The Best Gifts for Dads

Best streaming device

If your binge-watching dad doesn’t already have a streaming device, or is looking for a new one, you can’t do better than the Roku Ultra. It’s a streaming powerhouse with almost 4,000 available apps and top-of-the-line video and audio. Plus, it has a dedicated play/pause button, unlike some devices (we’re looking at you, Chromecast with Google TV).

Best budget projector

My dad loves a project, and I suspect some of yours do, too. We don’t own this specific projector, but our TV-viewing life has never been the same since my dad turned our backyard into an outdoor theater. Don’t forget that you’ll need a projection screen as well, unless you’ve got a convenient plain white wall around (shoutout to renters!).

Best lighting system

Upgrade your dad’s entertainment system with these LED backlights (TV not included). The 1080p camera attaches to the top of your TV so your lights will always reflect the onscreen action. This gift has the added bonus of enhancing your TV experience too, anytime you’re watching TV with your dad. Score.

Best protective eyewear

Watching TV—especially on a personal device like an iPad, or after a long day of work on a computer—can be really tough on the eyes. Give your dad some relief with these blue light glasses, designed to minimize eye strain while looking at screens all day. Actually, if you’ve been spending a while researching gift ideas, maybe grab a pair for yourself as well.

For Star Wars fans

This gift is really a no-brainer for a TV fan. It’s functional, too: let everyone’s favorite droid prepare a tasty snack while you watch “The Mandalorian” or “Andor” or whichever Star Wars prequel Disney+ is cooking up next. There’s really nothing like the smell of fresh popcorn.

For “Stranger Things” fans

Is your dad captivated by ’80s nerd culture nostalgia? Lean into that! This is also a great gift for fans of the 2023 “Dungeons and Dragons” movie. If you’re looking for more D&D gifts, check out this gelatinous cube and these funky transforming dice.

For “House of the Dragon” fans

This sketchbook is perfect for artsy dads who also love “House of the Dragon.” Or really any dragon-y fantasy series. Or maybe you just think they’d like it because it looks cool. You can also find similar lined journals for dads who are more into writing than sketching. And if you’re looking for more “Game of Thrones” gift ideas, good news! We’ve got a whole other guide of just that.

For “Yellowstone” fans

Give your dad the gift of closet cosplay with this “Yellowstone” hat. Embroidered with the show’s logo, this hat will make your dad feel just like a Dutton. You could also go full immersion and buy a cowboy hat, if you’re really feeling the yeehaw vibe.

For “Ted Lasso” fans

Hey, sports fans are a type of nerd too, right? Maybe this mug will become your dad’s good luck charm when watching your family’s favorite Premier League teams. And if they haven’t seen “Ted Lasso” yet, maybe it’s time to gift them an Apple TV+ subscription.

For “Bob’s Burgers” fans

If you pick this gift, you have great taste. No, that wasn’t just a food pun (although you’ll find plenty in this book, subtitled “Real Recipes for Joke Burgers.”) I also bought this book for my own dad a few years ago, and it was a hit. Man, “Bob’s Burgers” sure has been on the air for a while, hasn’t it?

For snackers

For many, snacking is a vital part of the cinematic experience. You’ll have to do some measuring to find one that fits your dad’s favorite viewing spot best, but a couch tray is a great gift for a dad who loves to snack n’ stream.