Searching for a gift for a computer programmer can be tough, however, if you know where to look, there are so many options, from the practical to the weird and wonderful. In this guide, no matter what you budget, we've got 25 great gift ideas for the geek programmer in your life.
25 Awesome Gift Ideas For Computer Programmers
1. Ghost Stand
Many programmers love apple computers and the add-ons that are made for them. This is a great accessory for the Mac-lover on your list. A ghost stand makes a great gift for programmers that spend a lot of time on their MacBook’s.
With this stand, you can elevate your MacBook and it will be much easier to view the screen. The design is amazing. It is functional and beautiful. It is made of transparent polycarbonate. It makes it look like the MacBook is actually floating in the air. It would make a great present this year.
2. Computer Glasses from Gunnar
If you happen to have a programmer on your shopping list, chances are they suffer from eye strain from staring at a computer so much. This can be doubled if they happen to wear glasses. These nifty computer glasses from Gunner might be just what they need.
The glasses are designed to resist up to 65% of the nasty blue light that is produced from electronic devices, such as computers or cell phones. They are lightweight and come with an anti-reflective coating to provide optimum eye protection to those who look at a computer screen for hours. These glasses are sure to make your favorite computer programmer’s life at work a little easier.
3. WD My Passport Wireless
Having a programmer on your shopping list can prove to be difficult sometimes. Most programmers have a lot of data they need to carry on a regular basis. That’s why a my passport wireless external hard drive might be exactly what they need.
This 1 TB external hard drive makes it simple to transfer and store files with a touch of a button. There are no wires needed for data transfer. It transfers the files wirelessly and is capable to connect to 8 separate devices. Best of all an internet connection is not needed to browse over their files. Any programmer would have an appreciation for this gift which will simplify their life.
4. Sennheiser PXC 550 Wireless Headphones
These wireless headphones will be sure to please that programmer in your life. They are so light and comfortable they will barely know they are on. These headphones also allow the wearer to roam around as they listen to their favorite tunes or programs without the worry of being restricted by a cord.
The sound quality of the headphones is amazing and will provide them with at least 30 hours of battery life on a single charge. These headphones also provide NoiseGard noise-canceling technology that will ensure no background sounds will distract them from their work or relaxation. These wireless headphones are the perfect gift for any programmer.
5. Eton BoostTurbine Charger
For the programmer on your list that enjoys life on the go, the BoostTurbine backup battery charger will be sure to surprise them. This handy little charger can actually be powered up by hand, simply turn the hand crank that is on the charger.
The unit includes a LED light that will let them know when the battery charge is full. This battery pack is perfect for taking anywhere, and it is so lightweight the user will barely know they have it with them. Your friend will be able to charge their tablet or phone anywhere, even when there is no electricity. This gift will be sure to power up their lives.
6. Fitbit Fitness Wristband
For those health-conscious programmers in your life, this fitness wristband will be a pleasure to open up. This wristband does it all and is very simple to use. As well as telling time, it is capable of tracking heart rate. It will also help measure how many calories you burn in a day.
It monitors sleep patterns, steps taken, and can even sync to your phone so you can see texts by simply looking at your wrist. Your programmer will even be able to wear the wristband for up to five days before they have to recharge it. For your friends that enjoy living healthy, this will be sure to make their day.
7. Bottle Opener Case
For the programmer in your life that enjoys playing as hard as they work, this handy little bottle opener case will be sure to give them a giggle. This case comes with a slide-out bottle opener, so the programmer will always have a way to open their favorite brew in their time of need.
When needed, simply slide the opener out and return it to the case when finished. The stainless steel is very durable and will be sure to last a while without breaking or getting lost like typical bottle openers. They won’t believe their eyes when they open this up this gift this year.
8. Web development books
For the programmer in training in your life, this JavaScript and JQuery book will be sure to satisfy what they have been craving. This first edition book will provide your friend with all the information they could need to start enhancing programming on their very own.
This guide will be sure to take their website design to a whole new engaging and interactive level. It will be sure to enhance any existing page or new pages they decide they want to create. These simple step-by-step procedures will be sure to lead them in the right direction, and they will be sure to thank you for it.
