Our pick of last-minute gift ideas

RC Nighthawk Helicopter
Not only is the Nighthawk a complete radio-controlled helicopter at an impressive price, it’s also able to fly in the dark. It has three lights on its body that light up its flight path when you’re using it in less-than-perfect conditions. The controller has automatic balance so it’s not necessary to struggle with the levers just to keep the helicopter steady. The aircraft itself is decked out all in black and is 17cm long.
Price: £30
www.iwantoneofthose.com

Apple iPod Nano
Apple’s latest version of the iPod Nano is around the same size as its predecessor but now includes the ability to shoot video using the built-in camera. It can’t be used to shoot still images, something of an oversight on Apple’s part, but there’s plenty of storage space for video and a collection of music. We’ll be looking at the new Nano in detail in our full review in issue 309.
Price: £115
www.apple.com/ipodnano

Cabledrop
Tidy up your cables with these little helpers. They attach to desks and other surfaces and the cables from your camera, music player and everything else clip into place. You can also leave the cable attached to your desk so it’s ready the next time you need it. They come in a choice of colours.
Price: £10
www.firebox.com

Lego Mindstorms NXT 2
We were impressed with the first version of the Lego Mindstorms NXT, which built on the company’s recent advances in toy robotics. The new NXT 2 keeps the same system but adds new sensors and programming abilities. It’s an expensive toy, but as a way to learn about basic engineering, it’s excellent.
Price: £200
www.amazon.co.uk