentiment that enjoyment is readily accessible with a library card is well-known, as famously expressed by a cartoon aardvark. However, Libby further simplifies access to reading materials.

Libby, a mobile application developed by Overdrive, facilitates the borrowing of ebooks and audiobooks directly from your local library. This service is provided at no cost to the user.

The user experience with Libby is largely determined by the extent and quality of the catalog offered by their local library. Even a limited selection can result in significant savings.

When the library’s collection proves insufficient, a subscription to Libro.fm is utilized. Libro.fm serves as an alternative to Audible, with the added benefit of supporting independent bookstores instead of large corporations.

Occasionally, physical books are purchased as well. A strong preference for libraries, the Libby app, and the convenience of audiobooks is maintained.

Darrell Etherington

Analogue Pocket

In my estimation, this represents the pinnacle of game console design. I considered myself a dedicated Game Boy enthusiast previously, however, utilizing Analogue’s innovative retro console to experience GB, GBC, and GBA cartridges sourced from local vintage game stores has proven exceptionally enjoyable.

Furthermore, it has revealed a wealth of titles from the original Game Boy era that I initially overlooked, yet remain remarkably engaging even today.

Traeger Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill

The origins of my interest in slow cooking and smoking are somewhat hazy, but the pandemic significantly amplified my enthusiasm for these techniques. Consequently, I was delighted to acquire the Traeger Ironwood 885.

This pellet smoker boasts a comprehensive suite of features, including remote control and monitoring through the highly-regarded Traeger application. The Ironwood line introduces valuable enhancements like an insulated cooking chamber for consistent results in any weather, and a pellet level sensor to alert you when refills are needed for extended cooking sessions.

Canon EOS R5 + RF 50mm F1.2 L lens

 

Although Canon’s entry into the full-frame mirrorless market was initially gradual, they are now demonstrating significant progress with their latest camera models. The R5, released initially in 2020, continues to be an exceptional camera.

It delivers outstanding ergonomics, handling, and image quality. Having been a Canon user prior to adopting Sony products, it’s remarkable to experience the renowned Canon color science within a camera that feels fully competitive.

Brian Heater

L’Rain – Fatigue

The impact of music on navigating the last two years is difficult to overstate. Despite widespread difficulties, a wealth of exceptional music continues to emerge. This consistently highlights the societal undervaluation of artistic contributions.

L’Rain’s debut album initially went unnoticed by me. However, a recent interview with another musician, who recommended Fatigue, completely changed my perspective.

This musical work is remarkably resistant to easy categorization. A collective of musicians collaborated to produce songs deliberately crafted to defy simple definition, incorporating elements of found sound.

The album simultaneously provides comfort and challenges expectations. It’s music that presents a stimulating experience without being overly complex.

Initial listening is immediately engaging, and repeated plays reveal further layers of depth and nuance.

(Due to time constraints in compiling this list, I will include a link to a Spotify playlist featuring my favorite songs of the year. This playlist includes my most-loved track from Fatigue. Hopefully, Greg will understand.)

Natasha Lomas

Yak Tack

I first encountered Yak Tack in April, and it has proven remarkably effective. It’s an application that has successfully maintained a consistent presence on my phone and is regularly utilized.

As someone with a strong interest in language, this app particularly appeals to me. It functions as a convenient pocket dictionary for swift word lookups. Furthermore, it employs an adaptive spaced repetition system to enhance vocabulary retention.

This system is designed to optimize the brain’s memory processes. Should a scheduled word review be missed, the app sends a gentle email reminder: “Remember your words!”

Yak Tack represents a dedicated project by its sole developer, Jeremy Thomas. He also created a streamlined, email-only version lacking the app’s social features.

Therefore, a sincere thank you is extended – for a commendable side project and for navigating 2021, one new word at a time!

@mattgreencomedy

The experience of enduring another year of UK politics has become increasingly challenging since approximately 2016. The year 2021, however, truly tested the boundaries of public tolerance regarding the actions of ‘elected officials.’

Despite this, the Conservative government led by Boris Johnson, often criticized for its lack of competence, has provided a significant source of comedic material. The situation has been, at times, almost absurd.

The inconsistent messaging, questionable practices, dubious denials, and delayed responses concerning Covid-19 policies, alongside numerous scandals involving rule violations, embarrassing leaked videos, and ongoing internal conflicts within the Tory party – often conducted via WhatsApp – have been fertile ground for satire.

The constant stream of leaked photos depicting gatherings falsely described as not being parties, while often amusing, also highlighted the frustrating circumstances. British satirist Matt Green has been a notable voice on Twitter, offering insightful commentary throughout the year.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

I’ve been evaluating a “metabolic fitness” service – Ultrahuman’s ‘Cyborg’ – for several weeks this year. A comprehensive review is forthcoming.

This service utilizes a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to provide real-time data on blood glucose levels through a dedicated application. While interpreting this data and understanding the influence of factors like diet, exercise, and stress requires careful consideration, it offers a compelling look into the future of quantified health and biohacking.

The experience has been captivating, and I believe I’ve developed a strong interest in this area!

Anna Heim

A Newfound Passion

My interest in puzzles began with the animated series Wallace and Gromit. Being a dedicated fan, I was thrilled to learn of a collaboration between Aardman and a UK-based puzzle company for a festive release.

Due to significant popularity, the puzzle wasn’t delivered until January. However, this delay ultimately defined much of my 2021.

I found the experience so enjoyable that puzzle-solving quickly evolved into a year-round hobby, and one I anticipate continuing indefinitely.

The Benefits of Puzzling

This new pastime has proven remarkably effective in managing my anxiety. Furthermore, the activity itself is incredibly engaging.

I particularly appreciate jigsaws that feature intricate artwork, such as the illustrations of Guillermo Mordillo and Sempé. Wooden puzzles, characterized by uniquely shaped pieces – often called whimsies – also hold a special appeal.