How can it possibly be that time again? Summer just started, but it’s already time to start thinking about back-to-school prep. Whether the kids are heading to grade school, high school, or college, maybe even moving to their own place or a dorm for the first time, there’s lots of tech they’ll need. Here, we have put together a tech gift guide with everything students of all ages will need to set them up for a productive school year.
Google Pixel 9 Smartphone
As the newest in the line-up, the Google Pixel 9 smartphone has everything a student would need, including access to Google Gemini, a large 6.3-inch screen, Android 14, and a promise of seven years of software and security updates. That means this phone will easily last through middle and high school, especially with consistent Feature Drops as well. Plus, it’s under $1,000, a palatable cost for parents, especially with a plan and discounts. Kids can take great photos using the 50MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, and 10.5MP cameras, and the high peak brightness of 2,700 nits means they can comfortably see the screen outdoors, too. With refresh rate that goes from 60Hz to 120Hz, it can handle everything from everyday multi-tasking to video streaming (and recording) and gaming. It’s IP68 water resistant so it’s quite durable, and the battery can last for a full day, up to four with Extreme Battery Saver mode. This is the perfect student’s Android phone. Learn more about the Google Pixel 9.
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 Smartphone Printer
Kids snap so many photos from their smartphones but then never really do much with them aside from post on social media. With the Instax Mini Link 3 smartphone printer, they can make fun prints to share, pop into their notebook, wallet, or even put up on their lockers. The printer works with the Instax Mini Link app, which includes features like augmented reality via AiR Studio for photos with a 3D effrct and collage options for creating unique photobooth-like prints from multiple shots. Once they send a photo to print, it comes out in a minute and-a-half. It’s available in late August for $130; you’ll also need to buy a few packs of the Instax Mini instant film, which sells for $15 per 10-pack. There’s even a new option with a border that resembles rainbow sprinkles. Learn more about the Instax Mini Link 3.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Smartphone
Yes, the iPhone 16 is likely to launch not long after the school year begins, but that means there are great deals to be had on the current generation iPhone 15 Pro. Why choose this model? It affords access to all the Apple Intelligence AI goodies coming with iOS 18 in September (and available in beta right now for U.S. users). As the first iPhone series with a USB-C charging port versus Lightning, this opens up a wealth of possibilities with chargers and cables you already own. Plus, with MagSafe built-in, there are so many magnetic accessories you can consider for a student, including the next one on this list. Don’t forget to get a case for the device, too. We provide a recommendation further down the list. This phone is compact, lightweight, and perfect for the student who uses a MacBook and/or has AirPods, too. With back-to-school season here, you’ll find some great deals through retailers and carriers as well, especially if you’re looking to upgrade from an old device.
UGREEN Magnetic Power Bank
This 10,000mAh magnetic power bank from UGREEN secures to the back of your MagSafe enabled iPhone or case to provide back-up power as needed. Compatible with iPhone 12 and up as well as any MagSafe case for both iPhone or Android, I love the fact that it doesn’t have any cords at all. While it’s slightly heavier than you might be used to with a portable charger, it’s still relatively small and compact. It offers 7.5W charging, able to charge an iPhone 15 Pro up to 1.9 times. There’s also a USB-C port that can be used to charge a second device at a max power of 20W. It sells for US$50. Learn more in my review of this charger.
Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 Instant Camera
For kids who love to take candid photos for social media, a retro instant camera is so much more fun than using a smartphone. The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 instant camera uses Instax Wide instant film for wide 3.4 x 4.25-inch prints. With features like a self-timer, two-range focus modes, automatic exposure, and flash control, it’s not a typical entry-level instant camera like you saw back in the ‘90s. Using the self-timer dial, they can time photos in two-second increments, up to 10 seconds. The Automatic Exposure function senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed and ensures proper exposure, regardless of interior or exterior conditions. Normal Mode is designed for everyday photography in a variety of settings (typically 3-10 feet), while Landscape Mode is for distances of 10 feet and beyond. For macro photography, the included close-up lens is ideal for subjects at a distance of 15-19 inches. The close-up lens also features an integrated selfie mirror. Wide 400 is easy to position on a fixed surface with its included Camera Angle Adjustment accessory. By attaching the accessory to the bottom of the camera, you can choose between two height options to perfectly frame images. Get it in green for MSRP $200.
