Gifts for IT professionals: 12 Christmas picks for the tech-savvy

When shopping for someone in IT, it’s all about finding a balance between creativity, practicality, and a bit of fun.

We've gathered 12 options, just like the 12 Days of Christmas! Our very own techy twist on the classic song. Let's say, “On the first day of gifting, my true love gave to me… a gadget that keeps my coffee warm!”

Are you looking for a thoughtful gift that celebrates your loved one's passion for technology? This selection ranges from innovative gadgets that boost productivity to unique items that ignite creativity.

Here are our top recommendations for the holidays. (Stay until the end for a fun bonus!)

1. Reusable notebook

For the tech enthusiast who’s always jotting down ideas, the Rocketbook combines traditional note-taking with digital convenience. Its reusable pages can be wiped clean, and notes are easily uploaded to the cloud. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and perfect for brainstorming or meeting notes.

2. Laptop desk with cooling fans

We recommend this stylish bamboo laptop desk with built-in cooling fans for anyone who spends hours on their laptop. It’s portable, sleek, and functional—keeping devices cool and laps comfortable. It even includes a little drawer to store earbuds, pens, and other office essentials.

Do you know someone who's a fan of coding on the couch? Maybe you see them often working from bed. This desk makes it easier to stay comfortable!

3. A desk lamp + video conference light

The Nova Desk Lamp by Humanscale is a gift that combines elegance with functionality. This versatile lamp shines as both a task light and a high-performance video call light (the perfect addition to remote workers' setup!).

With a simple sliding motion, you can easily dim the light to your preferred brightness. Plus, it has a smart sensor that turns off the lamp when no one is around, saving energy. Awarded for its beautiful design, the Nova Desk Lamp is a thoughtful addition to any workspace, making it an excellent choice for tech lovers and professionals alike!

4. Noise-canceling headphones

Ask any IT professional about their most essential gear, and noise-canceling earphones will likely top the list. They’re indispensable for focus, especially in noisy environments or during intense coding sessions.

Popular models like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, Sony WF-1000XM5, Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2, and Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 are solid choices that balance comfort, performance, and style.

5. Smartphone-controlled paper plane 

The Power-Up smart paper plane is a nostalgic gift that blends the simplicity of crafting paper planes with modern technology. Controlled by a smartphone, it has adjustable flight controls and a range of up to 180 feet. It’s perfect for adults who want to relive childhood memories or share the joy with their kids.

So, why not give this playful and innovative gift a chance? It can make for great bonding time.

6. Arduino: The Ultimate DIY Platform

If the paper plane kit sparked your interest, we have another option. This time, for the next-level hobbyist, we recommend Arduino. 

It's an open-source electronics platform that is like the Swiss Army knife for tech enthusiasts. It combines hardware and software, allowing users to create everything from LED blinkers to robots or even smart home devices. The included Arduino IDE makes programming accessible, making this a must-have for aspiring inventors or anyone eager to tinker.

7. Techy posters

For the techie with an artistic side (or an empty wall!), the posters by theCode are a unique find. Created by software engineer Tomek Skupinski and his wife, they feature themes like Morse code, binary, and computer science.

They’re a great way to add personality to a home or office space while celebrating a love for technology.

8. A book of encrypted logic puzzles

If your loved one enjoys cracking crosswords, riddles, or even deciphering secret codes, they’ll love this book. The Master Theorem is packed with engaging puzzles that challenge the mind and satisfy curiosity. It’s an excellent break from screen time while still scratching that intellectual itch.

9. Smart heating mug

For the coder who forgets their coffee until it’s cold, a USB-powered heating mug is a lifesaver. It keeps beverages warm through the longest coding sessions. It’s practical, thoughtful, and sure to become their desk companion.

You can set your desired temperature, ensuring that your coffee stays just right, whether you like it piping hot or slightly warm. No more lukewarm sips that taste like disappointment!

10. Long-distance friendship lamp

A thoughtful way to stay connected, these Wi-Fi-enabled lamps light up with just a touch. Send a color to let your loved one know you’re thinking of them. It’s perfect for remote workers or anyone with friends and family far away, adding a personal and interactive twist to staying in touch.

11. Magnetic fidget pen

A pen that doubles as a fidget toy? Absolutely. With magnetic parts that can be reconfigured into various shapes, it’s great for brainstorming sessions or taking a quick mental break. Practical and fun, it’s a small but versatile gift.

12. Acrylic dry-erase board with light

Swap sticky notes for a modern upgrade. This LED-illuminated dry-erase board is a fun, reusable way to jot down reminders or sketch out ideas. It’s practical and eye-catching—perfect for anyone who loves desk gadgets. You can find it clear and with monthly or weekly organizers.

Bonus: A rubber duck (Yes, really!)

This quirky gift might seem odd, but it’s a cult favorite among software engineers. “Rubber ducking” is a popular problem-solving technique where explaining an issue to a rubber duck helps uncover the solution.

It’s fun, lighthearted, and surprisingly helpful. You can even find personalized rubber ducks to make it extra special. It can make a great stocking-filler!

A gift they’ll truly appreciate

If you made it this far, you're definitely a perfectionist who's looking for the perfect gift. We hope that, with this list, you find something thoughtful and memorable.

IT professionals often value gifts that reflect their passions or make their work and hobbies more enjoyable. Whether it’s a practical tool, a fun project, or something that brings a personal touch, these ideas are all about celebrating the unique joy of being a tech enthusiast.

Happy gifting!