20 Gift Ideas For Programmers 2025

Searching for the perfect gift for the programmer in your life? This 2025 guide features 20 unique gift ideas tailored for tech enthusiasts, from practical coding accessories to fun desk gadgets. Whether you're shopping for a coworker, a special man, or a gadget guru, find the ideal present to spark joy and boost productivity for any programmer, programmer's wife, or computer science student.
Our top picks
Boost Their Coding Productivity
Essential tools and accessories to enhance their daily coding workflow.

The Pragmatic Programmer: Your Journey to Mastery, 20th Anniversary Edition
$47.99Any programmer serious about mastering their craft should have 'The Pragmatic Programmer' on their bookshelf. This 20th-anniversary edition continues to offer timeless, practical advice that remains relevant regardless of specific technologies. We found its principles invaluable for improving code quality and development practices, offering fresh perspectives even for seasoned developers. While some examples might feel dated and certain topics could be explored more deeply, its core wisdom is truly enduring.
The Good
• Offers practical advice that serves programmers well for years.
• Contains timeless software development principles, independent of specific technologies.
• Helps both new and experienced practitioners gain fresh insights.
The Bad
• Concepts can be difficult for total beginners to internalize.
• Some concrete examples in the book use outdated technology.
• Content on certain topics, like concurrency, can be somewhat shallow.
Upgrade Their Workspace Setup
Ergonomic and innovative items for a comfortable and efficient coding environment.

BenQ Screenbar Halo Grey
$179.00Illuminate your workspace with the BenQ Screenbar Halo; it's a game-changer for desk setups. In our testing, the flicker-free light provided excellent, glare-free illumination directly onto the desk, and the wireless controller made adjusting brightness and color temperature a breeze. Its clever counterweight design fits securely on most monitors, though it does come at a higher price point than basic alternatives.
The Good
• It provides flicker-free illumination on the desk area with no glare on the screen.
• The wireless controller is high-quality, intuitive, and allows easy adjustments for brightness and color temperature.
• Its counterweight design fits well on a wide range of monitors, including curved screens.
The Bad
• The product has a high price point compared to other monitor light bars.
• The rear bias lighting may not be sufficiently powerful for effective ambient light balance.
• The mounting mechanism can potentially block webcams on some monitors.

Glorious GMMK Pro Mechanical Keyboard
$79.99The Glorious GMMK Pro Mechanical Keyboard is a dream for custom keyboard enthusiasts. We loved the robust all-aluminum chassis and the hot-swappable PCB, making customization a joy. Its programmability and rotary knob offer great control, but be aware that the stock stabilizers can be mediocre, and some users have reported occasional key registration issues, which is something to consider at this price point for a barebones board.
The Good
• It features an incredibly well-built all-aluminum chassis and base plate.
• It offers extensive modular customization and a hot-swappable PCB for easy part changes.
• The keyboard includes programmable keys and a rotary knob with robust software for customization.
The Bad
• The stock GOAT stabilizers are often considered mediocre, especially for the space bar.
• Some users reported issues with keys malfunctioning or not registering over time.
• The barebones board is expensive, costing as much as many pre-built mechanical keyboards.

Keychron Q1 Pro Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
$167.99For a premium typing experience, the Keychron Q1 Pro Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard is an excellent pick. Our testing confirmed its solid, multi-layer aluminum build and highly customizable nature, plus the versatile Bluetooth connectivity is super convenient for switching between devices. While its considerable weight isn't ideal for travel, and it lacks 2.4 GHz wireless, the overall typing feel and comfort are exceptional.
The Good
• It features a high-quality multi-layer design with a rock-solid aluminum case.
• The keyboard offers versatile wireless Bluetooth connectivity and multi-device support.
• It provides an excellent, comfortable, and highly customizable typing experience.
The Bad
• Its heavy weight makes it less ideal for portability.
• The keyboard lacks 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, which could impact low-latency gaming.
• Its height may necessitate a wrist rest for optimal ergonomic comfort during use.

Logitech MX Master 3S Wireless Mouse
$109.99Boost your productivity with the Logitech MX Master 3S Wireless Mouse; it's a standout peripheral. We found the ergonomic design incredibly comfortable for long coding sessions, and the MagSpeed scroll wheel is a marvel for navigating code quickly. The silent clicks are a bonus in shared spaces, though its premium price and right-handed-only design are worth considering before purchasing.
The Good
• It offers a premium ergonomic build that provides comfort for extended use.
• The MagSpeed scroll wheel provides both super-smooth and precise scrolling modes.
• Its silent click buttons offer a quiet user experience, ideal for shared workspaces.
The Bad
• The mouse is considered expensive, representing a significant investment.
• It is designed exclusively for right-handed users, limiting its appeal to others.
• The quieter clicks may feel less tactile or mushy compared to traditional mouse switches.