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE Smartwatch
If they own a Samsung Galaxy phone, the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is the most affordable new Galaxy Watch you can buy. They can use it to keep on top of not only health and wellness but also class schedules, deadlines, and more. It comes in a 40mm size and in black, pink gold, or silver with new watch bands that have blue and orange stitching. With Sapphire Crystal glass, the watch is durable, protected against scratches during day-to-day use. Equipped with Samsung’s advanced BioActive Sensor, there are a variety of advanced sleep features that students especially will appreciate, including monitoring sleep patterns, sleep coaching, and helping to create a sleep-friendly environment. There are also heart health monitoring features, including blood pressure monitoring and ECG. Track more than 100 different workouts and see progress right from your wrist. As with every Galaxy Watch series, the FE seamlessly connects with Samsung Galaxy devices. You can quickly and easily locate your phone when disconnected from the Watch with Find My Phone. Remotely control your connected Samsung smartphone camera with Camera Controller to switch mode, change angle, or zoom right from the wrist, great for group selfies with friends. Galaxy Watch FE supports Samsung Wallet, so college-aged kids can pay for purchases and even store identification cards like a driver’s license or student ID on the smartwatch. Get one for $280.
BOOX Go ePaper Tablets
The BOOX Go 10.3 ePaper tablet is a great cross between a tablet, an eReader, and a notepad. It’s lightweight with a 10.3-inch eCartla 1200 monochrome screen, 4.6mm thin, and boasts. Students can take notes using the lasso tool and Smart Scribe. Powered by the Android 12 operating system, the Go series allows for downloading and accessing apps from the pre-installed Google Play Store. Boasting a generous 4GB+64GB storage capacity and support for 25 digital formats, you can store and carry a diverse library of reading materials in a single, portable device. US$380
Acer DA1 Series Smart Monitors
Upgrade the computer room, kid’s bedroom, or dorm with a much larger monitor that makes getting work done and multitasking much easier. The Acer DA1 is also designed to be used as an entertainment hub for streaming content, for gaming, and as an extended workstation. It has useful features, especially for older students as well, including wireless projection and simultaneous viewing from different sources via Multiview. Available with 4K UHD resolution, the monitor comes loaded with Google TV for easy access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and more. You can also cast content from a compatible device using Google Cast. With Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, an ergonomically designed stand, the DA series models start at $480.
Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Display Docking Station
Great for the busy student working with a lot of peripherals, like someone studying in a creative field, the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Display docking station can support up to four external monitors, provides up to 40 Gbps transfer speeds, and delivers up to 8K/60Hz video output and 96W of charging to the host device. Finished in space gray, the docking station is made of aircraft-grade aluminum and allows for two monitors to be connected via Thunderbolt 4 and two to be connected via HDMI using DisplayLink software. Embedded DisplayLink software resolves the single-display limitation of Apple M1/M2 and MacBook Pro M3 processors, allowing M1/M2 and MacBook Pro M3 users to connect up to three external monitors. MacBook Air M3 will be able to extend up to four external monitors when used in clamshell mode. Providing power delivery up to 96W to the host device and up to 15W in each of its three Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports, the Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Display Docking Station charges devices like phones, tablets, and other small peripherals. Up to two ports at a time can be used for charging. The docking station’s single-cable connection is conveniently located on the side of the dock, eliminating the need for an additional charging cable. The three Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports support data transfers up to 40Gbps joined by two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports that support 10Gbps. You can daisy-chain up to six devices at once and enjoy 32Gbps native PCIe support for external GPUs and Thunderbolt-based external storage devices. It also includes a UHS-II card reader capable of transferring up to 312MB/s. It works with Windows, Google Chrome, and Mac. US$300.
