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Expert Shopper Holiday

50+ best Secret Santa gifts for under $50

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Rise to the challenge

With the holiday shopping season here, it's time to find gifts for those you know well, and also for some who may only be casual acquaintances. The classic Secret Santa gift exchange presents a fun and possibly intimidating challenge, depending on the name you pick out.

Whether you're seeking something fun or funny, something practical or absurd, you'll want gifts at a reasonable price. From tech products to games and puzzles, here are 50+ Secret Santa gift ideas for coworkers, friends and family members.

The 50 best Christmas gift ideas of 2023

Secret Santa gifts for coworkers

Jerry & Maggie Desktop Organizer

Desk organizers are good Secret Santa gifts for those whose workspace always seems to be chaotic. This lightweight set of shelves can be set up in a variety of configurations to maximize space atop a desk for utmost efficiency. Made of wood, they're offered in four finishes to complement décor.

NBC "The Office" World's Best Boss Ceramic Mug

A holiday staple, this simple coffee mug was made famous by "The Office." Even if a coworker isn't familiar with that workplace comedy, this Secret Santa gift is still an amusing addition to any desk, especially if they're not actually a boss.

Alera Mesh Back Support

Add comfort and safety to a colleague's chair with this mesh back support. The contoured design makes sitting easier for long hours, while the fabric increases airflow and breathability.

WAITIEE Wireless Charger

For the coworker who's always out of juice, this charging station will keep all important devices and electronics charged. It supports Apple and Android devices as well as AirPods. It also props up a smartphone so it can be used while it's powering up.

Anker Portable Charger Power Bank

Another practical gift, this compact Anker power bank gives colleagues a lot of extra power when they're running low. It adapts the charge based on the device's requirements and can quickly boost phones, tablets and watches.

 

Bentoheaven Premium Bento Lunch Box

This lunch box is made with practicality in mind and is perfect for anyone who needs some organization come mealtime. The bento box includes different compartments as well as dividers to keep food fresh and ready to eat.

Moleskine Classic Weekly Notebook Planner

From a trusted name, this softcover notebook planner helps keep weeks organized with its thoughtful layout and durable construction. It includes some useful information about the world, as well as some inspiring reminders.

Verilux HappyLight Touch Plus

This useful light therapy lamp helps improve mood, energy, and sleep by providing a helpful blast of sunlight. It's especially beneficial for those who work long or irregular hours inside, or for anyone who needs help getting up in the morning.

Bormioli Rocco Selecta Collection Whiskey Decanter Set

This high-quality set of glassware is as much about practicality as it is aesthetics. For the refined colleague, it includes four whiskey glasses and a stunning decanter to show off at home (or in the right office space).

Other top gifts for coworkers

  • This humorous set of notepads will lend a chuckle.
  • A "Star Wars"-themed Chia Pet is perfect for plant-loving fans.
  • A witty off-the-wall calendar for the upcoming year will help them plan ahead.
  • A zen garden will encourage them to stay calm and mindful.
  • A desk ring light makes on-camera calls and work selfies more appealing.
  • This popular vacuum-insulated tumbler keeps drinks hot or cold.
  • This snack box is a great gift for coworkers who get the munchies on the job.
  • These insulated water bottles will keep your work friend hydrated in the office and at the gym.
  • This Burt's Bees gift box is the perfect self-care gift.

Gifts for the home

Black + Decker 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker 

This efficient coffee maker can brew up to 12 cups of fresh coffee and keeps it warm for up to an hour. It features an easy-to-read display and auto shut-off for added convenience.

Earnest Living Essential Oil Diffuser

Every room in the home should have an essential oil diffuser to fill the air with a welcoming scent. This diffuser comes in several attractive designs and provides a gentle light as well.

Himalayan Glow Salt Lamp

The soft, warm glow of a salt lamp instantly makes any room cozier, making it the perfect gift for those who embrace staying home on cold winter days. They're believed to purify the air as well, improving sleep at night and stimulation during the day.

Royal Craft Wood Bathtub Caddy

This elegant bathtub tray elevates the bath-time experience with a spot for a drink, candle and any desired reading material, so it's handy for anyone who wants to relax at home. The tray comes in three finishes and extends to fit most tubs.

Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen

We evaluated the latest version of this popular smart home hub in the BestReviews Testing Lab. This Amazon Echo device features crisp, clear audio and easily connects to a range of other devices to make life safe, comfortable and convenient.