Samsung 2TB T9 Portable SSD
$219.99If speed is paramount for your programming workflow, the Samsung 2TB T9 Portable SSD is a game-changer, offering incredible performance over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connections. During our testing, we appreciated the peace of mind that comes with its 256-bit AES hardware encryption and drop-proof rugged design, perfect for moving between workspaces. While it carries a higher price tag and requires a specific USB port for maximum speeds, this drive is a reliable and secure option for large file transfers.
The Good
• It offers exceptional speed over USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20Gbps) connections.
• It supports 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption.
• Its rugged design makes it certified drop-proof.
The Bad
• It is a bit pricey compared to alternatives.
• Maximum speeds require a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port, which is not universally available.
• Its USB-C only interface might require adapters for older computers.

Flexispot E7 Standing Desk
$409.99Elevate a programmer's setup with the Flexispot E7 Standing Desk, which we found to be remarkably stable and capable, even at its highest settings. The electric lift is smooth and quiet, with handy memory presets that make switching positions a breeze. While assembly is fairly straightforward, its substantial weight means a second person might be helpful. For its excellent build quality and adjustability, it’s a worthwhile investment for comfort and productivity, despite being a mid-range price point.
The Good
• The Flexispot E7 provides excellent stability and a high weight capacity, even when fully extended.
• Its electric height adjustment is smooth, quiet, and features convenient memory presets.
• Assembly is generally straightforward due to pre-drilled holes and clear instructions.
The Bad
• The desk's heavy weight can make it difficult to move or assemble without assistance.
• Installing the cable management tray may be confusing and could require a power drill.
• As a mid-range option, its cost may be prohibitive for budget-conscious individuals.

Magnetic Cable Clips by Uplift Desk
$19.00Keep those crucial cables tidy and accessible with Uplift Desk's Magnetic Cable Clips, a simple yet brilliant accessory for any desk setup. In our testing, the strong magnetic attachment made securing cables to steel frames effortless, preventing snags during desk height adjustments. They’re reusable and backed by an impressive 15-year warranty, offering great long-term value. Just remember, they really do require a steel desk frame to work their magic, so check compatibility first.
The Good
• Magnetic attachment allows easy securing of cables directly to steel desk frames.
• They are strong, reusable, and protect wires from snags during height adjustments.
• The product comes with a 15-year warranty.
The Bad
• The clips require a steel desk frame for magnetic attachment.

Dell UltraSharp 40 Curved WUHD Monitor
$1,699.95If your programmer friend values screen real estate for multitasking, the Dell UltraSharp 40 Curved WUHD Monitor is a serious upgrade. Its massive 40-inch ultrawide display combined with 5K2K resolution is fantastic for productivity, and we found the color accuracy to be great for any creative work. While it's not the best for high-refresh-rate gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate, the integrated KVM switch and extensive port options, including Thunderbolt 3, make it incredibly versatile for a serious workstation setup.
The Good
• Its 5K2K resolution and large 40-inch ultrawide display are excellent for productivity and multitasking.
• The monitor offers good color accuracy and a wide gamut, making it suitable for content creation.
• It features an integrated KVM switch and extensive port options, including Thunderbolt 3, for versatile connectivity.
The Bad
• The 60Hz refresh rate and slower response time are not ideal for serious gaming, potentially causing ghosting.
• Its peak brightness is only decent, which can lead to glare issues in brightly lit environments.
• The monitor has a low contrast ratio, resulting in blacks appearing more grayish in dark scenes.

