The best gifts for Gen Z this year help them spend less time scrolling. Wired earbuds, a keychain camera, tarot decks, crossword books and gadgets that limit phone use are all showing up on young adults’ wish lists, along with trendy beauty products and pieces for a first apartment. Prices range from about $12 to more than $400, based on picks from The Cut’s Gen Z staff as of Nov. 6.
The trend is backed by data. PwC’s 2026 Holiday Outlook found that 78% of Gen Z shoppers are drawn to nostalgic, screen-free gifts, compared with 64% of all consumers. Deloitte’s 2026 holiday survey found that Gen Z and millennials will account for half of all holiday spending for the first time.
What are the best Gen Z gifts under $20?
Small gifts can still feel personal. Lisa Stardust’s astrology card deck costs about $18 and lets your friend do their own readings. A Smiski glow-in-the-dark blind box figure, around $12 to $18, suits anyone who collects small desk figures. Chillhouse reusable press-on nails start at $16 and come in more than 10 designs. The paperback of Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way is about $12 for a friend trying to be more creative. Wired Apple EarPods with USB-C cost $19, since wired headphones are popular again with young commuters.
Which Gen Z gifts cost under $40?
The Kodak Charmera keychain digital camera, about $35 at Target, is the standout in this range. It looks like a toy, takes real photos and gives people a fun way to capture memories at parties without using their phones. Rhode’s depuffing eye patches cost $25, and a Sol de Janeiro fragrance mist is $26. Movie lovers might like A24’s 99 Movie Crosswords for $34. Luar, the label founded by Brooklyn designer Raul Lopez, offers a mini bag-shaped claw clip with TRESemmé for $25, a fun pick for fashion fans who don’t have room for another purse.
What Gen Z gifts fit a $75 budget?
The Brick, about $59 to $71, temporarily locks distracting apps so your phone acts more like a basic phone. One Cut writer called it the only item on her wish list. A scalloped glass candle warmer lamp with a timer is about $58 at Anthropologie. For the friend who hosts, the Rabbit electric corkscrew is about $60. Gap’s relaxed knit track pants cost $65, and Crocs’ Dylan platform clogs start around $45.
What are good Gen Z gifts under $120?
This range covers grown-up home basics and everyday style. Sabre’s bistro cutlery set costs about $80 and suits a first apartment. Mejuri’s huggie hoops are $78. Maison Balzac’s bedside carafe, which also works as a vase, is $110. Free People’s fleece vest, at $98, fits a friend who just started hiking.
Which Gen Z splurge gifts are worth it?
The Hatch Restore 3, about $170, is a sunrise alarm clock and sound machine meant to keep phones out of the bedroom in the morning. A Cut platforms editor called it her top wish. The Fellow Stagg EKG electric kettle, about $200, lets coffee and matcha drinkers set exact temperatures. Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra headphones were recently on sale for about $369. For a big statement gift, Coach’s Brooklyn shoulder bag is $495.
How should you shop for Gen Z this year?
Ask for a wish list. Deloitte found that 79% of Gen Z shoppers say wish lists make gift buying easier, and many plan to buy something for themselves too. Prices change quickly before Black Friday, so check current prices before you buy. If you’re unsure, a gift that helps them spend a little less time online is a safe choice this year.
Source: The Cut/ What to Gift the Gen-Zer in Your Life
