tech gifts – Live Laugh Love Do

Amazing holiday phone deals from Mint Mobile

admin — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:26:37 +0000

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Alright moms, let’s talk holiday gifting and budgets — two things that love to fight each other this time of year. Because if you’re anything like the rest of us, you want to put truly good gifts under the tree… but you also want to avoid that January “what have I done?” bank-statement panic.

This is exactly why the device deals over at Mint Mobile are worth a serious look right now. Yes, Mint Mobile is known for affordable phone plans (Ryan Reynolds jokes included), but their holiday device promos are honestly where the magic is this season. You can snag high-quality phones — the real brands your family already wants — at prices that don’t feel like a trap or a gimmick.

Here’s the thing: most of us moms don’t want to “deal hunt” just to end up buying cheap tech that starts glitching before Valentine’s Day. You know the kind — looks like a steal, but turns into a regret. No thank you. If you’re spending money, you want reliability, longevity, and something that won’t turn into another problem to solve.

That’s why Mint Mobile’s device discounts are such a win: the savings are real, but the products are legit. You’re getting quality phones, not random off-brand hardware that leaves your kid saying, “It’s fine, really,” while you can practically hear the disappointment in their voice. Mint Mobile offers recognizable, reputable devices like the newest Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, Samsung Galaxy S25 or iPhone 17 Pro Max — the kind with great cameras, fast processors, solid battery life, and none of the “why won’t this thing load?” drama. And for the first time ever, Mint Mobile is offering an additional $200 trade-in discount for qualifying devices. Here are the current deals:

GET $650+ OFF THE SAMSUNG GALAXY S25 FAMILY
- For a limited time, new customers save $450 instantly on the entire Samsung Galaxy S25 lineup with a 12-month Unlimited plan. Get another $200+ off with eligible trade in.
SAVE $700 ON THE NEW PIXEL 10 PRO XL
- For a limited time, new customers save $700 instantly on the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL with a 12-month Unlimited plan. Get another $200+ off with eligible trade in.
GET UP TO $400 OFF ON THE APPLE iPHONE 17 PRO and PRO MAX
- For a limited time, new customers save $200 instantly on the Apple iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max with a 12-month Unlimited plan. Get another $200+ off with eligible trade in.

Pairing a device with a Mint Mobile plan means you’re also saving long-term. Their service is famously budget-friendly, so you’re not only giving a great device now — you’re setting up your family (or yourself!) with lower monthly bills. That’s the kind of gift that keeps giving long after the wrapping paper is thrown out.

Think about it:

Teens get a phone that can handle their endless photos, videos, school apps, and whatever new thing they’re using this week.
You get a phone dependable enough to manage schedules, grocery lists, work emails, school portals, and 47 group chats.
Partners get something sleek, functional, and durable without you blowing the entire holiday budget.

And because Mint Mobile lets you pick the device outright — without hidden fees, confusing lease terms, or that sickening “surprise” bill later — the whole experience feels refreshingly simple. You know exactly what you’re paying for, and you get exactly what you expect. Imagine that.

So if you’re trying to give big, useful, very appreciated gifts this holiday season (and stay well within your budget), Mint Mobile’s device deals are absolutely worth browsing. Great price, great quality, no holiday financial hangover.

And honestly? That’s the kind of grown-up holiday win we love.

We may earn a small commission when you shop through our links, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work!

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The Best Tech Gifts for Father’s Day 2025

admin — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 03:06:14 +0000

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Getting a gift for Father’s Day (reminder: it’s Sunday, June 15) is no easy task. What more could the dad in your life need other than your unconditional love? Turns out, physical gifts—preferably something useful or entertaining—are exactly what he needs to escape the hellscape that is our current timeline. Like we did for Mother’s Day, we’ve curated a selection of the finest tech to get your favorite dad. With options for budgets under $100, under $300, under $500, and over $500, we’re sure pops will like something from this list.

Gifts Under $100

Anker 6-Foot USB-C Cable ($10)

Nothing screams “man of the house” like a 6-foot USB-C cable that can probably reach any outlet from the couch. For $10, you get two of ’em. Gotta keep the phone charged up when the commercials on the big screen hit.

8BitDo USB Wireless Adapter 2 ($20)

It’ll feel wrong at first to use a PS5 controller to play Xbox and vice versa, but it beats buying a completely new gamepad when you can just pair existing ones to your consoles using this USB dongle. The 8BitDo USB Wireless Adapter 2 even works with Switch, so dad can play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with a PS5 or Xbox controller.

