Ultimate Gifts for Gamers: Unique Ideas for Every Budget, Platform & Play Style

Gamers take their hobby seriously—whether they’re fighting it out in online matches, getting lost in massive single-player worlds, or streaming for hours to their followers. That’s why they can be a little tricky to shop for, especially if you’re not a gamer yourself.

Don’t worry—this guide breaks down the best gift ideas based on budget, platform, and play style, so you can pick something they’ll actually use (and love).

Budget‑Friendly Gamer Gifts 

Gamer Gifts Ideas Under $50

• Indie game codes. Some of the best games out there don’t cost much. Hades, Stardew Valley, Celeste—all around $20. Pair a gift card with your own game recommendation and you’ve got a thoughtful, personal gift.
• Game-themed mugs or tumblers. Designs from their favorite series are always a win. Bonus points if it’s a heat-reactive mug that changes when you pour in something hot.
• Desk mats. A desk mat can protect their space, make their setup more comfortable, and show off their personality—whether it’s a cozy floral design or something bold and gamer-themed.
• Portable phone controller clips. For gamers who love cloud gaming on the go, these clips let them attach a controller to their phone for a console-style feel anywhere.

Gamer Gifts Ideas Under $100

• High‑capacity power bank. Ideal for handheld gamers and frequent travelers. Go for one with fast-charging ports so they can get back to playing quicker.

• Adjustable monitor arm. Frees up desk space, helps with posture, and makes it easy to switch between gaming and work setups.

• Quality mouse or budget headset. There are plenty of solid options under $80 that offer great performance, comfort, and durability without the premium price tag.

Gamer Gifts Ideas Under $200

• SSD storage upgrades. Extra space for consoles or PCs means they can install more games without deleting old favorites.

• Entry‑level VR headset accessories. Better straps or upgraded foam pads can make VR sessions way more comfortable, especially for Quest or PS VR users.

• Classic mini consoles. Retro throwbacks packed with pre-loaded games are fun, nostalgic, and perfect for casual gaming nights.

Gamer Gifts by Play Style

Competitive Gamers

Competitive players are all about performance. They want gear that helps them react faster, aim sharper, and squeeze out every bit of advantage they can.

• High‑performance controllers and mice. For console players, think elite controllers with customizable paddles and adjustable triggers. For PC gamers, an ultra-light mouse with a high-DPI sensor is always a win.

• Mechanical keyboards. Fast switches, programmable macros, and ideally hot-swappable keys so they can fine-tune the feel and sound.

• Noise‑cancelling headsets. Clear audio and a crisp mic for team calls, plus isolation so they can block out the world.

Casual & Cozy Gamers

Not everyone is chasing leaderboard glory. Some gamers just want to relax with farming sims, story-driven adventures, or co-op games with friends.

• Whimsical merchandise. Plushies, figurines, or puzzles based on their favorite games bring a bit of their fandom into everyday life.

• Stylish apparel. Graphic tees or sweaters featuring subtle game references let them rep their hobbies without looking like walking billboards.

• Ambient lighting. LED light strips or colour‑changing lamps create a relaxing atmosphere. A minimalist floral desk mat pairs beautifully with soft lighting and pastel decor.

Streamers & Content Creators

If they’re streaming or making videos, they need gear that sounds good, looks good, and shows off their personality.

• Microphones. USB mics like the Shure MV7+ or Elgato Wave give professional audio without a complicated setup. A boom arm makes positioning easy.

• Webcams or mirrorless camera setups. A clear picture makes streams more engaging. Pairing a camera with a ring light or key light ensures flattering, consistent lighting.

• Personalised backgrounds. Custom neon signs, art prints, or even a cat desk mat can add personality to the on‑screen backdrop. Our desk décor ideas article has more inspiration for creating a backdrop that pops.

Tabletop & RPG Fans

Not all gamers sit in front of screens. Role‑playing games and board games are more popular than ever.

• Premium dice sets. Metal, gemstone, or resin sets feel great to roll and look amazing. Glow-in-the-dark or liquid-core designs are extra fun.

• Game organizers. Dice trays, towers, or storage boxes help keep things neat. Leather trim or wood inlays add a touch of luxury.

• Custom miniatures or art commissions. Personalized minis or illustrations of their characters show you recognize their passion.

