Cabe Atwell’s “A Holiday Gift Guide that Will Change Your Life,” published by Electronic Design on December 17, 2024, is a personal list of useful gifts for engineers, programmers and makers. Its strongest financial lesson is to buy for the recipient’s actual projects and existing equipment—not for a fashionable specification sheet. The recommendations below preserve Atwell’s reasoning while clearly separating his 2024 opinions from prices, availability and product terms that may have changed.
What the guide recommends at a glance
Atwell’s list moves from protecting digital work to designing, building, measuring and relaxing. It is not a controlled product test or a ranked “best of” list; each item reflects his experience and preferences.
| Need | Ideas named by Atwell | Best budgeting question |
|---|---|---|
| Protecting files | Remote backup such as Backblaze, used with a 3-2-1 strategy | What recurring service cost fits the value of the data? |
| 2D/3D design | DraftSight, LibreCAD, FreeCAD, SolidWorks Maker, TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 and SketchUp | Is the recipient a professional user or a hobbyist who can use a free tier? |
| Making parts | Enclosed 3D printers, including the models Atwell named | Can you afford filament, maintenance and possible enclosure costs? |
| PCB projects | KiCad EDA, EasyEDA, OSHPARK and Fritzing | Does the gift include fabrication and consumables, not just software? |
| Bench tools | Dial caliper and multiple basic multimeters | What measurement accuracy and electrical-safety category is actually required? |
| Learning and play | Development boards, science-fiction collections, Atwell’s 555-timer book and Atari 7800+ | Will it be used often enough to justify the total cost? |
Start with the guide’s most important money lesson: protect the work
Atwell describes losing access to data after two mirrored 8-TB hard drives appeared to fail when he changed PC power supplies. He tried repairing a controller board and eventually used a data-recovery company. The experience changed his practice: he adopted the 3-2-1 approach.
How 3-2-1 works
- Three copies: the working copy plus two backups.
- Two different storage formats or devices on site: a failure affecting one type is less likely to affect both.
- One copy off site: a remote service or another location protects against theft, fire and other local disasters.
He chose Backblaze and praised the storage and version-history features described in the 2024 article. Those service terms, retention rules and prices are not established as current, so check the provider’s present plan before purchasing. For a gift, budget the recurring subscription and the time needed to test restoration; a backup that cannot be recovered is not a finished backup plan.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- COMPLETE: This set contains a variety of tools - Besides various opening tools, it includes 16 precision bits (4 mm) and a precision screwdriver with a magnetic bit socket, knurled grip, and swivel top for easy operation.
- STARTER SET: You want to replace a broken screen or battery in your smartphone? This toolkit provides the necessary tools for a basic electronic repair. Compatible with Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Sony and many more devices!
- FUNCTIONAL: Thanks to the foam insert and magnetic closure of the case, tools, components and bits can be safely stored and transported. Additionally, the inside of the lid serves as a sorting tray.
- MUST-HAVE: This tool-set was designed to repair any smartphone, game console, tablet, PC, etc. It also serves for most household DIY fixes.
- IFIXIT QUALITY: These 16 precision-bits (4 mm) are made of high-quality S2 steel. The precisely machined bits fit properly into the screws and protect both the bit and the fasteners from damages.
Choose CAD software by use, not by brand recognition
2D drafting
Atwell says he had recommended DraftSight but used its last free version and considered the article-era price of $300 per year too high for his own purposes. He points to LibreCAD and FreeCAD as alternatives. That comparison reflects his 2024 judgment, not a current price survey. Confirm today’s licensing, operating-system support and file-format compatibility before paying.
3D design
Atwell prefers SolidWorks professionally and mentioned a Maker version he understood to cost $50 per year. He also named FreeCAD, TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 and SketchUp. A professional license may be unnecessary for a student or occasional maker, while a hobby tool may be inadequate for a workplace workflow. Ask what files the recipient exchanges, whether commercial use is allowed and whether the plan renews automatically.
Budget a 3D printer as a system
Atwell’s principle is simple: favor a printer that produces useful results without turning setup and upgrades into the project itself. As he wrote, “Don’t build a project before building your projects.” He favored an enclosed print area because drafts, temperature changes and dust can affect long prints.
Rank #2
- The original electronics toolkit: Designed for computer, smartphone, tablet, and gaming repair, backed by thousands of free instructions.
- Intentional selection: All the tools you need. A 64 precision bit driver set, tweezers, flex extension, opening tools, and anti-static wristband.
- Secure design: Magnetic case and foam insert ensure secure storage and transportation. Additionally, the inside of the lid serves as a sorting/organization tray.