Apple in China: The Capture of the World’s Greatest Company ($30)

Whether dad loves Apple or hates it, the company’s sheer scale producing devices like the iPhone and iPad unexpectedly gave birth to China’s technology scene and helped give rise to its largest Asian competitors such as Xiaomi and Huawei. Apple in China is a fascinating dive into how Apple’s growth has made the world go round.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 ($50)

It’s the talk of the gaming scene for good reason. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 offers a feast for the eyes and ears, and a wonderful story wrapped in gameplay that feels new while scratching the itch of any dad still nostalgic for early Final Fantasy titles.

Arcs ($60)

Leder Games’ Arcs is the kind of board game that does so much in such a small space. It’s a trick-taking conquest game about gaining space supremacy in the vein of 4X games on PC. If you want to make it extra spicy, also buy the Blighted Reach expansion to connect multiple games into epic, multi-session storylines.

Anbernic 34XXSP ($67)

Anbernic’s latest Game Boy Advance SP mimic is the kind of device that will put a smile on the face of any dad who grew up with a Game Boy in tow. The 34XXSP is powerful enough to play most games from early handhelds, and even a select few games from the N64 or Dreamcast era.

SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence ($70)

SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Life is one of those games that will get both the space-loving and mechanics-minded dads excited to sit at the table with you. It’s a game that will run for several hours, but it ends with such an epic climax that everyone will be jonesing for another round anyway.

Xbox Design Lab Controller ($80)

That skin oil-worn controller he’s using to play Xbox may work just fine, but that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t love an upgrade. Microsoft’s Design Lab is full of unique customization options—from colors to patterns to grips and more.

YouTube TV ($82/mo.)

If your dad is among the sports-inclined, then you may want to hook him up with a subscription to YouTube TV. It’s not cheap, but it does come with all the networks he’d need to stream any sport he wants, including ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, and TNT.

Gifts Under $300

Backbone One ($100)

A quality mobile controller may be the perfect gift if he has ever complained about aching thumbs while trying to play a game on a phone. Our current choice remains the Backbone One, but if you want to spend more, the Backbone Pro is a good upgrade with tighter controls.

Govee Gaming Pixel Light ($120)

Your dad deserves to jazz up his decor beyond bland paintings you can find at a thrift shop. The Govee Gaming Pixel Light lets the man in your life add his favorite 8-bit art (32×32 pixels) to his wall.

Razer Pro Click V2 Vertical Edition ($120)

Logitech’s Lift is the go-to for vertical mice, but if your dad wants one for gaming, Razer’s Pro Click V2 Vertical is the only way to go. Not only does it come with a more ergonomic design, but it also has more programmable buttons, faster polling rates for gaming, and RGB—gotta have RGB for dad to prove he’s a real gamer.

Nothing Ear ($130)

There are a lot of wireless earbuds out there, but not everyone (dads included) is okay with defaulting to AirPods. Nothing’s Ear, with its ceramic drivers, is fantastic for a dad who needs great audio with a style that’s just a little bit different than most.

Klipsch One Plus Premium ($170)

Without making any assumptions about your dad, there’s a chance that he may appreciate tech that’s a little more analog. Klipsch’s Bluetooth speaker brings great sound but also a slick mid-century design with knobs to boot—a design that combines modern tech with a vintage look.

Lego Mario Kart ($170)

What better way to spend time with a dad than over a Lego set? Even better is when that Lego set is a giant Mario riding a go-kart. “It’s-a-me-Mario!” voice not included.

Shun Classic Chef Knife ($170)

This isn’t the most high-tech product on this list, but it may be among the most practical. We can say with conviction that dad will never struggle with carving a bird ever again if you give the gift of Japanese steel.

Polaroid Flip ($200)

The Polaroid Flip is all nostalgia wrapped in a retro veneer, and it’s now one of the better ways to take full-size instant photos at home. The camera is a hefty device, so dad may feel like a big, strong man lugging it around.

Flipper Zero ($200)

The hardware-hacking dad in your life interested in his next DIY project would be absolutely thrilled to have the Flipper Zero. It’s a signal multitool that can connect with various RFID and other radio protocols, plus the GPIO pins and custom firmware can be used to create a whole host of interesting use cases.

