Whether you’re shopping for an Apple aficionado who still treasures their original iPod or the productivity ninja who lives and breathes the latest iOS updates, finding the perfect geeky gift can feel like searching for a needle in a digital haystack. Fear not! We gather some of the most ingenious, innovative and downright cool gadgets that’ll make any Apple user’s heart skip a beat.
From retro-inspired accessories that pay homage to Apple’s legendary design heritage to cutting-edge smart home integrations that would make even Tim Cook jealous, these gifts bridge the gap between nostalgia and innovation. Each selection celebrates the unique blend of form, function, and pure geek appeal that defines the Apple ecosystem. And return to this post, because we’ll keep adding to it.
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Geeky gifts: Ultimate guide for Apple users
Each of these items represents more than just another gadget. The best geeky gifts don’t just solve problems; they spark joy, inspire creativity and remind us why we fell in love with technology in the first place. Choose the perfect match for your favorite Apple user, and watch their eyes light up with that unmistakable geek gleam of recognition and appreciation.
Table of contents: Guide to geeky gifts for Apple users
- Photography and creativity
- Chargers and power
- Desk accessories and stands
- Smart home
- Travel and mobile accessories
- Maintenance and care
- Decor and wall art
- Kitchen and home
- Novelty and fun
- Apparel
Photography and creativity
ShiftCam ProGrip – Mobile photography powerhouse
Photo: ShiftCam
This innovative accessory transforms your iPhone into a legitimate camera rig with a professional grip, built-in battery pack and physical shutter button. The ProGrip connects magnetically via MagSafe and features an ergonomic hand grip inspired by professional digital cameras. The built-in 5,000mAh battery provides wireless charging while you shoot, and the grip is compatible with ShiftCam’s extensive ecosystem of snap-on lenses and accessories.
This DSLR-style iPhone camera grip features built-in power bank with Qi charging, ergonomic handle with wireless shutter button, phone stand dock, built-in cold-shoe and tripod mount.
- Further unlocks iPhone photography potential
- Works with iPhone and Android
- Expandable with accessories
- Limited weather sealing
- Somewhat pricey
Apple Pencil Pro – Top iPad creativity tool
Photo: Apple
Apple Pencil Pro represents the cutting edge of digital stylus technology. It’s packed with features that blur the line between analog and digital creation. New squeeze sensors let you bring up tool palettes with a simple pinch, barrel roll detection changes brush orientation as you rotate the pencil in your hand (just like a real calligraphy pen), and haptic feedback provides tactile confirmation of your actions. Pencil Pro attaches magnetically to compatible iPads (iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2) for charging and pairing, and Find My integration means you can locate it if it rolls under the couch.
The best stylus for new Apple tablets: the M4 iPad Pro, the M3 iPad Air and M2 iPad Air, plus the iPad mini 7. We gave it the maximum rating in our hands-on review, and found that its pro features are worthy of the price.
- Advanced features like the new squeeze gesture, haptic feedback and support for hover.
- Excellent for note-taking, image editing and artistic endeavors.
- Finally works with Apple's Find My network.
- Only works with latest iPads.
- High-end stylus comes with high-end price tag.
Chargers and power
Twelve South PlugBug – The can’t-lose charger with Find My
Screenshot: Twelve South
Losing your charger is a thing of the past with this ingenious wall charger that integrates Apple’s Find My network. The PlugBug is the world’s first USB-C charger with built-in tracking technology, meaning you can locate it anywhere in the world using your iPhone — just like an AirTag.
Available in 120W (four-port) and 50W (two-port) configurations, the PlugBug delivers intelligent power distribution with Power Delivery fast charging for iPhones, iPads, MacBooks and more. The folding prongs make it perfect for travel, and the Find My integration runs on a replaceable coin cell battery (like an AirTag) that lasts about a year.
This 4-port USB-C fast charger for iPhone, iPad, MacBook and more integrates Apple Find My and folding prongs for travel.
