A gift guide for things men actually want, organized by price.
The older you are, the harder it is to ask for gifts. If you want or need something that’s reasonably priced … you’ve probably already purchased it. If there’s a big-ticket item you’ve got your eye on, you probably don’t feel comfortable asking for it. You’re self-sufficient, and proud of it.
‘Tis the season for gift-giving and receiving, however, and it’s important to remember that gifts are an opportunity for people in your life to express how much they care. It’s gentlemanly to suggest things that will mean something to you.
Don’t expect any help from traditional men’s gift guides. Most are a useless mish-mash of trendy overpriced, unrealistic, and plain weird things magazine editors *think* look cool on a page.
So we’ve created a practical gift guide for practical guys with more than 150 suggestions for gadgets, essentials, apparel, and household upgrades – items you probably don’t have, but could definitely use. Check it out, share it, and even use it for birthdays, graduations, etc. Pretty much everything was selected because it’s useful year-round, not just in December.
Our biggest gift guide ever.
What is Primer Approved?
On some of the gift ideas there’s a small “Primer Approved” badge. This is a classification we've used since 2008 for some of the products we’ve tested hands-on and feel they’re worth the money. Companies can’t pay for this distinction: The product we used must have met both the advertised promises and our expectations.
Jump to Price section:
Gift Ideas Under $30
Stoneware Mug
Start your morning on a bright note.
Gerber Keychain Tool
Full size multi-tool overkill for your EDC? Carry 9 tools on your keychain and lose the pocket bulk.
Cast Iron Bacon Press and Steak Weight
Get that diner-perfect flat and evenly cooked bacon at home with this old-school tool.
Mike's Hot Honey
Better fried chicken for a year.
Braided Cord Power Strip with Surge Protection
Time to replace that 90s beige thing strewn in front of the couch during your WFH sessions.
Bicycle Light
Amazing reviews and a killer price.
LED Backlight Kit with Remote
Now your living room looks like your favorite Youtuber's studio.
A gift that makes every morning better
Chemex Pour Over Coffee Maker
A favorite by both young baristas and baby boomers, this iconic kitchen appliance has made its name across all ages. This pour over is unique among all others due to its thick filter that absorbs and filters majority of the oils, leaving you with one of the cleanest-tasting cups of coffee. Aside from great tasting coffee it produces, this aesthetically looking device also acts for a great display piece in the kitchen. It's won numerous design awards and is on permanent display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, among others.
→ Read more: Getting Started with Pour Over Coffee
Waxed Canvas and Leather Watch Roll
Storing watches on the go gets easier and more stylish with this rugged roll-up.
Waterproof AirPods Case
Your AirPods have become indispensable – keep them that way.
Enamel Cup Set
A perfect balance of modern and vintage for your favorite coffee.
Brass Key Ring
Where for meets function.
Brass Compass
Here’s an old-school compass that looks great on a desk or in the field.
Natural Wood Stand for Apple MagSafe Charger
Turn your bedside or desktop charging into a finger-level display.
Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Over 49 THOUSAND(!) reviews says you can trust your cold brew with it.
Aluminum Fountain Pen
Upgrade your correspondence in style.
Copy Keyboard
Do a lot of Control-C, Control-V in your line of work? Go warp speed with this neat add-on.
Collapsible Camping Grill and Chimney Starter
Chimney starters are the pro's favorite way to heat coal: This one collapses for the space-limited.
The Decision Maker Coin
Simplify your decisions in the new year.
BBQ Mesh Grill Bags
No more losing all your vegetables between the grates.
Upgraded Style Essentials
Buck Mason Henley
My short sleeve henley from LA clothing brand Buck Mason has been one of my favorite shirts for years – so much so I went back and got it in white. It's got thick banded sleeves, a curved hem and made of premium pima cotton, details that may not seem like such a big deal but when you've got it on, it just makes you feel like a badass. I've given it as gifts to three of my friends.
→ Read more: Quick Style Tip: This is an Important Aspect That Doesn’t Get Discussed a Lot
MacBook Charger Winder
Prefer tidy cables but hate wrapping your power cable around the brick?
Braun Analogue Alarm Clock
Upgrade that red-numbered digital jobbie to something that enhances your decor.
SOG Keychain Pocket Knife
Never find yourself without a bottle opener or quick knife again.
Covert Hollow Coin
Used by spies for over a century, hollow coins can now fit gigabytes of sensitive data.
Philips One by Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush
Over 3,400 reviews with a 4.5 star average.
Crystal Negroni Tumblers, Set of 2
Beautiful low profile glassware for your next night in.
Douk-Douk Folder Knife
A French tradition for over 70 years, The douk-douk is a simple knife with a detailed design.
Cigar Glass
Stash the stogie in style.
The Gift of Focus
TimeCube Productivity Timer
Sure, you could use the timer on your phone to track your Pomodoro sets, but you run the risk of falling down a TikTok rabbit hole every time. The timer automatically starts based on which number you turn to face up and has both audible or silent (flashing lights) options for notification that time is up.
