Holiday Gift Guide

Page last updated: 4 weeks ago

Apple boasts its ability to sell product lines that are robust, yet small enough that they can fit every product for sale on a small table. Buying a device can be complicated, then choosing a great accessory for that device adds even more complexity. This Apple gift guide aims to help you find the perfect device and accessory for you or your loved ones during the holiday season.

Mac

The Mac is the backbone of Apple and its biggest lineup of devices. You can find all-in-ones, large desktops, and thin notebooks with custom Apple Silicon processors boasting ultra-fast performance. They utilize Thunderbolt technology to enable the fastest connections to external peripherals possible, and our Apple gifts listed reflect that.

24-inch iMac

The 24-inch iMac is Apple's example of what happens when you introduce the efficient Apple Silicon to an aging desktop design. Every aspect of the 24-inch iMac was redesigned to be thinner, lighter, and more modern, resulting in something that looks good in almost any room.

There are seven dual-tone colors to choose from: silver, blue, pink, green, purple, yellow, and orange.

24-inch iMac accessories

M2 MacBook Air

The M2 MacBook Air is Apple's fanless notebook, running the Apple Silicon M2 chip. Sporting a revised design more in line with the MacBook Pro range, the 13.6-inch model includes up to 24GB of memory, up to 2TB of storage capacity, and up to 18 hours of battery life.

Other updates in the upgraded model includes a new 1080p FaceTime HD camera, a four-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio support, and a new 3.5mm headphone jack with support for high-impedance headphones.

While the M2 version is the latest and greatest, Apple's has kept the older M1 MacBook Air around as an entry-level option. Still enjoying the benefits of Apple Silicon, this version is a little older in terms of design, but it's still whip fast.

Using a 13-inch display, it has two Thunderbolt ports, up to 16GB of memory, Touch ID security, and a hefty 18-hour battery life. Its light weight and compact size still makes it a popular option, especially at its low price.

M2 MacBook Pro

The 13-inch MacBook Pro is Apple's higher-end version of a consumer-grade laptop and still features the Touch Bar. While Pro in name, it uses the same M2 processor as the MacBook Air, but it's assisted by active cooling. This model replaced the previous low-end MacBook Pro and acts as a middle ground between the entry MacBook and high-end Pros.

Using an 8-core CPU with a 10-core GPU, you can configure the M2 model with up to 24GB of unified memory and 2TB of storage. Its 20-hour battery life will last you the entire day, and beyond.

14-inch MacBook Pro

The 14-inch MacBook Pro is one of the newer form factors in Apple's modern laptop lineup. It has a 14.2-inch ProMotion mini-LED backlit display, a full-sized row of function keys instead of the Touch Bar, and a good variety of ports on each side.

It uses Apple's M1 Pro and M1 Max processors, updated versions of the M1 chip with higher CPU core and GPU core counts, up to 64GB of memory support, and the Media Engine, making it ideal for video producers.

16-inch MacBook Pro

The 16-inch MacBook Pro has been redesigned and has identical features to the 14-inch model, except for its 16.2-inch display. You get the same variety of ports and chips, including both M1 Pro and M1 Max variants, memory support up to 64GB, and Media Engine assistance.

The larger case means fewer thermal limitations during intensive tasks, which Apple will take advantage of via a user-facing "High-Power Mode." This is the most popular MacBook chosen by developers, and naturally anyone who wants the biggest built-in display.

MacBook accessories

Mac mini

The Mac mini with an M1 processor is the cheapest way to get Apple's powerful custom silicon in a Mac. The classically thin and square computing puck is powerful and versatile, with a wide selection of ports at the rear, while being compact enough to hide anywhere on your desk.

Bring your own display, mouse, and keyboard to this tiny desktop perfect for day-to-day work or running a server from your closet.

Mac mini accessories

27-inch iMac

Buy 27-inch iMac

The 27-inch iMac is no longer sold by Apple, replaced by the Apple Silicon-based 24-inch iMac, but it's still possible for you to get hold of one. These are likely to be appreciated by anyone who wants or needs to stick to Intel chips, such as people who need to run legacy software.

