Gadget Guru: Building a fresher, thicker burger for the grill
Guys, or so we are told, are difficult to shop for, especially during the holidays.
That said, here are some can’t-miss gifts sure to leave a lasting impression.
Burger press
Most men will say nothing beats a perfect hamburger, and the Cave Tools Burger Press ($11.99) makes one every time.
The aluminum burger press has indicator lines to make 4.5-inch round quarter-pounders or one-third-pounders in the palm of your hand.
It also comes with 200 burger papers to assure that removing and separating the patties from the mold is simple.
It’s dishwasher safe and comes with free barbecue recipes and a lifetime guarantee.
More information: cavetools.com
Smart bulb
The iDevices light socket ($39.96) installs in seconds, turning any standard lightbulb into a smart bulb.
Users can control its power and brightness (if using a dimmable bulb) from anywhere with the iDevice’s app, as well as set up a schedule for the light.
A color ring is built into the socket for instant personalization for a unique ambience.
Moreover, for those who are close by, use voice to control the light with Siri, Alexa or other voice assistants.
More: idevicesinc.com
Photo printer
The Bluetooth Lifeprint photo and video printer ($129.95) lets users print photos and videos and then share them instantly around the world.
The portability and ease of use makes the pocket-sized printer (3-by-4.5 inch) unique.
Here’s how it works: Choose a screen grab from the video or a still image in the LifePrint app (iOS and Android). Users can edit and apply filters within the app and when it’s to your liking, it’s time to print.
It takes 30 seconds to make a 2-by-3-inch print. There are no ink cartridges, just Zink film and the printer, which works off a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
More: lifeprintphotos.com
Portable power
The myCharge Adventure Jump Start portable powerbank battery ($99.99) takes portable power to a new level.
For starters, it will charge phones, tablets, gaming units and just about any USB charging device. But with the included detachable jumper cables, you’ll be able to jump-start car, boat, truck or ATV batteries.
It’s built with spark-proof technology, reverse polarity and over-discharge protection. An included carabiner makes it easy clip to a backpack, belt or harness so that it’s an arm’s length away.
More: mycharge.com
Storage solutions
Clakit StrapPack secure storage solutions ($14.95-$19.95) attach to backpack straps to add easily accessible pouches for electronic devices or a water bottle.
Since the backpack straps are front facing, they are a great way to keep valuable items in full view instead of in a zippered compartment. A padded pouch protects the contents from damage.
Each StrapPack comes with a patented Clakit Clip, which wraps around backpack shoulder straps up to 3 inches wide.
Choose from a smartphone pouch, a two-zipper travel pouch, an adjustable utility pouch, a general purpose flip lid pocket pouch and a water bottle pouch.
More: clakit.com
Contact Gregg Ellman at greggellman@mac.com. Follow him on Twitter: @greggellman
This story was originally published December 14, 2017 at 11:36 AM with the headline "Gadget Guru: Building a fresher, thicker burger for the grill."