Top Gaming Gifts by Platform

Gifts for PlayStation Gamers

• DualSense charging station. Having extra controllers is great… unless they’re sitting there with 0% battery. A charging dock keeps them ready to go, so there’s always one charged up for the next round. Bonus: it keeps things neat and avoids cables everywhere.

• PS Plus or gift cards. A subscription means they can jump into online matches and access a rotating library of games without spending extra. Gift cards are perfect if you’re not sure which games they already own—let them choose exactly what they want.

• Exclusive collectibles. PlayStation has some iconic franchises. Limited-edition statues, posters, or art prints from titles like The Last of Us or God of War can turn their shelf into a little museum of their favorite worlds.

Gifts for Xbox Gamers

• Game Pass Ultimate subscription. This is basically Netflix for games. Hundreds of titles, from AAA hits to small indie gems, across console and PC. It’s the kind of gift that feels new every month.

• Customized controllers. Through Xbox Design Lab, you can create a controller in their favorite colors and even add their gamertag. It’s practical, personal, and makes their setup feel one-of-a-kind.

• Storage expansion card. With modern games taking up 100GB+ each, storage fills up fast. An official expansion card saves them from the frustration of deleting games every time they want to install something new.

Gifts for Nintendo Switch Gamers

• Carrying case. Perfect for keeping the console safe during trips. Go for themed designs from Zelda, Animal Crossing, or Mario to match their favorite series. A good case also has space for extra Joy-Cons and game cartridges.

• Pro Controller. Joy-Cons are great on the go, but for long sessions, a full-size Pro Controller is more comfortable and precise. Once they try it, they’ll never go back.

• eShop gift card. The Switch’s digital store is packed with charming indie games and classics from Nintendo’s history. An eShop card gives them the freedom to pick something that fits their mood.

Gifts for PC & Multi‑Platform Gamers

• Adjustable monitor arm. More desk space, better posture, and the screen exactly where they want it. Pair it with a smooth desk mat for a workspace that feels both comfortable and stylish.

• Ergonomic chair. If they’re gaming for hours, their back deserves better than a creaky dining chair. Lumbar support, breathable fabric, and adjustable height can make a huge difference in comfort.

• RGB peripherals. A colorful, backlit keyboard, mouse, or even a headphone stand that syncs lighting effects with the game adds instant atmosphere to their setup.

Gear & Décor to Upgrade the Gaming Space

A great gaming setup isn’t just about the console or PC—it’s also about making the space feel like somewhere you actually want to spend hours in. Here are some gift ideas that help with both comfort and style.

• Desk mats for personality and protection. A good desk mat does more than you think. It cushions your wrists, protects the surface from scratches and spills, and pulls the whole setup together. We’ve got options for every vibe—cute designs in our Cat Desk Mats collection, elegant patterns in our Chinoiserie Desk Mats, and plenty more styles to match any gamer’s setup. 

• Cable management kits. Velcro ties, sleeves, and under-desk trays keep all those wires in check, reduce clutter, and even prevent the occasional foot-tangle.

• LED light panels or nanoleaf kits. Mount them on the wall and let them react to music or gameplay for an instant mood boost.

• Floating shelves and display cases. Perfect for showing off collectibles, favorite figurines, or retro cartridges—while keeping the desk clear.

• Aroma diffusers or candles. Scents like lavender or sandalwood can make long sessions more relaxing. (Candles are great—just keep them safely away from the gear.)

For more ideas on transforming a gaming room into a stylish sanctuary, see our desk decor ideas guide.

DIY & Customisable Gamers Gifts 

Sometimes the best gifts aren’t something you grab off the shelf. Handmade or personalized presents hit differently—they feel more thoughtful and often end up being the ones people remember the most.

• Custom art or 3D prints. Commission an artist to draw their favorite character, or design a 3D-printed stand for their controller or headphones. It’s personal, useful, and one-of-a-kind.
  
• Memory scrapbook. Gather screenshots, funny moments, and photos from games you’ve played together. Add captions, inside jokes, and maybe even a few doodles. It’s a trip down memory lane in gift form.
  
  
• Curated desk care package. Put together a small bundle with a desk mat, a cable organizer, a small plant, and a scented candle. It’s like handing them a starter kit for upgrading their gaming nook.

Finding the right gift for a gamer doesn’t have to be stressful. Start by thinking about what they play, where they play, and the vibe they like for their space. Competitive players love high-performance gear, casual gamers might lean toward cute merch, streamers need good audio and video, and tabletop fans get excited about accessories that make their campaigns more immersive.