Fitbit Ace LTE Kids Smartwatch
For younger students aged 7+, the Fitbit Ace LTE is just like the Ace 3 smartwatch except it comes with 4G LTE connectivity via monthly subscription that affords limited functionality for calls, messages, gaming, and more. Kids can send and receive messages and calls from up to 20 approved contacts with the Fitbit Pass. Parents can also leverage 24/7 GPS tracking so they know where their kids are at all times. The Fitbit Ace LTE also incorporates arcade games, activities, rewards, even a cute on-screen character called an Eejie, all of which tie into encouraging physical activity. There’s a School Time feature that limits game time during school hours, and kids monitor activity through an activity ring called Noodle. In a few months, Fitbit will be adding Tap to Pay so older kids can pay for items from a connected debit or credit card using the smartwatch. This could be for buying lunch during school, grabbing something at the convenience store, or taking ownership of spending their allowance or birthday money. Water-resistant down to 50 metres with a scratch-resistant screen, the watch can run for up to 16 hours per charge. The watch is US$230 and a Fitbit Ace Pass is US$10/mo. or US$120/yr. It’s only available in the U.S. right now.
Asus Vivobook S 15 Copilot+ PC With Windows AI
Perfect for a high schooler or college-aged student, the Asus Vivobook S 15 (S5507) is powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor and comes with various Asus AI apps. With up to 18 hours of battery life, the laptop has a 15-inch 3K 120 Hz Asus Lumina OLED display, Harman Kardon-certified audio, and a sleek 14.7 mm-thin, 1.42 kg-light body. The built-in Qualcomm Hexagon NPU boasts a 45 TOPS Neural engine for quick on device AI processing. Storage options include up to an ultrafast 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, with memory configurable up to 32 GB of 8448 MHz LPDDR5X RAM. Advanced features include Windows Studio Effects v2, Asus AiSense camera, Live Captions, and Cocreator. A dedicated Copilot key enables you to dive into Windows AI-powered tools in one second, and the super-large, super-smart touchpad offers easy navigation and an expanded workspace. Via intuitive gestures, you can seamlessly control various tasks, from adjusting audio to optimizing screen brightness or managing video playback. Get it in various configurations starting at $1,599.
13-inch Apple iPad Air
Get an older student an Apple iPad Air they can use to work or study on the go, take notes in class, and enjoy entertainment, like gaming and video streaming. The ultra-thin newest model has a 13-inch screen option now that’s powered by the M2 chip. It’s ideal for AI tasks and features, like Visual Look Up, Subject Lift, or Live Text. With apps, you can also do things like use the Auto Enhance tool in Photomator that improves photos with a single click using AI models or analyze athletic performance with Onform and its motion tracking capabilities. iPad Air also supports cloud-based solutions, enabling you to run advanced productivity and creative apps that tap into AI, like Microsoft Copilot for Microsoft 365 and Adobe Firefly. The front-facing ultra-wide 12MP camera with Center Stage is perfect for collaborating with classmates, combined with the dual microphones, landscape stereo speakers with Spatial Audio, and double the bass. Boasting all-day battery life, it supports the new Apple Pencil Pro and the existing Apple Pencil USB-C model, along with the new Magic Keyboard for the full productivity set-up. The 13-inch iPad Air is $1,099. If you want to go all out, get the new Apple Pencil as well for $169 and the Magic Keyboard is $449. Go with the Smart Folio as well for an additional $125.
Acer Chromebook Plus 514
Suitable for a middle schooler, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 laptop is powered by an Intel Core processor and sells for starting under $500. It functions like a traditional Chromebook, but the Plus moniker indicates that it also has some exciting AI capabilities under the hood. Running for up to 11 hours per charge, it has a 14-inch full HD display, Wi-Fi 6e, 1,080p webcam that can be closed with a physical shutter or you can mute the dual microphones and turn off the camera with a single click. The visuals are complemented by dual upward-firing speakers with DTS Audio. This line will be sold in configurations with up to 512GB of storage to ensure you can store important creations locally. Even without an active internet connection, file sync on Chromebook Plus keeps Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides always accessible, both online and off. Weighing only 3.15 lbs. and measuring 0.81 inches thick, the new Chromebook is U.S. MIL-STD 810H compliant, making it lightweight and durable enough for students.
