2013 Father’s Day Gift Guide: Gadgets

Gadgets dominate our lives, and you can always start these days with dad’s phone. If he has the latest and greatest, don’t even bother. But if he’s still tied to his lame flip phone, then of course you can go with an iPhone or a new Android phone to get him into the 21st century.

If you’re looking for something a little different, we’ve put together some ideas for you. And for more great suggestions, be sure to check out the other categories in our Father’s Day gift guide.

HP Detachable PCs

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We’re starting to see a new wave of innovation following the introduction of Microsoft’s Surface tablet, giving users gadgets that function as a tablet and a notebook computer. HP has introduced two new models with the HP SlateBook x2 and the HP Split x2, two detachable PCs that offer the full functionality of a notebook with a removable screen that also serves as a sleek tablet. The units are powered by the Android and Windows 8 operating systems, respectively, so you have some flexibility here. By releasing the magnetic hinge, users can move between the tablet and notebook PC with remarkable ease.

NuForce HP-800 Headphones

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These are great for dads who care about sound quality. We’ve reviewed many headphones over the past several years as the popularity of mobile music continues to explode and more consumers look at their headphones as a fashion statement along with being a necessary gadget. We’ve seen many fashionable designs and impressive-sounding headphones, but the NuForce HP-800 headphones stand out for sound quality. That shouldn’t be surprising, as these headphones were designed for the audio enthusiasts. The sound quality was incredibly clear but never harsh. You can pick up various all of the nuances while really feeling the full base. The goal was to capture the “natural warmth, realistic highs and visceral bass” of the recordings and we feel that has been achieved. These over-ear headphones are very large and comfortable, with ear cups made with a “human-protein” leatherette covering that is super-soft. It comes with a handy clothe carrying case along with one cord for you portable electronics and another for studio use. Yes, audiophiles can use this with premium audio or studio equipment and be very impressed with the sound quality.

Digital Treasures PowerBank

Portable charging units have become increasingly more popular over the past year or so, and the PowerFlask from Digital Treasures is one of our personal favorites. With a 13,000mAh power bank capable of charging three USB devices simultaneously, the PowerFlask can fully recharge an Apple iPad several times – no small feat for anyone familiar with the tablet’s frustratingly lengthy charging periods. They’ve even included two ultra-bright flashlight LEDs at the top of the unit that’s perfect for emergencies and other nighttime situations. Apart from its functionality, however, the power bank just looks really cool – designed to resemble a drinking flask and wrapped in black supple leather, so you can leave it sitting around the house or down in the man cave without worrying about being an eyesore. It’s also fairly lightweight and compact for a device that packs so much power, making it possible to carry around in your back pocket or briefcase while away on a long business trip. There are smaller options, of course, but none quite as manly as the PowerFlask.

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Hot Dog Toaster

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Matt Byrd put together a great list of kitchen gadgets for men, and he found this awesome hot dog toaster. Guys love hot dogs, and instead of wasting your time with the stovetop or microwave methods, why not make the perfectly cooked hot dog and bun, as easy as you make a piece of toast? It’s possible with the pop-up hot dog toaster, which cooks hot dogs of your chosen consistency in mere minutes with the ease of the average toaster. It’s even got compartments enough for two hot dogs and buns and retails for only $19.99. Check out Matt’s article for more gadget ideas.

Sur La Table Stuff-A-Burger Press

Here’s a great gadget for guys who love burgers and love to grille. The Sur La Table Stuff-A-Burger Press is a meat press that allows you to form the perfect ¾ or ½ pound burgers, with the right amount of room in the middle for a filling. Requiring considerably less effort than the hand-made method, the real draw to the stuff-a-burger is that it can form the perfect stuffed hamburger every time, and allow you to load it with such things as cheese, bacon, onions, or really anything you can think of within the reasons of your imagination, and concerned pleas of your cardiac physician. Get it for dad and enjoy a juicy juicy.

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