Sydney Stein
Senior Account Manager
Whitestone
PPAI 666851, Silver
Austin, Texas

Tech gifts consistently rank as one of Whitestone’s most-requested promotional items. “They resonate with a diverse range of demographics, so recipients always feel excited about the gift they’re receiving,” Stein says. “A major reason for tech items’ appeal is their practicality, since they easily fit into everyday life, such as power banks for travel or headphones for calls in the office.”

If your clients want more brand exposure, tech gifts offer lots opportunities. “Since recipients frequently use these items in public, they naturally promote a brand to a wider audience,” Stein says. “Tech gifts also often carry a higher perceived value, making recipients feel appreciated and valued. This combination of practicality, visibility and perceived value makes tech gifts a sold choice for any gifting opportunity.”

Stein’s standout tech gift for an education client’s guest speakers is the Chi-Charge Stack Foldable 3-in-1 Fast Charge Mat With Sleeve. After spotting this viral sensation on TikTok, she quickly recognized its potential appeal. The Chi-Charge Stack quickly became a favorite, blending functionality with trendiness, making it an instant hit among recipients. This super-compact, fold-up device wirelessly charges a compatible phone, watch and earbud case at the same time.

“I was thrilled that the Chi-Charge Stack was trending at retail and also available in the promo space,” says Stein, who’s passionate about researching retail trends and introducing them to her clients so they can stay ahead with their gifting selections. “This mat was a perfect example of that vision. Plus, I love that the supplier offers a branded packaging upgrade with the sleeve. Presentation is everything!”

Twintech Industry / PPAI 261545, Silver / twintechpromo.com

Stein’s go-to tech promo gift is the Thomas Eco Multicable, made with a biodegradable plastic top and cable housing made with 100% recyclable, food-grade material. “This item consistently resonates with our clients because of its sustainable composition, affordability and practicality,” she says. “We as salespeople must promote eco-friendly tech options, especially for clients who may not have considered them before. This tech item exemplifies this commitment, combining everyday utility with a focus on environmental responsibility.”

Acehigh Tech / PPAI 161597, Standard-Base / acehighpromo.com

She can’t wait to try the NFC Scribe Pen, which merges everyday functionality with near field communication technology, a wireless communication technology that allows devices like smartphones and tablets to exchange data over short distances. Featuring a comfortable oval barrel and eye-catching finishes, this sleek tech-enabled pen is a standout accessory that combines practicality and style.

“What excites me about NFC is its potential for advertising beyond the physical item,” Stein says. “It creates an interactive experience for the end user, guiding them directly to a website or additional content. The NFC Scribe Pen goes beyond being a simple writing tool. It’s a dynamic promotional asset that can significantly boost user engagement.”

HPG Brands / PPAI 110772, Platinum / hpgbrands.com

Karie Cowden
President
Connect The Dots Promotions
PPAI 368415, Standard-Plus
Phoenix, Arizona

The best tech gift Cowden has selected for a client was a drone, which was mailed out close to July 4. “A consulting firm client wanted to drop-ship a gift ahead of the holiday where they could record fireworks, along with a coloring book all about Independence Day,” she says. “The end clients sent videos back to the consulting firm, who was thrilled with the result.” 

The lightweight Soarington Drone offers a flight time of up to 20 minutes and features a built-in camera with live video feed accessible via its app. With its folding design and compact size, it also includes smart photo technology that captures images with a hand signal.

HPG Brands / PPAI 110772, Platinum / hpgbrands.com

Cowden doesn’t have a single go-to tech gift. Instead, she focuses on finding the right fit for each client. “Power banks can work for some accounts but may not make sense for others,” she says. “If a power bank is a good option for the client, I love the SCX Design Full-Color Illuminated Power Bank Slim 5000 mAh for the way it can illuminate the image and power your phone.”

This compact power bank offers versatility with both full-color and laser-engraved imprints, all while featuring a soft-touch rubber finish for a sleek feel. Complete with a 3-in-1 rPET charging cable and a premium gift box, it’s a practical accessory that fits easily into any bag.

Koozie Group / PPAI 114187, Platinum / kooziegroup.com

Cowden appreciates when a promotional product, like the Neoskin Hard Cover Journal, serves multiple marketing purposes, especially with a tech element like a QR code. “The beauty of QR codes is that you can print them on any item,” she says. “This journal I received has a tip-in page with a QR code for mentoring. It’s a great call to action.”

This best-selling hardcover journal also features a hidden gusseted interior pocket for storing business cards or small documents. With 192 lined, acid-free ivory pages, along with a ribbon bookmark and an elastic closure for convenience, it’s a stylish and practical companion that incorporates a tech component.

Spector & Co. / PPAI 168328, Gold / spectorandco.com  

Rollender heads up New Jersey-based STRANDWritingServices.com.