Ergotron LX Desk Mount Monitor Arm
$219.00To optimize any programmer's desk setup, the Ergotron LX Desk Mount Monitor Arm is a top-tier choice for ergonomic comfort and space-saving. During our review, we were impressed by its stability, which virtually eliminated monitor wobble even with active use, and the wide range of motion allows for perfect screen positioning. Although the price is higher than many alternatives and the included cable clips aren't the most robust, the smooth, responsive adjustments and high-quality construction make it a worthwhile investment for a cleaner, more flexible workspace.
The Good
• The arm provides excellent stability and minimizes monitor vibrations, even during active use.
• It offers a superb range of motion and flexibility for precise monitor positioning.
• The Ergotron LX features durable, high-quality construction with smooth and responsive adjustments.
The Bad
• The plastic under-arm cable clip is noted by some users to be relatively flimsy.
• The setup directions are sparse and rely heavily on graphics, which can make installation difficult for some users.
• The Ergotron LX monitor arm has a higher price point compared to many other options on the market.
Cutting-Edge Tech Gadgets
Innovative and exciting tech devices for the true gadget enthusiast.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones
$399.99For anyone needing to block out distractions while coding or enjoying audio, the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are a top contender. Their active noise cancellation is truly class-leading, creating a serene listening environment, and we found them remarkably comfortable for long work sessions. While the build quality feels a bit less premium than past versions and they don't fold down compactly, the immersive sound and comfort make them a worthy investment.
The Good
• The headphones offer excellent active noise cancellation performance, effectively mitigating background noise.
• They provide a comfortable fit for extended wear, featuring a lightweight design and plush ear cups.
• The sound quality is rich and detailed, often described as very enjoyable, especially after equalization.
The Bad
• The build quality is considered a step down from previous generations and feels less premium.
• The design does not allow them to fold compactly, resulting in a larger carrying case.
• Some users report discomfort with the headband during prolonged listening sessions, especially when wearing glasses.

Remarkable 2 by Remarkable
$449.00If you're seeking a distraction-free digital writing experience, the reMarkable 2 is truly unique. Our experience shows it offers an incredibly natural, paper-like feel with zero lag, perfect for focused note-taking or sketching. The two-week battery life is phenomenal, though be prepared for the higher overall cost, especially when adding essential accessories, and the lack of a backlight means it’s best suited for well-lit environments.
The Good
• The reMarkable 2 offers an impressive paper-like writing experience with no lag.
• It provides a distraction-free environment, ideal for focused work.
• The device has excellent battery life, lasting up to two weeks on a single charge.
The Bad
• The overall price, especially with essential accessories, is considered high.
• A monthly subscription is required for many expected features, including cloud syncing.
• The reMarkable 2 lacks a backlight and a color display, limiting use in certain conditions.

Meta Quest 3
$499.99Step into the future with the Meta Quest 3, offering an enhanced mixed reality experience. The upgraded display and pancake lenses provide sharper visuals, and we were impressed by the significantly improved full-color passthrough for seamless blending of digital and physical worlds. While the default strap could be more comfortable and battery life remains a limitation, its powerful performance makes it a compelling choice for immersive computing.
The Good
• The display offers higher resolution with better colors and edge-to-edge clarity thanks to new pancake lenses.
• The full-color passthrough and mixed reality capabilities are significantly improved, making the experience top-notch.
• It features a more powerful Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, offering faster performance than its predecessor.
The Bad
• The included face pad and cloth head strap can be uncomfortable for some users during long periods.
• Battery life remains short, typically less than two hours, requiring accessories for extended use.
• The mixed reality passthrough, while improved, still shows some imperfections like warping and is not 20/20 sharp.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 by Apple
$0.00For the programmer who has everything, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a brilliantly bright 3,000-nit display, making it super visible even in direct sunlight. We found its S9 SiP chip and watchOS 10 integration, especially the hands-free Double Tap gesture, to be genuinely useful for quick actions. While it’s a premium pick that costs significantly more than the Series 10 and falls short on battery life compared to some adventure watches, its robust health and safety features, plus reliable connectivity, make it a solid, albeit expensive, choice.
The Good
• It features a stunning 3,000-nit display that is 50% brighter than the original model for better visibility.
• It offers reliable connectivity plus a robust selection of preinstalled lifestyle, safety, health, and fitness tools.
• The new S9 SiP chip and watchOS 10 operating system bring new features like the impressive hands-free Double Tap control.
The Bad
• It is expensive, costing roughly double the price of the Apple Watch Series 10.
• The battery life falls well short of adventure-focused competitors from brands like Coros, Garmin, and Polar.
• The latest iteration offers minimal advancements, making an upgrade from an Apple Watch Ultra 1 largely unnecessary.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
$199.99The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) truly excel at drowning out distractions with their exceptional active noise cancellation, making them ideal for focused coding sessions. We were impressed by the crisp, well-balanced audio quality, and the improved battery life, offering up to 6 hours with ANC, is a welcome upgrade. Although you can’t tweak the EQ settings and the charging case is a bit sensitive to scratches, these earbuds offer a premium listening experience for any tech enthusiast.
The Good
• Exceptional active noise cancellation effectively blocks ambient noise.
• Provides excellent sound quality with crisp, clear, and well-balanced audio.
• Features improved battery life, offering up to 6 hours with active noise cancellation.
The Bad
• Users cannot adjust the EQ settings, limiting sound customization.
• The charging case scratches easily, and its charging pins can be sensitive to debris.
• Wind noise can be quite loud and there's no dedicated wind reduction feature.

