15 Creative Gift Ideas for Software Engineers
Tags: gadget, productivity, christmas, iot
Published: 2022-12-22 13:31:29

Are you looking for the perfect gift for the software engineer in your life? Look no further! Here are 15 ideas that are sure to please - roughly sorted by price:

1.  A **mug** with a clever software-themed design. Whether it's a punny phrase or a nerdy reference, this is a gift that they can use every day and appreciate. A [more generic one](https://amzn.to/3jkXyGS) might be a safe choice, but one specific to the programming languages used by the gifted person might be more ingenious.

2.  A **nerd t-shirt** with a programming language or computer science joke. There are so many fun and creative options out there, and this is a gift that lets them show off their nerdy side. [A coffee-related one](https://amzn.to/3POVH9s) is oftentimes considered funny in development teams. However, same as for mugs, one with an insider joke about a specific technology can be a good choice, too.

3.  A **notebook** for taking notes, brainstorming ideas, or sketching out code. Software engineers are always thinking and creating, so a good quality notebook is a practical and thoughtful gift. You can find a developer-themed one [here](https://amzn.to/3WiNkVQ).

4.  **Coding books** or online courses to help them learn new skills or deepen their understanding of their craft. Whether it's a new programming language or a software design methodology, there's always something new to learn in the world of software engineering. Some book recommendations can be found in[ my earlier blogpost](https://www.software-engineer.gifts/blog/post-one/).

5.  A **wireless charging pad** for keeping their devices powered up without the need for cords. This is a convenient and practical gift that they'll use every day. There are [3-in-1 charging pads](https://amzn.to/3VbM2dT) for charging smart watches, headphones and phones in parallel.

6.  A [**nerf gun**](https://amzn.to/3BUZqwp) for blowing off steam and having some fun. Software engineers often have to sit at their desks for long periods of time, so a nerf gun is a great way to give them a break and let them let off some energy. If you live together with the person that receives the gift, you might want to think about this choice twice.

7.  A **desk lamp** to help them see what they're doing and create a comfortable working environment. A good desk lamp can make a big difference in productivity and comfort. [Lamps illuminating the desk from above ](https://amzn.to/3v5Nfci)the monitor are especially popular among developers.

8.  A **smart home device** like a smart speaker or smart thermostat. Many software engineers are interested in smart home technology, and these devices are a fun and innovative way for them to play and experiment. Many of the devices listed [here](https://amzn.to/3WiX3f1) can be programmed with custom code.

9.  A[ **noise-canceling headset**](https://amzn.to/3GcidWD) for blocking out distractions and focusing on their work. These are a must-have for anyone who works in a noisy environment or just needs to concentrate.

10. A **programmable robotic kit** to build and experiment with. This is a fun and educational gift that lets them apply their software skills in a new and exciting way. [Programmable cars](https://amzn.to/3HV64qi) are a popular choice. If you programm them right, they can drive autonomously through your apartment or office space.

11. Computer **hardware** like [CPU, GPU and RAM](https://amzn.to/3FPlVUD). This is certainly a more risky gift area that requires some knowledge about computers, and in particular the computer of the person being gifted. However, it can be a huge suprise as many coders don't expect to receive hardware as a gift.

12. A comfy **office chair** to help them stay comfortable and pain-free while they work. A good chair can make a big difference in comfort and productivity. [Ergonomic office chairs](https://amzn.to/3BPbxL9) can cost a little fortune, but given the time you spend on them, the budget is well spend.

13. A **standing desk** or desk converter to allow them to switch between sitting and standing. Long hours of sitting can be hard on the body, so this is a thoughtful gift that will help them take care of themselves. You don't need to purchase a fully-fledged elevatable desk. A more affordable [elevated notebook stand ](https://amzn.to/3VhpQPL)can already make coding and having meetings more enjoyable.

14. A **3D printer** for prototyping and creating new products. This is a gift that will appeal to software engineers who are interested in hardware and design. This might require some research, as the [choice of 3D printers](https://amzn.to/3YKzjlI) offered became huge.

15. The gift idea that comes with the highest risk but also potentially the highest reward is a [**computer or laptop**](https://amzn.to/3BUfvCs). Especially when starting your career as a software developer, a new laptop can mean a heavy investment. If you can find others to crowdfund this, a laptop or computer can be a great gift.

There you have it – 15 gift ideas for software engineers that are sure to be appreciated. Whether you're looking for something practical or fun, there's something here for everyone. Happy shopping!

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