Gifts for gamers
The first question with any gamer is their platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo Switch. Once you know it, the safest great gifts are a comfortable headset, a controller charging dock, a gift card for their store or an upgrade to their desk setup. Here are seven ideas from about $15 to $100.
The short list
- Comfortable gaming headset $50–100
- Controller charging dock $25–40
- Gift card for their platform $25–100
- Monitor light bar $30–60
- Large desk mat $15–30
- A video game art book $30–50
- Cooperative board game $25–45
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Comfortable gaming headset
Typically $50–100
Why it fits
For the player in long online sessions. A comfortable headset with a clear mic makes playing with friends easier on the ears and on everyone else in the house.
Controller charging dock
Typically $25–40
Why it fits
Dead controllers are a gamer’s small daily annoyance. A dock keeps two charged and looks tidy next to the console. Check that it fits their console.
Gift card for their platform
Typically $25–100
Why it fits
Gamers often have a wishlist of games you’ll never guess. A gift card for their store lets them pick, and it’s instant.
Monitor light bar
Typically $30–60
Why it fits
For the PC gamer who plays at night. It lights the desk without glare on the screen and takes up no desk space.
Large desk mat
Typically $15–30
Why it fits
Covers the whole desk, so the mouse glides and the keyboard stays put. It’s also a chance to pick a design they’ll love.
A video game art book
Typically $30–50
Why it fits
For the fan of a particular series. Art books show the concept work behind the worlds they’ve spent hundreds of hours in.
Cooperative board game
Typically $25–45
Why it fits
For the gamer who also loves game nights. In a co-op game everyone plays together against the game, which works great for mixed groups.
Find out their platform first
Most gaming gifts only work on one system. A PlayStation controller dock does nothing for a Switch player, and a Steam gift card is useless to someone who only plays Xbox. If you’re not sure, ask a friend of theirs, or choose a gift that isn’t platform-specific: a desk mat, a light bar, an art book or a board game.
Don’t guess games
Buying a specific game is risky. They may already own it, or play it on a different system. If you do want to give a game, check their wishlist on their store, which many players keep public.
Upgrade the setup
Gamers spend hours at their desk or on their couch. Comfort upgrades like a better headset, a desk mat or good lighting are things they often put off buying, and they make every session better.
Questions people ask
What’s a safe gift for a gamer?
A gift card for their platform or store. Gamers often have specific games in mind, and a gift card lets them choose.
How do I know which platform they play on?
Ask, or look at what they talk about. On Giver, people can note their tech ecosystem, such as PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC, Apple or Android.
Shopping for one person in particular?
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