13 products we couldn't live without in 2016

Sometimes, the best tech is simple.

While 2016 was littered with futuristic gadgets — mind-melting virtual reality headsets, an iPhone without a headphone jack — we'd wager most of the technology you use day to day is a bit less amazing. Maybe you have a really good keyboard, or a neat smartphone app that saves you money: they may not dazzle, exactly, but they make a difference in your life.

In that spirit, we've collected recommendations from Mashable staffers about the gadgets, apps and doohickies they couldn't live without this year. Some of it stretches the definition of "tech," and most of the picks have been around for a little while. But it's all worth checking out (or buying for your loved ones this holiday season) if you're trying to make life just a bit sweeter. Read more...