- Convenient USB-C connectivity
- Charges four devices
- Folding prongs
- Not a power bank
Ugreen MagFlow Magnetic Power Bank 10000mAh – Speedy power on the go
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
Leading the charge in next-generation power technology, Ugreen’s MagFlow 10000mAh stands as the world’s first Qi2.2 25W-certified power bank, the company said. The MagFlow’s standout attribute is its groundbreaking Qi2.2 25W certification, delivering approximately 30% faster wireless charging than standard 15W MagSafe options. Its 10,000mAh capacity provides approximately 1.8 full charges for an iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max. The power bank features a built-in 30W USB-C cable that doubles as a convenient carrying handle.
This Qi2 power bank charges MagSafe iPhones at 25 watts, faster than the 15W MagSafe standard. Comes with built-in USB-C cable and an additional charging port.
- Fast charging pad
- Built-in cable
- Sleek design
- Only one additional port
Desk accessories and stands
Ulanzi QT01 Mac mini Case – Make it a Mac Pro
Photo: Ulanzi
Apple’s 2024 Mac mini M4 is a marvel of compact computing power, but it has one controversial design decision: the power button is on the bottom. The Ulanzi QT01 solves this elegantly while adding Mac Pro-inspired industrial style. The QT01 features tool-free magnetic assembly with removable side panels, making setup easy. The hollow-out rear design and aluminum construction maximize airflow for optimal cooling performance — critical for the powerful M4 and M4 Pro chips during intensive tasks. Best of all, the repositioned power button access means you’ll never have to tip your Mac mini over again.
This aluminum case makes Mac mini M4/M4 Pro look like a tiny Mac Pro. The shock-proof stand provides heat dissipation, too.
- A tiny Mac Pro is cool
- Provides heat dissipation
- Scratch resistant and shock proof
- May hinder front-port access
- May impact Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth connectivity
This aluminum stand dresses up M4 or M4 Pro Mac mini as a small-but-mighty Mac Pro. The stand and case with handle features optimized heat dissipation.
- Protective stand and case makes M4/M4 Pro Mac mini look like little Mac Pro
- Helps with airflow and heat dissipation
- Stainless steel handle
- Somewhat pricey for an accessory
Elago W3 Apple Watch Stand – Classic Mac edition
This adorable silicone charging stand transforms your Apple Watch into a miniature 1984 Macintosh computer while it charges. It’s pure nostalgia meets modern functionality, and it’s guaranteed to put a smile on any Mac nerd’s face. Made from scratch-free silicone, the W3 stand protects your watch while keeping it stationary during charging. The stand accommodates all Apple Watch models from Series 1 through the latest Series 10 and Ultra versions. And if you want another retro alternative — try the Elago’s W4 stand, based on the original iMac from 1998.
This adorable Classic Mac stand for your wearable works with Apple Watch Series 8/SE2/7/6/SE/5/4/3/2/1 (45mm, 44mm, 42mm, 41mm, 40mm, 38mm). And it's compatible with Nightstand Mode.
This cool Apple Watch stand looks like a classic iMac. Compatible with all Apple Watch Series (10/9/8/7/6/5/4/3/2/1/SE, 46mm, 45mm, 44mm, 42mm, 41mm, 40mm, 38mm).
HomePod mini TIE Fighter Star Wars Stand
Photo: PiensayCreaES@Etsy
Turn your HomePod mini into an Imperial starfighter with this 3D-printed TIE Fighter stand. This decorative stand perfectly cradles your HomePod mini while transforming it into an iconic Star Wars vessel, complete with detailed wings and cockpit design. Made from durable PLA plastic, the stand is available in multiple colors and can be displayed on a desk or mounted to a wall. It’s the perfect blend of smart home technology and sci-fi fandom.
With this stand, your powerful little Apple speaker can look as cool and dangerous as an Imperial TIE Fighter from "Star Wars."