ZAGG Desk Mat with Wireless Charging
Perfect for the child’s desk, the ZAGG Desk Mat with Wireless Charging has built-in wireless charging capability so you can sit a device down and have it recharge neatly while you work. The Desk Mat has a 10W wireless charger built in for recharging a compatible phone, mouse, keyboard, or other device. Note that the device must be positioned on a centre charging spot, aligned with the charging coils. This means only one device can be charged at a time. If you want to charge a phone, for example, you’d have to move the keyboard out of the way. You could also, however, move the charging pad to the side to charge your phone or other device then back under the keyboard when you want to recharge that. The mat has an integrated USB-C cable, which plugs into a power source. It lies flat and is made of a soft, durable fabric with a non-slip bottom so your keyboard or mouse won’t shift around as you type. It even has grooves to secure a stylus or other writing tool so it doesn’t get misplaced. US$50.
Puro Sound Labs JuniorJams Plus Kids Headphones
Puro Sound Labs is known for its line of kid-safe headphones that have volume-limiting technology to protect little ears. The JuniorJams Plus is the latest, which include a USB-C connector for recharging and audio sharing. They now also come in purple along with several other kid-friendly colours. They have a USB-C connector and feature volume limiting technology (they only go up to 85dB) and noise isolation, blocking out 87% ambient noise isolation so kids can focus. The stylish aluminum headband includes a protein leather ear cushion while the headphones are lightweight and comfortable to wear. As wireless headphones, they last for up to 22 hours per charge, 200 hours in standby. Kids can daisy chain them and pair two together to play the same source simultaneously: great for both friends and siblings. It also comes with a limiter cable so they can wear them as wired ‘phones when the battery is dead. They fold into a carrying bag for taking to school, a friend’s house, on road trips, for travel, and more. They sell for $111 in Canada.
Kanto Audio REN 100W Active Speakers
Perfect for the desk, the Kanto Audio REN 100W active speakers come with HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.3, along with USB-C, optical inputs, remote control, analogue RCA line-in, and a dedicated sub-out for when the students wants booming bass for watching movies or playing computer games. It comes in six fun colours, too, including black, white, cream, green, brown, and orange, and sells for $799.
Targus CitySmart EVA Pro Backpack
I have been using this backpack for the last six months, including taking it with me to CES 2024 earlier this year and using it both at the show and for travel there and back. While it’s larger than my old backpack and thus doesn’t quite meet the “personal item” requirement for a flight, it’s spacious and filled with plenty of pockets and compartments. This includes a padded laptop slot that can accommodate a computer up to 15.6 inches in size. The larger interior compartment is big enough to hold clothing, like a packable jacket, while the padded and adjustable straps make it comfortable enough to wear all day. I absolutely love the front pocket with plenty of organization sections for pens, chargers, cables, a mini notebook, and more. Get it for about $200.
JBL Tune 520BT Wireless Headphones
Kids of every age need headphones, from middle school to high school and college. Parents are reluctant to spend a fortune on an expensive pair, however, for fear that the kids will misplace or break them while traveling back and forth to school (or at school). The JBL Tune 520BT is a good option that is affordable yet still offers that signature JBL sound. A pair is just $70 (distributed in Canada exclusively by Erikson Consumer) and they come in four fun colours. They boast Bluetooth 5.3 technology and provide up to 57 hours of listening per charge. In a bind, kids can charge them for just five minutes to get a full extra three hours of listening. They can even customize the sound using the JBL Headphones app. They nicely fold flat to easily fit in a backpack, too.
Urbanista San Francisco Wired Earbuds
Not everyone likes wireless headphones, and if your student prefers wired, or wants a back-up pair, the Urbanista San Francisco wired earbuds are a solid choice. Selling for just $26 (distributed exclusively in Canada by Erikson Consumer), they come in basic black or white and feature a remote on the cord for controlling calls and music. With a tangle-free cable, built-in mic, voice assistant support, and simple connection to any device with a 3.5mm port (or with an adapter), these are the buds they’ll keep in their backpacks for emergency use.
