White Elephant Gift Ideas Under $25: Cheap Thrills That Steal Every Swap

The following White Elephant party gift suggestions under $25 will help you become the event's center of attention. The carefully selected affordable items on this list will become the most desired White Elephant gifts because they provide great entertainment value at budget-friendly prices. The collection includes both funny gag items and useful crowd-pleasers and practical surprises which will help you discover an ideal gift for any office celebration or family reunion or friends' gift exchange.
Our top picks
Laugh-Out-Loud Gag Gifts Under $25
Hilarious, harmless jokes and novelties that spark trading wars every round.

Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy
$11.66The mini Wacky Waving Inflatable Tube Guy serves as a budget-friendly desk accessory that brings silly fun to any workspace. The included book about the tube guy's background story enhances the gift by adding more value to the product. The product faces power issues because its inflation system fails to work properly and its 9V battery life is short and its construction quality is unreliable. The product provides excellent value for its price point of under twelve dollars because it delivers plenty of humor during gift exchanges.
The Good
• Novelty design makes it a humorous, attention-getting gift for White Elephant exchanges.
• Compact, desk-friendly size that works as a small conversation-piece or stocking stuffer.
• Includes a short mini book about the tube guy’s history, adding extra novelty value.
The Bad
• Reportedly the fan/motor often doesn’t produce enough airflow to keep the toy inflated.
• Power issues: reviewers report it quickly drains 9V batteries or fails with included power options.
• Build quality is inconsistent, with several buyers describing units that stopped working immediately.

World Market Archie McPhee Electronic Yodeling Pickle
$14.99The electronic yodeling pickle became the most sought-after item at White Elephant games because players wanted it right away. The product comes with pre-installed batteries that let users start playing immediately after unboxing. The sound loops in the product have restricted playback cycles which leads to repetitive jokes yet some buyers find their batteries do not work properly when they receive their purchase. The product's plastic construction shows signs of deterioration from frequent use yet its under $15 price point makes it a fun novelty item that brings joy to users.
The Good
• Clearly a strong gag factor — gets loud laughs at parties and gift swaps.
• Batteries are included, so it’s ready to use out of the box.
• Small, lightweight size makes it an easy stocking-stuffer or desk novelty.
The Bad
• Some units arrive with dead or poorly seated batteries requiring replacement.
• Yodel sound loops and variety are limited, which can feel repetitive quickly.
• Build can feel plastic and cheap to some buyers after repeated use.
Practical Crowd-Pleasers Everyone Steals
People can find practical everyday upgrades which cost less than $25 and work with their current setup.

Tile Mate
$19.99The Tile Mate functions as an affordable under-$20 present for people who forget things because it connects to keys and bags without adding bulk. The compact tracker operated effectively with Life360 through its SOS functionality and its compatibility with the app system which provides advantages to families who already subscribe to this service. The Bluetooth range of this device stays restricted compared to GPS trackers but users might encounter occasional connection issues when their phones operate in particular areas. Users need to dispose of the Mate's battery when it drains out because the device lacks replaceable batteries although its inexpensive cost makes it a suitable option.
The Good
• Affordable at around $19.99, making it an easy budget gift.
• Integrates with the Life360 app and offers an SOS feature for added safety.
• Compact and easy to attach to keys or bags.
The Bad
• Battery is not user-replaceable on the Mate model, so the unit is disposable at end of life.
• Bluetooth tracking range is limited compared with GPS trackers.
• Some users report intermittent connectivity or reliability issues with certain phones or environments.

Anker 511 Charger Nano Pro
$13.99The Anker 511 Charger Nano Pro serves as a useful crowd-pleasing solution because it offers 20W power through its portable design which fits in a pocket. The charger delivers fast charging to iPhone and USB-C devices during testing which makes it an excellent backup or travel charger at its $13.99 price point. The charger supports PPS super-fast charging for Samsung devices under particular conditions but it produces heat during long use while reducing its power output. The charger meets standard phone charging needs but users may experience occasional issues when trying to connect tiny accessories.
The Good
• Very compact and pocketable, much smaller than many other 20W bricks.
• Charges many phones quickly (20W fast charging for compatible devices).
• Low price makes it an affordable spare or gift option.
The Bad
• Does not always support Samsung PPS super-fast charging for some Galaxy models.
• Can run hot and may thermal-throttle under sustained high loads.
• Some users report inconsistent charging behavior with certain accessories and small devices.
Cozy Comforts and Self-Care Treats
The items include candles and slippers and masks which create a sense of relaxation.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
$6.00The six-dollar Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum from The Ordinary functions as a simple skincare product which works well for both gifting and personal use. The lightweight serum absorbed fast into the skin while providing a smooth finish under sunscreen and moisturizer and controlling T-zone shine. The product causes skin irritation and temporary acne breakouts to some users while it leaves behind a sticky texture on particular skin types. The product works best when users begin with small amounts and purchase it directly from the manufacturer or authorized retailers to prevent problems with third-party packaging damage.
The Good
• Very low price compared with similar serums, making it easy to try without large cost.
• Contains 10% niacinamide and zinc which many users report reduces oil and minimizes pores.
• Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturizer and sunscreen.
The Bad
• Some users report irritation or increased breakouts, especially when starting or with sensitive skin.
• Can leave a slightly tacky or sticky residue on application for some skin types.
• Occasional reports of damaged or broken packaging during shipping from third-party sellers.

