Gifts for boyfriends quick picks
For the football fanatic: Abercrombie & Fitch NFL Graphic Crew Neck Sweatshirt
Something he can use all the time: BrüMate Era
For the Lego pro: Lego Art Milky Way Galaxy Wall Art
To keep his gadgets clean: Akiki Cleaner Kit for AirPods
For the grill master: ThermoWorks Thermapen One
As fun as shopping for your boyfriend can be, sometimes we all need a little inspiration. Maybe you’re in a new relationship or he’s not particularly outspoken about what he wants, but either way, the pressure of finding the perfect gift can make shopping stressful.
Fortunately, we’ve done the digging to help find everything from thoughtful yet practical presents for the guy who “doesn’t need anything” to truly unique gifts he’ll use for years to come. Whether he’s interested in the latest tech, takes pride in his personal style or loves spending his free time in the gym, these meaningful gifts for boyfriends are sure to win his heart all over again.
And remember, no matter his love language, gift-giving provides an opportunity to remind your partner how well you know each other, reminisce on past experiences you’ve shared or just acknowledge his personal passions and hobbies.
Need more ideas? Check out our favorite practical gifts, gift ideas for men, gift ideas for women and Amazon gifts.
He already has the earbuds he loves, so this case that's reminiscent of an old-school gaming device is a fun accessory. It's an affordable stocking stuffer or small gift for your guy who seems to have everything. The silicone case will prevent his AirPods Pro case from getting scratched in his bag, too.
When it comes to sunglasses, these are social strategist Tyler Holender's favorites. "They are my holy grail. I have never been able to find glasses that are big enough for me, look good and are amazing quality." The glasses come in standard and XL sizes so they feel comfortable throughout wear. The frames come a few colors as well, from fun colors to classic brown tones.
Whether he's a seasoned chef or his love language is quality time, this pizza kit comes with the base ingredients for you two to have a fun night in together. Craft the crust, then sauce and season up your pie with your favorite toppings and enjoy time together in the kitchen — and a tasty treat after!
Through Yeti's site, you can customize the popular drinkware so it's totally unique to him. Add a monogram, NFL team logo, text or even your own custom design for an extra $6 or $10. It's a fun twist on a gift he's sure to use all the time.
He has little to no interest in a matching PJ set, but he does need some new sleepwear. You love Skims for its women's line, and he'll love the soft cotton fabric too. The stretchy waistband and 5-inch inseam make the shorts comfortable for a night's rest. There are even convenient side pockets he can use to hold his phone while lounging around before bed.
You can order this cocktail kit with or without alcohol, and then the two of you can get crafting on new beverage recipes. Our editors were fans of the kit's three different martini recipes, from a classic dirty martini to a chai espresso 'tini.
Peter Millar's quarter-zips are made from a soft and breathable fabric, making them a staple for his office wardrobe. He also can easily layer polos or button-downs underneath. This one comes in five colors, with neutral and bold options. Whether he's a fan of the brand already or you're gifting him something from Peter Millar for the first time, it's a timeless gift he'll love to wear.
No matter how extravagant our coffee-making options get, some people will always prefer to keep it simple. This affordable yet extremely efficient coffee maker is a wonderful gift idea for coffee lovers with limited counter space, frequent travelers or outdoorsy people.
For the boyfriend who’s always in activewear, these joggers are the perfect grown-up upgrade. Available in plenty of approachable colors, sizes XS through XXXL and three different lengths, there’s something for every guy no matter his style.
Skin care for men can be challenging, but this set of essentials has everything he needs sans the bells and whistles. Jack Black’s products perform wonderfully on all different skin types — the formulation is gentle while still refreshing and effective — and boast a fresh yet masculine scent.
Whether he's just getting into Legos as a new hobby or he's already obsessed, this Milky Way set is bound to keep him entertained for hours. Plus, it's a piece of art you'll want to frame and hang after!
Let him roll these dice to help you decide what you watch for movie night. Whip them out on the weekend for date night or before you sit down to start a new show before dinner.
If his phone always seems to be dying, this brilliantly designed wireless power bank is the perfect gift for him. Simply connect it to a phone using the built-in magnet, and it’ll charge without another case or any wires. The built-in foldout stand is a super-smart touch, so he can watch videos or catch up with loved ones hands-free.
Our updates writer Ellen McAlpine is a huge proponent of gifting this backpack, as she is a big fan of it herself. "This bag fits so much. There's a shoe pocket, laptop sleeve, exterior storage that's easily removable and even more organization pockets inside," she says. "It's great for overnight or weekend trips and everyday usage, like commutes to the office."
These dad shoe-leaning kicks are on-trend and a pair he likely hasn't collected yet. The sneakers come in a few different colors that are pretty neutral, so they'll be easy for him to style when you're not there to help.
"I gifted this to my boyfriend last year, and he's worn it nearly every day since, whether it's to work, weddings or out to dinner," McAlpine says. Vincero's watches fall in the midrange for price, so you can get him a high-quality watch without breaking the bank. The Argo Automatic looks sleek, comes in four different metal and color combinations and is a timepiece he'll wear every day.
