As the festive season unfolds and the holidays draw near, the focus shifts towards the joy of gift-giving, especially for the avid gamers in our lives. Navigating the world of presents can be quite a challenge though, especially if you're not a gamer yourself. That's why we've compiled a list of the best gift ideas for gamers to help you buy the perfect presents for the holiday season.
Whether you're seeking out one of the best gaming monitors for competitive gameplay, or you're searching for something like the Steam Deck that allows you to game on the go, our list of 10 great ideas has every base covered. Let's not waste any more time - here are our top picks...
Best gift ideas for gamers
- DualSense Edge Controller - an upgrade on the regular PlayStation device
- Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller - Microsoft's version of the Edge
- PlayStation Gift Card / Xbox Gift Card / Nintendo eShop Card - for online shopping
- Nintendo Switch Lite - play Nintendo games on the go
- Valve Steam Deck - take your PC game library with you
- Meta Quest 3 VR - a brand new way to game... virtually
- Nacon RIG 800 Pro HS - hear every footstep with a great headset
- Koorui 24-Inch Gaming Monitor - for any competitive gamers
- ASUS TUF Gaming F15 Laptop - no gaming PC? No problem
- Razer Iskur Gaming Chair - make sure you're comfortable while gaming
1. DualSense Edge
If you know of someone currently still rocking the regular PS5 DualSense controller, then upgrading their gamepad to the DualSense Edge might just be the best gift idea of the lot.
It's a mighty impressive device aimed to speed up in-game actions and provide more customisation options than ever before thanks to swappable stick modules, adjustable trigger lengths, and mappable back buttons. All of these qualities are perfect for playing fast-paced FPS games like Warzone or Apex Legends.
- Read More: Best PS5 controllers
2. Xbox Elite Series 2
For Xbox users, you'll want to consider the Elite Series 2 "pro" controller instead of the DualSense Edge if you're interested in upgrading your own or a loved one's current gamepad.
Like the Edge, it's highly customisable, with unique button mapping options and interchangeable modules, including thumbsticks, D-pads, and back paddles. Plus, you get the option to save up to three custom profiles, which means you can switch to your preferred settings without having to manually adjust everything each time. Very handy if you're playing games with friends, and like the PS5 DualSense Edge, perfect for high-octane games with a lot of input customisation, such as Overwatch 2.
- Read More: Best Xbox Series X accessories
3. Gaming Gift Cards
It may seem like a cop-out, but buying a gift card for whatever major console you or a friend or family member play on isn't as uninteresting as you might think. It's actually pretty thoughtful, as it means you won't make a mistake buying the wrong version of Modern Warfare 3 for someone, for example.
Instead, a gift card gives them the option to buy it for themselves, or they can use the money to invest in an online pass, allowing whoever you buy the card for to play with friends from all over the world.
4. Nintendo Switch Lite
Playing games on a console at home is great, but who doesn't want the option of playing games on a train, sitting on an aeroplane, or while sunning themselves on holiday? If you or someone you know is a fan of games like Mario Kart specifically, then there's arguably no better gift than the Nintendo Switch Lite.
The Switch Lite allows you to play pretty much any game from Nintendo's library, but it's cheaper than the regular Switch because it doesn't give you the option of pairing it with your TV and using the motion-controlled JoyCons. That's okay though if all you're looking for is a handheld device to game on the go.
- Read More: Best gaming handhelds
5. Valve Steam Deck
Speaking of handhelds, the Valve Steam Deck is a bit of a revelation as it's a handheld gaming PC at its core. This small but mighty device allows you to play pretty much anything from your Steam library on its built-in display.
You can buy an OLED version too, if you're willing to spend a little more money on that special someone, or you can invest in the similar PS Portal if you want to play PlayStation titles like Spider-Man 2 on the go. However, the regular Steam Deck is perhaps the best option if you don't want to completely break the bank on a gift this year.
- Read More: Best gaming PCs
6. Meta Quest 3
Virtual Reality is another emerging gaming niche, and for anyone who hasn't tried a VR headset yet, perhaps the Meta Quest 3 is the perfect gift for them this year.
Whoever you gift it to will quickly realise the thrill of playing some of their favourite games in first-person, or they can explore the plethora of great titles available in Meta's library. Whatever games they choose to play, whether it's robbing banks in Payday 2 VR, or exploring outer space in No Man's Sky VR, it'll certainly deliver them a brand-new gaming experience unlike any other.
- Read More: Best VR headsets
7. Nacon RIG 800 Pro HS
As highlighted in StealthOptional's product review, the RIG 800 Pro HS is an excellent headset that allows you to hear crisp sounds in-game, particularly in the low-to-mid frequencies thanks to its 40mm, low-frequency resonator drivers. It's also comfortable with its three different adjustment settings, plus it comes with a mic for online communication, making it ideal for gamers who love to play as a team.
Take note - this version is only compatible with PlayStation and PC. You'll want to invest in the near-identical RIG 800 Pro HX if the person you're buying for is an Xbox user.
- Read More: Best PS5 headsets
8. Koorui 24-Inch Gaming Monitor
We've come all this way and have not even mentioned something to showcase gameplay. That's about to change though, as we're highlighting Koorui's 24-inch gaming monitor as a great gift option for competitive gamers.
It's a lesser-known brand than the likes of Samsung or LG, but that only serves to benefit its price tag, which is relatively inexpensive in comparison to bigger names. That doesn't mean it's not powerful, because the screen boasts a Full HD resolution, 165Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time. Combined, these make gameplay appear smooth, reduce stutter, and appear in crisp detail.
- Read More: Best OLED gaming monitors
9. ASUS TUF Gaming F15
For those without a gaming PC or anyone who wants to play PC games on the go, we'd recommend gifting an excellent gaming laptop such as the ASUS TUF Gaming F15.
It is a little pricey (although cheaper than most gaming laptops), but what it offers is something capable of running most AAA games currently on the market with its RTX 2050 GPU, Intel Core i5-11400H CPU, and 8GB of DDR4 RAM. There are other versions though, which upgrade these internal components if they're not high enough. You'll just have to pay a little extra to get them if you want say 32GB of RAM as opposed to 8GB - that's all up to you.
- Read More: Best gaming laptops
10. Razer Iskur
Finally, we come to the Razer Iskur. It's a superb gaming chair that can take the comfort levels of anyone's setup to new heights with its ergonomic lumbar support, high-density foam cushions, and 4D adjustable armrests to suit different preferences.
It's also made to be sturdy and durable with its multi-layered synthetic leather covering that's tough and easy to clean, and its strong internal build that can support up to 300lbs. So, if you know of someone without a gaming chair, this seat by Razer is well worth checking out.
And with that, we finish our list. Make sure you check out some of our other guides like the best gaming monitor deals if you're looking to grab a gaming bargain this holiday season.
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