Level up their play—for less. From clutch accessories to pro‑grade rigs, this guide spotlights gamer‑approved gifts at every budget, with smart tips for buying used and refurbished gear confidently.
Budget: Under $50 · $50–$150 · $150–$400 · $400+
Platform: PC · PlayStation · Xbox · Nintendo · Mobile
Category: Laptops · Desktops · Monitors · Headsets · Controllers · Storage · Streaming · VR
Delivery: In stock · Ships in 24h · Digital/Instant
Tip: Refurbished = professionally tested + data‑wiped + backed by warranty. It’s the easiest way to jump a tier (better GPU/CPU) without paying new‑device prices.
Feature 6–8 hero gifts with image, 1‑line benefit, key specs, price, and Add to Cart.
“Starter PC” Bundle — used gaming laptop + headset + mouse pad
“Esports Kit” — 144 Hz monitor + lightweight mouse + mechanical keyboard
“Couch Co‑Op” — extra controller + charging dock + game pass
“Streamer Setup” — USB mic + 1080p/60 webcam + ring light
“Storage Boost” — 2 TB external SSD for faster loads
Great frames don’t have to be brand new. A used gaming laptop can be a massive value when you know what to look for.
GPU first: This drives FPS. Prioritize dedicated graphics (e.g., RTX/GTX or Radeon RX).
CPU second: 4–8 modern cores are plenty for most games/streaming.
RAM: 16 GB is the sweet spot; 8 GB for lighter titles.
Storage: 512 GB SSD or higher (games are big).
Screen: 1080p at 120–165 Hz feels buttery for esports.
Cooling & condition: Check fan noise, temps, and port wear; ask for photos.
Why buy used? Bigger performance per dollar, more upgrade options (RAM/SSD), and it keeps gear out of landfills.
Prefer extra peace of mind? Go refurbished. Devices are pro‑tested, cleaned, and restored—often with warranty and easy returns.
Quality control: multi‑point hardware checks (CPU/GPU thermals, RAM, SSD, ports, display, keyboard).
Transparency: grading for cosmetics; battery condition disclosed or replaced.
Support: warranty + customer service if something isn’t right.
Great for: students, first rigs, or anyone chasing the best value/assurance combo.
Gaming laptops under $300: what to expect & best use cases
Sub‑$300 can be a smart starter lane if you set realistic expectations.
Esports/indie/retro titles on lower settings
Cloud gaming (fast internet = high fidelity without high specs)
School + casual play machines
Favor GPUs like older GTX 9xx/10xx or integrated graphics tuned for light titles.
Add RAM and swap in an SSD if the chassis supports upgrades.
Pair with a 120–144 Hz external monitor later for a big feel upgrade.
If your gamer prefers consoles, focus on controllers, charging docks, headsets, and storage. Digital gift cards and subscriptions (online play, game libraries) are instant wins.
Extra wireless controller + charging station
1–2 TB external SSD for faster loads
Cross‑platform wireless headset (low‑latency)
These gifts deliver immediate quality‑of‑life improvements:
Headset (closed‑back + flip‑to‑mute) for team comms
Lightweight mouse (55–70 g) with adjustable DPI
Mechanical keyboard (hot‑swap if they like to tinker)
Mouse pad/desk mat (XL for low‑sens players)
Gamepad for PC platformers and sports games
USB condenser mic (clear comms and VODs)
1080p/60 webcam (or 720p with great low‑light)
Ring light + small boom arm
Noise gate & compressor presets (software)
VR headset (ensure GPU meets the minimum)
Wheel + pedals set for racers; add a foldable stand if space is tight
Thumb grips · LED light strips · ergonomic mouse pad · cable management kit · spare USB‑C charger · game credit
Wireless headset · pro controller · webcam · 1 TB SSD · compact soundbar
144/165 Hz monitor · mechanical keyboard kit · chair upgrade · 2 TB SSD · capture card (entry)
Refurbished gaming laptop/desktop · VR headset · high‑refresh 27″ QHD monitor · premium GPU (desktop only)
What they play: esports? AAA? indie? sim? (This sets GPU/monitor needs.)
Where they play: desk, couch, or on the go? (Laptop vs. console vs. accessories.)
GPU: biggest FPS impact (aim for recent‑gen if possible).
CPU: enough cores for gaming + background apps/stream.
RAM: 16 GB recommended; 32 GB for creators/sim heavy mods.
Storage: SSD > HDD; plan for DLCs and big installs.
Display: 1080p/144 Hz for competitive; QHD/4K for cinematic.
Thermals & noise: better cooling = steadier performance.
Warranty & returns: especially important for used/refurb buys.
Bigger value: get a stronger GPU/CPU for less
Pro‑tested: multi‑point checks and clean data‑wipe
Transparent grading: choose Like New / Excellent / Good
Planet‑friendlier: extend a device’s life, reduce e‑waste
Is a used or refurbished gaming laptop safe to buy?
Yes—when it’s professionally tested, clearly graded, and backed by a warranty/returns window.
Which is better for gifts: laptop or console?
Laptops are flexible for school + games; consoles are simpler for couch play. Pick based on where they play most.
How much RAM do they need?
16 GB is the current sweet spot; some AAA/creator workflows benefit from 32 GB.
Do they need a high‑refresh monitor?
If they play competitive shooters or MOBAs, a 144 Hz+ screen feels significantly smoother.