What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the phrase "holiday shopping"? If you answered "crowded" and "time-consuming", we certainly sympathize. Allow us to lend a hand by introducing a selection of smartphone apps offering all the satisfaction of getting your holiday shopping list finished without the stress of braving the crowds...

iOS

Best Buy
For many, Best Buy is synonymous with home electronics, gaming, and appliances. Their robust shopping app lets you peruse their whole catalog with the option to purchase directly from your iOS or Android handset. Orders can be shipped to your address or picked up directly in-store. Free
Also available for Android

Bed, Bath & Beyond
Are you in need of presents for the couple who just moved in together? With their floor to ceiling selection of house and homewares, Bed, Bath and Beyond isn't a bad place for gift ideas. The BB&B app offers a wide variety of home related products categorized and rated by customers, with the option to add any of the items to a registry for special occasions outside of the holidays. Free

Android

Sears
Sears has always been a dependable department store and are making strides with their smartphone app. All manner of things for the home from big screen TVs in the living room to bathroom towels can be bought within the app and delivered straight to your door or picked up in-store. Free
Also available for iOS

Target
Targets broad product selection is now at your fingertips ready to purchase with the tap of the screen. Everything from video games and DVDs to clothing or bath sets can be ordered directly from their app and sent straight to your door. Products are neatly organized into their respective categories and weekly ads are presented each week (so you can save money with a deal.) Free
Also available for iOS

Windows Phone

Amazon Mobile
The popular online retailer is home to many products such as electronics, books, CDs, furniture and much more. Their mobile app is the gateway to online shopping across all the smartphone platforms and even doubles as a price checker against their site by scanning barcodes with your smartphone camera. Free
Also available for iOS/Android

eBay
eBay is famous for being an incredible resource of deals and now it's more convenient than ever to bid on items. Browse through the endless selection of products and make your bid wherever data is available while sellers can maintain full control over their wares. If you aren't keen on entering into a bidding war you can always 'buy now'. The wish list feature is handy for referencing later while browsing or simply creating a shopping list. Free
Also available for iOS/Android

(Images: 1. Jason Rodway, all others: as credited above.)