Buy Mac Pro

Once considered the ultimate Mac you could buy, the Mac Pro is a desktop tower designed for the most elite professionals that need absolute control over every aspect of their computer. Powered by an Intel Xeon W chip with up to 28 cores and supporting up to 1.5TB of memory, this is a fantastic workhorse for the right person.

The modular nature of the Mac Pro enables users to add RAM, specialized cards, and storage as needed for operation, making it a rare Mac you can upgrade after purchase. Pair with the Pro Display XDR for the ultimate Mac setup.

Mac Pro accessories

iPhone

The iPhone is Apple's primary business and the one with the most possibilities for accessories and add-ons. From protective cases to app-enabled toys and the latest MagSafe devices, we've got you covered.

iPhone Accessory Coupons

While coupons typically don't exist on the phones themselves, there are a number of promotional code discounts available on accessories. Below is a roundup of the best accessory deals on iPhone cases and chargers:

Adorama: Save $10 on Apple's MagSafe Battery Pack with promo code APINSIDER
mophie: 20% off one item sitewide with coupon code INSIDER20
Zagg: 20% off one item sitewide with promo code INSIDER20
Courant: 20% off with promo code APINSIDER20
Grovemade: 10% off sitewide for new customers with coupon code AppleInsider

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is Apple's flagship iPhone, featuring the largest display and longest battery life available in the lineup. Sporting a 6.7-inch always-on screen, the model gets rid of the infamous notch and replaces it with the new Dynamic Island.

Capture video in ProRes and macro photos with its trio of cameras, including a 48MP main sensor, which is processed by the new A16 Bionic chip. This year's model even includes Emergency SOS via Satellite, making it a smartphone that's truly out of this world.

iPhone 14 Pro Max accessories

The iPhone 14 Pro has all of the features of the larger iPhone 14 Pro Max packed into a model with a 6.1-inch display. This is for those who want the high-end camera and display without the unwieldy size and higher price.

iPhone 14 Pro accessories

The iPhone 14 is the main model, designed to be satisfactory for most smartphone users. It has the same classic design and notch as the previous model, but while the A15 chip is back, it's the supercharged version from the iPhone 13 Pro.

New this time around is the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature, for getting help when you're out of cellular coverage, while Crash Detection will send for assistance if it detects you're in a vehicular incident. A smart feature for a highly popular smartphone.

iPhone 14 accessories

The iPhone 14 Plus is Apple ditching the mini model of iPhone in favor of something bigger. Instead of the 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, you're getting the 6.7-inch version, complete with a higher resolution.

This bigger version shares the same features as the standard iPhone, but with a lot more screen to look at.

iPhone 14 mini accessories

Buy iPhone SE

The third-generation iPhone SE is Apple's entry-level model meant to entice even the most budget-conscious consumer to the ecosystem. Using the same design language as the iPhone 8, it's a classic-looking iPhone, but not internally.

Inside is the A15 Bionic chip, meaning it will offer high levels of performance, with it also having 5G connectivity too. As the value option, there are some compromises, such as the single camera on the back, but it's still 12MP and capable of recording 4K video.

It's a starter iPhone, but it offers practically everything you need.

iPhone SE accessories

iPad

The iPad is Apple's least expensive computing platform and also its vehicle for experimenting with new hardware. The iPad Pro is positioned as a potential MacBook replacement when paired with a Magic Keyboard. You'll find the best Apple gifts related to the iPad here.

The ninth-generation 10.2-inch iPad is Apple's most popular iPad thanks to its robust feature set and low entry price. It still has the older design, Touch ID Home Button, and middling display, but runs all of the powerful apps available for iPadOS.

Apple has also introduced a new tenth-generation iPad, which upgrades the chip to the A14 Bionic, goes from an 8MP rear camera to a 12MP version, and overhauls the overall design considerably.

While the ninth-gen keeps to the traditional physical appearance, the tenth-gen leans more toward the iPad Pro in aesthetics, complete with an edge-to-edge display that measures a larger 10.9 inches. It also loses the Home button but retains Touch ID on the side, and it also shifts the FaceTime camera so it is central when used in landscape orientation.

