The 32 Best Gifts for Boyfriends (That Are Great for Anyone) (2024)

If your man tunes into Fox’s animation lineup on Sunday nights or still guffaws at South Park, he might delight in seeing himself (and you) inside his favorite cartoon. For a custom illustration, first go to the TurnCartoon shop page and choose from one of five popular shows. The process is streamlined: Select a background, people, pets, and words from drop-downs, and then submit photos and desired details (particular clothing, tattoos, and so forth) to the illustrator via Etsy messaging. About three days later you’ll get a mock-up; we requested minor changes, which were made quickly. In about a week, you’ll receive a printable, 12-by-16-inch digital illustration. Then you can either print it out yourself or send it to an online framer, like our pick Framebridge, to get it professionally done.

You wouldn’t dare buy actual shoes for a sneakerhead. But this Air Force 1 Planter (about the size of a long tissue box) scratches the same hypebeast itch without threatening any precious closet space. The molded concrete sneaker, which sports fine details like stitches and a textured collar lining, is made by New York City artist Olivia Rose. (Rose also collaborates with brands on fanciful projects, including this 6-foot Timberland boot made of greenery.) This desk-friendly planter doesn’t have a drainage hole, so it’s best suited to succulents and small cacti, and it should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. It would also work nicely as an ashtray, bookend, or holder for pens and incense.

Plant enthusiasts can easily pick up a Fiddle Leaf Fig or Monstera Deliciosa at their local nursery or hardware store. But they likely won’t come across a Red Finger Lime Tree. The low-maintenance citrus tree produces 2- to 3-inch, oblong limes—known as the “caviar of fruit”—containing pearl-like juice vesicles that are a favorite of high-end chefs. With a pleasing pop of tart juice, they are a stunning topper for seafood, co*cktails, sorbets, or any other citrus-loving dish. This is also a gift that can grow with your relationship. The plant, which thrives in full sunlight, arrives 1 to 2 feet tall, and it can reach 6 to 20 feet, depending on whether it’s planted in a container or the ground. Due to agricultural restrictions on shipping citrus, the tree is not available for shipment to all states, and it may only ship during temperate weather to colder regions. Another great option for a harder-to-find fruit tree is the elegant Koroneiki Greek Olive Tree, which ships to 49 states.

The 100-year-old Champion brand has had a resurgence in the past decade, thanks to its collaborations with streetwear brands and its popularity among hot musicians. But its semi-recent return to cool is no flash in the pan: The company actually invented the hoodie as collegiate athletic apparel in the 1930s. We also love the fit of the crewneck, which comes in a wide range of sweet colors, including a minty green and pinky red. The soft, cozy Reverse Weave Sweatshirt has a structured, flattering fit. And its patented “reverse weave” (a horizontal knitting technique with the grain running sideways rather than vertically) and side panels are purported to reduce shrinkage and lengthen durability.

The Fredrik Leather Gloves are made by Hestra, a family-owned Swedish manufacturer that outfits both the Swedish and Norwegian ski teams with high-performance gloves. Yet your guy doesn’t need to be a slalom racer to appreciate a pair. These gloves, which are renowned for their flexible construction, warmth, and durability, are great for anyone in a region that experiences cold snaps. The chestnut-hued, touch screen–compatible gloves are made with soft lamb leather and lined with fleece and Primaloft, a down-like synthetic insulation. And the black-wool knitted cuffs are not only good-looking—they also fit smoothly around wrists and neatly under jacket sleeves to keep chilly air out.

The canister-shaped Herschel Supply Co. Sutton Duffle Mid-Volume is the perfect size for toting gym clothes to and fro on the daily. And with its 29-liter capacity, it could just as easily double as an overnight bag. Our pick for best duffle doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles, but it does have long handles, a removable shoulder or cross-body strap, and a single slip pocket (perfect for stowing a phone). Like all Herschel Supply Co. bags, this one is backed by a generous limited lifetime warranty.

Lush’s vegan Massage Oil Bars are made from cocoa and shea butters that dissolve to oil upon contact. He can use these bars to moisturize himself, or you can suggest a DIY couples massage. Choose from dozens of scents (peppermint, citrus) shapes (pyramids, pineapples), and exfoliants (aduki beans, ridged honeycomb). For a sleeker presentation, add in a lidded storage tin.

