Having the right tools not only makes the job quicker. It also makes the job safer and prevents you from causing more damage and mayhem during the repair process. Also, there’s nothing like the satisfaction that comes from using quality tools to get a job done.
Here is a selection of tools and gadgets that I find indispensable when testing, tearing down, or repairing gadgets – perfect for holiday gifts for any DIYer.
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VBUS voltage range: 0-24VCurrent range: 0-5AUSB HID interface voltage range: 5VD+/D-/CC1/CC2 signal pin withstand voltage range: 3.3V

These Wiha insulated screwdrivers are not only brilliantly made and will last a lifetime, but they are insulated, so if you happen to touch something you shouldn’t, you’ll live to tell the tale (something that I’ve done more than once) For me, this has replaced expensive – and needlessly complex – multimeters. This product features an oxidizing solution, a spray, and tube pro-gold preservative and lubricant for plated metal connections, and a spray and tube cailube lubricant for plastic and carbon compound faders.  These pry tools are often imitated, but the clones are always inferior. Get the genuine iFixit Jimmy!

Professional-grade stainless steel construction ensures repeated useUltra-thin design allows for easy opening of numerous device

The Ulefone Power Armor 18T is a solid Android smartphone that’s water-resistant, dust-resistant, can take hard knocks, and has a built-in FLIR thermal camera. There’s also the option to add a borescope, turning this into a toolbox you can keep in your pocket. I’ve tried a lot of ruggedized Android phones, and a few with built-in thermal cameras, but this one is the one I like the best. It’s tough enough to survive heavy use, the thermal camera is so very usable, and the phone has enough premium features to keep me happy. Learn more about the Ulefone in my full review here. Some key features:

Ergonomic cushion grip handles for comfort and controlDual durometer construction for long-lasting durabilitySlip guard handle design for added protection

I’ve been using a set like this for years, and it has never let me down and come in useful for all sorts of repairs, from car repairs to assembling BBQs! The ratchet is extremely strong. It’s capable of 48 ft. lbs. but has a return angle of 6 degrees. With a bit installed, the ratchet is 1 1/8-inch high x 3/4-inch wide. Great tool for compact spaces. Plus, there is a 1/4in Ergonomic screwdriver x 3in that’s equipped with a strong permanent magnet to securely hold and magnetize insert bits.

720 max lumens with 2 x CREE XP-G3 S3 LEDsBuilt-in 500mAh Li-ion batteryDual-core magnetic key chain lightRechargeable hundreds of times

When it comes to tools, I look for a number of things:

Durability: Tools get a hard life, so they need to be tough and be able to put up with abuse.Reliability: For electronic tools such as multimeters I want a product that will not only last, but that are accurate enough for my needs.Cost-effective: You can pay a LOT of money for tools. While I’m a firm believer is “buy cheap, buy twice,” it’s possible to overpay for tools (especially big-brand names aimed at professionals). I find that I can get the same quality for a fraction of the price if I shop around.Usefulness: I’m wary of buying a tool that I’ll only use once. Yes, a laser glass remover would be handy, but it’s expensive and not something I’d use a lot.

“Buy cheap, buy twice.”

But gifts can come in all shapes and sizes, so we also rounded up the best gifts by category, price, and retailer – plus, the hottest tech toys for kids in 2023. Gifts by category

Delight DIYers with these interesting gifts that make and fix thingsWhat do you get for the gamer who has everything?Tech-themed gift cards for gadget loversOdd and interesting gift ideas for the hobbyist hacker in your lifeThe best laptops to giftThe best phones to gift (even on a budget)Cooking gift guide: These smart kitchen tools went TikTok viralTablet gift guide: iPads aren’t the only optionUseful smart home gifts, from plugs to thermostatsTravel gift guide: Luggage, Liquid IV, and moreTV gift guide: Gorgeous TVs for the binge-watcher in your lifeThe best fitness gifts: Workout mirror, Whoop, and moreCreative gifts for live streamersGift ideas for coffee lovers (besides a Starbucks gift card)

Gifts by price

The best cheap tech gifts under $100The best cheap tech gifts under $75The best cheap tech gifts under $50The best cheap tech gifts under $25

Gifts by retailer Gifts for kids