10 Christmas gifts for tech guys who code, game, and create

After more than five years working in both hardware and software, I’ve received plenty of gifts that made me feel seen—whether for work or hobbies. I spend 260 days a year covering technology, so getting something for Christmas that shows thought and care feels invigorating. However, the world of Christmas gifts for tech guys can get huge, and it’s easy to drown in endless options. I want to cut through the noise and share 10 awesome gift ideas for the tech guy in your life.

1. For video and photo editors: Apple MacBook Air (15-inch, M4)

Apple MacBook Air (15-inch, M4)

The Apple MacBook Air (15-inch, M4, 2025) hits the sweet spot for photographers and videographers who don’t need extreme processing power. With Apple’s latest M-series chip, it delivers impressive performance that rivals the MacBook Pro—without overkill.

2. For computer programmers: BenQ RD280U

Late-night debugging can wear out your eyes and sap focus. BenQ ran a study on their RD series monitors and discovered that 60% of programmers found the coding modes gentle on the eyes. The study participants enjoyed the Light theme’s warm yellow tones for comfortable viewing. Another 40% said that pairing Night Hours Protection with the Light theme hit the right brightness and improved their overall coding experience.

The BenQ RD280U 28.2-inch is among a few high-resolution monitors with a 3:2 aspect ratio. It excels at serious work—programming, media editing, and multitrack production all smoothly.

3. For computer programmers: Keychron V3 Max

With the Keychron V3 Max, you get both smooth typing and a bunch of features—RGB, hot-swap switches, wireless mode, programmability, and a fun knob. Developers will appreciate the browser-based configurator. It makes remapping keys, customizing the knob, recording macros, adjusting RGB lighting, and updating firmware simple and fast.

4. For data scientists: Herman Miller Aeron Chair

Herman Miller Aeron Chair

The other day, I came across a LinkedIn post where data scientists discussed their favorite Christmas gift ideas. One lesson stood out: long stretches at a desk call for proper comfort. An ergonomic chair benefits anyone who sits for hours, not just data gurus (so feel free to consider my recommendation for other tech professionals, too). With the Herman Miller Aeron Chair, you get strong build quality and an adjustable design. Its mesh seat and back allow airflow, keeping you cool during long work sessions.

For self-proclaimed sports data analysts, the Oakley Meta Vanguard makes every workout smarter. It syncs with Strava or compatible devices like Garmin, while Meta AI overlays stats on their visuals to track progress. Thanks to the 12 MP ultrawide camera, they can capture every move in crisp 3K and relive or share their best moments.

6. For space enthusiasts: Celestron Origin Mark II

A thoughtful gift for a space enthusiast could be the Celestron Origin Mark II, an all-in-one telescope that delivers stunning views of the cosmos to a device. The images often beat what you’d see through a large telescope under dark skies. For a smaller splurge, ZWO’s Seestar S50 All-in-One Smart Telescope (5% OFF at $549) delivers impressive nebula and galaxy photos in a portable, easy-to-use package.

7. For audiophiles: Apple AirPods Pro 3

The AirPods Pro 3 improves a classic with better noise cancellation. My brother in France experienced the ANC first-hand during a windy walk in the woods, and I could hear the difference on our Instagram call. With ANC on, the background noise disappeared for both of us, making our conversation crisp and clear—so now he always turns it on before calling me.

8. For audiophiles: SnowSky/FiiO Echo MINI HiFi Bluetooth MP3 Player

SnowSky/FiiO Echo MINI HiFi Bluetooth MP3 Player

An MP3 player in 2025? Here’s the idea. Some of my music never appears on Spotify. I avoid subscriptions and keep full control when I hit shuffle on the SnowSky/FiiO Echo MINI HiFi Bluetooth MP3 Player. The experience feels simple and intentional.

You may not know SnowSky, but FiiO may ring a bell. FiiO ranks among the big names in portable digital audio, and SnowSky builds on that foundation.

The Echo MINI follows a clean design. The interface feels clear and easy to learn. Physical buttons sit on top and control playback. The settings menu offers a small range of EQ presets and sound filters for quick sound tuning.

9. For techies who often misplace their wallet: Nomad Tracking Card Air

I’m the type of guy who relies on Apple Pay so much that my wallet often slips my mind. For the times I need it, the Nomad Tracking Card Air offers peace of mind. It’s tiny, fits two-card thickness, supports Apple Find My, and lasts up to five months per charge.

10. For gamers: Sony PlayStation 5 Slim

Hmmm, if the tech guy you’re buying for likes gaming, a console is a safe bet. The Sony PlayStation 5 Slim plays PS5 and PS4 discs and doubles as a UHD Blu-ray player. Its exclusive games give it an edge over Xbox and make it a gift any gamer will appreciate.

Before you go

I wouldn’t want anyone to fixate on finding the perfect Christmas gifts for tech guys. A keyboard, game console, or wallet tracker can show care, but experiences can show just as much affection. Think hot air balloon rides or art workshops. The real win comes from striking the right balance, at least in my view.

Grigor Baklajyan is a copywriter covering technology at Gadget Flow. His contributions include product reviews, buying guides, how-to articles, and more.