Clckr G-Form iPhone 15 Cases
Did you get the student a new iPhone 15 to celebrate the new school year? Maybe you’re getting ready to upgrade to the new phone once Apple announces it in September (presumably) and you’re planning to give them your “old” iPhone 15. If so, consider a new protective case for it like the G-Form and Clckr case. A combined effort between the two brands, it’s effectively a G-Form case with the Clckr Stand & Grip that I reviewed earlier this year built right into it. With 13-foot drop protection, you can feel confident that it will stand up to the rigors of day-to-day student use. With the stand, meanwhile, students can prop it up while they do homework to keep on top of important notifications, deadlines, and more. Clckr products are distributed in Canada by Erikson Consumer.
OnePlus 12 Smartphone
As mentioned in my review of the OnePlus 12 smartphone, if I were to ever switch from iPhone to Android, this would be the phone I would get. And I meant it. I still use this phone today to take many of the photos you see in my reviews here. It’s sleek and sexy, fast and snappy, charges ultra-quickly (a big deal for students), and the battery lasts a long time. The cameras, as implied, result in stunning images in all types of scenarios. It’s $1,070 outright, but with four major Android OS updated and five years of security updates, along with back-to-school deals, this will get a teen through all of high school.
Marshall Black Edition 3.2 Medium Capacity Bar Fridge
Bar fridges are great for, well, bars. But they’re also useful for dorm rooms so students can store some healthy food and snacks to avoid ordering in and eating unhealthy take-out all the time. It’s just big enough to hold essentials like vegetables, fruit, milk, eggs, or even leftovers since college kids are pinching pennies. Even leftover pizza for quick reheating is worth storing to save money and ensure kids get sustenance. This stylish bar fridge screams “cool.” It is made with black FRET cloth, white piping, tunable knobs, and a brass finished faceplate. Perfect for a student who loves music, perhaps even one who plays, it can hold up to 2-litre bottles in the large capacity doors, has adjustable thermostat control, a replaceable LED bulb inside, and a 3.2 cubic-foot interior capacity with adjustable shelves to accommodate items of different heights. While it might be fancier than students might need, this is a small appliance they can take to them to their first apartment or home once school is done and continue using it for many years to come. Get it from Erikson Consumer for $400.
Epson ET-4850 All-in-One Printer
While the Epson ET-4850 might be expensive for a student, you’ll find that the entire family makes good use of it. Like other EcoTank printers, it has ink reservoirs you need only refill every two years (with average use). This means there are no cartridges to replace monthly, nor dispose of. I reviewed this printer earlier this year and it works like a dream for printing documents and photos, making scans, and especially for wireless printing. Kids can get their reports done on a laptop in their bedrooms or at their desk then send the final copy to print from wherever they are, inside the home or out. The upfront cost of $600 might be a tough pill to swallow, but when you consider you will only need to buy a set of ink refill bottles every 24 months or so, and knowing a set is about $70, you can do the math and see how you’re saving money (and time) over the long run. Plus, everyone in the family will be able to use it for work and personal purposes, from printing documents to photos on specialty photo paper to printing envelopes and homemade greeting cards. Retailers like Staples often have it on sale as well.
Dual CS 329 Turntable
A great starter turntable for a student who is just getting into vinyl, the Dual CS 329 is just $570 from Erikson Consumer. It’s a fully automatic, plug and play turntable that comes pre-assembled and ready to use in the dorm or bedroom. The tonearm adjusts at the touch of a button so all they need to do is place a record on top and press start. With an aluminum die-cast platter and heavy rubber mat, this is well-made product for starter audio enthusiasts.
