
25 Practical and Thoughtful Graduation Gifts for 2025
July 18, 2025
Overview
Graduation is a significant milestone, and finding the perfect gift to celebrate the graduate's achievements is key. This comprehensive guide offers 25 practical and thoughtful graduation gifts tailored for the class of 2025, covering a wide range of interests and needs as they embark on their next chapter. Whether they're heading to college, starting a career, or pursuing other adventures, discover gift ideas that offer both functionality and a personal touch, helping them navigate the transition with style and support.
Our picks
The Best Dorm Room Starter Kit for College: UGG Scuffette II Slipper, $99.95
The Most Essential Tech Gift for Graduates: AirPods Max - Midnight, $549.00
The Best Career Starter Kit for New Grads: Micra Mojito, $54.95
The Most Thoughtful Gift for Personal Well-being: Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, $40.99
The Best Personalized Gift for a Sentimental Touch: Gold & Turquoise Initial Necklace, $38.00
The Best Smart Tech Gift for the Modern Student: iPad 128GB - Blue, $349.00
The Best Gift to Celebrate the Class of 2025: Nintendo Switch, $349.99
Gifts for the College-Bound Graduate
Essential items to help them thrive in their dorm or first apartment setting.
ICON Backpack 23L
$199.99
Embark on every adventure with the ICON Backpack 23L, a stylish solution for carrying essentials. Our experience shows its durable build secures your tech, yet the limited exterior pockets might challenge the ultra-organized. Comfortable for daily commutes, it offers style and functionality at a premium price point.
The Good
• The backpack features a durable build and ample storage for all your work gear, including your laptop and tech accessories.
• The backpack’s design is sleek and stylish, making it an excellent choice for professionals with an eye for fashion.
• The backpack has additional features such as adjustable straps and breathable panels making it comfortable to wear.
The Bad
• The backpack is quite expensive compared to other models in the market.
• The backpack may not be suitable for those who carry heavier items, as the straps may become uncomfortable after extended use.
• The backpack may not have enough exterior pockets to accommodate all necessary items, leading to potential disorganization and frustration.
Career Starter Kit Gifts
Professional and practical presents to kickstart their working life.
Beast Mighty 850 Plus
$149.00
The Beast Mighty 850 Plus is perfect for the health-conscious grad looking to whip up smoothies fast, thanks to its powerful 850W motor. Our tests highlighted how easy it was to store and use, despite lacking preset options. Shortcomings in ice blending aside, its compact design and flexible use of vessel sizes make it a countertop favorite.
The Good
• Powerful 850W motor efficiently blends smoothies, shakes, and sauces.
• Compact design saves counter space and is aesthetically pleasing.
• Includes multiple vessel sizes and lids for versatile use.
The Bad
• Struggles with crushing large quantities of ice.
• Cleaning can be challenging due to internal ridges and sticky ingredients.
• Lacks preset options and variable speeds, limiting functionality.
Micra Mojito
$54.95
Prepare your grad for any obstacle with the Micra Mojito, an indispensable multi-tool. Keychain-ready, its reputable scissors and stainless steel durability impressed us. Accessing tools while deployed isn't ideal, but the lightweight design facilitates effortless everyday use. Despite its small tool set, the Micra aligns with daily needs, offering practicality in a compact form, making it a reliable graduation gift.
The Good
• Highly portable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry on a keychain or in a pocket.
• Spring-action scissors are particularly well-designed for smooth operation and are a standout feature.
• Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity and reliability over time.
The Bad
• Tools can only be accessed when the scissors are deployed, making quick access less convenient.
• The small size can make it less comfortable for larger tasks or users with bigger hands.
• Some users report that the tweezers are not as effective as expected, struggling to grasp small items.
Tech Gifts for the Modern Graduate
Gadgets and accessories to enhance their studies and daily life.
miisso 10000mAh Power Bank
$44.99
Stay connected with the miisso 10000mAh Power Bank, an ideal travel companion for the busy grad. We found its slim design and built-in cables cut down on clutter, a practical fix for charging interruptions. With substantial capacity, some might encounter slower charging speeds, but its portability wins us over.