9. Wand Style Remote Control
Most programmers like to keep up to date on their technology, so it can be hard to buy them something they do not already have. This wand style remote control might make a good addition to their collection. This remote control is gesture-based and is capable of being used on many electronics that use remotes, such as a TV, DVD player, stereo, and more.
It can be programmed with thirteen different command gestures of their choosing. From a clockwise motion changing the channel to a flick upwards to turn up the volume, this innovative remote control would make any programmer happy.
10. Tool Kit
Some programmers out there enjoy building their own computers so they can manipulate the functions of the computer to suit their needs. To do this type of work, it will take precision tools. This 64 bit driver kit might be exactly what they need to get the job done. It features just about any size bit you may need to get the job done.
The lid of the kit is even magnetic which is great for sorting screws. This precision set will enable them to work on other devices as well. This would be a great addition to any programmer's set of tools.
11. Logitech Wireless mouse
Some programmers out there need to work on multiple computers to get their job done. This mobile wireless mouse could be just what they need to make work easier. This mouse can be connected either wirelessly through a USB connection, or it gives the option to connect by Bluetooth.
The mouse can be switched and used on up to three separate MAC or Windows devices. All they need to do is switch the button to choose the device they need at the time. Never again will an extra mouse or two clutter up a programmer's desk, they will be sure to thank you for it.
12. Intel Compute Stick
Any programmer on your list would be happy to get one of these this year. The new Intel Compute Stick is a new innovative way for them to be able to take their work with them anywhere. This small device simply plugs into the TV and provides the user with their own portable computer.
It features a Windows 10 operating system and operates with a quad-core Intel processor, which will enable high data transfer. This handy compute stick is the size of a pack of gum, so it can go with them anywhere. The programmer on your list will be sure to smile once they open this up.
13. Drone
This mini RC Quadcopter Drone is sure to make any programmer smile. They will have hours of fun using this drone. It comes complete with a 1280 x 720 resolution camera that can capture quality video as well as photos. It has full 360-degree maneuvering capability as it flies and hovers.
As they fly their drone they will be able to capture their entire adventure for up to 50 meters. This drone also comes with an extra battery so they will be able to fly it even longer. Your programmer is sure to be happy when they get this.
14. Amazon Echo
The Amazon echo is an amazing new devise offered by Amazon. You can completely automate your home with this one small device. It uses voice recognition software to automate your entire home. You can tell it to play music, have it control your TV, make phone calls, send messages, turn lights and appliances on and off, and many other tasks.
It includes 7 microphones so it can pick up voice commands even while it is playing music. The computer programmer on your list this year will love this handy little device and get lots of enjoyment out of it this year.
15. Curved monitor
This curved monitor is the perfect holiday gift for any programmer. The huge display makes it possible to see every detail on the screen. The 34-inch curved monitor makes images look more stunning and lifelike for the ultimate entertainment experience.
Games are much more immersive with this monitor because it provides a wider field of view than a traditional monitor can provide. It features Flicker-less technology for improved viewing. Two, high quality, built-in speakers really bring this monitor to life. It features an HDMI port and 5 high-speed USB ports as well. It is the ultimate gift for the computer programmer this season.
16. GoPro
The GoPro is a great gift idea for those who love getting outside after being in front of a monitor all day. This wearable camera can go anywhere. It combines one-button simplicity with a waterproof design. With this camera, you can capture smooth stable 4K video with crystal clear audio.
It can be voice-controlled and is equipped with GPS technology. When you are ready to edit the footage the camera automatically uploads the images to the cloud so you can have access to them from any device. Capture and share pro-quality photo and video footage like never before with this great adventure camera.
17. 5 Piece Cartoon USB Drive
Programmers always need jump drives to store and transfer data around. This cute 5 pieces set of superhero shaped jump drives will help your favorite computer programmer stay organized and have fun at the same time.