Three Sisters Apothecary Bar Soap
$8.00The Three Sisters Apothecary Bar Soap offers handcrafted oils and butters in gift-ready boutique-style packaging for a luxurious small swap. The scents from this product impressed everyone who smelled them because they were both powerful and pleasant despite their affordable price. The fragrance strength of each bar may differ from others and the scents might not last as long as expected while cilantro and lime notes in herbal and citrus fragrances might not appeal to all users. The eight-dollar price makes this product an excellent spa-like addition to any stocking or White Elephant gift that shows you care.
The Good
• Strong, pleasant scents that many buyers praise.
• Handcrafted, small-batch formulation with natural oils and butters.
• Attractive packaging that makes it gift-ready.
The Bad
• Scent can differ from listing or be weaker than expected.
• Some buyers feel the fragrance doesn't last as long for the price.
• May not suit people sensitive to herbal/citrus essential oils like cilantro or lime.

Burt's Bees Hand Cream Trio
$12.99The Burt’s Bees Hand Cream Trio proved to be a secure choice for swapping because it delivered effective overnight moisturizing benefits according to our review. The small tubes of the product fit well into stockings and bags while the formula absorbs fast without causing heaviness for most people. The current fragrance combination in this product receives mixed reviews because some people detect strong scents while others dislike them. The product set provides excellent value for under $15 but you should provide a gift receipt for people who are sensitive to fragrances.
The Good
• Provides noticeable moisturization that works well overnight.
• Absorbs quickly and is described by users as not overly greasy.
• Comes in a compact, giftable set size that fits stockings and swaps.
The Bad
• Some users report the scent is too strong or unpleasant.
• A few reviewers say the formula changed and performs worse than older versions.
• Certain people find the texture greasy on initial application.
Party and Game Night Boosters
The collection includes small games and trivia and party enhancers which provide laughter and trading opportunities.

Codenames 2.0 Board Game
$19.99The party game Codenames 2.0 functions well at different scales because it remains compact while adapting to various group sizes for easy transportation to social events. The game maintains its freshness through changing word arrangements and team assignments while its basic gameplay mechanics allow new players to learn it fast. The game delivers its best experience when you play with four or more players because two-player games with the standard version become unplayable unless you have the Duet version. The game requires a timer to prevent spymasters from excessive thinking and veteran players from identifying repeated clues.
The Good
• Excellent replayability due to variable word grids and changing teams.
• Simple rules make it quick and easy to teach new players.
• Compact, portable box that’s easy to bring to parties or trips.
The Bad
• Original Codenames can play poorly with only two players without the Duet version.
• Experienced groups may start to recognize repeat words after many plays.
• Spymasters can experience analysis paralysis, slowing down rounds.

Exploding Kittens Original Edition Card Game
$19.99The game Exploding Kittens creates wild entertainment for all players since we learned it within minutes during our review and its strange artwork makes even cautious players smile. The game works best with three to five players who will maintain active conversation but luck plays a major role in the game since strategy remains minimal. The game system allows one player to become inactive while others complete their turns so we implement short rounds to maintain full player participation. The official purchase of Exploding Kittens from authorized retailers protects against counterfeit products and provides an excellent time-filling experience between longer games.
The Good
• Quick, simple rules make it easy to teach and start a game in minutes.
• Humorous, distinctive artwork adds charm and makes the game memorable.
• Plays well as a party game for 3–5 players and encourages lively interaction.
The Bad
• Gameplay relies heavily on luck and offers limited strategic depth for some players.
• Player elimination can leave participants sitting out while others continue playing.
• Counterfeit copies exist in the market, so buying from official sellers is advisable.