The Good
• Built-in cables eliminate the need to carry extra cords.
• Slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
• High capacity allows for multiple device charges.
The Bad
• Some users report slower charging times compared to other chargers.
• A few users have experienced issues with the built-in cables getting tangled or damaged.
• Some users find the power bank to be slightly heavier than expected.
iPad 128GB - Blue
$349.00
Equip the connected graduate with the iPad 128GB in Blue, fostering creativity with its A16 chip and vivid display. During our review, its robust performance for tasks impressed us, even if the slight tapping noise was noticeable. While a tad heavier than predecessors, it provides an ample storage space for an enriching digital experience.
The Good
• The A16 chip ensures fast performance for various tasks.
• The 11-inch Liquid Retina display offers sharp and bright visuals.
• All-day battery life supports extended use without frequent charging.
The Bad
• The non-laminated display may produce a slight tapping noise when touched.
• The device is slightly heavier and thicker compared to previous models.
• GPS accuracy is limited, with an approximate 50-meter precision.
Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)
$54.99
Ensure unlimited productivity with the Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K). This charger stood out in our testing due to its massive 20,000mAh capacity, supporting devices through study marathons. While its bulkier design may deter some, dual USB-A ports for simultaneous charging easily justify its inclusion among graduation essentials.
The Good
• Massive 20,000mAh capacity allows multiple device charges before needing a recharge.
• Dual USB-A ports enable simultaneous charging of two devices.
• Durable design with a textured matte finish for better grip.
The Bad
• Lacks USB-C output, limiting charging speed for newer devices.
• Takes approximately 10.5 hours to fully recharge with a 10W charger.
• Heavier and bulkier compared to lower-capacity power banks.
Nintendo Switch
$349.99
Level up their gaming with the Nintendo Switch, offering unmatched portability. The backward compatibility and enhanced performance were standout features during our review, despite requiring extra storage solutions. Though the screen is less luminous than other models, its versatility and immersive gameplay make it ideal for winding down after study sessions.
The Good
• Enhanced backwards compatibility with performance boosts and HDR upgrades for older Switch titles.
• GameChat allows seamless voice and video communication with friends during gameplay.
• Joy-Con 2 controllers can be used as a mouse in compatible games, enhancing versatility.
The Bad
• Limited internal memory requiring an expensive microSD express card for additional game storage.
• The screen is not as luminous as the OLED Switch screen, affecting visibility in bright environments.
• GameChat's video-conferencing features require shrinking the gameplay screen, which may disrupt the gaming experience.
AirPods Max - Midnight
$549.00
Transform their audio experience with the AirPods Max in Midnight, a perfect blend of sound quality and style. Our tests appraised its premium audio performance, with astonishing clarity and active noise cancellation. The sleek design and comfort support long study sessions, whereas its higher price and weight present considerations. Despite these downsides, the luxurious sound experience makes it a laudable choice for graduates seeking audio excellence.
The Good
• Exceptional sound quality with clear instrument separation and detailed audio.
• Industry-leading active noise cancellation and natural-sounding transparency mode.
• Premium build quality with comfortable design for extended use.
The Bad
• High price point compared to competitors offering similar features.
• Heavier than many alternatives, which may affect comfort over long periods.
• Included case offers minimal protection and lacks functionality.
AirPods Pro 2
$249.00
Enhance their productivity and enjoyment with AirPods Pro 2, an ideal companion for focused study and seamless travel. With exceptional noise cancellation and comfortable fit, these earbuds provide an immersive audio experience. The shorter battery life is notable; however, their seamless Apple device integration shines brightly. For budget-conscious buyers, alternatives exist, but the ease-of-use and high functionality offer great value to any graduate's tech arsenal.
The Good
• Exceptional active noise cancellation effectively blocks out ambient noise.
• Comfortable fit with multiple ear tip sizes for personalized comfort.
• Seamless integration with Apple devices enhances user experience.
The Bad
• Battery life is shorter compared to some competitors, lasting around 5 hours with ANC enabled.