Sonos Ace and Sonos Arc Combo
The Sonos Ace headphones, which I reviewed earlier this year, are the company’s first pair of headphones. They sound great, fit nicely, and boast favourable battery life. But the stand-out feature is the audio swap technology with compatible Sonos speakers which, right now, includes the Sonos Arc. Once you have them paired with one another, you can push a button to instantly swap audio from the speaker to the headphones. Imagine a college student wanting to continue to play video games or watch a movie while their roommate needs to turn in early to be up for a big exam the next morning. Or a teenager home from school who wants to watch a video while you’re working in the next room, or their sibling is trying to get homework done next to them. The pair work in perfect unison. At $600, the headphones aren’t cheap, but with effective noise cancelling, kids can wear them for the commute to school and back, as their school headphones (much better than what the school likely provides!), or for quiet studying. The Sonos Arc, meanwhile, is $1,099, so it doesn’t come cheap. But as a primary soundbar for the living room, kids’ shared bedroom, basement, or computer or games room, it’s something the whole family can enjoy. For college kids, meanwhile, they’ll be able to bring it with them and have instantly improved sound once they’re ready to set up their own home. The Sonos Ace TV Audio Swap is now supported by the Sonos Beam and Arc soundbars as well for a more affordable set-up.
Locksocket
How many times have you plugged a cable into a wall outlet for your phone, tablet, smartwatch, earbuds, or other device, and go back to plug it in and realize that someone in the family has swiped the cable or charging brick? Maybe they took it to work or moved it to another outlet. It’s really frustrating! Now, imagine keeping a charging cable in your dorm at college? It’s easy for someone to “borrow” and forget to return it. Enter LockSocket. It’s a simple device, and one kids will appreciate. It’s effectively an adjustable outlet lock with a security screw and key that keeps the charging brick or plug secured until you remove it. Of course, someone who really wanted to steal the charging brick or cable could easily remove it. But for those who like to grab the brick to move to another outlet (then claim it was theirs) or unplug your device to use the outlet for theirs, trying to remove this will be too much of a hassle. It slides over the plug and screws into the wall plate, and comes with an Allen key and security screw.
Keep in mind that you might want to use it sparingly, since it’s never a good idea to leave cables plugged in 24/7, drawing what’s known as phantom power. But when you know you’ll be away for a few days or visitors are coming while your phone is plugged in to stream music, protect it with this handy gadget. It comes in different sizes and designs to fit over everything from iPhone to MacBook chargers, with neat holes to run the cable through. Each one is about US$20.
Kensington Pro Fit Washable Wired Desktop Set
Kids can be messy. With younger kids, spilling their juice or water while they work has happened at least once. For older kids, that might be their coffee or the lunch they’re trying to scarf down while studying. The Kensington Pro Fit wired keyboard and mouse set is so durable, it can even be washed. They are both waterproof with an IP67 rating for the mouse and IPX6 for the keyboard (the “X” denoting that it isn’t rated for resistance against dust). So, even if there isn’t a bad spill, you can still periodically rinse out the keyboard to keep it clean. The keyboard has 104 laser-etched keys with a numeric keypad and connects via USB (the USB connector should not be submerged). The mouse is designed for ambidextrous use with three-button scroll, 1,600 dpi optical sensor, and wired USB connection. The set is great for students of all ages and will set you back $60.
Casetify Deadpool and Wolverine Mobile Accessories
With the movie Deadpool & Wolverine having just come up this summer, older kids who are Marvel fans will surely have gone to see it. While the R rating means that younger kids aren’t permitted to go (without parental permission and accompaniment), they can still show their love for the two characters featured in the movie with licensed mobile accessories. Casetify has a full line that launched in early August 2024, just in time for the movie’s release. Along with various cases for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel devices, there are also accessories that students especially will find useful, including cardholder stands, grip stands, power banks, MacBook cases, and phone straps. Pricing varies.
ShiftCam SnapGrip Creator Kit
Just about one of the coolest accessories for content creators I have seen of late (review coming soon), the ShiftCam SnapGrip Creator Kit is multiple devices in one. It’s a MagSafe snap-on grip for a compatible phone (or phone with a compatible MagSafe case) that has a cylindrical grip on the side so you can hold the phone like a traditional camera. At the top of the grip is a Bluetooth shutter so you can easily snap photos – perfect if you’re trying to shoot something you’re holding in (or wearing on) your other hand. It also has a built-in power bank to recharge your phone while you shoot. It can rotate 180° to accommodate the phone in portrait or landscape mode. Use it to prop the phone up on a table, desk, or other flat surface for video calls, watching videos, gaming, and more. At US$130, it’s an affordable gift for students that they’ll probably use a lot more than you (or they) think.
