(CNN) -- Giving or receiving new gadgets this Christmas? Whether it's a smartphone or a laptop, keep some basic tips in mind. Karin Caifa has some advice.
Topping lots of wish lists and appearing under lots of Christmas trees: new tech toys.
Many devices will suggest a fully-charged battery before use, but for gadget lovers who just can't wait, Consumer Reports says you're probably OK.
"It's not a terrible idea to do that because you know, you will have the benefit of a full charge. But lithium-ion batteries, which are what is used in most cell phones, laptops, etc., they usually come with at least little bit of charge, so you should be able to use the device immediately," said Glenn Derene, electronics editor at Consumer Reports.
Before hopping on the Internet with a new smartphone, tablet or laptop, go to the "settings" tab to adjust privacy settings. These should get particular attention when giving devices to kids.
"You might want to look through the parental controls that's in the settings, and you can enable any restrictions that will make you feel comfortable giving that to your son or daughter," said Derene.
It's also smart to check for the latest software update and anti-virus protection.
And if that gift isn't a perfect fit:
"One, make sure that you have the receipt. If you don't have the receipt, at least figure out what store you got it from. And don't go taking it out of the box if you're not going to use it. That's generally a no-no when it comes to returns the next day," said Derene.
Retailers often charge restocking fees for those returned electronics that have been opened.