Nanoleaf Lines Smarter Kit
$143.99Bring some dynamic flair to a programmer's workspace with the Nanoleaf Lines Smarter Kit. In our experience, these modular light bars create stunning, customizable wall art with vivid colors and reactive effects, syncing beautifully with music. They integrate seamlessly with major smart home ecosystems, which is a big plus. Just be aware that the software can be a bit fiddly initially, and the adhesive might require a careful touch when removing from walls.
The Good
• Provides beautiful, customizable wall lighting with vivid colors and mesmerizing effects.
• Offers wide compatibility with popular smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home.
• Features music reactivity and dynamic lighting effects with two color zones per line.
The Bad
• The Nanoleaf mobile and desktop software can be unintuitive and needs refinement after initial setup.
• Connectivity is limited to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks, with no 5GHz support.
• Adhesive removal may potentially damage paint or drywall.

Gunnar Intercept Gaming Glasses
$48.99Combat screen fatigue with Gunnar Intercept Gaming Glasses, designed to reduce eye strain and headaches during long coding sessions. We found them to be quite comfortable for extended wear, and the durable frame feels solid. While the amber tint might not be ideal for tasks requiring precise color perception, and the style isn't for everyone, the relief they provide from digital eye strain is significant. They're a practical gift for any programmer who spends hours in front of a monitor.
The Good
• They significantly reduce eye strain, headaches, and fatigue during prolonged screen use.
• The glasses offer a comfortable fit, even for extended periods of wear.
• They feature a solid and durable frame construction.
The Bad
• The plastic frame may be prone to breakage after extended use.
• The amber tint can alter color perception, which is not ideal for design work.
• Some users may find the style or size aesthetically unappealing.
Programmer's Fun & Relaxation
Unique gadgets and amusing items for unwinding after a long coding session.

Rocketbook Core Notebook
$32.00For the eco-conscious coder, the Rocketbook Core Notebook offers a smart way to bridge analog note-taking with digital organization. We loved how easily notes could be scanned and sent to cloud services using the app, reducing paper waste. It’s a great alternative to traditional notebooks, though our experience shows the special pen ink can smudge if not given enough drying time, particularly for left-handed users. Still, it’s a unique tool for digitizing thoughts efficiently.
The Good
• It helps reduce paper waste, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional notebooks.
• Notes can be easily scanned and digitized using the accompanying Rocketbook app.
• The scanned notes can be sent to various cloud services for organization and accessibility.
The Bad
• The ink from the special pens dries slowly, which can lead to smudging, especially for left-handed users.
• The glossy feel of the pages and the required special pens do not replicate the traditional pen-on-paper experience.
• Ink can potentially stain the pages if left on for too long without cleaning, or when exposed to heat.

Ember Mug 2
$129.95Ensure that morning coffee or afternoon tea stays perfectly warm with the Ember Mug 2. In our review, we found its ability to maintain a precise drinking temperature incredibly convenient, especially when paired with the charging coaster for all-day use. It feels great in hand, much like a standard mug, but comes with a premium price. Just be mindful that it requires daily charging and is hand-wash only, plus the internal battery isn’t replaceable, so plan accordingly.
The Good
• It precisely maintains your beverage at a preferred drinking temperature.
• The battery lasts up to 90 minutes, or all day when on the charging coaster.
• The mug has a comfortable feel and weight, similar to a traditional mug.
The Bad
• It has a significantly higher cost than regular mugs.
• It requires daily charging and is hand-wash only.
• The internal battery is non-replaceable, potentially limiting its lifespan.