Scosche PowerVolt PD65 Dual-Port USB-C Power Delivery Wall Charger
No matter how many cables and wall chargers I have at home, it never seems to be enough. Someone is always fighting for an outlet or the second port on the adapter to charge their phone, laptop, earbuds, smartwatch, tablet – you name it. For students, get them their own power block they can keep in their room to recharge their devices at home, or pop in their backpack if they need to recharge at school. The Scosche PowerVolt PD65 Dual-Port USB-C Power Delivery Wall Charger has two USB-C ports that can charge at a range of 45W and 20W or 57.5W and 7.5W, depending on what devices you plug in. With just one device plugged in, like a laptop, it can deliver up to 65W of power. With advanced GaN technology to afford cooler and more efficient charging and fold out prongs for easily storing in a backpack, it’s an accessory kids won’t be able to live without. Get it for US$55.
LEGO Fortnite Sets
Students of all ages need downtime, and whether you’re talking about a grade schooler, high schooler, or even college-aged student, many find assembling LEGO to be a soothing and de-stressing activity. Combine their love of LEGO with their love of Fortnite, and you have the perfect gift in one of the new LEGO Fortnite sets. There are four in total: the LEGO Fortnite Durrr Burger has just 193 pieces, making it great for Fortnite and LEGO lovers aged 9+. It’s just $20 so it’s affordable, too. For those aged 12+, consider the LEGO Fortnite Supply Llama (691 pieces), which sells for $50. The LEGO Fortnite Peely Bone has 1,414 pieces and it’s suitable for older students, or young ones who have proved to be proficient at putting together large LEGO sets. It’s $130, as is the LEGO Fortnite Battle Bus for kids aged 10+, which is 954 pieces in total and has rolling wheels, a removable roof, and the iconic blue and yellow balloon. These sets aren’t shipping until October 2024, but they’re available for pre-order now, so you can grab one for a student on your list and they’ll have it in hand before the Christmas break.
Samsung Smart Monitors
Samsung’s updated Smart Monitor lineup includes the M8 (M80D model), M7 (M70D model), and the M5 (M50D model), perfect for students of all ages. The upgraded 32” 4K UHD Smart Monitor M8 introduces new features powered by AI with the NQM AI processor. AI upscaling brings lower resolution content up to nearly 4K, and Active Voice Amplifier Pro uses AI to analyze background noise in the environment to optimize dialogue. 360 Audio Mode is available on the M8, which pairs with Galaxy Buds to create an immersive sound environment. The built-in SlimFit Camera also makes it easy to conduct video calls through mobile applications with Samsung Dex. There’s even a Workout Tracker so if you got them the aforementioned Samsung Galaxy Watch FE smartwatch as well, they can pair it with the monitor to see real-time health data on screen, even while streaming content. The M7 is available in 32” and 43” with 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) resolution, a brightness of 300 nits and a gray to gray (GtG) response time of 4ms. The M5 is available in 27” and 32”, with FHD resolution (1,920 x 1,080), a brightness of 250 nits and a GtG response time of 4ms. The larger sizes can double as TVs for college-aged kids in dorms.
OXS Storm G2 Gaming Headset
Yes, gaming is still part of the school year. Kids need a way to unwind after they finish their homework, right? The OXS Storm G2 gaming headset features a 50mm full-range dynamic driver and 7.1 virtual surround sound technology. It has a detachable omni-directional microphone with enhanced sensitivity. It offers lag-free real-time audio with its 2.4GHz wireless dongle, achieving ultra-low latency of less than 20ms. Most important, however, is that these headphones aren’t just for gaming. Students can wear them for other uses as well, leveraging the EQ presets for Game, Music, and Surround. The built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls, virtual meetings, and communicating with others during online game play. It has three connection modes: wired, Bluetooth, and dongle. The 3.5mm AUX cable, 2.4G ultra-low latency wireless, and Bluetooth 5.3 connections ensure compatibility with a range of devices, including consoles, PCs, laptops, PS4/PS5, Xbox, Switch, tablets, mobile phones, and other A/V devices with 3.5mm aux jacket or Bluetooth. The dongle supports both Type A and Type C connections. Equipped with an adjustable headband that expands up to two inches, the 30° adjustable ear cups feature memory foam, providing a customizable fit that reduces pressure during long gaming sessions. Crafted with skin-friendly protein leather, the Storm G2 is lightweight, ideal for all-day wear. Get it for US$80.
