43 Gifts Under $50 for Every Type of Co-worker

43 Gifts Under $50 for Every Type of Co-worker

Coming up with gift ideas for co-workers — whether they’ve been a longtime desk-mate or you just see them onscreen every week — can be challenging. But the general principles remain the same as with any other gift: You’re looking for items that are thoughtful (and affordable) and that they’ll enjoy using. We did the legwork for you and hunted down the best gifts for less than $50 for every type of co-worker, broken down into six categories (and if you’re shopping for something specific, jump ahead using the table of contents). Whether they’re a foodie, an amateur skin-care scientist, or constantly trying to improve their desk space, we’ve found a tried-and-true Strategist favorite they’ll enjoy. We also have guides for the rest of your list — including everyone from tween boys to grandparents.

Summary of items we will discuss in this buying guide :

Our top picks :

  • Zojirushi SM-SA48-BA Stainless Steel Mug, Black, 16-Ounce

    Zojirushi SM-SA48-BA Stainless Steel Mug, Black, 16-Ounce

    Because their first cup shouldn’t be cold by the time they log on.

  • Maldon Sea Salt Bucket

    Maldon Sea Salt Bucket

    This salt is a favorite of chefs and food lovers for its delightfully flaky texture and for being not too salty. “I have a bowl of it out at all times,” says designer John Derian.

  • Acid League Shio Ramen Broth Concentrate

    Acid League Shio Ramen Broth Concentrate

    Help them level up their noodles.

  • Tony’s Chocolonely Rainbow Tasting Chocolate Bar Pack

    Tony’s Chocolonely Rainbow Tasting Chocolate Bar Pack

    This pack comes with six different flavors, including nougat, caramel, and sea salt.

  • Owala FreeSip

    Owala FreeSip

    Whether they prefer to chug from the bottle or sip through a straw, this bottle has options for both. Either way, they won’t have to unscrew the top just to get a drink.

  • Zab’s Hot Sauce

    Zab’s Hot Sauce

    A hot sauce that pro cooks and Strategist staffers love for its well-balanced mix of heat and vinegar.

  • Blue Diamond Wasabi & Soy Sauce Almonds, 16 Oz.

    Blue Diamond Wasabi & Soy Sauce Almonds, 16 Oz.

    These aggressively seasoned almonds pack a one-two punch.

  • Sweese Porcelain Tea Mug with Infuser and Lid

    Sweese Porcelain Tea Mug with Infuser and Lid

    This mug has an included strainer so they can brew loose leaf tea right into their cup. It comes in a wide range of colors, too.

  • Vacu Vin Wine Saver

    Vacu Vin Wine Saver

    This tool can help them keep a bottle fresh longer by pulling all the oxygen out, leaving their wine safe and sound until their next pour.

  • Vanilla Bean Kings Madagascar Vanilla Bean Pods (10 Count)

    Vanilla Bean Kings Madagascar Vanilla Bean Pods (10 Count)

    These vanilla beans, which come from Madagascar, will take their baking to a whole new level.

  • Esarora Ice Roller for Face and Eyes

    Esarora Ice Roller for Face and Eyes

    This roller will help them perk up and refresh their eyes after a sleepless night.

  • Rawlogy Travel Massage Ball

    Rawlogy Travel Massage Ball

    These massage balls are eco-friendly, and the perfect source of relief after a few hours on their feet. Hikers, doulas, and tennis players all love them.

  • Weleda Skin Food Original

    Weleda Skin Food Original

    This moisturizing cream — which has been recommended to us over and over by makeup artists and celebrities — has an ultrarich texture that will help keep their skin dewy and nourished.

  • TriggerPoint Grid Foam Roller

    TriggerPoint Grid Foam Roller

    With our favorite foam roller, they can give themselves a deep-tissue massage at home and feel good before and after every run.

  • Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks

    Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks

    These Strategist-favorite wool socks can withstand even the most rugged expeditions.

  • Topo Designs 10L Cube Pack Bag, Olive

    Topo Designs 10L Cube Pack Bag, Olive

    This Dopp kit has plenty of room for even the most rigorous skin-care routine, and it has a nice handle for lugging around.