Boox Palma ($246)

Kindles and Kobo e-readers are great for reading ebooks, but they don’t fit into pockets. The Boox Palma is exactly the solution—a phone-sized e-reader that runs Android apps (though using it for anything more than ebooks is slow AF) that dad can actually grip with one hand.

Meater Pro XL ($280)

Grill dads who don’t want to stand by the open flame constantly for every cookout will appreciate the Meater Pro XL. The device’s four smart meat probes will let him monitor the temperatures and finish times for multiple meals through a single app, which means no more sprinting back and forth between oven and grill.

Gifts Under $500

Meta Quest 3S ($300)

Has your dad ever expressed any interest in VR, or even doing some at-home workouts? Set him up with the Quest 3S, and he won’t need anything more.

Philips Hue Play Sync Box ($334)

If your dad needs an upgrade to his entertainment system, Philips’ Hue Play Sync Box has him covered. This tiny box can coordinate the lighting of a movie with Hue smart lights and syncs TV content at 8K 60Hz and 4K 120Hz for a unique home theater experience.

Google Pixel Watch 3 ($350)

Everyone has an Apple Watch. Let dad feel different with the Google Pixel Watch. It tracks almost everything an Apple Watch does, including health and fitness, and the battery life is excellent. The only caveat is that it works with Android phones, not iPhones.

Meta Ray-Bans ($350)

Smart glasses might seem like an overboard gift if dad isn’t tech-inclined, but Meta’s Ray-Bans might be the right ratio of tech-to-style goodness. They have a classic look and are surprisingly nice for Bluetooth audio.

Breville Paradice 9 ($395)

Don’t fault dad if his knife skills are subpar. Fortunately, a high-powered food processor like the Breville Paradice 9 can slice and dice just about any ingredient more evenly and faster. Technology saves time! Who’d have thunk it?

Sony WH-1000XM8 ($448)

Whether it’s blocking out a crying baby or angsty teenager, Sony’s latest WH-1000XM6 over-ear headphones deliver best-in-class active noise cancellation. Bonus points: they fold up neatly and come with a case that doesn’t look like a bra (looking at you AirPods Max Smart Case).

Gifts Over $500

Xreal One ($500)

Maybe some lucky dads will get a $3,500 Apple Vision Pro for Father’s Day, but if all dad needs is a pair of video glasses for watching Netflix and YouTube, Xreal’s One is more than good enough and stupid easy to setup (just plug it into any device that supports USB-C video out). They’re barely larger than a pair of sunglasses, the 1080p video is super sharp, and the screens even dim for a see-through effect.

reMarkable Paper Pro ($680)

If you’re gonna get dad an e-reader and can splurge for the very best, the reMarkable Paper Pro is the one to get. It’s got a color E Ink screen that’s great for reading comics, supports a stylus for notetaking, and you can even get a keyboard folio case for it.

Unagi Model One Voyager ($990)

Fixed-gear bikes are so passé. Give the gift of electric mobility with Unagi’s One Voyager scooter, which combines solid speed and range with an easy one-click folding design.

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Father’s Day gift guide for modern dads: Cool, useful picks

admin — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 07:06:22 +0000

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Modern fatherhood doesn’t look like it used to. Maybe he’s changing diapers with one hand and firing off Slack messages with the other. Maybe he’s the default parent at daycare pickup. Or maybe he’s just discovered how to connect his espresso machine to Alexa. We see you, modern dad.

This is the guide for him.

Whether he’s a wellness geek, a tech tinkerer, a minimalist dresser, or a total homebody (with the perfect wireless headphones), these gifts are smart, thoughtful, and built for the kind of guy who doesn’t need another grilling apron.

Oh — and if your guy is more analog than app-based, check out our Father’s Day Gift Guide (Part 1: Classic Dads) for all those timeless picks he’ll love.

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the small team behind Cool Mom Picks.

Grooming & Wellness

Modern dads aren’t waiting for permission to take care of themselves. They’re reading ingredient labels, learning the difference between hydration and moisture, and yes — even admitting they like a little pampering. This isn’t about vanity. It’s about showing up as your best self, even if your best self still gets toddler spit-up on your shirt.

From skincare that works without a 12-step routine to wellness boosters that take the edge off a chaotic week, these gifts support his version of self-care. Practical, low-maintenance, and secretly indulgent.

