Logitech MX Master 3
One of the most important things for engineers is the mouse because we spend so much time on the computer. This mouse has been the best I have found. It is very ergonomic and it has reduced my wrist pain a lot.
Keychron K2 Wireless Bluetooth/USB Wired Gaming Mechanical Keyboard
Right behind the mouse, the keyboard is super important. I have been into mechanical keyboards for the past few months and it has been a game changer. The keyboard is super comfortable to type on and very compact. An added bonus is that it has key caps for both macs and PC as well as it connects to three devices at once to quickly switch between computers.
Hard Drive
There is nothing more frustrating than losing a lot of files. It doesn’t matter if you are a student or a professional engineer, keeping your files safe (and backed up) is essential. I have about three of these hard drives around for backups or If I am traveling and need to save some pictures or videos on the go. Check this other Samsung T7 SSD (Solid State Drive) for a nice upgrade too
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while working on those hard engineering problems. Having a nice and reliable water bottle is essential. This vacuum insulated water bottle will keep water (or any other drink) cold or hot for a long time.
Notebook
In a world were most notes are taken digitally, I like to have a physical notebook handy for quick sketch, meeting notes, random ideas, and any other sporadic writing I need to do. The Leuchtturm 1917 notebook is a classic. I really like the size and the dotted pages for a minimal look. It is also really useful for engineering sketches.
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook
This notebook has a trick under its sleeve. It looks and feels just like a regular notebook but the pages are reusable. After you are done writing simply scan the page with the phone app and it will automatically upload it to the cloud for you. No more wasting or losing pages and pages of paper, have everything safely backed up with a click of a button.
Pens
Get your favorite engineer a set of nice pens to go with the nice notebook above. These pens are some of the nicest I have used and have a really fine tip for precise sketching or writing.
AeroPress
I cannot have list of engineering gifts without mentioning something related to coffee. The AeroPress is a really handy coffee press that makes coffee in seconds. It is perfect for a small dorm room or office.
Brain Teasers
Brain teasers were some of my favorite gifts growing up. I really like (and hate) the challenge that comes with solving one of these. There are so many cool brain teasers for all skill levels. I am definitively on the easiest level.
STEM Structures
Whether you are buying a gift for a civil, mechanical, or electrical engineer, these STEM structures are a great gift. They have structures for almost any type of engineering. Here are a few more options: Mechanics, Physics’ Laws, Newton’s Laws, and Golden Gate and Eiffel Tower among others.
Books
I have personally not been great at reader books in the past but 2020 changed that. This year I have read more books than the previous five years. I have been into reading self-development, finance, and religious books. This has been the ONE habit that has open my eyes into what I can achieve and what I still need to learn to be more successful. I have a list of my favorite books in the link below for some inspiration.
Shirts from Engineering Organizations
We all have our favorite engineering organizations. What better way to show our support than getting some swag. I really enjoy volunteering with ASCE, EWB, SEI, and SHPE but there are hundreds of other engineering organizations out there!
