Splash out on the best technology this Christmas

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Deciding on the perfect Christmas present is often the hardest, and most stressful, part of this most enjoyable time of year. Such is the myriad of options available, and the huge range of requests made, just trying to think of an idea of what to get a certain someone, never mind several people, is enough to bring on a headache. This is where technology and entertainment gifts can be something of a godsend. Whether it's a new TV or games for existing consoles such as Wii Fit plus, one purchase can make an entire family's Christmas.

One idea is to help capture those magical Christmas memories with the giving of a digital camera. There are enough options out there to suit almost all budgets. Tablets are the must-have gadgets of the year and a variety of options are available this festive season.

In terms of apps, the Apple iPad 2 stands head and shoulders above the rest. The apps were designed specifically with the tablet screen in mind and therefore both look and work better than those created for the smaller screen of mobile phones. The iPad 2 is also a superb gaming tablet, taking you right into the heart of the action and, with many games either free or under £1, there's no shortage of options. Even a version of Grand Theft Auto has been planned for the coming months.

Alternatively, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 offers superior customisation, enabling you to adapt your tablet to exactly how you want. Lighter than the iPad, it's both well built and aesthetically impressive. For the businessman, it's hard to look past the Blackberry Playbook, while the Asus Eee Pad Transformer, with its long battery life, is perfect for students as it comes with an optional keyboard.

Similar to the tablet, 2011 has seen the inexorable rise of ebook readers. The new Amazon Kindle offers excellent value for money and gives you access to the comprehensive and easy to use Kindle store. An unrivalled library of books, newspapers and magazines are accompanied by numerous reader reviews to peruse before you buy. Also available is the Sony PRS-T1. It's responsive touch screen and additional stylus allows you to both draw and write text annotations as well as granting you access to books from a wide variety of stores.

When it comes to consoles, it's hard to beat the Xbox 360 250GB. Magnificent gameplay and an overwhelming choice of games with which to enjoy this quality, the Xbox 360 represents the very best of the console world. The PS3 is another option, while those who prefer a slightly more active excursion may be tempted by the Nintendo Wii.

As a stocking filler, it seems appropriate to enjoy the biography of the man who brought us so many of these innovations. Steve Jobs' tragic death in October of this year was mourned the world over. Find out what made the inspirational CEO of Apple tick as he set about shaping our technological lives.

When it comes to technology gifts this Christmas, there are more than enough options at reasonable prices to ensure everyone is left happy.