Tech & Electronics
Best holiday gifts under $500 for 2019
Best holiday gifts under $500 for 2019
Feeling generous? Here's a handful of choices for one lucky recipient.
Nintendo Switch V2
Simply the coolest console on the planet
Nintendo's massively popular platform may have a newer, cheaper entrant in the , but the original also got a minor improvement this year in the V2 version with . The big difference between the two? The Switch Lite is strictly a portable, without the big-screen TV dockability and detachable controllers that make the V2 so unique. We , the main thing to know is we still consider the V2 the best overall choice. Just , not the old one.
Apple iPad (10.2-inch, 2019)
The newest iPad
The new version of Apple's flagship iPad just came out September, increasing the display size to 10.2 inches and adding a dock connector for new smart keyboards. Otherwise it's pretty much the same as the 9.7-inch version that came out last year, making that slightly older iPad an arguably better deal since it's often available for $250 or less. But if you just want to get your recipient the best iPad under $500, this is the one. .
Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute
Truly powerful cordess vac
This thing really sucks, in a good way. Dyson's most powerful cordless vac yet costs more than your average dust buster, but its combination of power and convenience could be worth it for the neat freak on your list. Compared to the original V8 the battery lasts longer and the chamber empties from the front, not the bottom, to better prevent spills around the trash can. .
TCL 55S525
Super streaming at 55 inches
No, you can't get a truly high-performance TV for less than $500, but you can get one with a nice-sized screen and the best streaming system available for $320 (or maybe less when you read this). In our review the S425 had "just OK" image quality. But if that's fine for you, its excellent app access thanks to the built-in Roku makes for a tremendous bargain. .
Yamaha YAS-209
Pump up TV sound with Alexa's help
So maybe your gift recipient already has a nice TV, but they're stuck listening to its terrible built-in speakers. A sound bar is the easiest way to fix that problem, and this Yamaha was our favorite in this price range. As a bonus it also works with Alexa, so you can ask Amazon's voice assistant to play your tunes even when the TV is turned off. .
HP Chromebook x2
Sweet 2-in-1
This convertible Chromebook's ability to seamlessly switch from computer to tablet mode makes it stand out among cheaper competitors. Our reviewer loved its comfortable keyboard, its display and peppy performance. And the included stylus makes it an even better bargain. .
Netgear Arlo Pro-2 (2-camera system)
Do-it-all security
The sheer flexibility of the Arlo Pro 2 is what sets this system apart from the pack. Its weatherproof design makes the cameras suited for indoor or outdoor use, they can run on battery power for up to six months and they're easy to install just about anywhere. Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility seal the deal. .
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