Gifts for Gamers on Every Platform
- 13 gift ideas
- From under $25 to $100 and up
Good gifts for gamers match the platform they play on. Strong picks include an extra controller for a console, a wireless gaming mouse or mechanical keyboard for PC, a USB microphone or stream deck for streaming, and a digital game store gift card that lets them choose their next game.
Quick picks
- Best for PC gamers: A wireless gaming mouse The tool PC players use most, without a cable. Idea 6
- Best for streamers: A stream control deck One-press shortcuts for scenes, muting and apps. Idea 10
- Best for collectors: A LEGO model of a classic console A retro display piece for adult fans. Idea 12
- Best under $25: A controller-icons desk light A colorful, inexpensive gift for a gaming setup. Idea 13
The most important step in buying for a gamer is confirming the platform, because a controller or case made for one console will not work on another. We organized these 13 ideas by how people play: console, PC, streaming, and fun extras for the display shelf.
If you are not sure which system they use, a digital gift card or a desk accessory is the safest choice. For more ideas on gadgets, see our Tech Gifts guide, which covers headphones, speakers and other devices that gamers also use.
Ideas 1 to 5
Gifts for console players and Switch 2 fans
Check which console they own before you buy.
1. An extra PS5 controller
A second controller means a friend can join in without waiting a turn, which suits a PS5 owner who plays with friends or family. It is also a handy spare when the main one needs a charge. Confirm the platform and the console model first, and check the color so it is easy to tell controllers apart in the same room.
Tip: Confirm they own a PS5 before ordering, and pick a different color.
2. A Pro Controller for Nintendo Switch 2
A full-size controller is more comfortable than the small Joy-Con controllers for long sessions on the TV, which suits a Switch 2 owner who plays docked. The shape is easier to hold for big games and for players with larger hands. Make sure they own a Switch 2 rather than the original Switch, since controllers are not always interchangeable.
Tip: Make sure they own a Switch 2, and keep the gift receipt.
3. A travel case for Switch 2
A slim case protects the screen and holds game cards when the console leaves the house, so it suits a Switch 2 player who games on the go. A model with a built-in tracker holder adds peace of mind when they travel. Check that it fits the Switch 2 specifically, since cases made for the original Switch have a different size.
Tip: Check that the case is made for Switch 2, not the original Switch.
4. A controller charging station
A charging dock keeps controllers topped up and off the floor, a small fix for a common annoyance and a good match for a PS5 player with dead controllers. It works best if they own two controllers, since one can charge while the other is in use. Check that it fits the controller model before you buy, and choose a spot near the console.
Tip: Check that it is made for the PS5 DualSense and fits their shelf.
5. A digital game store gift card
A digital gift card lets a gamer choose the next game, which avoids buying one they already own and suits a player with a long wish list. Match the card to their platform, since a card for one store will not work in another. Add a note naming a game or two you hope they will try, and check the redemption steps before gifting.
Tip: Match the card to their platform, and note the redemption steps.
Ideas 6 to 9
Gifts for PC gamers
6. A wireless gaming mouse
A good gaming mouse is a PC gamer's most-used tool, and wireless models remove cable drag, which suits a PC player who loves shooters. Look for adjustable weights and programmable buttons. Check the shape and size against their hand, and confirm they have a free USB port for the receiver. Pair it with a large mouse pad to make a set.
Tip: Check the hand size and USB port before you order.
7. A mechanical gaming keyboard
A mechanical keyboard feels and sounds different from a laptop or basic keyboard, which suits a PC gamer who is still on a plain one. Many gamers care about the switch type, so ask whether they prefer clicky or quiet keys. Check the layout and size to be sure it fits their desk, and that it works with their computer.
Tip: Ask whether they prefer clicky or quiet keys before you choose.
8. An extra-large mouse pad
A desk-size mouse pad gives the mouse room to move and makes a setup look cleaner, which suits a PC gamer with a cluttered desk. An extra-large cloth pad also protects the desk surface. Measure the desk first, because XXL pads are long, and check that there is room for the keyboard and mouse together.
Tip: Measure the desk first, since XXL pads are very long.
9. A comfortable gaming headset
A headset with a clear microphone helps in team games and late-night sessions, which suits a gamer who plays online with friends. Comfort matters for long sessions, so look for padded earcups and a fit that suits their head. Check that it connects to their console or PC, since the connection type varies by model.
Tip: Check that the connection type works with their console or PC.
Ideas 10 to 11
Gear for streamers and creators
10. A stream control deck
A small deck of programmable keys lets a streamer switch scenes, mute and launch apps with one press, and it speeds up everyday shortcuts too. It suits a streamer or content creator who edits and broadcasts from a PC. They will need to set the keys up, so it fits someone comfortable with software. Check compatibility with their computer.
Tip: Check that it works with their computer and streaming software.
11. A USB microphone for streaming
A dedicated USB microphone sounds clearer than a headset mic for streams, podcasts and calls, which suits a streamer or would-be podcaster. Plug-and-play models are easiest to set up. Check the listing for the stand and cable, and make sure they have a free USB port. A pop filter or boom arm can be a helpful add-on later.
Tip: Check the USB port and desk space before you order.
Ideas 12 to 13
Fun gifts for gaming fans and collectors
12. A LEGO model of a classic console
A LEGO model of a retro handheld is a display piece for an adult gamer who grew up with the original console. It is labeled for adults, so it suits collectors and nostalgic players rather than younger kids. Building takes a few hours, so it also makes a relaxing screen-free project. Clear a shelf to show it off.
Tip: It is labeled ages 18 and up, so it suits adult collectors.
13. A controller-icons desk light
A light shaped like controller icons adds color to a gaming setup and makes an easy small gift, which suits a gamer who is decorating their room or desk. A model with several light modes can also react to sound. Check the power source and size, and choose it if they already own the matching console.
Tip: Check where they will plug it in, and the size of the shelf.
Frequently asked questions
What are good gifts for gamers who have everything?
Look for accessories that improve how they play: a better mouse or keyboard, a headset with a clear microphone, a controller charging station or an extra-large mouse pad. A LEGO retro console is a display piece for collectors. Our Gifts for Someone Who Has Everything guide has more ideas for people who are hard to shop for.
What is a good gift for a gamer if I do not know their platform?
A digital gift card, a desk mat, a light for the setup or a LEGO model of a retro console works across platforms. Avoid platform-specific items such as controllers unless you can confirm what they own. Ask a family member or a friend, or check which console is plugged in.
What are good gifts for PC gamers?
A wireless gaming mouse, a mechanical keyboard, an extra-large mouse pad and a comfortable headset are the core tools of a PC setup. Check the connection type, the size of their desk and the keyboard layout. A headset with a clear microphone also helps for team games.
What are good gifts for Switch 2 players?
A Pro Controller is more comfortable than the small Joy-Con controllers for long sessions on the TV, and a slim travel case protects the console on the go. A digital eShop gift card lets them pick a game. Make sure they own a Switch 2 before buying accessories.
What do you give a gamer who streams?
A stream control deck, a USB microphone and a comfortable headset are the usual starting points for streamers. A stream deck makes scene changes and mute buttons one press away, and a USB microphone sounds clearer than a headset mic. Check compatibility with their computer before you order.
Is a game gift card a good gift for a gamer?
A digital gift card suits a gamer with a long wish list because they can pick the next game themselves. Match the card to their platform, check how it is redeemed and add a short note. It is a flexible choice when you are not sure what they already own.