Dolphin Hat Games Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Card Game
$9.84Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza serves as a budget-friendly crowd igniter that we frequently played during our review because of its simple and humorous nature. The game requires only a few minutes to learn and delivers quick matches through short rounds which appeal to both children and adults during busy gift exchanges. The game produces loud noise and intense energy because players need to slap cards which might cause hand or knuckle injuries. The game provides excellent value for party nights because it costs less than ten dollars but you should purchase card sleeves if you plan to play frequently.
The Good
• Very easy to learn, so new players can join immediately.
• Fast-paced short playtime makes it ideal for party rounds and gift exchanges.
• Broad age appeal—kids and adults can both enjoy the game.
The Bad
• Gameplay can become loud and chaotic, which may bother quieter groups.
• Physical slapping actions can cause minor hand discomfort or accidental bumps.
• Some buyers report the card stock feels thin and may wear with heavy use.
Kitchen and Bar Crowd Favorites
The following list includes quick-swapping items that include clever gadgets and drink accessories and foodie treats.

Dash Mini Maker Waffle
$14.99The single-serve Dash mini waffle maker produces waffles while taking up minimal counter space which makes it suitable for dorms and small kitchens and office gift ideas. The nonstick plates of this waffle maker produced clean waffle releases and easy cleaning while its fun designs and colors enhance its appeal at $14.99. The device lacks temperature and browning control features and produces only one small waffle at a time which makes it inefficient for serving groups. The product experiences occasional latch problems and durability issues so users should only use it for occasional weekend breakfasts.
The Good
• Compact, single-serving size is ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or gifting.
• Nonstick cooking surface makes waffles easy to remove and simplifies cleanup.
• Very affordable and widely available in fun shapes and colors.
The Bad
• No temperature control or browning settings limit cooking customization.
• Makes only one small waffle at a time, which is inefficient for groups.
• Some users report occasional durability or latch issues with certain models.

Hario V60 Plastic Coffee Dripper
$13.00The plastic Hario V60 produces the same level of clean and bright coffee as more expensive materials when you master the brewing technique and costs only $13 making it an affordable present for coffee enthusiasts. The plastic material provides both lightness and durability for travel purposes while maintaining consistent extraction results. The plastic smell disappears after a short soaking process but daily use may lead to small cracks forming on the product. The large drain hole of this filter requires attention because it can cause paper tears and misalignment when you perform the pour too quickly.
The Good
• Very affordable compared with other V60 materials and replacements.
• Lightweight and durable for travel compared with glass or ceramic versions.
• Produces consistent, high-quality pour-over extraction when used with proper technique.
The Bad
• Some users report an initial plastic smell that may require soaking to remove.
• Plastic cones can develop hairline cracks or degrade over long-term daily use.
• Certain paper filters may tear or not seat perfectly because of the large drain hole.
Desk and Office-Friendly Picks
The collection features office-friendly humorous accessories which function as both workplace presents and budget-friendly entertainment products.

Logitech M185 Wireless Mouse
$17.99A practical gift under twenty dollars that works for everyone needs to be found. The Logitech M185 provided dependable plug-and-play functionality through its compact USB receiver that operated without driver requirements. The product's one-year battery life according to the manufacturer's claims reduces the need for post-gift maintenance. The product has two main disadvantages because some units do not reach their promised lifespan and batteries sometimes arrive in a dead or corroded state while the compact design may not accommodate larger hand sizes. The product provides dependable operation for everyday web browsing and office tasks at an affordable price which makes it suitable for trading and operation.
The Good
• Very affordable price around $18, making it an easy White Elephant pick.
• Simple plug-and-play with a tiny USB receiver—no drivers required for most systems.
• Long advertised battery life (up to 12 months) so maintenance is minimal.
The Bad
• Some users report inconsistent durability with units failing after months of use.
• Occasional reports of battery corrosion or arriving with a dead battery in the package.
• Small form factor may feel too small or uncomfortable for users with large hands.