Tuddrom Decorative Fuzzy Faux Fur Throw Blanket

Give the gift of coziness and warmth with this extra-soft throw blanket. Available in 19 colors, it's made of fuzzy microfiber to keep you feeling snug all winter long.

Yankee Candle Balsam and Cedar Jar Candle

From one of the most popular names in scented candles, this large-size jar provides a fitting aroma during the winter months with balsam and cedar. With two wicks, it offers a cozy glow and burns clean for up to 100 hours.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

Help a friend or family member stuck in the analog age with this Amazon Fire Stick, approved by the BestReviews Testing Lab. It plugs into older TVs and immediately grants access to popular entertainment apps, with compatible content offered in stunning 4K definition.

Oster Waffle Maker

Consider this compact appliance that helps make delicious waffles quickly without hassle. It's small enough to store easily, while the nonstick surface prevents annoying messes.

Gaiam Yoga Mat

Anyone can benefit from a yoga mat in the home, as it welcomes mindful exercises as well as physical activity. This quality mat is ideal for those curious about Pilates, yoga, breathwork or meditation.

Other top gifts for the home

  • An attractive electric kettle for pour-over coffee or tea is a cozy idea.
  • These colorful and practical oven mitts are just right for home chefs with puppy buddies.
  • High-quality red wine glasses are what they should be sipping from.
  • A comfortable weighted blanket is comfy and toasty.
  • A therapeutic foot bath melts stress away at the end of the day.
  • Just about eeryone needs a new set of fresh kitchen towels.
  • This loose-leaf tea gift set makes tea time extra delicious.
  • A pair of sustainable soy candles adds ambiance to their space.
  • This cozy and festive onesie makes a great Christmas gift.

Gifts for entertainment

Dash Hot Air Popcorn Maker

This compact popcorn popper is a must-have for anyone who enjoys a fun movie night. It makes a quick bowl of the tasty staple. It's simple to use, inexpensive and comes in four attractive colors.

Anker Soundcore Mini

From a trusted electronics brand, this small portable Bluetooth speaker brings powerful and clear audio on the go. It boasts a lengthy battery life, as well as a microphone to take calls.

Govee Smart LED Light Strips

Help your lucky recipient instantly change the mood of any room with these smart light strips. They can complement a dance party, movie night, study session or simply provide a different look to refresh a space.

Funko Pop! DC Comics: Aquaman

If your Secret Santa giftee is obsessed with DC comics, this Funko vinyl collectible is a fitting way to celebrate an enduring character. "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" comes out Dec. 22, 2023.

JBL Vibe Wireless Earbuds

This budget-friendly set of earbuds from a trusted brand provides clear audio and surprisingly deep bass. The long-life battery lasts 20 hours, while a built-in microphone allows for calls and voice control.

Stray: PS5

This simple video game has proved charming to both serious and casual gamers alike. Players assume the role of a stray cat and wander a vibrant, mysterious and sometimes-dangerous city.

The Hygge Game

Unlike other card games, this isn't about competition, but conversation. The Hygge Game promotes companions and mindfulness, fostering thoughtful evenings. It's a unique gift for those who are seeking to strengthen relationships.

Magic Puzzle Company The Crystal Caves

Solving a puzzle is a terrific way to spend a cozy afternoon. This cute jigsaw puzzle presents an interesting challenge: there is no image available ahead of time to assist in the adventure.

Exploding Kittens: A Card Game

Looking for funny Secret Santa gifts? This wildly popular card game should be a staple in every jokester's home. Combining classic games like Old Maid and Crazy Eights, this card game delights at parties for its amusing graphics and wild finishes.

Funko Pop! Marvel Advent Calendar

For the comics fan in your life, get them excited for the holiday season with this Funko Advent calendar featuring four mini vinyl collectibles. It includes plenty of surprises, as well as holiday versions of Groot, Spider-Man and Captain America.

Other top gifts for entertainment

  • An outdoor waterproof Bluetooth speaker will have them movin' and groovin' anywhere.
  • This silly and entertaining party game is fun for all.
  • This home cocktail shaker set will impress guests.
  • A beautiful LEGO orchid will enhance their workspace.
  • An amusing and unique video game has gone to the goats.
  • A karaoke machine will appeal to aspiring singers (and those who should not be).
  • A drinking game inspired by Jenga adds a buzzy twist. Just be sure there's a designated driver.

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Anthony Marcusa writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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