To some, Crocs are divisive. To many of us at Wirecutter, they’re a staple, with a few asterisks (namely that they aren’t waterproof or dressy). Enter the Crocs Dylan Clog, which has a clean profile and notably unperforated toe box. Compared with the style-be-damned silhouette of their clunkier predecessors, these Crocs are positively sleek. Textured to look like leather, they’re molded from a single piece of the company’s proprietary resin, and they’re just as squishy, comfy, and washable as the OGs. Editor Hannah Morrill’s partner enjoys wearing his pair to putz around the garden on rainy days and then out to dinner the same evening.

The Blarney Connall Crew Neck Aran Wool Sweater is about as archetypal as you can get. Made in Ireland, this 100% Merino wool jumper protects the wearer from sea dampness (and it will make your guy look really darn handsome). Wool naturally repels dirt, so this soft, cozy sweater shouldn’t need a lot of washing, and it will never go out of style. But when it does need to be laundered, it must either be dry-cleaned or hand-washed and air-dried flat to maintain its shape.

If your BF enjoys an occasional toke but doesn’t like the bother or harshness of a joint, the rechargeable Pax Plus Vaporizer is our favorite. Simply insert the bud (ground or whole) into the chamber, reattach the battery, press a button, and you’re good to puff. The Pax has different modes, such as Stealth, Efficiency, Flavor, and Boost to control the strength. And because it heats rather than burns the weed, it’s a mellower, less-cough-inducing smoke.

If your flame is an audio guy, he’s probably got his preferred system locked up. But for the music lover who is just starting out and might like to spin some of his favorite albums on vinyl, you can’t beat the Angels Horn H019, our favorite record-player setup for beginners. It has two-way stereo speakers with separate woofers and tweeters, and our listeners have enthusiastically endorsed this model’s full sound over that of pricier ones.

The sleek, minimalist Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack is one of our favorites from testing, thanks to its flat-to-the-body shape and clever storage options. The zip pouch on the top is ideal for the phone-keys-wallet trifecta, and the interior has two slip pockets. This bag has a recycled-polyester exterior (which resists water and stains), and it comes in a range of muted shades, from army green to ocean blue. It’s a great backpack for a commuter, a dad, or any guy who totes a lot of stuff.

Pickleball is still having a moment. And it’s such a moment that one of our editors noted the impossibility of court time and decided to start playing at home. If your boyfriend has a great driveway or lives near outdoor courts for other sports, he might appreciate the VENUX Portable Pickleball Net Set, which has everything you need to get a game going, including a regulation net, durable maple paddles, and plenty of balls. Pricier versions of all of these items do exist. But we can vouch that this is a better-than-good-quality set, and, most importantly, it’s a ton of fun to use.

If your guy is still traveling with his contact solution, toothbrush, and deodorant loosely stashed in whatever bag he’s rustled up, it may be time to give him the State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit, the most versatile toiletry bag we tested. For longer trips, the bag folds flat to stash larger items, and when he arrives, he can hang it smoothly from a towel bar, for easy access. Carry-on devotees will appreciate the removable translucent plastic pouch, which holds up to four 2.7-ounce travel bottles—ideal for security checks. Available in more than a dozen prints and patterns, the bag still looks cool, even if it does dip a toe into the waters of responsible adulthood.

For a sweater you’ll love to see your sweetheart wearing (and one you’ll love to borrow), we recommend Naadam’s The Original Cashmere Sweater. During our testing, it stood out for its luxurious, smooth-yet-supple feel, as well as for its very reasonable price. This sweater has just enough room in the body and arms to be comfortable, but it’s form-fitting enough to not look boxy. There are 14 colors and a wide range of sizes to choose from, so you’re likely to find just the right sweater for your loved one.

If your sweetheart appreciates Japanese culture or food, consider giving him the Bokksu Seasons of Japan Snack Box. If you go for a subscription, each month’s box features a generous and ever-changing assortment of teas, traditional Japanese sweets, and salty treats, along with a multi-page culture guide explaining each one. One of our favorite gift-basket picks, Bokksu sources all of its treats from small family businesses. Many of the snacks, like Edamame Senbei and Funwari Meijin Mochi Puffs, wowed our testers. The flavors of the crackers, puffs, and candies inside were alternately zingy, tart, sweet, and salty.