- Lifetime Warranty: We'll replace anything that breaks, as long as you own it.
Models and features he discussed
He named the Tiertime Up Box+ as a turnkey printer and described his then-current older QIDI model, with the QIDI X-Plus 3 as a comparable option. He associated the latter with an enclosed or mostly enclosed area, auto-calibration and a heated bed, while noting that its filament sits outside the print area and can absorb moisture. He suggested a separate enclosure as a workaround, potentially with heat, desiccant or air filtration.
These are article-era observations, not verified current specifications. Before buying, confirm the exact model, included accessories, material compatibility, ventilation requirements, warranty and local availability. Include the ongoing budget for filament, build surfaces, nozzles, failed prints and electricity; the advertised printer price is only the entry cost.
Keep PCB and breadboard spending proportional to the project
Design software
Atwell considered Autodesk Eagle too expensive at the time and recommended free KiCad EDA and EasyEDA for many circuits and for learning a complete design workflow. Free software can lower the first-year cost, but check whether cloud accounts, collaboration features, export formats or commercial-use terms matter to the recipient.
Rank #3
- 【Universal】These spudger kit and pry tools professional designed for disassembling a variety of electronics - iPhone, android phone, laptop, tablet, apple watch, iPad, iPod, Macbook, computer, LCD screen, battery and more
- 【Plastic Spudger】Nylon spudger set is made of quality carbon fiber plastic, tough-yet-soft, which makes the tools effective at prying & opening electronics cases and screen without scratching or marring their surface
- 【More Tools】Metal pry tool offer a little more powerful prying and opening. Brush and cleaning cloths are great for dusting, detailing and cleaning. Tweezers can be used for picking up and handling screws and other small parts
- 【Package】This electronics pry tool kit includes 1 x spudger, 1 x metal spudger, 1 x hook tool, 1 x tweezers, 1 x brush, 1 x cleaning cloth, 1 x pry tool, 1 x metal pry tool, 2 x opening tools and 2 x opening picks
- 【Warranty】Each electronic pry tool kit is covered by STREBITO's lifetime warranty and 30 days money-back. If you have any issues with your toolkit, simply contact us for troubleshooting help, replacement, or refund
Fabrication
He identified OSHPARK as his preferred PCB fabrication service. Fabrication is a separate line item from design: board quantity, dimensions, layer count, shipping and turnaround affect the final bill. Let the recipient’s circuit complexity determine whether a low-cost shared service or a different manufacturer makes sense.
Virtual breadboarding
Atwell recommends trying a breadboard or perfboard layout in Fritzing before building it physically. He described obtaining the executable through a donation he understood to be $10, with the possibility of building from its GitHub repository. Treat that amount and access method as historical; verify the current distribution and terms. Simulation or layout planning can save money by exposing wiring errors before components are consumed.
Buy measurement tools with safety and task limits in mind
Calipers
Atwell prefers a dial caliper that reads both imperial and metric units because he found digital-caliper batteries inconvenient. The preference is practical, not proof that one style is universally more accurate. Match the tool’s range, resolution, jaw design and calibration needs to the recipient’s mechanical work.
Rank #4
- Multifunctional Tool Set: 33PCS Precision Repair Tool Set contains precision screwdrivers set, pliers set, tweezers, craft knife with 5pcs blade, and utility knife with 10pcs blade. Precision repair kits can repair various electronic devices, such as computers, notebooks, iPhones, ps4, toys, glasses, lamps, small appliances, etc. For screen replacement, replacement of critical electronic components, cleaning, demolition, remodeling of building equipment, etc
- 10PCS Precision Screwdriver Set: 10 different sizes of screwdrivers to meet various needs: 4PCS Slotted screwdriver: 1/16", 5/64", 3/32", 1/8"; 3PCS Phillips screwdriver: PH000, PH00, PH0; 3PCS Hexagon socket head screwdriver: T7, T8, T9. The screwdriver is made of heat-treated CRV, which greatly increases durability and extends service life. Precision magnetized tips increase efficiency. Hold the fasteners easily to start tightening and prevent the fasteners from falling out when unscrewed
- 4PCS Precision Pliers Set: This mini pliers set includes 6" Needle Nose Plier, 4" Diagonal Plier, 5" Long Nose Plier, and 5" Bent Nose Plier. The 4-piece needle nose pliers set can help with delicate chores or repair electronics projects. The pliers are made of drop-forged carbon steel with nickel plating, the advantages of these pliers are better rust protection and stronger corrosion resistance
- Ergonomic and Comfortable Grip: The pliers tool set come with a bi-material TPR handle that provides a comfortable grip when in use, and the soft and elastic handle prevents fatigue even during long hours of work. The swivel end cap of the precision magnetic screwdriver allows constant finger pressure while driving, and the non-slip rubber grip offers maximum turning power. The precision screwdriver's size is indicated on the end cap, making it easy to identify the right screwdriver for the job
- Portable and Storage: All accessories are stored in a pouch made of Oxford cloth. The packaging is sturdy and durable, and the interior is carefully designed, sorted, and stored in a small footprint. All parts are placed in a fixed location for easy handling. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, you can easily use this computer toolkit. This tool is the perfect gift, add it to the cart now
Multimeters
He suggests keeping several inexpensive multimeters available for quick voltage, resistance and continuity checks. His humorous “$7” example is not a current price or a safety recommendation. For mains electricity, high-energy circuits or field work, verify the meter’s safety category, fusing, leads and certification; a cheap meter may be unsuitable or dangerous.
