Looking for gift ideas for your modern techie? I created a list of my favorite items for this holiday. Even though these are “geek” gifts, you won’t find any Death Star snow globes or cheesy presents here. Now, on to the list!

Slingbox

I can’t put into words how much I love this item. It’s the best gift you can give (or get) for a techie who loves sports. The Slingbox is a small device that you hook into your existing home theater set up. It will then allow you to watch and control your television, DVR, cable, satellite, DVD player, and Blu-Ray remotely. Fire up your laptop, smartphone, or tablet anywhere in the world with an internet connection and watch you favorite program. I purchased the additional $29 iPhone app that lets me watch TV over a 3G or WiFi connection. Ever had those times were your favorite team in a heated playoff battle and you have to attend the opera or parent/teacher conference? You will never miss those games ever again.

More info: http://www.slingbox.com/

Where to buy: Best Buy (Look for 10% off coupons online)

Price: $299 (Slingbox Pro-HD) $199 (Slingbox Solo)

iPad

I won’t go too much into detail, but this is probably going to be the hottest item of the season. I’ve had one since June, and it’s replaced my daily use of a laptop. It’s the perfect mobile device for browsing, reading books, listening to music, watching Netflix, watching Slingbox, email, calendar…on and on and on. It does everything. No joke. I highly recommend the Wifi versions only since there are so many places where you can get free Wifi. Starbucks for example gives out free unlimited WiFi now without purchase. If you are in the market for a netbook, forget about it. The iPad will surpass all of your expectations.

More info: http://www.apple.com/

Where to buy: Best Buy (Great financing) or Apple Store

Price: $499 (16GB WiFi only)

The Art of Shaving

Just because you’re a geek, doesn’t mean you should ignore personal hygiene. The Art of Shaving provides amazing set of shaving tools, lotions, creams, and oils. I used to think that shaving was just like cutting your nails and no care should really go into it. They have changed my perspective on shaving entirely. Now it’s more of a ritual. Start with a nice massage of lavender oils to lift the hair. Then work the shaving cream into a lather with a genuine badger hair brush. They make the coolest looking razor handles that use Gillette Mach5 refills. Instead of using aftershave that contains harsh alcohol that dry out your skin, use their aftershave lotion for moisture. Shaving will never be the same again. I highly recommend the Lavender set for sensitive skin.

More info: http://www.theartofshaving.com/

Where to buy: Bloomingdales and The Art of Shaving locations

Price: Varies, but grab the $25 starter kit and you’ll be hooked

Leica D-LUX 5

This is hands down the best point and shoot camera out in the market. Forget about the 900x zoom lens, GPS chip, and other wiz bangs. This camera promises and delivers stunning quality images. It’s the most affordable Leica camera in the market. Yes, I know it’s developed in part by Panasonic, but there are differences in the software. This guy has a 24-90mm (Equivalent) 3.8x zoom lens, 10megapixel sensor, fast f/2.0 lens, and can shoot 720p HD video. The manual settings is also great if you want more control over shutter speed and aperture. You can shoot in RAW and/or jpg which makes post edits easier and more flexible. I really love the design as well. It’s hefty and feels very solid in your hands. It’s got a great retro look as well. Really classic Leica. Many argue you can get a DSLR at this price point, but I think you should factor in the form factor, build quality, and image quality as well. It’s no DSLR, but certainly trumps over traditional point and shoots.

More info: http://us.leica-camera.com/

Where to buy: Samy’s Camera, B&H Photo

Price: $799

Beats. Solo by Dr. Dre

Get ready for your head to explode by these headphones. They are hands down the best sounding headphones I’ve ever tried. Beats by Dr. Dre is a product made by Monster. Known for their overpriced HD and audio cables, I think Monster actually produced a top notch product rivaled only perhaps by Bose. The Dre Beats line has several offerings: noise canceling pro version; high performance on ear headphones; and in-ear headphones. As iconic as Apple’s white ear buds, Beats has a red tangle free ribbon for in-ear or removable thick red cables for over-ear options. They include a built in microphone and control so it’s perfect for your iPhone or other mobile Apple products. While they do run a bit pricey, it’s sure to replace all your other headphones.

More info: http://beatsbydre.com

Where to buy: Amazon, Apple, Best Buy and other major retailers

Price: $149 Tour (in-ear), $229 Solo (on-ear), $349 (Studio), $449 Pro (over-ear)

Have a favorite item you want to share? Let everyone know in the comments. Merry Christmas!