This year's holiday shopping season looks to be a tough one as people everywhere tighten their belts and look for alternatives to the more expensive gifts that they might have given in the past. Computers, and perhaps more timely, computer accessories are more popular than ever, even for the budget minded.

If you're considering a computer-related gift, you need not lose hope. There are many budget friendly approaches to giving your favorite computer user a useful and appreciated gift.

If you're considering getting a computer as a gift and needs are basic, the under $1,000 price range has a surprising variety of name brand choices that are both useful and cost effective.

Less costly, if you know what kind of computer your intended recipient already has additional RAM might be one of the most effective upgrades to improve the performance of almost any machine. All you need know is the specific system type and how much memory is already in it, and there are several companies on the web that will fill in the rest. It might be geeky, but it'll be appreciated every time the computer's used.

If you're looking for something a little flashier, consider a replacement USB keyboard. Particularly if you've seen the old one and it's clearly worn and full of dirt (keyboards are the dirtiest part of any computer) a replacement could be just the ticket.

Large flat-screen monitors and displays have come down dramatically in price in recent years. Even just a small increase in size can often be surprisingly better, both easier on the eyes and improving productivity.

Have a PC gamer on your list? Consider a USB gaming keyboard or mouse. Designed specifically to help navigate the often complicated interface to many of today's modern and active on-line games, these will be very much appreciated by your favorite level 80 elf or druid.

No matter what you consider getting, a few important points to remember include:

• buy name brand products, from name brand dealers; quality and after-sale support are always key when it comes to technology.
• don't be disappointed if your recipient exchanges your gift; in fact, make it easy for them to do so. Computer equipment can be surprisingly personal, a matter of needs you didn't expect, or often even a matter of taste.
• don't be afraid of giving something computer related if you know that it'll be appreciated. If you're not sure exactly what to give, ask your local computer guru or friend for advice. A little bit of information about the computer that someone already has and how they use it should get you a long list of specific and useful ideas.
• Don't be afraid to ask your recipient! It doesn't always have to be a surprise, and this way you'll know that you're getting exactly what's both needed and sure to be appreciated.

And finally, it doesn't have to be expensive. From inexpensive custom mouse pads to external USB thumb and backup drives, to complete computer systems, even in a tight economy there are many options to give the computer enthusiast in your life a useful and appreciated holiday gift.