The best tech gifts to buy for people who don’t do tech

Buying someone their first piece of digital tech – be it a smartphone, tablet or laptop for an older child, or a satnav or digital camera for a parent or grandparent – can be a tricky task. The secret lies in keeping things simple and straightforward, opting for models that are easy to set up and designed to be used intuitively. While the latest smart features might be a selling point for tech lovers, they can be overwhelming and off-putting for newcomers. 

Here you’ll find a round-up of our highest-rated easy-to-use laptops, smartphones, tablets, satnavs, digital cameras and accessories, suitable for all ages. Introduce them to something that makes their life easier, not harder, and watch that tech neophyte turn into a tech aficionado.

When buying someone their first laptop, look for speed, efficiency and value for money over fancy features. The HP 11a-nb0000na laptop is lightweight and portable, really good value for money and perfect for basic programmes and web browsing. A specialist Partner can help you set it up in store.

The Dell Inspiron 13 5391 is another good choice – it’s quick and easy to start up, with onscreen prompts. A wireless mouse will let them work around any touchpad difficulties, while an all-in-one wireless printer will allow them to copy and scan, as well as print.

Technophobes can be intimidated by the idea of using a smartphone or tablet to stay in touch, but the best entry-level products prize functionality over flashiness, meaning they can get online with no hassle. The Moto G8 is user-friendly, charges quickly and has a really long battery life.

If they’ve already got a laptop, tablet or smartphone, why not treat them to a wireless bluetooth speaker? Try the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2. It’s waterproof, portable, easy to use and comes in a huge range of colours.

A tablet can make the perfect replacement for an outdated PC. It also makes a good ‘first computer’ for a child who isn’t quite ready for their own laptop. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A is lightweight, simple to set up and great value. It’s a good size for email, browsing and watching videos.

Fans of classic cameras are bound to fall for Fujifilm’s Instax Mini 90 Instant Camera, which comes complete with film, camera case and even a photo album. ‘Instant cameras are the perfect Christmas gift,’ says Rachael Houston, Partner & Buying Assistant, Audio & Imaging. ‘They’re easy to use and will capture all of your festive memories. The colourful Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is perfect for kids.’

Think they’re ready to give digital a go? Opt for a compact point-and-shoot model. Houston recommends giving the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II or Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ90 a go. ‘These fixed-lens cameras are easy to use and perfect for recording HD video,’ she explains.

Know someone who still uses their A-Z to get them from A to B? Ease them into the world of digital navigation with a Garmin Drive Satnav. They’re simple to set up and fix to your windscreen, and give easy-to-understand voice directions while you’re driving, making them great for new drivers – and older ones too. 

If they’re more of a rambler, or planning a New Year fitness kick, why not introduce them to the world of smart fitness so they can keep track of their daily step count? The Fitbit range is highly user-friendly. The Ace 2 is perfect for kids – fun onscreen messages give them a great incentive to stay active – and keep moaning to a minimum when you head out on a long family walk.