Harry’s Head to Toe Cleansers

A clean start for literally everything above your shoes. This trio from Harry’s includes their signature sudsy body wash, a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner that simplifies the morning rush, and a gentle exfoliating face wash that doesn’t leave skin tight or dry. It’s the complete clean without overcomplicating anything.
Grab the Head to Toe Cleansers from Harry’s

Harry’s Original 8 Blades + 1 Gel

A solid gift for dads who don’t want to mess with subscriptions — but do want a great shave. This set includes eight of Harry’s German-engineered blades and one aloe-packed shave gel that smells great and smooths skin. It’s the kind of gift that quietly makes mornings better.
Pick up the Original 8 Blades + 1 Gel from Harry’s

Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub

It’s exfoliating. It smells amazing. And it might just turn his Sunday shower into a full-blown self-care moment. If he’s skeptical, let the before-and-after skin speak for itself.
Grab it at Frank Body

Frank Body Hair Duo

The modern dad shampoo/conditioner combo that doesn’t try too hard — but still looks and smells good. It’s vegan, effective, and made to simplify his shower shelf.
Get it from Frank Body

Moon Juice Magnesi-Om

Stress management, but make it delicious. This magnesium powder supports relaxation and sleep, and comes in a berry flavor that actually tastes good. Perfect for dads trying to calm their nervous systems between meetings.
Add to cart at Moon Juice

Moon Juice Ting

This B12 energy powder gives him a clean boost without the crash. Stir it into water for an easy, jitter-free pick-me-up — especially helpful for new dads running on fumes.
Fuel him up at Moon Juice

Ritual Synbiotic+

A daily 3-in-1 probiotic that takes gut health seriously. If he’s tracking steps and watching his macros, this is a sleek addition to the lineup.
Try it from Ritual

Derma E Daily Detox Scrub

Pollution, sweat, sunscreen — modern life throws a lot at skin. This gentle exfoliator keeps his face clean without over-drying, and it’s packed with good-for-you ingredients.
Refresh his routine at Derma E

Tech & Home

For the dad who’s always setting up the Wi-Fi, syncing the Bluetooth, and troubleshooting everyone’s apps — this section is for him. Whether he’s already living in a smart home ecosystem or just loves a great gadget, these gifts make everyday life smoother and a little more fun.

We’re talking tools he’ll use, not tech clutter that ends up in a drawer. These are smart solutions for modern routines, from sleep upgrades to sleek devices that actually simplify his day.

The Abode Security Kit

If he’s even a little handy, he can set this up in an afternoon. It’s a full-featured, customizable smart security system with no confusing contracts. Peace of mind, without the hassle. We’ve investigated it before, and shared our findings here if you’re curious.
Secure it from Abode

Eight Sleep Pod 5 Core Mattress Cover

This isn’t just a mattress topper. It’s smart temperature tech that transforms sleep quality — perfect for dads who are hot sleepers, data geeks, or both.
Upgrade his sleep at Eight Sleep

Eight Sleep Carbon Air Pillow

Supportive, breathable, and temperature-neutral — this pillow feels fancy without the fluff. A smart sleep upgrade for the guy who’s tired of flipping his pillow all night.
Check it out at Eight Sleep

Mint Mobile 3-Month Plan

Modern dads love a good deal, and Mint’s prepaid wireless plans offer premium coverage without the sticker shock. Whether he’s switching for himself or gifting it to a college kid, it’s a win.
Get started at Mint Mobile

Echo Show 5

Music, weather, alarms, video calls — all in one sleek smart display. It’s the kind of gadget he’ll use daily, whether in the kitchen or on his desk.
Find it at Target

Food & Drink

The modern dad might not be posting latte art, but he definitely knows his coffee order — and maybe even grinds his own beans. He appreciates a good snack, especially if he can sneak it in before the kids eat the last one, and he’s not above hiding the fancy granola behind the cereal boxes.

These picks are about better mornings, tastier breaks, and little luxuries that say, “we see how hard you’re working.” Because food isn’t just fuel — it’s a moment of peace in a packed day.

Stumptown Original Cold Brew with OATLY – 12 Pack

This no-fuss cold brew is smooth, bold, and blended with Oatly for a creamy, dairy-free twist on the café classic. The 12-pack is perfect for dads who want premium coffee without ever leaving the house — or waiting in line.
Get the 12-pack at Stumptown

Trade Coffee 3-Bag Gift Subscription

He chooses the roast level, they do the rest. It’s a coffee subscription that actually personalizes to his taste, delivered on his schedule.
Gift it from Trade Coffee

Kind Coffee Cooperative Coffee

Delicious, functional coffee that supports focus, digestion, and your greater good. This smooth Colombian Arabica is infused with lion’s mane mushrooms and structured aloe — no weird taste, just better mornings. Even better: every bag funds scientific research on kindness. We’ve written about them before.

