Great Tech Gifts 2010

This is something I’ve wanted to become more consistent with, as I usually post these lists sporadically and at poor times. I figure Black Friday is a good day to settle on this type of post, since it is the official start of Holiday Shopping.

Amazon Kindle: This is number one on my list of recommendations. E-Readers have been around for a few years now and I think the Kindle has proven king. It’s a great way to read books (it’s a lot like reading a real book), it’s easy on the eyes, and with apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, you can keep your books with you and synced at all times. Plus, they are also offering a very affordable Wifi Only version. I truly love mine, which I got last Christmas. ($189 for 3G + Wifi, $139 for Wifi only)

Apple iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab: Tablets are still in the early adopter stage of consumer technology, but they really are a great gift for all different types of people. I’ve had my iPad for over a month and use it a lot more than I thought I would- reading the news (I don’t use it for books), taking notes during meetings, sketching ideas, grading, gaming, and more. Tablets are no replacement for a computer, but they are a great piece of technology. I tried the Galaxy Tab briefly and liked that you can one-hand it, and the interface/experience was one that you’d expect from an Android device. If you know someone who travels a lot (for trips or on the daily grind), one of these would be the perfect gift. (Starting at $499 for iPad, $599 for Galaxy Tab)

Google TV: This is going to be huge. On top of connecting your cable to it to serve as a DVR, you bring the Internet right to your TV, with the ability to stream YouTube, Hulu, Nexflix, and other video services on it. You will also have apps that supplement your TV watching experience. This is the number one thing I want on my Christmas list! ($299, or built in to some TVs)

Netflix or Hulu Plus: Access tons of movies and TV shows instantly, right on your TV, iPad, or Computer. I would say that both are not necessary as there is a lot of overlap (right now at least), but check out the availability on both services to see which best suits you. With Netflix recently introducing a streaming only option, now might be the perfect time to get it (Starting at $7.99/mo for Netflix, $7.99/mo Hulu)

Microsoft Kinect: I’ve heard pretty much only good things about Microsoft’s new motion sensing video game system for the Xbox. With gestures, voice commands, and some cool introductory games, this is certain to be a hit this holiday season. ($150)

Flip HD: You know how popular digital cameras are? I’d imagine Flip HD cameras will get there too. With the ability to take HD video and upload it right to YouTube, Facebook, & Twitter, you can share instantly. Plus, this bad boy is relatively cheap (especially from Amazon right now). ($129-199)

Cell Phones: Popular cell phones this season will be the Droid Pro, Droid X, and Droid 2 from Verizon, and the iPhone from ATT. It all depends on what you’re looking for. Droid X is great for multimedia. As someone who’s had the Droid (1) for a year, I’ll be looking for something faster, lighter, and with a better keyboard. I think I found that in the Droid Pro. This iteration of the iPhone (4) is the only one I’ve really been impressed with. It’s design is nicer, and the screen is really beautiful.

So what did I miss? What cool tech toy do you want?