Everyone needs a dependable, sturdy, and stylish wallet—even those who think stuffing stray cards and rumpled bills into their back pockets is a “vibe.” We rounded up many great picks in our guide to slim wallets. But for a classic, inoffensive look that matches most tastes, consider the Leatherology Thin Bifold Wallet. Cards slide smoothly into and out of the pliable leather, and for another $10, you can monogram the wallet with your love’s initials.

For the brewski-loving boyfriend, give a glass that will elevate each sip. The Rastal Teku Stemmed Beer Glass is a favorite among our staffers, thanks to its angular bowl and delicately flared lip (both of which enhance the subtle notes of any IPA or stout). For those who know and care about these sorts of things, the sloped shape also helps form an aroma-releasing foamy head. The glass is voluminous enough to hold an entire 12-ounce can or bottle of beer (which we’re sure your loved one can pour without a hint of extra fizz).

If your beloved is a food snob, then he’s well aware that tinned fish is so hot right now. Wow him with your gustatory expertise by presenting a three-pack of the spicy smoked salmon from Fish Wife, a woman-owned, traceable-seafood enterprise that we’re wild about. This particular batch is crafted with Fly By Jing’s trademark Sichuan Chili Crisp; the hunks of salmon inside each tin are smoky and firm, excellent over crackers or atop a bed of rice. (We’ve also gobbled up a can entirely on its own.) The seafood snack also checks important boxes: The fair-trade, Arctic-raised salmon is packed by hand at a family owned cannery in Washington.

For anyone who’s in the market for a tie (and if he’s not, let’s change that), non-fusty floral versions aren’t exactly easy to come by. Dazi offers the widest range of botanical ties we’ve found, in dozens of colors and prints that are dainty, modern, and bold. Each tie can be purchased skinny (2.5 inches) or wide (3 inches), depending on his preference; there’s also a bountiful selection of bow ties. Most of the neckwear offerings are made of casual cotton, though there are a few excellent silk numbers, too. The company caters to a wedding demographic, but we think a floral tie is also just right for everyday natty dressing.

If your boyfriend is wading into the waters of accessorizing, give him a loving push to the deep end with Mejuri’s Curb Chain Necklace. Available in sterling silver, titanium, and black titanium, the piece is classically simple with a curb chain design (meaning the links have been flattened and twisted into an interlocking formation). The result is a subtle statement piece that lies flat over or under a T-shirt. The 22-inch chain is also that perfect length, dipping below a collar without dangling too low.

You can find plenty of coffee subscriptions out there, but for the java lover with a curious palate, you can’t beat a subscription to Atlas Coffee Club. Each month’s delivery comes from a different country, including less-expected sources such as India, Nicaragua, and Peru. Because Atlas works directly with local farmers, it can also experiment with how the beans are produced. One recent project, lauded by editor Ben Keough, involved using anaerobic fermentation to draw out more-unusual flavors from a rare Indian coffee. Each monthly (or twice monthly, your choice) 12-ounce delivery includes a postcard with fun facts about that country’s coffee industry, and your gift recipient can choose their roast and grind preferences.

A person can never have too many whimsical socks featuring the face of someone they love (or love to step on). With DivvyUp, the process is easy: Upload an image of your favorite visage, select the background color or print, and the company handles the rest. Depending on the recipient, it could be fun to feature your faces or to show a beloved pet. The socks are made from a durable polyester-nylon-spandex blend. So even though they’re not the softest ones we’ve ever worn, they do hold up well. And the strangely photorealistic faces don’t pull or snag.

Every culture has its meat-curing methods. Perhaps less widely known is South African biltong, a simple and delicious beef jerky: In this preparation, thick-cut beef steaks are cured with salt and spices, such as pepper, coriander, and cloves, and then air-dried for about 10 days. And no one does it better, at least stateside, than Biltong Depot. The resulting meaty treat has a satisfying heft, and it’s a healthful alternative for the Slim Jim lover in your life. Biltong Depot offers biltong precut or in whole steaks, with or without the fat trimmed away. We prefer the sliced original flavor without fat, but your meat-loving man may disagree.

