Let what he mentions do the work, not your best guess
The safest read on someone you are still getting to know is not a guess at all. It is whatever he has actually mentioned wanting, even once, in passing. Saving that as a hint the moment it comes up beats trying to reconstruct it from memory weeks later.
1
John Adams The 1% Club Board Game
A popular quiz board game for the two of you and friends.
£25John Lewis
3
Bose QuietComfort Earbuds True Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Headphones
Wireless earbuds are the classic thing he mentions wanting in passing.
£179.95John Lewis
Match the gift to where things actually are
A gift can be thoughtful without being a grand gesture. The goal early on is showing you were paying attention, not making a statement. Something specific to him, at a sensible scale, tends to land far better than something impressive but generic.
Boyfriend birthday gift ideas
Aim for one main gift he will use, plus a small extra with some personality. Good main gifts include a tool for a hobby he already has, a game or a book from a series he loves, headphones, a quality wash bag or a framed print of somewhere you have been together. Add a favourite snack, a handwritten card or tickets to something you will do together.
4
Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with Mic/Remote
Headphones, a main birthday gift he will use daily.
£199.95John Lewis
Boyfriend Christmas gift ideas
Christmas is a good time for something cosy and practical: a good jumper, slippers, a hoodie from a brand he likes, a scarf and glove set, or a board game for the two of you. If you have not been together long, keep the spend modest and match what he is likely to get you, so neither of you feels awkward.
6
Cashmere lined gloves, cosy and practical for Christmas.
£45Marks & Spencer
Anniversary and first year gifts
For a first anniversary, a memory is better than an object: a framed photo, a small scrapbook of tickets and notes, or a repeat of your first date. Pair it with something small he has mentioned wanting. Save the bigger gestures for later years, when they will feel earned rather than rushed.
Boyfriend gifts under £20, £50 and £100
Under £20, look at a good book, a favourite sweet or drink, a mug, a phone stand or a card game. Around £50 you can look at a quality t-shirt or jumper, a speaker, a grooming set or a nice bottle. Around £100 think of trainers he has been eyeing, a smartwatch strap and accessories, or a day out or experience. Set a cap before you browse.
Frequently asked questions
What should I get my boyfriend when I don't know him that well yet?
Go for something small and specific to something he has mentioned, like a book, a snack he loves or a gadget for a hobby. It shows you were listening without feeling like too much, too soon.
How much should I spend on a boyfriend's birthday gift?
There is no fixed rule. Early in a relationship, 20 to 50 pounds is common. Later, many couples spend 50 to 100 pounds. Match what feels comfortable for both of you.
What are good cheap gifts for a boyfriend?
A good book, his favourite sweets, a card game, a mug, a phone stand or a handwritten note with tickets to something you will do together all work well under 20 pounds.
What is a good first anniversary gift for a boyfriend?
Something that marks the year, like a framed photo, a scrapbook of tickets and notes, or a repeat of your first date, plus one small item he has said he wants.
What should I avoid buying a boyfriend?
Avoid anything that suggests he needs improving, like a diet book, and be careful with very expensive or very romantic gifts early on. Choose what suits where the relationship is now.
Ready to actually find something?
Browse boyfriend gift ideas