• Limited customization options for sound profiles; no built-in equalizer.
• High price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
Dyson Airwrap™ multi-styler Straight+Wavy
$599.99
Empower their styling routine with the Dyson Airwrap™ multi-styler Straight+Wavy. Offering versatile functions for curling and smoothing, its advanced technology minimizes heat damage. While the initial price is high and a learning curve exists, the results are worth the investment. Ideal for all hairstyles, this tool promises to elevate their daily routine, making it a standout gift for those seeking salon-like results at home.
The Good
• The Dyson Airwrap offers multiple attachments for versatile styling options, including curling, smoothing, volumizing, and drying.
• The Airwrap utilizes intelligent heat control to minimize heat damage, measuring airflow temperature over 40 times a second.
• The device is designed to be user-friendly, with attachments that are easy to switch and a compact storage case.
The Bad
• The Dyson Airwrap is priced at $599.99, making it a significant investment compared to other styling tools.
• Some users report a learning curve to effectively use the various attachments and achieve desired styling results.
• The Airwrap may not be suitable for all hair types, with some users experiencing issues with curl longevity or styling effectiveness.
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2
$18.31
Assure your graduate stays organized with the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2. Its compact design seamlessly integrates with Samsung devices, proving invaluable for locating essentials like keys or wallets. Our experience highlights enhanced battery life, yet compatibility limitations must be noted for non-Samsung users. This tech-forward tracker could face battery drainage in cold weather, but its overall utility and ease of use make it ideal for those always on the go.
The Good
• Seamless integration with Samsung Galaxy devices, making it easy to set up and use.
• Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to attach to keys, wallets, luggage, and more without adding bulk.
• Improved battery life compared to its predecessor, ensuring longer usage between charges.
The Bad
• Limited compatibility, primarily designed for Samsung devices, which may not be compatible with other smartphone brands.
• Some users have reported faster battery drain in cold weather conditions, potentially impacting the device's effectiveness.
• Instances of activation issues, such as tags being registered to other users, leading to inconveniences and potential unusability.
T-Mobile T10 Mobile Hotspot
$34.99
Provide endless connectivity with the T-Mobile T10 Mobile Hotspot, an economical and portable solution for grads. Simple set-up and affordable pricing caught our attention, though connectivity fluctuations were noted. Despite 4G LTE limitations, its compact form is ideal for on-the-go use. The ease of setup makes it a versatile tool, offering Wi-Fi stability in various environments, crucial for students and professionals alike.
The Good
• Easy to set up and use.
• Affordable price point.
• Compact and portable design.
The Bad
• Some users report connectivity issues.
• Limited to 4G LTE; no 5G support.
• Device may arrive with expired or inactive SIM card.
Apple AirTag 4 Pack
$67.99
Prevent misplaced items with Apple's AirTag 4-pack, cleverly integrating with the Find My app. We found its compactness perfect for tracking keys or bags. Restrictively needing newer iPhones for precision and lacking attachment holes, its adaptability could improve. Nevertheless, these tags offer enduring peace of mind by effectively managing essentials, making it an ideal gift for the organized graduate.
The Good
• Seamless integration with the Find My app allows for easy tracking of items.
• Compact and lightweight design makes it convenient to attach to various items.
• Replaceable battery offers approximately one year of usage before needing replacement.
The Bad
• Full functionality requires a newer iPhone model for precise location tracking.
• Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices restricts usage for Android users.
• No built-in attachment hole necessitates purchasing additional accessories for secure attachment.
Beats Solo3 Headphones
$175.00
Boost your graduate's audio experience with the Beats Solo3 Headphones, offering up to 40 hours of battery life for uninterrupted listening, as noted during our review. The W1 chip ensures seamless pairing with Apple devices, enhancing convenience on the go. While the lightweight, foldable design makes them incredibly portable, the absence of active noise cancellation and the on-ear design might not suit everyone for extended use. Despite a plastic-heavy build, they remain a stylish choice for any music lover.