The right white T-shirt is a sartorial Swiss army knife—dress it up with a blazer or dress it down with joggers and sneakers. Wirecutter’s style team researched and tested dozens of white T-shirts, and the J.Crew Broken-In Short-Sleeve was a favorite. It’s well constructed, light, and comfortable, falling smartly on the shoulders with no bunching and minimal shrinkage. If the price seems like a lot to spend on a white tee, fair enough, but your loved one will appreciate the tight, sturdy weave and the reassuring opacity. The shirt also comes in long-sleeve, V-neck, and pocket versions, so you can pick based on your dude’s preference.

If your boyfriend is a budding cook (or just a foodie who likes to dress the part), a sturdy and well-made apron can save him from ruining his clothes while he’s working in the kitchen. Or it could just keep him looking cute while he’s noshing on takeout. Of the 24 aprons we tested, none performed better than the —it’s soft yet durable, unisex, and adjusts to fit a wide range of sizes. The canvas is moisture-resistant, so a bubble of Bolognese can easily be wiped off, and a splatter of chili oil won’t burn. (And it’s a lot more fun to kiss the cook without either of those messes in the way.)

For the person you most love to hang out with, why not hang out together quite literally—in a tree? The breathable, durable ENO SingleNest Hammock weighs just a pound and folds out to a reassuring cocoon (measuring 9 feet 4 inches long by 4 feet 7 inches wide). Our favorite hammock during testing, it accommodates up to 400 pounds and comes in seven fun colors, so it’s perfect for outdoorsmen and backyard lovers alike. Best of all, the SingleNest sets up in a flash—even if your sweetheart prefers to eschew directions.

Your beloved cinephile will be thrilled to receive a subscription to The Criterion Channel, which streams hundreds of carefully curated classic and contemporary titles from around the globe. Rather than Netflix and chill, you two can witness the complexities of a lifelong marriage in Andrew Haigh’s 45 Years or get creeped out watching the thriller The American Friend. Another option: Take the night off and let your loved one revel solo in the impressive selection of classic samurai flicks, such as Seven Samurai and Throne of Blood. The Criterion Channel’s expert commentary is unparalleled, as are the categories, including movies directed by women and films focused on Black characters.

A tastefully scented candle can enhance a room’s ambiance with a single flicker. And it’s perfect for the boyfriend who takes pride in his space—or the one who could use some pointers. If your loved one’s power routinely gets knocked out, a candle also serves a functional purpose. During our panel testing, the Apotheke Charcoal Candle stood out in our “warm and woodsy” category, smelling like charred sandalwood and cedar after a heavy rain. The black wax matches handsomely with a matte-black vessel, which conveniently hides soot streaks and fingerprints. And in our tests, it burned for 39 hours, one of the longest times we saw from candles of its size.

If your beloved lives to lounge, what better gift than a luxurious robe to facilitate a lifetime of lazy mornings? We’ve tested dozens of robes, and one of our favorites is The Company Store Company Cotton Men’s Robe. It’s indulgently soft, is available in a wide range of men’s sizes (from S to 2X), and comes in four solid-color options. With its relaxed shawl collar, generous patch pockets, and tie belt, this robe looks and feels like a fancy hotel robe. All the better for accepting DoorDash.

At Wirecutter, we’ve been wearing and recommending L.L.Bean’s Wicked Good Moccasins for many years, and though we constantly search for new slippers, none of them have been able to dethrone the original. The suede shearling is extremely warm and comfy, and the impeccable construction makes these slippers extra-durable. (And if, against all odds, the wearer does encounter any issues, L.L.Bean backs these slippers with a one-year guarantee.) Thanks to this pair’s rubber bottoms, your loved one can run into the driveway to grab the paper without ruining his slippers. There are six color options, so you’re sure to find a pair that complements your sweetheart’s favorite sweatpants.

If your boyfriend is a fan of frozen treats, and he also enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, he’ll love having his very own ice cream maker. In our testing, the Cuisinart ICE-21 made stand-out ice cream, and the process was simple and straightforward. Just attach the frozen insert into the base, pour in the ingredients, and press the “on” button. In about 20 minutes, a cold and delicious treat will be ready for sampling. Yes, the frozen insert requires a little extra planning—as in, remembering to freeze the canister ahead of time. But you’re dating someone capable of that, right?

We love finding gifts that are unusual, thoughtful, and well vetted. See even more gift ideas we recommend.

This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter. Dorie Chevlen contributed reporting.