- Fun and functional decor for "Star Wars" fans
- Easy setup
- HomePod mini cable will dangle
Smart home
Nanoleaf Essentials Smart Bulb – Matter-enabled color lighting
Photo: Nanoleaf
These aren’t your average smart bulbs. Nanoleaf Essentials bulbs are among the first to support the new Matter standard, making them future-proof and compatible with Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa and Samsung SmartThings — all at once. Choose from over 16 million colors or tune the white temperature from cool to warm (2700K-6500K) to match any mood or task. The bulbs support HomeKit Adaptive Lighting, automatically adjusting color temperature throughout the day to match natural circadian rhythms. Each bulb delivers 1,000 lumens of brightness.
This versatile Matter A19 lightbulb includes RGB colors and warm to cool whites. Use app or voice control. Works with Apple Home, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings.
- 16 million colors
- Works with Apple Home
- Control via app or voice
- App can be confusing
Kasa smart plugs: Control Xmas lights and monitor energy
Photo: TP-Link
Kasa’s Smart Plugs are a great way jumpstart home automation. This 4-pack of energy-monitoring plugs are Matter compatible. That means they’ll work with all the major platforms, including Apple Home, Alexa, Google and Samsung. So you can tell Siri to turn the Christmas lights and keep an eye on the energy they draw. And if you don’t care about Matter compatibility, you can spend even less.
Kasa's Smart Plugs are compact, easy to set up and are relatively inexpensive. They are endlessly configurable and a great way to control a smart home. They even monitor energy usage. Matter compatibility means they'll work with all the major smart home platforms -- Apple Home, Alexa & Google Home, Samsung SmartThings -- and are a good future-proof investment.
- Fun and easy way to make plugs smart
- Matter compatible (works with all platforms, future-proof)
- Compact design doesn't block outlets
- 2.4G Wi-Fi only
- Small learning curve for Kasa app
Travel and mobile accessories
Twelve South AirFly Pro 2 – Conquer the skies with your AirPods
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
In-flight entertainment systems typically require wired headphones, creating a compatibility problem for travelers with AirPods or other wireless headphones. Twelve South AirFly Pro ingeniously bridges this technology gap, transforming any standard 3.5mm audio jack into a Bluetooth transmitter. Once paired with your AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones, it transmits audio wirelessly with minimal latency. And its dual-pairing capability allows two sets of Bluetooth headphones to connect simultaneously.
AirFly Pro 2 transforms any headphone jack into a Bluetooth transmitter or receiver. Stream audio from airplane screens, gym TVs, or gaming consoles to your AirPods (or other headphones).
- Makes AirPods more useful
- Connect to two pairs of headphones at once
- Can be used with car stereo AUX ports, too
- Current battery level hard to check
Ekster Aluminum AirTag Card Holder – Never lose your wallet again
Photo: Elkster
This minimalist aluminum wallet combines sleek design with Apple’s Find My technology. Ekster’s wallet features a dedicated AirTag compartment, letting you track your wallet from your iPhone so you never lose it again. Made from space-grade 6061-T6 aluminum with an RFID-blocking layer to protect your cards from wireless theft, this wallet offers both security and style. The patented card ejection mechanism lets you fan out your cards at the click of a button — no more fumbling through a traditional wallet. It holds 1-12 cards plus bills.
This slim AirTag aluminum wallet holds up to 10 cards. It includes an RFID blocking layer, and eject button, easy card access and an AirTag compartment for tracking.
- Sleek and minimalist
- Holds up to 10 cards
- AirTag compartment for tracking
- Some people may prefer smaller card holders
Crochet iPhone Pocket Bag – Trendy handmade accessory
Photo: CloudMintAssets@Etsy
Are you into iPhone Pocket, but you wish it cost less than $20? Try this trendy handmade crocheted iPhone bag. These viral phone pockets feature a stretchy, cozy sleeve design that holds your iPhone securely while you wear it on your wrist or as a crossbody bag. Made from soft cotton yarn with a knitted-look texture, each bag comes with adjustable strap options — choose between a short shoulder strap or long crossbody style. The universal fit design accommodates most iPhone models, and the handcrafted nature means each piece is unique.