The Good
• Impressive battery life of up to 40 hours on a single charge.
• Seamless pairing with Apple devices due to the W1 chip.
• Lightweight and foldable design enhances portability.
The Bad
• Lacks active noise cancellation, which is common in competitors at this price point.
• On-ear design can cause discomfort during extended use.
• Plastic-heavy build may feel less premium compared to other models.
Model One Digital (Gen. 2)
$199.99
Transform any space with the Model One Digital (Gen. 2), blending classic design with modern functionality. In our experience, its rich, warm sound brings life to any playlist, although the emphasis on lows and highs can make midranges seem slightly muddy. With support for AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, this sleek device offers versatile streaming options, despite a higher price and smaller display. Its compact, stylish design and high-quality materials elevate any room or apartment.
The Good
• Supports AirPlay 2 and Chromecast for versatile streaming options.
• Delivers rich, warm sound with impressive volume and minimal distortion.
• Features a stylish, compact design with high-quality materials.
The Bad
• Priced higher compared to similar products with more features.
• Sound tuning favors lows and highs, leaving midranges slightly muddy.
• Small, square color display could be larger for better visibility.
Galaxy Book5 Pro 360
$1,349.99
Equip your graduate with the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 for a seamless blend of performance and portability. Our review found the 16-inch AMOLED display delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors, perfect for any endeavor. The slim design boosts mobility, yet shallow key travel and a dated touchpad can affect the user experience. While it handles everyday tasks efficiently, intensive workloads may challenge its capabilities. Nonetheless, the sturdy aluminum chassis is built to last through every academic and professional venture.
The Good
• The 16-inch AMOLED display offers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
• The laptop boasts a slim, lightweight design with a sturdy aluminum chassis, enhancing portability.
The Bad
• The keyboard has shallow key travel, leading to an unsatisfactory typing experience.
• The touchpad uses a mechanical switch rather than modern haptic feedback systems, feeling dated.
• The laptop's performance is adequate for everyday tasks but struggles with intensive workloads like gaming or video rendering.
Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb + Blow Dryer Brush
$112.99
Simplify your grad's hairstyling routine with the versatile Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb + Blow Dryer Brush. This 2-in-1 tool provides smooth and sleek results with reduced frizz, a necessity for busy lifestyles. It impressively reduces drying time, though the heavier build might cause fatigue during use. Despite loud wet hair settings, its multifunctionality offers great practicality in creating volume and shine. Compact and efficient, it's an ideal gift for the style-conscious student.
The Good
• Dries hair quickly, reducing styling time significantly.
• Provides smooth, sleek results with minimal frizz.
• Versatile dual-mode functionality for both drying and straightening.
The Bad
• The device is heavier than some competitors, which may cause arm fatigue during extended use.
• The Wet Hair Mode settings are notably loud, which could be disruptive.
• The cord length may be insufficient for some users, limiting maneuverability.
Practical Gifts for Travel and Adventure
Gear and essentials for graduates exploring new horizons and destinations.
Tin Cloth Duffle Bag
$221.25
Equip them for adventures with the Tin Cloth Duffle Bag, designed for durability and style. Crafted from water-resistant waxed cotton, it reflects quality and longevity. Our experience found its weight potentially cumbersome for short trips, but the additional pocket storage compensates well. While occasional rewaxing is needed, this rugged bag evolves with a unique patina, making it a timeless choice for any graduate.
The Good
• Constructed from durable Tin Cloth waxed cotton, offering excellent water resistance and longevity.
• Features multiple exterior and interior pockets for organized storage of essentials.
• The bag's classic design and high-quality materials develop a unique patina over time, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
The Bad
• Requires periodic rewaxing to maintain water resistance, adding to maintenance efforts.
• The included cotton shoulder strap may not match the bag's premium look and feel.
• The bag's weight and size might be cumbersome for quick trips or light travelers.
Gifts for Personal Development and Well-being
Encourage self-care and personal growth with these thoughtful gifts.