Let's be honest: His AirPods probably need a good cleaning. This earbud cleaning set comes with its own carrying case, so he can stash it in a bag for cleaning on the go.
It’s not the most romantic gift, but this sleek precision screwdriver set comes with a magnetic case and screwdriver, which makes it easy to keep organized. It’s great to have on hand for repairing electronics, making it the perfect present for the boyfriend hoping to get a little more handy.
If your boyfriend’s the type of guy who appreciates a practical gift over a more sentimental one, it doesn’t get more useful than an AirTag. This low-key gadget will come in handy for anyone who loses track of (or stresses over losing track of) their things. He can stick it in his wallet, attach it to a keychain or use it to see where his luggage is while traveling.
For the boyfriend who loves to bring the party (and more specifically, the music) with him, you can’t go wrong with a portable Bluetooth wireless speaker. We named this one our favorite travel-friendly option, and at under $50, it’s a great gadget at a price point we can most definitely get behind.
This spice kit comes with everything he'd need to grill up a great dinner for you both. Even if it's not grilling weather where you are anymore, the versatile set of 20 spices includes flavors like lime chipotle, Italian seasoning and Montreal spice rub that he can use on everything.
Trust us, he’s going to want to wear this robe every day. It’s incredibly plush and luxurious, and it makes any sort of lounging that much more relaxing.
When it comes to top-of-the-line golf equipment, Callaway is one of the first names that comes to mind. But if you don't want to invest in clubs or other expensive equipment, these personalized golf balls are a sweet and personal gift he'll enjoy out on the green.
For the boyfriend who loves his tech, it can be hard to anticipate exactly what he wants — especially at an under-$50 budget. Instead of gifting the latest gadget, a cord organizer could be just what he needs to keep all his favorite gadgets in order.
This fleece-lined flannel shirt is basically the Ugg boot of menswear. Not only is it unbelievably soft, cozy and comfortable but it’s the perfect piece of transitional outerwear.
A good thermometer is a game changer when it comes to cooking meats and fish. This option from ThermoWorks is perfect for the culinarily inclined boyfriend. It’s beloved by the pros, and even though it’s a bit pricey, it will last for years.
If your guy’s guilty of always misplacing his essentials, a catchall tray can be a game changer. This one from Courant has wireless charging technology, which means easy access to a fully charged phone or AirPods. Plus, it’s available in various shades of both Belgian linen and Italian-sourced leather.
A sleek toiletry bag is a perfect gift for the frequent flyer, gym-goer or just anyone who loves to take their skin care and other essentials on the go. This kit sports two smart organizational compartments and a built-in loop so he can easily hang it from a towel hook.
What better way to reminisce about your adventures than over a glass of whiskey? This set of four conversation-starting handblown glasses — which are available in six designs featuring different mountain ranges — are sure to be the highlight of his bar cart.
This editor-approved coffee bean grinder is ideal for the guy who's very particular about his morning brew. He can even leave it at your house for when he stays over. Pair it with his favorite beans so he can get started using it right away — and then you can enjoy the brew he makes you the next time he stays over.
If your boyfriend’s interested in dipping his toes into the world of vinyl records, this stylish Bluetooth option features a built-in speaker (so no additional equipment is necessary to get started) and rests inside a hardshell briefcase. It’s meant to be customized to your heart’s desire, so go nuts with markers, stickers, you name it. It’s the perfect way to truly personalize a thoughtful gift.
This brightly colored steel toolbox is perfect for storing everything from art supplies to knickknacks and, of course, actual tools. The cantilever style is timeless, practical and great for the boyfriend whose organization game could use a fun upgrade.
A good blender is key to whipping up delicious protein smoothies and nutritious juices. This compact, durable and high-powered option comes with a drinking lid and carry cap, so he can bring his beverage with him on the go.
From a day at the beach to a cross-country road trip, having a good cooler comes in handy more often than you might expect. And while most of them can be bulky and take up space, this soft tote is easy to store and performs incredibly well. It’s leakproof, durable, holds up to 24 cans and keeps your stuff cold for up to 36 hours.
A vest is the perfect transitional piece, and this option from the Montreal-based brand Lolë nails both performance and style. It’s made from water-repellent fabric and responsible down, and it has a removable hood.
If it’s something he’ll wear a lot but might not buy for himself, chances are it’ll make a good gift idea — and these slippers are exactly that. They’re perfect for indoor-outdoor wear and just as comfortable as a pair of Ugg boots.
Once you go bidet, you don’t go back. So many men have converted to the bidet lifestyle after trying it out just once, so chances are your boyfriend just doesn’t know what he’s missing. We tested this affordable option and found it intuitive and perfect for beginners.
Whether he’s the head chef of the household or prefers to keep his cooking to the grill, a new apron is a fun and practical way to embrace his culinary side. This 100% cotton option has an adjustable neckband, roomy pockets and a wide range of customization options. You could even get matching pairs to wear for your date nights in.