If you like iPhone Pocket but not its price tag, this handmake crochet bag might be for you.
- Available in long and short versions
- Multiple colors
- Handmade
- Handmade ... your mileage may vary
Maintenance and care
Ordilend laptop and keyboard cleaning kit: Banish MacBook grime
Photo: Ordilend
As you may already know, keyboards are no better than toilet seats in the germ department. And on a bad day, your MacBook keyboard — if it’s as overused and undercleaned as mine — looks almost as bad as the notoriously disgusting pub bathroom in Trainspotting (“The worst in Scotland”). So many us can benefit from the Ordilend laptop and keyboard cleaning kit. It’s a 10-in-1 sanitation kit with everything you need to clean every nook and cranny of your computer and its keyboard, from microfiber wipes to cleaning solution and key removal tools.
This cleaning kit includes everything you need to spruce up your laptop and your crumb-covered keyboard. Comes with cleaning microfiber clothes, brushes, a keycap puller, cleaning pen and sponge, a soft lens-cleaning pen, and more.
- Comprehensive set of cleaning tools
- Large retractable brush for scrubbing keys
- Easy to keep in bag or drawer
- Some tools flimsy
Decor and wall art
Grid Studio Framed Apple Devices – Iconic tech as art
Photo: Leander Kahney/Cult of Mac
Grid Studio turns Apple’s history into gorgeous wall decoration by disassembling classic devices and displaying their components in beautifully labeled frames. Each genuine device — from original iPhones and iPods to Apple Watches — is carefully deconstructed with every part meticulously arranged and identified. The frames showcase the intricate engineering and design that made these products revolutionary. With tagline “Every classic deserves to be framed,” Grid Studio offers limited editions like the original iPhone (only 999 made, each numbered) alongside more accessible options featuring iPhone 4S, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, and even collections of Apple A-series chips.
The 'Grid 4S' is a beautiful piece of disassembled iPhone art, it is made up of the individual parts of an iPhone 4S put on display. Around forty pieces, the components are individually placed and glued on a white background, complete with measurements and labels so you know exactly what the components are.
- iPhone 4S components in sleek, museum-style frame
Kitchen and home
Oliphant Motherboard Chopping Board – Cook with tech style
Photo: Oliphant
This tempered glass cutting board features a strikingly realistic motherboard design that’s perfect for the tech-savvy cook. The smooth glass surface shows off intricate circuit board details, complete with chips, capacitors and trace lines that look like they came straight from inside a computer. Made from durable tempered glass, it’s heat-resistant, easy to clean and won’t retain odors as much as some traditional cutting boards. While it looks exactly like a real motherboard, it functions as a practical kitchen tool and decorative piece.
Made from tempered glass, this cutting board looks just like a real motherboard but acts like a food-prep pal in the kitchen.
- Incredibly realistic details
- Durable tempered glass
- Easy to clean
- Guests might be afraid to put food on it
Novelty and fun
Banana Phone Bluetooth Handset – The most fun you’ll have calling
Photo: Banana Phone Store
Forget boring phone calls — the Banana Phone is exactly what it sounds like: a banana-shaped Bluetooth handset that connects to your iPhone or any Bluetooth device. This wonderfully ridiculous accessory features a built-in speaker and microphone for clear conversations, up to 20 hours of talk time — and even doubles as a Bluetooth speaker to play music! Connect it via Bluetooth, use Siri or Google Assistant for voice dialing, and enjoy the bewildered looks from everyone around you. Best of all, 1% of sales goes to gorilla conservation through 1% for the Planet.
This amusing accessory is just what it looks like -- a functioning banana phone for iPhone and Android mobile devices. And it's a speaker, too!