You get a complete set of superheroes to help you with your work. These great USB thumb drives come in various capacities up to 32GB per drive. They are shockproof and designed to eliminate any electromagnetic interference. With this set, you get Superman, Batman, Spiderman, Captain America, and the Green Lantern. This unique gift is sure to please this holiday season.
18. LEVO Tablet Floor Stand
This is a great gift idea that is suitable for the tech-savvy people in your life. This great LEVO Tablet Stand will hold any tablet in just about any position you may want it in. You can stand, sit, recline or lie down while the five-axis articulating swing arm stand holds your tablet securely for easy viewing.
The stand is on wheels so you can roll it from room to room with you to hold your tablet while you work on another device or it can free up your hands for other projects. This great hands-free stand will get plenty of use whether you are working or relaxing.
19. TrackR Pixel Tracking Device
Programmers are notorious for having lots of electronic devices to keep track of. You can help them keep track of everything with this great 8 pack set of TrackR Pixel tracking devices.
You simply attach one of the trackers to anything you want to keep track of and you can instantly locate it using the TrackR app on your phone. Each Tracker has flashing lights so you can see the item you are looking for more easily.
You can look at a map on your phone and it will show you where all your tracked items are located. Never lose your keys or tablet again with these great tracking devices.
20. 1byone 50-Mile Amplified HDTV antenna
When it is time to relax this greatly amplified antenna is just the thing you need. You will never need to pay a cable or satellite bill again with this powerful home TV antenna system.
It features a 50-mile range and is easy to install. Pick up all your favorite network channels without paying for TV service again. The unit is lightweight and features a slim design so it can fit right behind your TV.
It can even be powered directly from your TV’s USB port. The computer programmer on your list will appreciate this beautiful and functional antenna system this year.
21. LCD mini projector
Give the programmer in your life a present they can use this year. This great LCD mini projector is just the right thing. It is over 50% brighter than most other projectors its size. It has an updated sound system and a quieter fan for enhanced sound quality.
You can even play movies with your cell phone or tablet with the Bluetooth connectivity this device has to offer. You can project images as small as 32” but you can go as large as 176” with this amazing device. It will make a great addition to any home entertainment system.
22. Matter MOD-t 3-D printer
The Matter MOD-t printer is a great option for computer programmers who want to experiment with 3-D printing. This easy to set-up unit is ready to go right out of the box.
It features low maintenance, high reliability, and is wi-fi enabled so you can print from any device. It is a quiet and safe unit and is simple enough the whole family can use it.
It has a clear cover to protect your projects while they print. It is simple and fun to use. If your computer programmer does not already have a 3-D printer then this will be a great gift for them this year.
23. HTC VIVE Virtual Reality System
For a truly immersive virtual reality system, the HTC VIVE is just the solution. This system comes complete with two controllers and a viewer. You can play hundreds of VR games for free from Steam-VR.
Connect with all your friends and play together no matter where you are located. Built-in sound ensures that you feel like you are really in another world. For safe play the system alerts you when you reach the boundaries of your play area and a built-in camera can show you what is happening around you in the real world when you need to use it.
This high-tech gaming system would be great fun for the programmer who wants to relax and play a few games.
24. Heated Shoulder Massager
Leaning over a keyboard all day can cause your neck and shoulder muscles to become stiff and tight. You can help alleviate this problem with the Naipo heated neck massager. This great massager fits around the neck and offers three different vibrating speeds.
It also includes 8 shiatsu deep-kneading massage nodes to help relax those tight shoulder and neck muscles.
A built-in warming unit features an automatic shut-off after 20 minutes. The intensity is adjustable and it is an ideal gift for anyone who needs to be hunched over the computer all day. The computer programmer on your list is sure to love this present this year.
25. MocDoo webcam cover
Never worry about protecting your privacy again with one of these handy webcam covers. They will fit on any device that has a flat webcam. The magnetic slide easily allows you to cover and uncover your webcam when you want to use it but protects your privacy when you do not want prying eyes looking at you.
It is easily installed with an adhesive strip and can just as easily be removed with no residue. It will not scratch or damage the finish on your computer. Help the computer programmer in your life protect their privacy with this handy little invention.