Mulberry Silk Pillowcase
$40.99
The Mulberry Silk Pillowcase is a luxurious treat; we found its softness perfect for enhancing sleep quality. Crafted from 100% silk, it surprised us with durability and moisture-wicking properties. While some users experienced slight shrinkage, the range of colors available ensures it can enhance any décor beautifully.
The Good
• Made of 100% mulberry silk with a 25-momme weight, offering a luxurious and durable feel.
• High scores for comfort and smoothness, with a cool, moisture-wicking feel.
• Available in 13 colors, providing a variety of options to match different decors.
The Bad
• May shrink slightly after washing, requiring careful laundering to maintain size.
• Limited patterns and prints, which may not appeal to those seeking more decorative options.
• Some users reported receiving pillowcases labeled as polyester-satin instead of silk, raising concerns about authenticity.
UGG Scuffette II Slipper
$99.95
Gift unbridled comfort with the UGG Scuffette II Slipper, perfect for cozying up after a long day. We loved its warmth and durable rubber sole for quick steps outside, though longer wear periods may reveal the thin sole's limits. Available in various colors, our suggestion is to size down for the perfect fit.
The Good
• The slippers are made with 100% shearling, providing warmth and comfort.
• The rubber sole offers sufficient traction for indoor wear and quick outdoor trips.
• The slippers are stylish and available in various colors.
The Bad
• The sole is thin and lacks substantial cushioning, which may affect comfort during prolonged wear.
• Some users report that the slippers run large, suggesting a need to size down.
• There are no clear cleaning instructions provided, making maintenance challenging.
New You Bundle
$55.80
Guide your graduate on a journey of self-improvement with the New You Bundle. Including the transformative Five Minute Journal and Best Year Journal, this set is crafted from eco-conscious materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. While the price may seem high, the potential to change one's mindset is invaluable. Some users noted binding issues, but its eco-friendly attributes and goal-setting focus make it a meaningful gift for personal growth.
The Good
• The journals are made of 100% recyclable, compostable, FSC certified paper, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
• The bundle includes two journals designed to help transform your mindset and life in one year.
The Bad
• Some users have reported issues with the physical product, such as poor binding leading to pages falling out.
• The price point of $55.80 may be considered relatively expensive compared to other options in the market.
Personalized Gifts for a Special Touch
Make it personal with customized and sentimental graduation gifts.
Gold & Turquoise Initial Necklace
$38.00
Consider gifting the graduate a Gold & Turquoise Initial Necklace, where affordability meets personalization. Our review finds this trendy piece suited to express individuality, although some may notice it losing luster over time. While limited initial availability could be a setback, its stylish design stands out as a charming keepsake for those starting their next chapter.
The Good
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for many buyers.
• Trendy and customizable designs cater to various personal styles.
The Bad
• Some pieces may tarnish or lose color over time.
• Limited availability of certain initials can be disappointing.
• Some customers report that the jewelry appears cheaper than expected.
Monogram Journal
$78.00
For the thoughtful note-taker, the Monogram Journal offers a beautiful spot to pen dreams and goals. Its elegant gilded pages and faux leather wrap impressed us, though the $78 price tag might seem steep to some. While ideal for personalized gifting, those who prefer minimalism might feel less captivated by its ornate design.
The Good
• The journal features a beautiful design with gilded pages and a faux leather wrap.
• It includes 176 lined, perforated pages suitable for various writing needs.
The Bad
• The journal is priced at $78.00, which may be considered high for some buyers.
• The monogram design may not appeal to those preferring a more minimalist style.
Magic Golden Ring Holder Necklace
$34.99
Add a touch of elegance to your graduate's wardrobe with the Magic Golden Ring Holder Necklace. While this stylish piece complements various outfits, we found its chain to be delicate, necessitating extra care during wear. Although the ring holder design is unique, it may not always securely retain rings, which should be noted to prevent loss. Nonetheless, this necklace makes for a fashionable and thoughtful gift for marking a momentous occasion.
The Good
• The necklace is stylish and complements various outfits.
The Bad
• The chain is delicate and may break easily.
• The ring holder design may not securely hold rings, risking loss.
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