AeroPress Coffee Maker
For a college or university student residing in a dorm for the first year (or subsequent year), they have probably realized that coffee is fuel. And coffee is also expensive. With the AeroPress coffee maker, they get single cups with the flavour of a French press, pour over, and espresso without any grit or bitterness. The best part? It doesn’t have to be plugged in, saving those precious outlets for important tech items for them and their roommate. Available in six colours to match their personal style, it’s made of shatterproof Tritan and uses patented 3-in-1 brew technology to combine all three coffee styles in one unit. Pour water over coffee grounds and during immersion, air pressure pushes the brew through the coffee bed and filter to remove the grit and bitter-tasting oils. You get a cup of java in 1-2 minutes, perfect if they’re rushing out the door to class. At just US$70, it’s affordable, too.
Maxell Kids Over-Ear Headset with Boom Mic
Get a young kid their own pair of volume-limiting headphones to use at school so they don’t have to share school-owned ‘phones that are likely, let’s be honest, riddled with germs from all the kids who wear them. At US$27, this pair is ultra-affordable and limits audio to 85dB-95dB, the volume that’s safe for young ears. They also have a flexible boom mic so kids will love wearing them during their online gaming sessions or video calls with the grandparents. For kids who have a habit of nervous knawing, the cord is chew proof, too. With a built-in share port, they can also easily share the audio with friends or siblings who have another pair. Think while watching a movie on a road trip, listening to music, or watching YouTube videos.
ArmorSiren is a Personal Alarm Security System
Think of ArmorSiren as a student’s own personal security device, used to protect valuables like a bag, purse, dorm door, or school locker. It’s a compact alarm that will trigger a loud siren when movement is detected. Kids can place one inside their locker (it has magnets), for example, to ensure that no one tries to break in, or with their gym bag to prevent someone from stealing their brand new Jordans while they’re in class. The 120dB siren (the volume and sensitivity are adjustable) will keep threats at bay, protecting those expensive items you just bought for the student for the new school year. It is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery and recharges via USB-C. One charge can last for over four weeks, depending on usage and alarm events. It connects via Bluetooth to the ArmorSiren app on iPhone with a range of up to 80 feet. You can use the app to customize settings and preferences, receive instant text notifications when there’s an alarm trigger, set and manage security PIN codes, and more. Get one for US$200.
Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9900 Prestige
Proper oral healthcare is important for kids and adults, alike. Encourage your student to brush properly with a high-tech toothbrush like the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean 9900 Prestige, which sits in a rechargeable base and connects to a smartphone app. It’s not just a novelty feature, though. The idea behind the app integration along with features like SenseIQ technology is to help ensure you get a proper clean. The toothbrush monitors your movements and displays a diagram to show which areas you might have missed. Colour-coded lights on the base advise if you’re brushing too hard or using too much pressure. For younger kids, they’ll appreciate the extra bit of screen time before bed to follow along with the required two-minute brushing session. What teen or tween, after all, will object to being able to use their phone while brushing their teeth in the morning to get ready for school? It’s a great gift for the older student going off to college as well, so they can take pride in their fancy personal care item and ensure they wash away all the remnants of popcorn, frozen pizza, and late-night snacks while studying. I’m reviewing this ultra-high-tech toothbrush and so far, my teeth have never felt cleaner and I love the feedback it provides during brushing as well as after for touch-up tips. Stay tuned for more details or pick one up for a cool $500.