Cheap Gadget Thrills for Dads

Reader MantyBat asks: "What should we get our techie dads who almost have it all If we are on a $100 or less budget?"

MantyBat is responding to my list of Gift for Dads who (almost) have it all. Ok, ok, so the list was a little pricey, but those electronics are some of the most sought after right now, and I guarantee you Dad is eyeing them. I have found that shopping for Dad is easy, but I put a short list together for those of you on a $150 budget anyway. Here are some pretty nifty ideas:

1. George Foreman iGrill: You guessed it. The iGrill is an iPod-ready grill with an integrated 10-watt speaker system so Dad can rock out to White Snake while he prepares those lean, fat-reduced steaks. It has a 200-square-inch nonstick grilling surface, and can be used indoors or outdoors. Rock on!  Price: $150

2. SanDisk Sansa: If he's tired of the whole iPod craze, or just ready to try something new, check out SanDisk Sansa players. These MP3 players are a big hit among Yahoo! Tech Advisors, and for good reasons. Most of them come with FM radio, video, voice recorder, and are way cheaper than iPods. You can find them ranging from 1GB ($50-$70) to 8GB ($150+) at very affordable prices. Check out these other popular MP3 Players. 

3.  Micro Superjack: Dad's got a flat tire? No problem. Give him a Micro Super Car Jack that plugs into the cigarette lighter, and raises up to 2 tons of metal effortlessly. It uses an an infared remote control to lift the car, so dad doesn't even have to get his hands dirty. Price: $100

4. Gadget Charging Valet: He probably has at least two or three gadgets with him at all times, which means he needs a clutter-free recharging station. This elegant wood cabinet holds up to six devices including digital cameras, PDAs, and MP3 players so Dad always knows where his gadgets are. Price: $50-75

5. Digital Photo Frames: This is something every dad should have on his desk. My favorite is this tiny digital photo viewer keychain holds 56 pictures from your PC or Mac, so dad can show off those pictures of his last fishing trip or the cute grandkids. Price: $50

There are many cool gifts for Dad for under $100 out there, you'll hardly have any trouble finding the right one.  Gift certificates, DVDs, and video games are always a big hit too.

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For the Gadget Loving Man in Your Life