Father’s Day falls on June 18th this year and it’s a day designated for appreciating the most important man in your life. My father taught me how to tie a knot, filet a fish, mow the lawn, fix a flat tire, shave my stubble and a lot more than would bore you to death. More important than the lessons is knowing my dad has my back no matter the situation I put myself in. There’s a good chance your father did the same for you too. In appreciation of our fathers, we’ve put together our favorite items that we think he would love this June 18th.
Mesh Networks
Dads are typically the default I.T. technicians when it comes to home WiFi networks. When you’re having a slow network, you call on Dad and he inevitably unplugs the router and resets it. There’s a good chance he does this regularly too. If you want to do your father a favor, help him by upgrading to the latest mesh network technology. Mesh networks were previously reserved for large businesses, but have now found their way into the home in the past year. They update and reset themselves when necessary, but most importantly they enable a strong WiFi network in every corner of your home. Heck, they’re so powerful they even work in the front and back yard too.
AmpliFi HD (High-Density) Home Wi-Fi System
- Wi-Fi Mesh Technology for Complete Home Coverage
- Plug and Play High-Density Mesh Points to Eliminate Dead Spots
- Dual-Band 802.11ac Wi-Fi System Delivers Up to 5.25 Gbps Aggregate Speed
- Convenient Smart-Touch Display for Real-Time Status
- Easy Setup and Powerful Wi-Fi Management using the AmpliFi App
$328.99 at Amazon
Google Wifi system
- A new type of connected system for seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home, helping eliminate dead zones and buffering
- Replaces your current router, and works your modem and internet service. It’s compatible with major internet service providers including Comcast, Time Warner, and Verizon Fios
- A single Wifi point covers up to 1,500 sq. ft, a set of three covers homes up to 4,500 sq. ft. Wifi points work together so you can add more if you need additional coverage
- Network Assist technology keeps your connection fast by always selecting the clearest channel and fastest band for your devices
- A simple app gets you set up quickly and allows you to see what’s connected, prioritize devices, and pause the Wi-Fi on kids’ devices
$279.99 at Amazon and at the Google Store
eero WiFi System
eero is the world’s first home WiFi system, powered by TrueMesh. A set of three eeros covers the typical home. They work in perfect unison to deliver hyper-fast, super-stable WiFi to every square foot of your house. It’s simple to set up. Easy to manage. And gets better over time with new features and improved performance. Stream video, get work done, or swipe right in any room — not just next to your router. Finally. WiFi that actually works.
Starting at $199.99 at eero.com and Amazon
Music Subscription
Does your dad love music? If he does then why not get him a premium subscription to a music service? With a premium subscription, he can eliminate commercials and play just about any song his heart desires. He can also ditch all of those mp3 files he drags from computer to computer too.
TIDAL
- Best music service for audiophiles
- HiFi music playback
- 46 million songs
- 192,000 music videos
$19.99 per month for a premium subscription at Tidal.com
Spotify
- Works across multiple platforms – Android, iOS, Windows Mobile
- Compatible with various devices like Sonos, Android Wear and the Apple Watch
- High quality playback
- Commercial free
- Best user interface
$9.99 per month at Spotify.com
Wireless Headphones
If your dad already has a music subscription, you could always upgrade his headphones. We reviewed the Apple Airpods and thought they were fantastic. However it’s too late to get him the Airpods unless you get them through eBay or Craigslist since they’re still backordered six weeks if you order them through Apple. Luckily there are still quite a few great options out there to get.
Master & Dynamic MW60 Wireless or Wired Headphones
I had to put the Master & Dynamic MW60 Headphones in this gift guide. I’ve put over a full decade, heck almost two, into audio products and the MW60 Headphones are my favorite of the bunch. They’re big and they’re expensive, but they’re worth every penny if you love audio. The MW60 Headphones sound spectacular, have great battery life, and look fantastic too. Behind those beautiful looks is a high-end build that is made to withstand daily use which is something I do every single day. I wear mine for a minimum of one hour a day while I stroll outside with my dog. It’s the time I reserve for myself when I can relax from a long day of work and escape into my music while getting fresh air. After six months of daily use I have not seen a single sign that the MW60 Headphones are deteriorating. If your budget can allow for these headphones as a gift, I think your father would absolutely love them.
$549 at Master & Dynamic and Amazon
Jaybird X3 Sport Wireless Headphones
If I am wearing headphones that aren’t made by Master & Dynamic, I am wearing the Jaybird Sport X3 wireless headphones. I put these on when I want something that sounds great but doesn’t cover my head. These are perfect for when I am lifting weights at the gym or training for my next 5k. They’re sweat resistant, comfortable to wear and can be custom tuned to your dad’s listening preference through the free app for Android and iOS devices.
$129.99 at Amazon, Best Buy and Jaybird
Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
Following along the lines of music, maybe a wireless speaker would be good for thanking your father for being so good to you.
Bose Soundlink Revolve and Revolve+ Bluetooth speakers
We reviewed the Bose Revolve Bluetooth speaker back in April and still love it just as much to this day. It’s a premium sounding speaker that now offers water resistance so it can be used by a swimming pool without fear of damage. It’s got a gorgeous metal unibody that feels is built as solid as it looks. If your father demands more sound you can always opt for the larger Soundlink Revolve+ for a $100 more.
