Picking the right gift for a gamer can feel like entering a boss battle blind. If you’re not into gaming yourself, it’s easy to grab the wrong console, a duplicate accessory or something they’ll quietly stash away. This year, skip the guesswork and give them something they’ll use and love. I’ve been a gamer for over 35 years, and I’ve pulled together 23 of the best gift ideas for every kind of player.
Whether they’re into PC setups, consoles or cozy throw blankets shaped like game controllers (yes, it’s a thing), this guide has something they’ll level up with. Plug in your controller and let’s get started.
Gifts for Every Kind of Gamer
Must-have accessories for gamers
- Power Move: The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless headset has customizable sound, active noise canceling and a comfortable fit.
- Budget Boost: This RGB-backlit Redragon K582 mechanical keyboard feels way more premium than its under-$50 price tag.
- Pro style: Level up their accuracy with this Razer Basilisk V3 wired mouse that offers 11 programmable buttons and slick RGB underglow.
Console gamer musts
- Makes a Lot of (Dual)Sense: The PlayStation DualSense wireless controller is a must-have for PS5 players (the new colors are very giftable). It also doubles as a generic Bluetooth control for PCs, smartphones or other compatible devices.
- On the Go Gamer: It may not be as powerful as the new Nintendo Switch 2, but the OG Switch (especially in the Lite trim) is still a top portable contender with dozens of hit titles.
- Extra Life: This charging dock powers two controllers at once and keeps them looking neat on a shelf. It works with PS4, PS5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch controllers, so you’ll only need one charger for multiple consoles.
PC setup staples
- Ultra-Wide Immersion: This curved Samsung 34′ Odyssey G5 Ultrawide monitor is ideal for multitasking, immersive open-worlds and driving simulator setups.
- Under-Glow Game: This full-desk RGB pad from Corsair makes even the plainest setups look pro.
- Fast and Cool: A high-performance laptop cooling pad with five quiet fans and a built-in height adjuster ensures a PC gamer’s setup stays cool.
- Decked Out: Valve’s Steam Deck is a portable powerhouse that lets you take your entire PC library on the go. It’s perfect for gaming in bed, on the couch or anywhere else. Don’t forget the dock so you can play on the big screen!
Gamer decor and collectibles
- Level Up Light: This Level Up LED desk light reminds RPG fans to keep on grinding.
- For the Mario fans: Retro Nintendo fans rejoice with this Super Mario Bros. collector’s mug. It has heat-sensitive artwork that changes when filled.
- Sound and Show: The Super Mario Bluetooth speaker connects to a compatible device and features Mario busting out of a green pipe, making it the perfect shelf-worthy display piece.
Fun gamer gifts
- Retro Read: 100 Video Games to Play Before You Die is a must-read for gaming nerds. It touches on the best games that have graced our television screens over the last 30 years.
- Blanket Bonus: This gamer-themed throw blanket is shaped like a giant game controller. It glows in the dark for those late-night gaming sessions.
- Unplugged Game Night: If you want to encourage a bit less screen time, this Monopoly Flip Edition (Fortnite) is competitive and genuinely fun.
On-the-go and streaming
- Console Quality: The Razer Kishi V2 mobile controller makes mobile gaming feel like you’re playing on a console.
- Stream Kit Starter: This gamer streaming kit includes an LED flat light, microphone and webcam, making it perfect for aspiring Twitch streamers.
- Manage the Mess: Being a gamer doesn’t mean you have to be messy! This cable management system will help tame all the cords behind monitors, game consoles and under desks.
Gamer stocking stuffers (under $25)
- Wrist Rest Win: These memory foam keyboard and mouse wrist rests are a cheap and underrated comfort boost.
- Keycap Fun: Help your giftee swap the boring standard keyboard keys with these retro-style custom keycaps. This subtle change can amp up the nostalgia and make their gaming set-up totally unique.
- Sock It to Them: The gamer in your life will love these funny gaming-inspired socks. I love the “cannot make eye contact” and “just one more round” styles.
- Screen Shine: A mini screen cleaning kit is an inexpensive way to clean the grease and fingerprints from laptops, monitors, tablets, handheld consoles and smartphones.
