Tech Promotional Products 2026: Power Banks & USB-C

In short: Tech is one of the most popular choices for corporate gifts in 2026. Power banks, USB-C cables, wireless chargers and small smart gadgets are used every day, so the brand on them stays visible. At the same time, the rules have changed: the EU common charger rule has covered laptops since 28 April 2026, several airlines have banned using power banks on board, and the industry itself is under economic pressure.

The market in numbers

According to the Werbeartikel-Monitor 2026 by the German promotional products association GWW and IFH Köln, the German industry turned over about €3.16 billion in 2025, 5.0 percent less than in 2024 (€3.33 billion). For 2026, suppliers expect a 2 percent rise on average and consultants a 2 percent decline. The study also sees growing online sales and a clear trend towards more sustainable products.

Why tech gadgets work

A good giveaway is one that gets used. Almost everyone carries a smartphone, so a cable that always fits or a small power bank keeps the sender's logo in sight. Specialist suppliers of promotional products offer a wide range of tech items with printed or engraved logos. Quality matters more than quantity: a cheap cable that breaks after two weeks hurts the brand.

Popular choices include power banks, USB-C cables with 60 or 100 W, Qi or Qi2 wireless chargers, Bluetooth speakers and earbuds. For higher-value gifts, see our guide to the best in-ear headphones of 2026.

USB-C makes gifting easier

Since 28 December 2024, new phones, tablets, headphones, speakers, keyboards and mice sold in the EU must charge via USB-C. Since 28 April 2026, this also applies to new laptops up to 100 W. A USB-C cable or power bank now fits almost every new device, so multi-plug adapters are no longer needed. Check the charging power, though. More on laptops is in our Windows laptops 2026 guide.

Power banks and air travel

Since 15 January 2026, power banks may neither be used nor charged on Lufthansa Group flights. Passengers may carry up to two, in hand luggage only. Units up to 100 Wh need no approval; 100 to 160 Wh require airline approval. Pick models with the capacity clearly printed. A 5,000 to 10,000 mAh power bank is well below the limit.

Tax limits in Germany

Gifts to business partners are only tax-deductible if they stay at or below €50 per recipient per year (raised from €35 retroactively to 2024). Low-value giveaways up to €10 net per item count as mass promotional items with simpler rules. If in doubt, ask a tax adviser.

Sustainability, security and branding

Choose durable products over cheap mass items, recycled materials, less packaging and certified batteries with CE marking. Avoid giving away unknown USB sticks, as many IT departments warn against plugging them in; see our IT security overview. Keep branding subtle: a small engraved logo looks more premium than a large print, and always test a sample before a big order.

Conclusion

Tech giveaways are a good choice in 2026 if they are genuinely useful. USB-C is now the common standard, which makes choosing easier. Focus on quality, the €50 limit, clear power bank capacity and sustainable materials.