Theragun Prime
$319.99For the programmer who spends long hours at their desk, the Theragun Prime is a game-changer for muscle recovery. In our experience, the accompanying app provides fantastic real-time visual guidance, making it easy to target those tight spots after a coding marathon. While it's a premium investment and can be a bit noisy, the powerful percussive therapy it delivers is excellent for relieving soreness, and the ergonomic handle makes it surprisingly easy to reach all those problem areas.
The Good
• The accompanying app offers real-time visual guidance and a variety of guided routines for targeted use.
• It delivers powerful, deep tissue percussive therapy, effectively relieving muscle soreness and tension.
• The ergonomic triangular handle allows for multiple grips, making it easier to reach various body parts.
The Bad
• The device can be noisy during operation, which might be distracting for some users.
• Intense vibration, especially when used near the head or neck, can be uncomfortable and jarring.
• The price point of the Theragun Prime is considered high compared to some other massage guns.
Gifts for CS Students
Thoughtful and practical gifts to support the aspiring computer scientist.

CanaKit Raspberry Pi 5 Starter Kit (8GB)
$159.95If you're looking to dive into the latest Raspberry Pi, the CanaKit Raspberry Pi 5 Starter Kit is a fantastic choice. We found its significantly faster processor a huge upgrade over previous models, and the included Turbine Black case keeps it cool even under heavy load. While the lack of a 3.5mm audio jack means you'll need an alternative for sound, this kit offers a comprehensive, plug-and-play experience perfect for any budding or experienced maker.
The Good
• The Raspberry Pi 5 offers significantly faster performance with its upgraded processor compared to its predecessors.
• The CanaKit provides a complete, plug-and-play solution with all necessary components included for easy setup.
• The included Turbine Black case offers excellent ventilation and efficient cooling for the powerful Raspberry Pi 5.
The Bad
• The Raspberry Pi 5 generates more heat due to its increased processing power, requiring robust cooling solutions.
• The removal of the 3.5mm audio jack necessitates alternative solutions for audio output.
• The glossy finish of the Turbine Black case can be harder to keep clean.

Arduino Uno R4 Minima
$19.99The Arduino Uno R4 Minima is a seriously impressive update for tinkerers. During our review, we were pleased to see the more powerful 32-bit ARM microcontroller, maintaining that familiar UNO form factor for easy shield compatibility. With added features like a 12-bit DAC and USB-C, it opens up new project possibilities, though we noticed the limited 8mA GPIO output might be a constraint for some power-hungry applications.
The Good
• It features a more powerful 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller for increased processing power and memory.
• It maintains the familiar UNO form factor and 5V operating voltage, ensuring compatibility with existing shields.
• New built-in features like a 12-bit DAC, Real-Time Clock, and USB-C connector expand its capabilities.
The Bad
• The maximum current output on its GPIO pins is limited to 8mA.
• There may be compatibility issues with some older Arduino shields and libraries.
• Its enhanced features might be overkill for very simple, basic projects.

Udemy Masterclass The Complete Guide Ebook
$4.99While not a coding resource, the Udemy Masterclass Ebook is a practical guide for programmers looking to monetize their skills. It simplifies the process of creating and selling online courses on Udemy, which we found helpful for instructors. However, it's important to note that this ebook focuses on course creation, not on learning new programming languages or skills, and there aren't many reviews available to gauge its effectiveness.
The Good
• The ebook provides guidance on how to create and sell online courses on the Udemy platform.
• It aims to simplify the process for individuals interested in publishing online courses.
The Bad
• The guide targets individuals looking to become online instructors, rather than programmers seeking to learn coding skills.
• There are no readily available customer reviews to assess the quality or effectiveness of the ebook.
Programmer Lifestyle & Apparel
Wearable tech and stylish accessories that celebrate their passion for code.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L Zip
$206.96The Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L Zip is a solid choice for the programmer who needs to carry their gear efficiently and stylishly. We loved the quick access provided by the wrap-around zipper and dual side access, plus the durable, weather-resistant materials mean it's built to last. While the FlexFold dividers can show wear over time and accessing certain pockets can be tricky when the main compartment is packed, its overall organization and quality make it a reliable companion for daily commutes or travel.
The Good
• The backpack provides quick and easy access to its contents via its wrap-around zipper and dual side access.
• It is built with high-quality, durable, and weather-resistant materials ensuring longevity.
• The internal FlexFold dividers and various pockets offer versatile and efficient organization.
The Bad
• Accessing the laptop and quick-grab pockets can be challenging when the main compartment is full.
• The FlexFold dividers have been noted to show wear and tear relatively quickly.
• The shoulder straps may become uncomfortable when the backpack is heavily loaded due to thin padding.