  • Conair Travel Dual-Voltage Steamer

    Conair Travel Dual-Voltage Steamer

    This compact, powerful steamer can de-wrinkle their shirt while they’re changing from their commute attire to their office wardrobe. It’s travel-friendly too.

  • Mudder Crystal Handheld Fan

    Mudder Crystal Handheld Fan

    This eye-catching fan can keep them cool without having to crank the A/C, and it’ll give their desk a little flair when it’s not in use.

  • Anker Portable Charger PowerCore Slim

    Anker Portable Charger PowerCore Slim

    They can carry this one with them to lunch.

  • Geyes Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard, Gold

    Geyes Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard, Gold

    Their fingers will thank you.

  • Uniwit Mini Portable Microphone

    Uniwit Mini Portable Microphone

    They already have a go-to song, so give them a go-to mic to belt their tunes with. This one has a simple cordless design.

  • MOFT Flash Wallet and Stand

    MOFT Flash Wallet and Stand

    Having a wallet attached to their phone means one less thing to worry about at the TSA checkpoint.

  • Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard

    Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard

    Its keys are comfy to type on, it comes in enough colors to match any desk decor, and it won’t click and clack as they type.

  • Casio F91W-1 Classic Resin Strap Digital Sport Watch

    Casio F91W-1 Classic Resin Strap Digital Sport Watch

    An old-school watch they can flash when they walk into their next meeting (on time).

  • Energizer LED Headlamp Pro360

    Energizer LED Headlamp Pro360

    Now they won’t have to get up and turn the light off before bed.

  • Moft Snap Phone Tripod Stand MOVAS

    Moft Snap Phone Tripod Stand MOVAS

    This magnetic tripod will let them do it without getting food all over their screen.

  • Baggu Duck Bag

    Baggu Duck Bag

    This Strategist-favorite tote has a shoulder strap plus handles, and a clasp on the top to keep things from spilling out while they get settled at their desk.

  • Sorbus 3-Tier Bamboo Shelf Organizer for Desk with Drawers

    Sorbus 3-Tier Bamboo Shelf Organizer for Desk with Drawers

    This wooden desk organizer has a large drawer for them to stuff all their office supplies. “Plus, the bamboo helps bring a bit of nature to a sterile office area,” says Daniel Loya of Spaces Transformed.

  • Princeton Architectural Press Grids & Guides: A Notebook for Visual Thinkers

    Princeton Architectural Press Grids & Guides: A Notebook for Visual Thinkers

    Every page of this notebook has a different grid design, so they’ll never run out of inspiration. “This pattern is simultaneously a constraint (because grid) and a mild creative prompt (because variable),” says Strategist contributor Molly Young.

  • Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain Pen

    Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain Pen

    Call Me by Your Name author André Aciman says this is “the Volkswagen of pens with a Jaguar engine.”

  • Ban.do Rise and Shine Decorative Ceramic Vase

    Ban.do Rise and Shine Decorative Ceramic Vase

    A vintage-inspired vase that’s a conversation starter.

  • ErgoFoam Ergonomic Footrest

    ErgoFoam Ergonomic Footrest

    Give their back a break while they put their mind to work.

  • Hobonichi Techo Planner

    Hobonichi Techo Planner

    A Strategist-favorite planner.

  • Quszmd Under Desk Cord Organizer

    Quszmd Under Desk Cord Organizer

    They’ll appreciate the calm that comes with finally keeping all those cords out of sight.

  • DII Swedish Dishcloths

    DII Swedish Dishcloths

    They’re better at cleaning up messes than paper towels, and the cheerful lemon print will brighten their day.

  • California Tropicals Birkin Variegated Philodendron With 6-Inch Pot

    California Tropicals Birkin Variegated Philodendron With 6-Inch Pot

    Even the beginner plant parent can care for this plant, which will look great on their desk. It even comes with a pot.