- Looks like a banana, works like a phone and speaker
- Wide compatibility
- Voice assistant compatible
- Long battery life
- You'll need your iPhone, Android other other device nearby
1080P portable mini projector — HD movie night for just $85
Photo: Toptro
This 1080P portable mini projector for $85 gets great reviews from users on Amazon. Don’t be put off by the weird specs; no, it’s doesn’t support 5G. But it does put out a surprisingly crisp and detailed picture that will take up an entire wall — or a sheet on outdoor movie night. Users give this projector 4.3 stars out of five, and rave about its ease of use, picture and sound quality, and easy portability.
This mini projector gets rave reviews from users, who love it's portability, great picture, good sound and incredibly-low price.
Be aware of its limitations: You need a dark room to get a good picture. But this projector is great for bedrooms, dorm rooms, and even tents.
- Easy to set up and use
- Clear, HD picture
- Good sound
- Connects well to Bluetooth speakers Great value for money
- Needs a dark environment
- Won't project on ceiling
Apparel
Computer Circuit Board Socks – Geek chic for your feet
Photo: FreeHotu
These vibrant crew socks feature a detailed 3D-printed computer circuit board design in brilliant green with colorful components. Made from a comfortable blend of 98% polyester and 2% spandex, they’re lightweight, breathable and stretchy enough to fit men’s shoe sizes 7.5-12 and women’s 5.5-10. The design won’t fade after washing, and the deep heel pocket plus arch compression provide a stable, comfortable fit. These socks make great conversation starters at the office or casual gatherings.
These 3D-print computer circuit board socks are great conversation starters. The crew tube socks are unisex in adult size.
- Great for geeks
- Colorful 3D-printing
- Lightweight, breathable and stretchy
- If you prefer cotton, look elsewhere
Vintage Apple Logo Socks – Retro Apple style
Photo: SunnySocksGift@Etsy
Celebrate Apple’s iconic design heritage with these cute socks featuring the vintage rainbow Apple logo. These casual crew socks showcase the classic six-color striped apple that defined the company’s early years, making them instantly recognizable to any Apple fan. Made from soft, comfortable materials perfect for all-day wear, they’re a subtle yet stylish way to show your love for Apple products. The retro design appeals to longtime Mac users who remember the original Macintosh era, as well as younger fans who appreciate Apple’s history.
You can celebrate Apple's iconic design heritage with these cute socks. The retro style carries serious cred.
- Cool vintage styling
- Soft and comfortable
- One size only (unisex)
Retro Apple Computer T-Shirt – Vintage 1980s tech tee
Photo: AmericanBystander@Etsy
Step back in time with this retro Apple computer t-shirt featuring a vintage-inspired design that captures the essence of 1980s computing. The shirt showcases classic Apple aesthetics from the era of the original Macintosh and Apple II, making it a must-have for tech enthusiasts and longtime Apple fans. Crafted from soft, high-quality cotton for comfortable everyday wear, this tee perfectly balances nostalgia with modern style. The vintage graphic design celebrates Apple’s revolutionary impact on personal computing and appeals to anyone who appreciates technology history.
Step into the 1980s with this vintage-style T-shirt and be the envy of your friends. Comes in a variety of sizes and colors.
- 1980s design
- Soft cotton construction
- None unless you're a Windows/Android user
This geeky gifts buying guide first published on November 22, 2025, and republished with additions and updates on December 8, 2025.
David Snow, an expert on Apple hardware and software, writes on a variety of technological and cultural topics for Cult of Mac. They include Apple news, technology buying guides, and features about computer setups and Apple TV shows and movies.
With 30 years of experience covering technology and other subjects, he has written and edited for numerous print and online publications, including CMP Media, TechTV.com, CNET, Wired News, Red Herring magazine, Law.com, The National Law Journal and Law Technology News magazine. Among other roles, he served as executive editor of the Law.com network of websites and editorial director, technology, for ALM Media.
Snow graduated with a B.A. from Syracuse University with majors in magazine journalism and psychology. While there, he worked as a reporter for The Daily Orange newspaper and associate editor of Equal Time magazine.
Founder of the blog At the Waterline, he can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) via @atthewaterline and on Mastodon via @dsnow.