The ninth-generation iPad is the cheapest and an entry-level device. The tenth-generation iPad elevates and modernizes, while still staying reasonably priced.

10.2-inch iPad accessories

The iPad Air 4 got the Pro-treatment with an edge-to-edge display, Touch ID in the power button, and Apple Pencil 2 support. Driving the entire system, and its 10.9-inch display, is the same M1 chip that's used in the iPad Pro models, as well Apple's Mac lineup, ensuring high performance for all users.

Apple also offered all-new colors for the iPad Air's launch, with muted shades of silver, space gray, rose gold, sky blue, and green.

iPad Air accessories

The iPad mini 6 is an iPad in miniature, but despite its small size, it's packed with power. Behind that 8.3-inch display is an A15, making it more powerful than the 10th-gen iPad, as well as a 12MP rear camera, and a 12MP front camera with and Center Stage.

This is the ultimate combination of power and portability from Apple with Apple Pencil 2 support, iPadOS, and a display that can fit in your hand and your pocket.

iPad mini accessories

Buy 11-inch iPad Pro

The 11-inch iPad Pro has a 120Hz ProMotion display, can transform into a laptop with the Magic Keyboard, and connects to Thunderbolt accessories with its versatile port. This tablet uses Apple's custom M1 processor to enable workflows that compete with high-end laptops.

11-inch iPad Pro accessories

Buy 12.9-inch iPad Pro

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is Apple's flagship tablet with all the same features as the 11-inch version with the addition of a mini-LED backlit display. Add in the Magic Keyboard, 2TB of internal storage, and 5G service for a powerful, portable computer.

12.9-inch iPad Pro accessories

Apple Watch

The Apple Watch is Apple's wearable device with interchangeable bands. After mixing and matching your favorite color, size, and a premium watch band, you have a swath of third-party options to further accessories your Apple Watch.

The Apple Watch Series 7 wasn't a feature-rich update but brought about design changes that make it a worthwhile purchase for fans and new users alike. It has a bigger edge-to-edge display, tougher glass, and faster charging than the previous model.

Buy Apple Watch SE

The Apple Watch SE is a budget-minded device that offers modern features, performance, and design. It isn't the cheapest model available, but it has access to features like Family Setup, which lets family members without iPhones use a cellular Apple Watch.

Buy Apple Watch Series 3

The Apple Watch Series 3 has stuck around for years after its release as the cheapest way to get into Apple's wearable ecosystem. The dated hardware and processor are just above the bar for what is required to get through the day.

Apple Watch accessories

Audio

Apple has several audio-focused offerings from in-ear AirPods to the HomePod mini smart speaker. Use Siri to control your music, or even your home, thanks to the intelligence baked into these products.

The AirPods (third-generation) take on design aspects of the AirPods Pro while maintaining a price point similar to the original AirPods. It introduces Adaptive EQ and Dolby Atmos with dynamic head tracking to this cheaper model. The six-hour battery life is enough to get through any listening session with the charging case providing four additional charges.

AirPods (third-generation) accessories

Buy second-generation AirPods

The AirPods (second-generation) has moved to a lower price point, but are the same magical earbuds that revolutionized the truly wireless era. Despite the low price, you'll get the universal fit, Hey Siri controls, auto-device switching, and five-hour battery life.

AirPods (second-generations) accessories

The AirPods Pro differentiate themselves with changeable ear tips, Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode, and improved sound quality. Apple added magnets to the charging case with new purchases, so now users can magnetically attach the case to MagSafe chargers. These are for people who want control over the fit and sound of their earbuds.

AirPods Pro accessories

The AirPods Max are Apple's high-end over-the-ear headphones made with premium materials and custom Apple audio processing. Often described as the HomePod for your head, these headphones analyze the audio coming in to adapt it for the optimal listening experience. Despite the high price, these do not support Apple Music with Hi-Res Lossless tracks.

AirPods Max accessories

The HomePod mini is a tiny smart speaker where Apple Music, HomeKit control, and Siri live. Anyone with a smart home running HomeKit devices will want a HomePod mini to act as the brains thanks to Thread integration. Customers can buy any of five colors: blue, orange, yellow, white, and space gray.