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2022-07-16 00:59:25 By : Ms. Anna Lan

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Awesome tech doesn't need to be expensive. If you're looking for a gadget for Father's Day but you're on a tight budget, we've got you covered. Whether dad is looking for something that makes the work-from-home life easier or enhances his leisure time, we have recommendations for useful and fun tech gifts — all under $100.

Echo Dot (4th Generation), available at Amazon, $29.99

Amazon's latest Echo Dot smart speaker with Alexa is now shaped like an orb for better spatial audio. It also supports Alexa Guard, a smart security upgrade that uses the microphone to detect unexpected sounds and send alerts to the Alexa phone app.

Amazon Kindle + 3 months of Kindle Unlimited, available at Amazon, $59.99

The Amazon Kindle is the perfect gift for voracious readers, thanks to a vast library of digital books. This entry-level model is compact like its predecessor but now has a front-lit display that makes it easier to read. Even better: The Kindle has a battery that can last for weeks before it needs recharging.

Read our full Amazon Kindle review here.

Nintendo Game & Watch Mario, available at Amazon, $43.99

Inspired by the Nintendo Game & Watch portable gaming devices of the 1980s, this modern reboot lets you play three versions of the Super Mario Bros. and doubles as a quirky desk clock.

Apple AirTag, available at Apple, Best Buy, and Amazon, from $29

Samsung Galaxy Smart Tags, available at Samsung, Amazon, Best Buy, from $23.99 

For the dad who's always losing things, a Bluetooth tracker will be a godsend. Attach this small, battery-powered device to anything that's prone to go missing — like keys, for example — and you can use your phone to find it, should you need to locate it.

Read our full Apple AirTag review, and learn more about Samsung SmartTag.

Jabra Elite 3 wireless earbuds, available at Amazon and Best Buy, from $59.99

While Jabra's Elite 3 true wireless earbuds lack features, they get the basics right. The audio quality is terrific, especially for their sub-$100 price tag. With support for iPhone and Android, they'll be compatible with dad's phone no matter the brand.

Amazon Fire HD 8, available at Amazon, $49.99

If dad wants a decent tablet for watching videos, playing basic games, and reading ebooks, consider the Amazon Fire HD 8. Navigating through the menus is intuitive, and you can even use Alexa voice assistant. This compact tablet has dual high-definition cameras, a 12-hour battery life, and support for downloadable apps like Netflix .

Read our full Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus review.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K+, available at Amazon, $68.98

Roku sells various streaming devices but we like this model for its 4K resolution with HDR contrast support for sharper pictures and deeper blacks. The remote includes voice search, which makes finding stuff to watch that much easier. 

Read our Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ review.

Belkin Wemo Mini Smart Outlet Plug, available at Target and Amazon, from $24.49

Think of a smart plug as the modern-day Clapper: Instead of clapping your hands, you can turn lights on and off by using a voice assistant or phone. There are many smart plugs on the market but the Belkin WeMo Mini is compatible with all smart assistants.

Logitech MX Master 3, available at Amazon, $99.99

Logitech's MX Master 3 is our top-rated computer mouse. The Logitech MX series offers some of the best computer mice out there, and this model has long battery life and an ergonomic shape for comfort.

Read more about the Logitech MX Master 3 in our best computer mouse buying guide.

Logitech MX Keys, available at Amazon and Best Buy, starting at $119.99

Logitech MX Keys Mini, available at Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H, $99.99

The Logitech MX Keys is our highest recommended keyboard, perfect for work-from-home dads. This Bluetooth keyboard is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers and it has a battery that lasts up to five months (depending on the settings). If dad would prefer a compact keyboard, consider the smaller MX Keys Mini.

Read more about the Logitech MX Keys in our best keyboards buying guide.

PopSocket Black Phone Grip, available at Amazon, $9.97

The PopSocket is one of the best phone accessories. It provides a good grip and it doubles as a table stand. There's also an optional dashboard mount for use in a car. Be sure to get one with MagSafe instead of adhesive if dad uses an iPhone 12 or later

Craftsman Max 4V Cordless Screwdriver, available at Ace Hardware, $49.99

For home or electronics repairs, this Craftsman cordless tool ensures dad won't get screwed. This model includes 10 bits that cover the majority of screw heads.

Moshi Otto Q, available at Andorama and B&H, $44.95

The Moshi Otto Q is one of the best wireless chargers we've used, thanks to its classy design, anti-slip surface, and support for high-speed wireless charging at up to 10 watts.

Read more about the Moshi Otto Q in our best wireless chargers buying guide.

Xbox Wireless Game Controller, available at Microsoft, $49.99 

Microsoft's quality-made, wireless Xbox controller is the best match for the Xbox Game Pass streaming service. Regardless of dad's gaming tastes, there is plenty to keep his thumbs busy when you include a subscription to Game Pass, starting at $14.99 a month on Xbox, PC, and mobile devices.

Fitbit Inspire 2, available at Best Buy, $79.95

If dad is focusing on health and fitness, a wearable fitness tracker could be useful. The Fitbit Inspire 2 delivers all the key features you would want: 24/7 heart rate monitoring, tracking for steps, sleep, and workouts, and more. The Inspire 2 also comes with a 365-day free trial of the Fitbit Premium service for even more features.

Read more about the Fitbit Inspire 2 in our best Fitbit buying guide.

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