NORFOLK, Va. - The clock is ticking if you still have Christmas shopping to do.
If you're struggling to come up with some ideas, tech gifts are a good option, and there are plenty of gadgets still on sale.
Consumer Reports' senior tech reporter Bree Fowler gave News 3 these recommendations:
Smartphones
If there’s someone on your list who’s still hanging on to their flip phone, now is a good time to shop for an upgrade.
There are a number of quality newer models from Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus that are worthy upgrades.
The good news is that carriers are still offering discounts on these latest phones.
For example, Verizon is offering a BOGO -- buy one, get one -- promotion: Purchase one iPhone 12 Pro Max and get another one for free, as long as you buy it with a two-year commitment and the unlimited plan. You also get an additional $250 off each line ($500 total) if you're switching to Verizon.
And the Samsung Galaxy Note20, which is number one in our ratings, is available for $300-$400 off with the major carriers. Just be sure to read the details.
The best smartphone deals typically require you to have good credit, and if you’re trading in a phone, it needs to be in good working order.
Smartwatches
Fitbit Sense, $280 at multiple retailers (down from $300), CR Recommended.
Apple Watch SE 40mm, $249 at Target. Usually $280. A CR Best Buy.
Smart speakers
Amazon’s newest Echo is on sale for $70, which is $30 off.
It did really well in our tests, and sounds noticeably better than the previous version with improved bass and clearer treble.
It features a new Zigbee smart home hub that allows you to control compatible devices without using an app.
Laptops
We like the Lenovo 14-inch Yoga Laptop.
It’s on sale for $630 at Amazon, which is a savings of over $150.
It has good core specs for a midrange computer—an Intel Core i5 processor, 8 gigabytes of memory, and a 256GB solid state drive.
It will purr along easily while performing most tasks, and it’s convenient to use on the go.
It weighs an easy-to-tote 3 pounds and provides plenty of battery life, and the 2-in-1 convertible design lets you prop it up in tent mode or use it like a tablet.
Headphones
The ever-popular Beats Solo Pro Noise-Canceling Headphones are on-sale for $170 at Best Buy.
These are usually a little too expensive to justify their performance, but this is a decent deal.
They got an above-average rating for sound quality in our tests, and the noise cancellation is superb.
But you could spend a bit less and still get good quality.
You can check out Consumer Reports' website for other recommendations.