Incredibly powerful yet quiet, this deep-tissue massage gun has an ergonomic design that’s comfortable and intuitive to use. It comes with a range of attachments that make a world of a difference in aiding recovery, releasing tension and soothing pain or discomfort throughout the body. The fourth-generation version of Theragun Pro is also available at a lower price.
We’re big fans of Solo Stove’s entire line of fire pits, and this larger tabletop model is perfect for cozy nights and romantic s’mores-making sessions. You get all the glow and warmth of a traditional fire pit without the smoke and the hassle of actually starting the fire.
If your boyfriend’s in need of a new wallet, this classic option has it all. It’s made of full-grain leather and has credit card slots, a compartment for bills and optional RFID-blocking lining, all in a thin, sleek design. Plus, the customization options are wonderful; the debossing is subtle but looks super luxurious and elegant.
For the guy who cherishes his time in the gym, the right pair of shorts can make working out even more enjoyable. Roy Lee, Underscored's operations and strategy lead, tested these and said, "The quality is unmatched in my opinion, and they are great for any workout. The waist doesn’t bundle, and I have a lot of pockets that I need."
For the boyfriend who’s always repping his favorite football team, we’re thrilled to introduce a stylish game-day upgrade. Whether he wears it on Thursdays and Sundays (and sometimes Mondays) or just folds it into his wardrobe rotation, this vintage-inspired crewneck is a thoughtful way to honor his sporty side. Plus, there are dozens of variations featuring different teams.
Whether he’s a gamer or an audiophile, it’s hard to go wrong with top-of-the-line wireless headphones. This newer model from Sony is slimmer and a bit sleeker than its predecessors, but it still provides the same incredible sound quality, noise-canceling capabilities, comfortable design and impressive battery life. There’s very little not to love.
Grooming gifts can be a challenge to get right. But if your boyfriend is already using an electric trimmer, you may as well upgrade him to this well-designed one. It’s easy to use and can last hours on a single charge, and it works equally well for touch-ups and full shaves.
If you’re looking for the ultimate splurge gift, we can’t recommend Red Wing’s boots enough. Whether he’s stylish but has particular taste, an outdoorsman who needs high-performing shoes or just an everyday guy who appreciates a top-of-the-line pair of boots, these are sure to get tons of wear.
If his wireless earbuds need an upgrade, the AirPods Pro 2 are the best of the best for Apple users. The sound quality, range of control options and active noise cancellation are superb. They’re virtually perfect for his everyday audio needs and particularly great for travel.
A high-quality work jacket is the kind of wardrobe essential that can be worn throughout the seasons and over many years. This sturdy and durable style is made from recycled denim and garment-dyed for that gorgeous, rich blue color.
Making homemade pasta may seem intimidating, but it’s a fun way to create some of the most delicious recipes, and it makes for a great date night idea. This machine works like a dream and comes with everything he needs to start making his own pasta from scratch.
Whether he's training for his next race or he's just worn out his old pair of runners, The Cloudrunner 2s are a nice upgrade for his next cardio session. The sneakers, like most of On's kicks, feel firm with each step but still have cushioned support. They're a workhorse option for the everyday runner to the marathoner.
Many backpacks and duffel bags seem to prioritize style over substance, but Baboon to the Moon is all about balancing form and function. Perfect for weekend getaways, extended sleepovers or any day-long adventures, this waterproof bag makes it super easy to fit a ton of stuff and keep it all organized.
Skip the cost of buying him a whole new TV and snag the streaming device our tech writer, Henry T. Casey, loves for less than $60. He'll get access to all his favorite apps (and games!) after a super-quick setup.
We’re big fans of HexClad's nonstick pans, but when it comes to gifting, this six-piece knife set will blow any culinarily inclined boyfriend away. Each knife is made from 67 layers of Japanese Damascus steel. In everyday terms? Each knife is super hard, sharp and perfectly balanced.
Since he's always stealing your big water bottle, you might as well get him one of his own! Our home and gifts editor Amina Lake Abdelrahman and social strategist Tyler Holender are big fans of this one since it keeps water cold for hours and is 100% leakproof. Your boyfriend can leave it on his desk all day without worrying about water spilling on his keyboard.
Whether you’re dating a frequent flier or just planning a trip together, high-quality luggage is a gift that can make all the difference when traveling. We billed this carry-on suitcase as the best hard-shell carry-on for business travel because it boasts a removable laptop sleeve, a lightweight design and super-smooth wheels. You can even personalize it with his monogram or a picture of his pet.
Why trust CNN Underscored
Here at Underscored, we make it our job to stay up to date on all the latest products, but we don’t just find them; we also rigorously test products from hundreds of brands to make sure every gift you give is a hit. We also know that you get tired of seeing the same gift ideas year after year, which is why our team of editors has carefully curated each of our gift guides with a selection of products tailored to the person, hobby or event you’re shopping for (though, if you’re seeing some repeat products in our coverage, it probably just means that we really love them). For this list, we pulled from editor favorites and best-tested products, personal gifting experience and research on top trending items in anticipation of the holiday season.