  • Iris Hantverk Desktop Table Dustpan and Brush Set

    Iris Hantverk Desktop Table Dustpan and Brush Set

    Coffee grinders, even the expertly designed ones, make a mess. Anyone in your life who insists on pulverizing fresh beans every day (good for them) will be able to wipe up after themselves efficiently with this stylish table dustpan and brush.

  • Graf Lantz Bierfilzl Merino Wool Felt Coaster

    Graf Lantz Bierfilzl Merino Wool Felt Coaster

    These wool coasters come in an assortment of cheery colors and help keep their desk free of condensation. Strategist writer Emma Wartzman says these coasters “both absorb and evaporate moisture and thus stay in perfect condition no matter how many drinks sweat on them.”

  • Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel and Puzzle Plush

    Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel and Puzzle Plush

    The office pup can’t chase squirrels inside, but this may be the next best thing. Former Strategist senior manager of audience development Mia Leimkuhler has given it as a gift several times and says it’s always a hit.

  • Bamboozle Compost Bin

    Bamboozle Compost Bin

    A good-looking container for stowing scraps.

  • Yeowww! Catnip Toy

    Yeowww! Catnip Toy

    This catnip-filled toy can keep their furry pal busy for hours. Nora Wood, adoption event coordinator for Anjellicle Cats, calls the Yeowww! the “best catnip toy” because it’s a great shape for kicking around, sniffing, and snuggling.

  • ‘Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America’

    ‘Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America’

    They’ll be able to spot the difference between a sparrow and a house finch in no time.

  • Amigo ‘Saboteur 2’ Card Game

    Amigo ‘Saboteur 2’ Card Game

    This Mafia-style tabletop game works well for a wide range of skill levels and competitiveness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for every type of co-worker without breaking the bank is a delightful venture, and the curated selection of 43 gifts under $50 featured in this guide makes the process both thoughtful and budget-friendly. As you navigate the diverse preferences of your colleagues, it's essential to consider the following critical points before making a buying choice:

  • Personalization and Thoughtfulness:
    • Prioritize gifts that reflect thoughtfulness and a touch of personalization. Consider each co-worker's interests, hobbies, or even inside jokes to select a gift that resonates with them on a personal level.
  • Practicality and Usefulness:
    • Assess the practicality and usefulness of the gift. Opt for items that enhance the daily work routine or bring joy to their personal lives, ensuring that your gift is both thoughtful and functional.
  • Office-Friendly Items:
    • Explore office-friendly items that can elevate their workspace. Whether it's stylish desk accessories, unique stationery, or handy organizational tools, gifts that enhance the work environment are always appreciated.
  • Inclusivity and Sensitivity:
    • Be mindful of inclusivity and cultural sensitivity when selecting gifts. Choose items that are universally appealing and considerate of diverse backgrounds, ensuring a positive and inclusive gifting experience.
  • Quality and Durability:
    • Check for the quality and durability of the gift. Even with a budget-friendly price tag, selecting well-crafted items ensures that your co-worker receives a gift that stands the test of time.
  • Presentation and Packaging:
    • Consider the presentation and packaging of the gift. A well-wrapped and aesthetically pleasing package adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to your gesture, making the recipient feel truly appreciated.
  • Gift Cards and Flexible Options:
    • If uncertain about specific preferences, consider gift cards or flexible options like subscription services. This allows your co-workers to choose items or experiences that best suit their individual tastes.
  • Brand Reputation and Reviews:
    • Research the brand reputation and read customer reviews, especially when purchasing online. This helps ensure that the gifts you select are well-received and of high quality.
  • Group Dynamics and Office Culture:
    • Be mindful of group dynamics and office culture when selecting gifts. Choose items that align with the workplace environment and are suitable for a professional setting.
  • Budget and Value for Money:
    • Determine your budget and seek value for money. The gifts under $50 featured in this guide offer a balance between affordability and quality, ensuring that you can express your appreciation without overspending.

By keeping these critical points in mind, you can confidently choose gifts that cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of your co-workers. The 43 featured gifts not only cover a wide range of interests but also provide budget-friendly options to suit every type of colleague. Elevate the spirit of giving in the workplace with thoughtful and affordable gifts that foster positive connections and appreciation among your team.

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