**ZDNET Recommends: How We Choose the Best Tech Gifts for the Holiday Season**
As the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift for friends and loved ones can become a daunting task—especially for those who seem to already have everything. Wish lists may take some of the guesswork out of gifting, but there are always those who prefer surprises or are tight-lipped about their preferences. For these situations, ZDNET’s editorial team has curated a selection of expert-approved, useful tech gadgets that stand out for their innovation, practicality, and quality.
But before delving into the recommended products, it’s important to understand what the ‘ZDNET Recommends’ label truly means. ZDNET’s recommendations are not made lightly; they are the result of extensive research, rigorous hands-on testing, and careful comparison shopping. The editorial team gathers information from a variety of reputable sources, including vendor and retailer listings, independent review sites, and, crucially, customer reviews. These insights allow ZDNET to assess what matters most to real users and ensure that their recommendations reflect genuine value and reliability.
Transparency is a cornerstone of ZDNET’s process. While the site may earn affiliate commissions when readers click through to purchase a featured product or service, this does not influence what is covered, how it is covered, or the prices readers pay. The editorial staff and authors are not compensated for their independent reviews, and strict guidelines are in place to safeguard editorial integrity from any advertiser influence. Each article is thoroughly fact-checked and reviewed before publication to ensure accuracy, and any errors are promptly corrected should they arise.
With this commitment to editorial independence and thorough vetting in mind, here is a closer look at some standout tech gifts recommended by ZDNET for the upcoming holiday season:
**Versatile Travel Tech: The EnerCore CG11 Adapter**
For globetrotters seeking convenience and reliability, the EnerCore CG11 universal travel adapter is a must-have. Despite its unassuming, palm-sized design, this gadget is compatible with virtually every power outlet and voltage standard around the world, making it indispensable for international travel. Measuring just 3.3 x 2.2 x 2 inches and weighing half a pound, it’s easy to pack and carry. The 70W power output is sufficient for charging everything from smartphones to power-hungry laptops like the MacBook Pro, though charging larger devices may take a bit longer than their standard chargers. Additional features include a variety of ports and a retractable USB-C cable, ensuring users are always prepared to power up their devices, wherever they are.
**Quality Tools for Everyday Use**
A reliable toolkit is essential for anyone who enjoys tackling DIY tasks or needs to make quick repairs around the house. ZDNET’s pick is a portable kit featuring a small but sturdy 1/4-inch ratchet, a screwdriver bit holder, and a carefully chosen selection of bits and sockets. The components are of high quality and built to