Order from Kind Coffee (use code USA20 for 20% off)

Fitness & Outdoors

Modern fatherhood is active, whether he’s logging miles, chasing toddlers, or just making time for a long walk and a podcast. He’s trying to stay healthy — not because it’s trendy, but because he wants to be around for all the good stuff.

These gifts are for the dad who makes movement a part of his life. No pressure, no gym bro energy — just smart gear that helps him stretch, sweat, or hammock nap a little more comfortably.

Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands

Whether he’s working out at home or staying active while traveling, these resistance bands are a smart addition to any routine. Compact, affordable, and beginner-friendly.
Grab a set on Amazon

All in Motion Adjustable Dumbbell (25lb)

One adjustable dumbbell = multiple weights in one sleek piece of gear. A great solution for small spaces or minimalist setups.
Shop it at Target

Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock

Lightweight, durable, and easy to hang anywhere. Whether he’s camping or just escaping to the backyard, this hammock gives him his own little sanctuary.
Snag one on Amazon

Iron Flask 40oz Sports Water Bottle

Stainless steel, leak-proof, and stylish enough for the office or the trail. If hydration is his new personality, this bottle’s a must.
Get it at Target.com

ProsourceFit Extra Thick Puzzle Exercise Mat

This interlocking mat transforms any room into a workout zone. Ideal for home gyms, yoga, or just protecting floors from rogue kettlebells.
Add to cart at Target.com

Audio & Reading

He’s juggling the podcast queue, the audiobook backlog, and that novel he swears he’s going to finish this summer. Whether it’s background noise during chores or a chance to actually focus on his own thoughts, this is his escape.

These gifts are about tuning in or tuning out — whatever he needs. Because in the chaos of modern parenting, five quiet minutes with something he actually enjoys can feel like magic.

Apple AirPods 4

Still one of the best all-around wireless earbuds. Easy to use, easy to pair, and perfect for commuting, walking, or tuning out Bluey for five minutes.
Buy them now at Target

Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker

Shockingly good sound for such a compact speaker. Toss it in his backpack or leave it in the kitchen — it’ll quickly become part of his daily routine.
Shop it on Amazon

Moleskine Classic Hardcover Journal

Old-school analog for the dad with big ideas, thoughts, or to-do lists. Clean, classic, and a welcome screen break.
Write it down with Moleskine at Target

Kindle Paperwhite

A reader’s dream: lightweight, waterproof, and backlit. If he loves to read but never knows where his book is, this is the upgrade.
Buy it at Amazon

Everyday Carry / Commuter

Diaper bag, laptop bag, snack bag — whatever he’s carrying, it’s probably more than it looks. Modern dads are multitasking pros, and the gear they rely on should make that easier, not harder.

This section is for the sleek, practical tools that help him stay organized, get out the door faster, and find his keys (finally). Because he’s doing a lot — and he deserves a setup that works as hard as he does.

Bellroy Note Sleeve Wallet

Sleek, durable, and RFID-blocking — this wallet looks grown-up without being bulky. It’s one of those “finally replaced my old one” gifts that sticks around for years.
Get it on Amazon

Orbitkey Key Organizer with D-Ring

Keeps keys quiet, organized, and streamlined. No more jingling pockets or rogue jabs to the thigh. It’s clever without being fussy.
Organize it on Amazon

Herschel Classic Backpack XL

Roomy enough for a laptop and gear, but not oversized. Ideal for commuting, travel, or even just carrying all the snacks on a family day out.
Snag it on Amazon

Nomatic Tech Organizer Case

Cords, chargers, dongles — they all need a home. This sleek little case keeps everything tidy, whether he’s heading to the office or traveling light.
Tidy up on Amazon

Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker

Attach it to keys, a wallet, or a bag, and stop playing the “where’d I leave it” game. Works with a smartphone and saves serious stress.
Track it on Amazon

For the dad who’s not quite like the others

We see you, modern dads. You’re always evolving, always curious, always doing your best — and these gifts are a reflection of that. Whether it’s wellness, gear, or just a better way to get out the door, we hope you found something that makes him feel seen.

Now go check out Father’s Day Gift Guide (Part 1: Classic Dads) and celebrate all the ways fatherhood shows up.

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