By
December 09, 2021
Christmas is nearly here! Do you have any last-minute gift shopping to do? Why not do something extra special for the family this year (on top of the obligatory box of Roses, of course)? The market is filled with cool gadgets that are suitable for all budgets. And with 75% of the country now having access to ultra-fast fibre broadband, connecting up smart devices is now easier than ever.
Here’s a guide to the top 10 to buy your friends or family for Christmas this year - you might even find a treat or two for yourself as well.
Have you got smart gadgets, but need the best internet connection for them to successfully work? Use our Broadband Checker to tind out what broadband options are available at your address
Top gadgets under $200
1. Kogan SmarterHome Smart Bulb
Do you know someone who struggles to get the lighting right? The Kogan SmarterHome Smart Bulb will take care of that. With just a swipe of the smartphone, this lightbulb will help you get the perfect ambience for any occasion. Transform any space with 16-million colours and dozens of pre-set scenes.
2. Wifi BBQ thermometer
This gift idea is for the grill master in the family. With the Grillman’s Bluetooth Thermometer, you’ll never have to wonder if the meat is cooked properly. This gadget allows you to set a target temperature or choose from the range of pre-set cooking programmes. When the food is done, an alarm will go off and you’re ready to eat.
3. Amazon Echo Alexa (4th generation)
Hey, Alexa - help me pick the perfect gift? The fourth-generation Amazon Echo is the hands-free speaker that you can control with your voice. Play music, ask questions or get the score of the big game. This device is a must-have for every smart home.
4. Ring video doorbell
Knock, knock. Who’s there? Don’t worry, it’s not a bad dad joke, it’s a Ring Video Doorbell. This wifi connected video doorbell allows you to see, hear and speak with visitors from anywhere at any time of day or night.
Top gadgets under $500
1. Google Nest Protect Smoke Alarm
Make sure your loved ones are safe this holiday season with this unique smoke and CO alarm. When Nest Protect detects fast-burning fires, smouldering fires and carbon monoxide, it sends an alert to your phone so you can act fast.
2. Google Nest Thermostat E
First you’re too hot… then you’re too cold… the Google Nest thermostat E is a smart device designed to help you get the temperature just right. This gift might be a good one for the office if your coworkers are under constant war over the thermostat.
3. Apple TV 4K
The Apple 4K TV plays all your favourite movies and shows in such crisp picture quality - it’s as close to real-life as you can get. Of course, you can also stream your playlist from iTunes and or use the Apple TV Remove to find whatever you want.
4. Amazon Echo Show 10
Designed as an information hub for your home, the Amazon Echo Show 10 can be used to control smart home devices like lighting, heating or security systems around your home. It has a 15.6-inch, 1080p full HD display which can be mounted on a wall or placed on a counter
Top gadgets under $1000
1. iRobot Roomba Robotic Vacuum
Know someone who needs a helping hand around the house? iRobot Roomba R692 is the gadget for them. It includes WiFi connectivity so you can control the vacuum from your iRobot app. It even automatically docks and recharges itself so you don’t have to do it manually.
Keep an eye on sales of these products! We’ve seen prices change a couple of times, so you might be able to get a good deal.
Having the right connection for your gadgets
Now that you’ve kitted everyone out with the latest gear, make sure you’ve got the right internet connection to support them.
Fibre broadband offers a fast and reliable internet connection with the capacity to consistently support a range of online activities across multiple devices with no loss of quality. Not sure if your home has access to fibre? Head to the Chorus Broadband Checker and see what’s available at your address.
One last tip... make sure you’re using an unlimited data plan so you don’t chew through data with all those new devices in the house.
Image credit: Wiki Commons