Give a development board they do not already own
Atwell’s selection rule is to avoid duplication. His examples are a Raspberry Pi for someone who already has an Arduino, or a Micro:bit 2 for someone with a BeagleBone. Board generations, accessories and availability change, so first identify the recipient’s existing hardware, operating system, power supply, sensors and project interests. A board that requires a new display, storage card or proprietary cable can exceed the apparent gift budget.
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Technical learning
Atwell names his own Essential 555 IC: Design, Configure, and Create Clever Circuits, describing project-based instruction that progresses from simple to more complex 555-timer circuits. He also mentions an annual best-short-science-fiction anthology. A book is most useful when its level matches the reader’s background and when the projects use components they can obtain.
Best Value
- 【Universal】These spudger kit and pry tools professional designed for disassembling a variety of electronics - iPhone, android phone, laptop, tablet, apple watch, iPad, iPod, Macbook, computer, LCD screen, battery and more
- 【Plastic Spudger】Nylon spudger set is made of quality carbon fiber plastic, tough-yet-soft, which makes the tools effective at prying & opening electronics cases and screen without scratching or marring their surface
- 【More Tools】Metal Spudger helps pry and poke when you need a little more power. Ultra thin opening tool easily slips between the tightest gaps and corners. Opening picks are useful for prying open iPad and other glue-laden devices
- 【Package】This electronics pry tool kit includes 1 x plastic spudger, 1 x metal spudger, 1 x ultra-thin opening tool, 1 x hook tool, 1 x pry tool, 2 x opening tools and 4 x opening picks
- 【Warranty】Each electronic pry tool kit is covered by STREBITO's lifetime warranty and 30 days money-back. If you have any issues with your toolkit, simply contact us for troubleshooting help, replacement, or refund
Other titles in the article
The guide mentions Alix Paultre’s Cyberchild and Return of the Falcon, a novel Atwell edited. Atwell said he had asked his publisher for a discount code for his book; do not assume that 2024 promotion remains active. Check the current edition, delivery format and total checkout price.
Retro gaming is a recreation gift, not an engineering tool
Atwell’s playful final recommendation is the Atari 7800+. He highlights HDMI output, wireless controllers and compatibility with 2600 and 7800 cartridges, along with modern support and new or reissued games. He connects it to nostalgia and family play. Confirm the current bundle, controller count, cartridge compatibility, warranty and regional availability before purchase; those details can change between releases.
A practical buying framework for any recipient
- Inventory what they own. Check boards, software, tools, printers and games before buying a duplicate.
- Identify the dominant use. Separate professional drafting, learning, rapid prototyping, electronics measurement and recreation.
- Calculate total cost. Add subscriptions, consumables, shipping, accessories, maintenance and likely upgrades.
- Set a failure budget. For printers and fabrication, reserve money for test materials and mistakes rather than assuming the first attempt succeeds.
- Check compatibility and safety. Confirm operating systems, file formats, electrical ratings, ventilation and legal software use.
- Prefer reversible commitments. A book, basic tool or low-cost board may be wiser than a recurring service or expensive machine when the recipient’s interest is uncertain.
What this 2024 guide can—and cannot—tell you
The article is valuable as a map of project categories and as Atwell’s firsthand explanation of why he favors backups, low-setup printing and practical bench tools. It does not establish current prices, inventory, software licensing, independent performance rankings, affiliate relationships or manufacturer specifications. Treat every named product as a starting point for a current compatibility and cost check, not as a guaranteed best buy.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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