20 gift ideas that won't just appeal to nerds and geeks
5.12.2016
Translation: machine translated
Christmas is just around the corner and the hunt for the perfect gift is on. If you also have nerds and geeks in your circle of friends or family who you want to put a grin on their face: We have a few ideas for you. Of course, it's also worth a look for non-Trekkies.
Under 50 francs
Wrinkles for nerds
I wouldn't necessarily take Sheldon Cooper from "The Big Bang Theory" as a role model, but for once he's right about this clothes crease.
Homemade NES
Yeah, I know: where's the NES Classic Mini? Believe me, we're all waiting for it. If you've run out of patience, you could always just disguise a PS4 as an NES. It's still cheaper than buying the overpriced NES Classic Mini on eBay and the like 😉.
In case your relatives are annoying
This catapult not only gives you something to tinker with, but can also be used to torpedo your relatives if they misbehave again. Contemplative, isn't it?
You have to be clever
If you want to successfully guide the little ball through all the orbits of the Death Star without it falling down, you need patience and skill.
The drone with the Jöö effect
Jöö is so cute. You can terrorise your colleagues in the office with it. If that doesn't spread Christmas cheer.
Under 150 francs
You're never too old for the Turtles
A little playful nostalgia is the best thing, even if the vehicle is from the new series
Portable record player
Even if you don't carry it around with you all the time, it makes a great trap. And a record player simply never goes out of style.
If Han Solo had a drone
No idea if you can do the Kessel Run in under 12 parsecs. Only if you buy it will you find out.
Lock out Christmas
If all the stress of Christmas is getting too much for you, put on your Google Daydream and immerse yourself in virtual reality. All you need is your smartphone.
One console to subjugate them all
An alternative to the NES Classic Mini - and even more versatile. With the Super Retro Trio, you can play NES, SNES and Sega Mega Drive games
.
For the high-end gamer
Game controllers
Microsoft Elite Wireless Controller
Xbox Series X, Xbox One S, Xbox Series S, PC, Xbox One X
The normal Xbox controller is quite nice, but can you also replace the analogue sticks and the directional pad? Or do you have additional buttons on the back? That's what the Elite Controller is for. It's a really nice thing that is even compatible with the PS4 with the CronusMax Plus adapter.
Under 300 francs
The multifunctional grill
This little gnome not only roasts your cervelats to a crisp, but also charges your mobile thanks to the integrated USB port.
Signs are for noobs
Who needs labelled buttons? Ok, me for example. But if you want to show off your keyboard skills, get The Keyboard 4 Ultimate with all-black keys.
The slot machine you can build yourself
If you've always fancied your own slot machine but find them too big, the Pimoroni might be for you. It fits on any table and you can even assemble it yourself.
About 300 francs
The bag that can do more
The Peak Design bags are extremely high-quality and well thought-out. They recently funded a new series via Kickstarter with huge success. Numerous compartments for storage and a clever design make the item interesting not only for photographers.
Lego for speeders
Lego Technic is aimed at the more demanding gamer. I recently had a go at the heavy-duty crane and know what I'm talking about. The Porsche 911 is probably just as complicated, but in return you get a really classy piece.
The retro camera
The iconic Polaroid instant camera is available in a refurbished version. It still has a very special charm when you can take photos and then hold them in your hand immediately afterwards.
With high-end against thick air
Dyson not only builds hoovers, but also provides fresh air. If you want something sci-fi, you have to treat yourself to this air purifier.
Google Glass for winter sports enthusiasts
These ski goggles provide you with information on speed or distance and airtime during jumps directly on the display. Or you can control your music playlist. Just make sure you don't crash into a pole while you're enjoying your speed.
Tablet, laptop and notebook in one
The Lenovo Yoga Book is a 2-in-1 tablet and comes with either Android or Windows. You can use it as a notebook, as a tablet or write on it with the included biros and paper pad and the device will recognise your handwriting.
More gift ideas
Philipp Rüegg
Senior Editor
Philipp.Rueegg@digitecgalaxus.chBeing the game and gadget geek that I am, working at digitec and Galaxus makes me feel like a kid in a candy shop – but it does take its toll on my wallet. I enjoy tinkering with my PC in Tim Taylor fashion and talking about games on my podcast http://www.onemorelevel.ch. To satisfy my need for speed, I get on my full suspension mountain bike and set out to find some nice trails. My thirst for culture is quenched by deep conversations over a couple of cold ones at the mostly frustrating games of FC Winterthur.