Rocketbook Mini Notepad Cover Dot Grid Rule
$19.99The Rocketbook Mini serves as our portable notebook because its 3.5 x 5.5-inch size fits easily into pockets. The scanning process to the app and cloud storage system proved efficient during testing and the pages cleaned up perfectly with a damp cloth. The product has two main drawbacks because the repeated use of the eraser produces ghosting effects and the pen skips during writing and runs out fast and the ink becomes smudged when exposed to heat and moisture. Users can digitize brief notes and meeting records through an efficient process at a price point below twenty dollars.
The Good
• Compact, pocketable 3.5 x 5.5 size makes it easy to carry everywhere.
• App-enabled scanning uploads notes quickly to cloud services for easy organization.
• Reusable pages erase with a damp cloth, reducing paper waste.
The Bad
• Writing can ghost or leave faint impressions after repeated erases on some pages.
• Ink from the included pen can skip or run out faster than regular pens.
• Pages are sensitive to moisture and heat, so notes can smear if exposed to water or high temperatures.
Festive Seasonal Showstoppers Under $25
Premium holiday treats exist which have a luxurious feel and attractive presentation that makes them perfect for gift-giving.

Philips 100ct LED Heavy Duty Incandescent Indoor/Outdoor Miniature String Lights
$14.99The Philips 100-count string lights provide a convenient holiday lighting solution because they have UL-listed certification for indoor and outdoor use and allow users to link up to 15 sets for extended lighting runs. The Remains-Lit design of these lights maintained their glow during bulb failures which made maintenance work easy. The twinkling versions of these lights produce a soft sparkling effect because only a limited section of the string actually glows. The lights measure 33 feet in length but users should expect to replace them after one year of use so they should purchase multiple sets with a spare set on hand.
The Good
• UL-listed for indoor and outdoor use.
• Connects end-to-end with up to 15 sets for longer runs.
• Remains-lit technology keeps the strand working when a single bulb fails.
The Bad
• Only a small portion of bulbs may actually twinkle on twinkling models.
• Some customers report durability problems, with strands failing after a season.
• Lighted length is 33 feet, which may be too short for larger displays.

Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Iowa Pine Soy Candle
$10.99The Iowa Pine candle from Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day offers a festive swap that avoids the appearance of a cheap gag gift. The Iowa Pine candle from Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day comes in a recyclable glass jar with a soy and vegetable-based composition that makes it suitable for decorative purposes. The candle produced a clean burn during our testing period which lasted about 35 hours while providing peaceful evening illumination. The pine fragrance becomes milder when the candle burns and users report that the jar size is too small for some while others experience quick wax melting and irregular burning patterns which work best for creating peaceful holiday atmospheres rather than strong room fragrances.
The Good
• Made from soy and vegetable-based wax.
• Advertised burn time of about 35 hours.
• Comes in a recyclable glass jar that works well as a gift.
The Bad
• Some buyers report the pine scent is weak after lighting.
• Several reviewers say the candle feels small for the price.
• A few customers report inconsistent burn or rapid melting.
Eco-Friendly and Reusable Surprises
The adoption of silicone bags and straws as sustainable solutions generates positive emotions because they provide feel-good moments.

Bee's Wrap Assorted 3 Pack
$19.99The eco-friendly trades sector has proven successful and Bee's Wrap stands out as a reusable plastic wrap alternative which effectively preserves bread and cheese freshness. The different sizes of Bee's Wrap worked well for various tasks including snack packaging and half-produce storage and bowl coverage. The product requires careful hand washing and complete air drying to preserve its beeswax finish because its adhesive properties decrease when stored in refrigerators. The product will last between several months to one year when used frequently while remaining affordable at under $20 for those who want sustainable alternatives.
The Good
• Reusable alternative to single-use plastic wrap.
• Comes in three useful sizes (S, M, L) for versatile food storage.
• Helps keep bread and cheese fresher longer.
The Bad
• Can lose adhesion or grip when stored cold in the refrigerator.
• Requires careful washing and thorough drying to maintain performance.
• Wraps may only last several months to around a year with regular use.

Stasher Silicone Sandwich Bag
$13.99The Stasher Sandwich Bag proved to be a practical replacement that people actually use based on our testing results. The food-grade silicone material withstands dishwasher and freezer and microwave and sous-vide heat while maintaining a tight pinch-lock seal that prevents leaks. The bag opening runs smaller than its width which makes it difficult to put large items inside and the strong seal requires significant force to open. The product shows occasional discoloration and persistent smells when used extensively but its eco-friendly design and affordable price of under $14 make it a suitable replacement for disposable bags.
The Good
• Durable, thick food-grade silicone that withstands heat and repeated use.
• Safe for dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and sous-vide cooking.
• Creates a very secure, leak-resistant pinch-lock seal.
The Bad
• Opening is narrower than the bag width, making it difficult to insert larger items.
• The tight seal can make the bag hard to open for some users.
• Some users report staining or lingering odors after extended use.