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11 Great Father's Day Gifts

With gadgets costing $40 to $350, there's something for every dad

By Gary Kaye

(This article previously appeared on Tech50Plus.com.)

Maybe your dad plays golf. Maybe he is a weather watcher. Maybe he is trying to get in shape. Maybe he likes to rock out. Whatever he likes, one of these gadgets — ranging in price from $40 to $350 — just might be the right Father's Day gift for him.

 

11 Great Father's Day Gifts

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1. GPS Golf Watch

This multi-tasking watch can function as Dad’s everyday watch as well as his golfing companion. It combines elegant watchband design with high-resolution display and activity tracking. The AutoShot round analyzer measures and auto-records shot distances. The Approach 20 pairs with Garmin’s TruSwing sensor for metrics to improve Dad’s swing consistency.

The CourseView feature automatically updates frequently played courses for free. And it also lets Dad receive smart notifications for incoming calls, texts and other alerts. It comes preloaded with more than 40,000 courses around the world — plus automatic map updates and daily activity tracking. The Garmin Approach S20 is available at Amazon.com for $209.99.

2. Universal Remote Control

If Dad’s coffee table is strewn with remote controls, he’s going to enjoy having just one that will take control of almost everything. The Logitech Harmony Elite works with 270,000 different devices including televisions, Blu-ray disc players, connected thermostats, Roku boxes, Apple TV and a lot more. He can control several devices at once by grouping them by activity, such as “Watch a movie.” There’s also an app for iOS and Android that will let him adjust his devices using a smartphone from anywhere in the world. Price at Amazon.com is $294.

3. Connected Thermostat

This Wi-Fi-connected thermostat uses a smartphone app that tells the thermostat when Dad’s away from home so it can save energy. The app also lets the system know when Dad is heading home so it can make the house comfortable. The same app can also control other Honeywell products such as lighting. If Dad’s not into DIY, be sure to offer a helping hand for the installation, which will take a little time and patience. Available from Honeywell for $249.

4. Connected Garage Door Opener

Does Dad sometimes leave the garage door open by mistake? This device runs with an app on his iOS or Android smartphone and will let him open or close the garage door from almost anywhere in the world, as long as it’s hooked up to his home network via Wi-Fi. It’s a breeze to install next to his existing garage door opener. The system comes with a Wi-Fi Hub, a door sensor, mounting bracket and power cord. There are no monthly fees. It’s available from Amazon.com for about $90.

5. Photo Scanner

This scanner will let Dad save his favorite photographs and share them with the rest of the family. It creates high-quality scans of photos, 33mm film and more and can send images straight to the cloud, email or make a copy with the touch of a button. It also features photo restoration to bring faded family photos back to life. Digitizing photos has never been easier. Available for $100 on Amazon.com.

6. Big Button Phone With Emergency Services

Thoughtfully designed for no-hassle daily use, the Jitterbug Flip takes simplicity to the next level with features like big buttons, simple “Yes” and “No” navigation, a backlit keypad and a powerful speaker for clear conversations. A convenient built-in camera makes it easy to capture and share every special moment and holds as many as a thousand photos. From the large buttons to the easy-to-use interface, the Jitterbug Flip was engineered for those who prefer simple gadgets. Plans as low as $15 per month. Available for $100 from Amazon.com.

7. Wireless Speaker System

This speaker system uses two state-of-the-art digital amplifiers to deliver great sound to any room. The wireless music system provides pure, clean sound that is perfect for bringing room-filling music to a kitchen, bedroom, office or anywhere else. Dad will be able to access more than 100,000 free radio stations, shows, podcasts and more without having to connect to a computer. The system also works seamlessly with Apple Music, Pandora, Spotify and a host of other streaming services. Available for $200 from Sonos.

8. Weather Station

If your dad likes to watch the weather, this device is sure to be a hit. The weather station’s main console displays a wide range of information in an easy-to-read format on a large LCD. The attractively thin console can be placed on a desktop or mounted to a wall.

The handy forecast icons will let Dad know at a glance if it’s going to be rainy, cloudy or sunny based on barometric pressure trends. Plus, a wireless sensor installs just about anywhere to report on conditions in the greenhouse, garage, wine cellar or any other place where controlling temperature and humidity levels is crucial. Available for $43 on Amazon.com.

9. Big Screen Automotive GPS

This dashboard system has everything you’d expect from a GPS and more. Dad will receive alerts for upcoming sharp curves, speed changes, school zones, a fatigue warning, nearby red light and speed cameras and more. Dedicated GPS navigators display current street, current speed, speed limit and arrival time.

Garmin’s system gives directions like a friend, using recognizable landmarks, buildings and traffic lights. And Bluetooth calling and voice-activated navigation will allow dad’s hands to remain safely on the wheel as he navigates and makes or receives calls. Available for $350 on Amazon.com.

10. High-Resolution Earbuds

These high-resolution in-ear headphones put those dinky earbuds that come with your phone to shame. They are compatible with all kinds of devices and are designed with comfort in mind for prolonged listening. They feature a universal remote for controlling music and phone calls and come with a full kit of accessories, including a carrying case, extra tips and an aircraft adapter. Available for $150 on Amazon.com.

11. Noise Canceling Headphones

This is a great set of wireless headphones for the Dad who want to listen to his favorite music in comfort without disturbing anyone else. These aluminum-housed phones are more substantial than earbuds and lighter than other ear-covering phones. NFC or Bluetooth pairing. Available for $200 at Amazon.com.

 
 

 

Gary KayeM. Kaye is the Founder and Chief Content Officer of Tech50+, a website focusing on the nexus of technology and the 50+ market. He is an award winning journalist who has been covering hi tech for 35 years at news outlets such as NBC News, ABC News, CNN, Fox Business Network and others. Read More
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