Men are famously hard to buy for, mostly because they say they want nothing and then quietly love whatever is useful. The way round it is to look at how he spends his time and buy something that makes that time better.
Here are twelve ideas grouped by personality: the gadget fan, the cook and griller, the walker and the one who likes to look sharp. None need an expert’s knowledge, and each comes with a price band and a tip so you can choose with confidence.
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Our three favourites
For the gadget fan
Useful tech that does not need a degree to set up.
A portable Bluetooth speaker
A compact waterproof speaker works in the garden, the kitchen and on a camping trip. Look for a long battery life and a rating that says it can cope with splashes.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
A wireless charging stand
Put the phone down, and it charges. It tidies the desk and cuts down on cables. Check that it works with his model of phone before you buy.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the step-counterA fitness tracker watch
A simple tracker that counts steps, monitors sleep and shows notifications is plenty for most people. It is a good choice for someone starting a new routine in the new year.
Expect to pay £50–£100 in most UK shops.
For the cook and griller
For the man who is in charge of the Christmas dinner, or at least thinks he is.
For the roast-dinner perfectionistA digital meat thermometer
A quick-read probe takes the guesswork out of the turkey and the Sunday roast. It is cheap, practical and easily used all year round, so it is a good partner for a bigger gift.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the steak-and-bacon cookA cast iron skillet
A heavy pan sears meat beautifully and goes from hob to oven. It improves with use and lasts for years, though it needs a little care and should not go in the dishwasher.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For the coffee obsessiveA hand coffee grinder
Grinding beans just before brewing makes a noticeable difference to the flavour. A manual grinder is quiet, small and does not need a plug, so it also travels well.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For the walker and the outdoors type
Kit that earns its place in the rucksack.
A rechargeable head torch
A bright, lightweight torch frees both hands and is handy on dark winter walks. A rechargeable one saves buying batteries, and a red-light mode is a bonus for night use.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the hot-drink-on-a-hill typeA vacuum insulated flask
A good flask keeps tea or soup hot for hours. Check the size, because a one-litre flask is heavier than people expect, and see whether the cup is part of the lid.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
For the blister-averse hikerMerino walking socks
Merino wool socks stay comfortable for a long day and do not get smelly as quickly as cotton. Choose a cushioned pair and check the size range printed on the label.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the man who likes to look sharp
Small luxuries that make everyday routines feel better.
For the frequent travellerA leather washbag
A sturdy washbag tidies a suitcase and lasts for years. Look for a wipe-clean lining and a zip that feels solid, and consider adding his initials if the seller offers it.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
A beard and grooming kit
A set with oil, balm and a comb is useful if he has a beard and a nice treat if he does not. Choose a mild, woody scent and check for any ingredients he might avoid.
Expect to pay £10–£25 in most UK shops.
For the quiet evening dramA set of engraved whisky glasses
A pair of heavy tumblers with initials engraved looks smart on a sideboard. It works equally for whisky, rum or a soft drink, and pairs well with a small bottle if he drinks spirits.
Expect to pay £25–£50 in most UK shops.
Good to know
Alcohol gifts
If you give anything alcoholic, check he drinks it and is old enough to receive it. A glass set or a barware gift avoids the question.
FAQ: questions people ask
What do I buy a man who says he wants nothing?
Look at what he uses every day and upgrade it. A better wallet, a good pair of socks, a decent flask or a quality pen replaces something worn out. Consumables such as coffee, snacks or grooming products also work well.
What are good Christmas gifts for a husband?
Think about his routines and hobbies. A thoughtful tool for his favourite activity, a piece of tech that improves daily life, or an experience to share all work well. A personalised gift that nods to a shared memory carries extra weight.
What can I buy my brother for under £25?
A meat thermometer, a head torch, a grooming kit, a wireless charging stand or a good pair of wool socks all sit comfortably under this price. Add a small bar of chocolate or a pack of nuts to make the parcel look bigger.
Are practical gifts boring?
Not if they are well chosen. A practical gift shows you have noticed something he needs. The trick is to buy a good version of something he uses a lot, rather than a random gadget that will end up in a drawer.
Should I buy clothes as a Christmas gift?
Only if you are confident about the size and style. Safe choices include socks, scarves, gloves and a plain jumper. Keep the gift receipt, and make it clear that a swap is fine.