→ Read more: The Productivity EDC Kit: 7 Items to Turbo Charge Your Focus & Output
Reversible Cast Iron Grill and Griddle
The secret pancake, burger, and indoor steak weapon of Moms & Dads for generations.
Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker
Music in the shower, music in the boat, music in the rain.
Beer Bottle Caddy with Bottle Opener
Gift the beer lover in your life a rustic way to haul their brews.
Gift Ideas $30 – $50
Luggage Packing Organization Cubes
Separate and organize your suitcases for easy traveling.
Jason Markk Shoe Care Kit
Every guy needs an effective way to care for their favorite shoes, right?
Waterproof Dry Bag and Phone Case
Make sure your dry things stay that way.
Portable Camping Hammock
What guy hasn't always wanted a hammock?
Vertical Laptop Stand
Using your laptop with a monitor? Make more desk space with this vertical stand.
The Five Minute Journal: A Happier You in Five Minutes a Day
If you've struggled with your journaling practice, reduce the friction with this quick, prompt-based journal.
Striped Stadium Throw Blanket
Stow in the car for impromptu picnics or next to the couch for guests.
CHUP Musik Socks
Beautifully patterned socks that pair great with jeans and a pair of boots.
An Amazing Watch Under $200
The Orient Bambino IV features a Japanese automatic movement and a modest 41mm case that will look great on any wrist size. The mix of tan suede, charcoal face, and rose gold accents make this watch look like it should cost three times as much.
Blink Video Doorbell
Upgrade that peephole to a smart doorbell.
The Motoring Journal: Volume 1-3 Bundle
A coffee table-worthy journal of man's love of his favorite machine.
Conical Flask Decanter
It's still cheap booze, but now it looks nice!
Cocktail Bitters Bar Set, 5-Pack
One of the easiest ways to revamp your home cocktailing instantly.
Knight Pen Holder
Your Excalibur, m'lord.
Leather Key Organizer
Tame the metal mess in your pocket.
Apple MagSafe Charger
Bring your phone charging experience into the future.
ThinkGeek Tactical Apron
Featuring a tactical molle system to make that bbq a tactical success.
Herringbone Wool Scarf
A simple pattern that can be dressed up or down.
Porsche 70 Years: There Is No Substitute
You don’t have to own a Porsche to appreciate the history, beauty, and badassness. Read, drool, repeat.
Palomino Blackwing Pencils
Made from cedar, replaceable erasers, Japanese graphite. Time to stand out.
Fishers Finery Cashmere Hat
Made of the softest wool, no more itchy head.
Wooden Monitor Stand
Raise your screen to the proper level with this well-designed shelf.
Forever Spin Stainless Steel Top
As an adult, there’s nothing wrong with having an adult-level fidget. The tops from Foreverspin are milled from different metals from stainless to tungsten. And they’re addicting.
Solid Wood Jewelry Tray
Use a wooden catchall to drain your pockets at the end of the day.
Under Armour Base Layer Compression
Extend your workout to the chilly outdoors.
A Coat for a Lifetime
Peacoat
A peacoat has been a men's winter standard for over a hundred years. They're easy to wear, comfortable, can be dressed up or down, and if you buy a decent one, you can literally wear it for the rest of your life.
Some options:
→ How to wear a peacoat: Live Action Getup: Classic in Any Era
Rocky Mountain High Gaiters
Sometimes boots aren't tall enough, but snow pants are too much.
BedShelfie Bedside Shelf
Working from bed just got practical.
Gift Ideas $50 – $75
LED Camping Lantern
Suitable for emergencies, but also looks great on the shelf.
Self Leveling Cross Line Laser
Hanging pictures? Shelves? Tile? You need a level, and yeah, it should be a laser level.
Scandinavia Dreaming: Nordic Homes, Interiors and Design
We can't all live in wonderfully minimalist homes, but we can all have the coffee table book to daydream.
Brown Leather Driving Gloves
Handmade from cowhide, these soft gloves will patina beautifully.
Pelican Ruck Case
The most trusted name for things you don't want crushed.
Brushed Nickel Sink Faucet
Make the dishes a little more doable.
Craftsman 3-Drawer Toolbox
A toolbox that will outlast you.
ThinkLite Flash Lighting Setup
Up your photo game with this respected entry-level flash.
Whiskey Rebellion
Upgrades to day-to-day luxuries are the perfect gift idea for the man who doesn't know what to ask for. For more affordable but highly respected options, read our guide The 10 Best Whiskies Under $50 That Don't Start With Jack, Jim, Johnnie, or Jameson. For some bottles that will truly impress:
Hibiki Japanese Whisky, $79.99 / Aberlour 16 Year Old Scotch, $70 / Blanton's Bourbon, $89 / Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky, $69
Wireless Charger Stand
USB? USB-C? Cords are for the birds, man.
Waxed Canvas Log Carrier
Sharp enough you can leave it sitting next to the fireplace.
Tabletop Portable Fire Pit
This tabletop fireplace uses rubbing alcohol for fuel and allows you to make s’mores for a kick-ass at-home date night.
Gift Ideas $75 – $125
Tile Mate Tracker and Item Locater, 4-Pack
With a set of Bluetooth trackers you’ll never lose anything again.