Starting at $199.99 at Bose, Amazon and Best Buy
Anker SoundCore Bluetooth Speaker
Anker is one of the most popular electronics brands on Amazon.com. It makes quality products that frequent the Best Seller’s list and its SoundCore Bluetooth speaker is one of those examples. We reviewed the SoundCore Bluetooth Speaker and were highly impressed by Anker’s ability to create a high quality product at a price of $35.99. Its design might not be flashy, but it sounds great and lasts for 24 hours on a single charge.
$35.99 at Amazon
Marshall Kilburn Black Wireless Speaker
The Kilburn portable active stereo speaker takes the unmistakable look and sound of Marshall, unplugs the chords, and takes the show on the road….
The Kilburn is a compact stout-hearted hero with a well-balanced audio which boasts a clear midrange and extended highs for a sound that is both articulate and pronounced. The analogue knobs allow you to fine tune the controls to your personal preferences while the guitar-influenced leather strap enables easy and stylish travel.
Bluetooth compatibility and the 3,5mm jack input means easy connectivity, while the simple amplifier styled construction with classic Marshall logo means it will look as good as it sounds.
$299 at Marshall and Amazon
Smart Assistants
Amazon Dot
Smart assistants are quickly taking over homes across the country thanks in large part to Amazon. The Dot is one of our favorites because its price is affordable at $49.99, but also because it has a 3.5mm audio output jack allowing you to hook it up to a portable speaker. Just like its bigger sibling, the Echo, the Dot can control assist you at home. It can play music, order a Uber and pizza, turn off the lights, schedule alarms and a lot more.
$49.99 at Amazon
Google Home
Google may have been late to the smart speaker, but it’s making up ground on Amazon quickly. The Google Home allows access to similar features as the Amazon Echo, but it allows for multiple users through voice recognition. Google has made quite a few updates to its first generation smart speaker and it’s a great option for dads who prefer Android smartphones and tablets.
$129.99 at the Google Store, Target and Best Buy
Cool Stuff for the Geeky Dad
Some dads just have everything, but that doesn’t mean you should get him another tie. One of our favorite sites for cool stuff is ThinkGeek.com. It has thousands of items that are fun to browse for but are even better in hand. There are a wide variety of items that will suit any geeky dad: caffeinated soap, funny office gear, cool clothing, and toys and games are just some of the fun stuff we frequently order for ourselves here at deTeched. Here’s a few of our favorite items from ThinkGeek.com.
World of Warcraft: The Official Cookbook
Almost every dad probably knows how to BBQ a chicken and steak. But how many dads can concoct a magical drink and delicacies that members of the Horde would love? The World of Warcraft cookbook would please any dad who is a fan of Warcraft.
$34.99 at ThinkGeek.com
Star Trek Transporter 12oz Heat Changing Mug
Watch Captain Kirk, Mr. Spock, Lieutenant Uhura, and Dr. McCoy slowly disappear from the transporter pad on one side of the mug and reappear on the planet surface on the other, faster than you can say, “I’m a doctor, not a barista!” But don’t worry, they’ll return to the ship as the mug cools. Presumably to get more coffee.
$12.99 at ThinkGeek.com
Game of Thrones Longclaw Sword of Jon Snow
OMG! This GOT Sword of Jon Snow makes me wish I had kids just so they could get me this sword. This piece of memorabilia would surely please any dad with Game of Thrones making its season 7 debut in just over a month. It was modeled directly on the actual screen-used prop from the show. It is not full-tang, so don’t go trying to kill a wight with it. However, it’ll look lovely on your wall, hanging from its plaque with the Night’s Watch Oath silkscreened upon it.
$249.99 at ThinkGeek.com
The Hydra SmartBottle
Reusable water bottle. Check. Portable 4000mAh battery. Check. FM radio. Check. 5W Bluetooth speaker. Check. Lantern. Check. Hidden storage. Check. Bottle opener. Check. Need I say more? Seriously this is one of the coolest gifts you can get your dad.
$59.99 at ThinkGeek.com
Smart Home
Philips Hue Smart Lights
Philips Hue is the coolest smart lighting you can get. From LEDs to colored bulbs, the Hue lineup can light your dad’s entire home and can be controlled through a connected app for Android or iOS. If he has a smart assistant like the Amazon Echo, each light can be controlled with voice commands. You can even turn on your Hue lights when you aren’t home.
Learn more at Philips Hue
For the outdoor tech dad
Goal Zero Lighthouse 400 Lantern and USB Power Hub
- Internal Lithium Battery boasts 4,400 mAh with a 1.5A USB output, enough power to recharge phones and tablets even off grid
- Collapsible legs provide a stand for taller light and fold in for convenient storage. Built-in handle for easy carrying and hanging
- Utilize 360 Degree of bright LED light, or save on power and extend runtimes by illuminating half the lantern
$79.95 at Amazon, REI and Goal Zero
BioLite CampStove 2
The award-winning BioLite CampStove’s latest upgrade features 50% more power, an integrated battery, and an updated LED dashboard for improved control and feedback. Burning only wood, the CampStove 2’s fan creates a smokeless fire that can cook meals and boil water in minutes while turning its heat into usable electricity. Compatible with the KettlePot and Portable Grill, cook up wood-fired meals and charge devices using only the sticks around you.
$129.95 at BioLite