Desk Mat
More than a desk cover, this mat features a document hideaway, cable organizer, and pen holder.
Fragrance Travel Discovery Set
Cologne makes a great present, but a travel-ready range of different scents is even better.
Hammock with Stand
Manning the grill gets a surefire upgrade with this waxed canvas apron.
20lb Weighted Blanket
Whether you want it for anxiety relief or the best naps of your life, it will change the way you sleep.
Quick Keys Shortcut Keys
Supercharge your workflow with this customizable 40-key shortcut wireless controller.
Button Stud Apple Watchband
Make that wrist computer a little more stylish.
Carbonated Growler and Beverage Dispenser
Get perfectly carbonated beer, soda, cider, kombucha, and cocktails at home.
Side Table with Storage Shelf
This sharp and minimalist side table looks like it cost 5 times more.
The Purple Pillow
Upgrade that pillow you've moved with you since college.
Gskyer Telescope
Over 19,000(!) reviews with a 4.5 star average.
Horween Leather Watch Strap
No need to get a new watch if you've got an older one that could use a facelift. Swap in a premium leather band for a whole new look, this one is handmade from leather by esteemed American tannery Horween Leather.
Victrola Wood and Chrome Bluetooth Headphones
These crystal-clear headphones blend the rugged and the refined.
Connect Smart Grilling Hub
Bring your grilling game into the 21st century.
Buck Mason Brushed Flannel Shirt
A soft and comfortable flannel shirt that you'll want to wear all winter.
Air Purifier
Removes 99.97% of dust, smoke, mold, and pollen.
Mont Blanc Leather Notebook
An uncommonly beautiful notebook for daily use.
Pendleton Yakima Throw Blanket
A handsome American-made blanket with a vintage design.
Waking Up Meditation App
More than just “empty your head,” each meditation is full of philosophy and theory.
Logitech Crayon
A digital pencil for iPad that connects automatically and is supported by hundreds of apps.
Gift Ideas Over $125
FitBit Charge 5
Get serious about your fitness tracking.
Garmin Mini Dash Cam
Tiny and powerful, this HD dash cam has over 4,000 reviews.
Lockpicking Training Set
No, we’re not condoning theft, but Ethan Hunt knows how to pick locks, so why not you?
Wellen Quilted Robe
Lounging around the house gets sustainable, stylish and comfortable.
Brass Pour Over Coffee Stand
This is a work of art that sits on your kitchen countertop. Oh, and it makes coffee too.
Moleskin Pen and Smart Notebook Writing Set
Bridge your analog and digital worlds, with this set that digitizes your journaling and notes.
Coleman 54-Quart Cooler
A hallowed brand in stylish stainless steel.
Polaroid Instant Camera
Smartphones are great, but there’s something about an instant camera that brings a little more joy to your memories.
Tanner Goods Workman Leather Wallet
This is an heirloom wallet that gets better with age.
Chemical Guys 20-Piece Carwash Set
They say a clean car drives better, so get the ride of this life with a 20-piece car cleaning set that covers all bases
Nespresso Vertuo Espresso Machine
If espresso drinks are your joe, Nespresso is one of the best cost-effective home options.
L.L. Bean x Todd Snyder Emroidered Hoodie
Somehow Todd Snyder takes good merchandise and makes it great. This collaboration with L.L. Bean is no exception.
Exclusive Q Timex for Todd Snyder Watch
This is an an old-school watch made modern, to be worn with pride.
STAGG Electric Kettle
A gooseneck kettle makes pour overs more precise.
EERO Mesh WiFi System
Improve your wifi connection through your home with this 3 part mesh system.
Ray-Ban Classic Aviator Sunglasses
Timeless, eternally cool and wear-with-everything sunglasses for the stylish man.
Free Weight Set
Adjust your weights and work out anytime with this handy at-home set.
Ralph Lauren Aran-Knit Wool-Blend Sweater
Embody the American dream in a quintessential Polo Ralph Lauren knit.
BioLite+ Fire Pit
Take the bonfire with you via this portable, easy-to-use fire pit.
Made in USA
Flint and Tinder Flannel-lined Waxed Trucker Jacket
Not only do we have and love this jacket, it's consistently super popular with Primer readers as well. Read why it's one of our best field jackets.
Electric Short Course Truck
Because you’re never too old to burn some miniature rubber.
Bulova Military Hack Watch
This Bulova Hack watch is the perfect casual timepiece. Military historicity meets modern horology. This watch has an automatic movement with hacking and 21 jewels (meaning it’s a quality movement).
Oculus Quest 2 Virtual Reality Headset
Take it from Andrew, you should probably, definitely not get this if you value your free time.
Red Wing Heritage Boots
The moc toe boot from Red Wing has been a perennial favorite for over 60 years.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Give the gift of silence with noise cancelling headphones.
Bowflex Dumbbell Set
Having a full, traditional set of weights requires a lot of space, plus these allow you to switch weight quickly.
Gas Powered Pizza Oven
Enjoy restaurant-quality pizza at home.
MasterClass
Learn the mindsets of the world's leading super-achievers.
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