Unlike our other articles, this one is not just for our Simple Programmers.
It is for their friends, family, and loved ones who have a hard time choosing the perfect present for the tech enthusiasts in their life.
Worry not, as this is your holiday gift guide! As a person who works in a Java software development company, surrounded by programmers, I have prepared some options for you that can fit in your budget, regardless of what it is. This should help to minimize the stress of the last-minute holiday shopping rush.
Feel free to use this article as a part of the brainstorming process, taking it a step further and customizing your gift as much as you like! The suggested presents are organized by type and cost, so you can find options for a great gift, while staying within your budget.
Programmer Books
For the Programmer Intrigued by New Technologies
Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning by Christopher M. Bishop (used MIT)
Machine learning has gained a lot of traction over the last year, and it seems it is a technology that is here to stay. So, to help stay relevant and up-to-date with their knowledge, this book will give any programmer further insight on the methods of machine learning.
For the Programmer Who Develops Graphical Software
Physically Based Rendering: From Theory to Implementation, Third Edition by Matt Pharr, Wenzel Jakob, and Greg Humphreys
Graphical software is more and more widespread, and it is adapted in different types of software development, in addition to being implemented in other areas of professional competence, from medicine, to interior design, to architecture. Many developers have been enjoying this book, so you should consider it!
For the Programmer Who Plays Games
Real-Time Rendering, Fourth Edition by Tomas Akenine-Möller, Eric Haines, Naty Hoffman, Angelo Pesce, Michał Iwanicki, and Sébastien Hillaire
Game Engine Architecture, Second Edition by Jason Gregory
Graphical software is more and more widespread, and it is adapted in different types of software development, in addition to being implemented in other areas of professional competence, from medicine, to interior design, to architecture. Many developers have been enjoying this book, so you should consider it!
For the Programmer Who Values Convention and Good Practices
Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship by Robert C. Martin
Refactoring: Improving the Design of Existing Code, Second Edition by Martin Fowler
It is not rare to come across discussions of what way is the better way to do things in software development. There are many different angles to what should be prioritized in terms of good developer practices; however, the books above showcase some of the principles that programmers agree upon to be worthwhile. These books are relevant for nearly all developer niches and competencies, and are genuinely worth taking a look at.
For the Programmer Who Studies Object-Oriented Programming
Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software by Erich Gamma, Richard Helm, Ralph Johnson, and John Vlissides
Object-oriented programming is a widespread method of software development, and it is generally well-perceived to be knowledgeable to a certain degree. This is one of the best books to become well-versed on the topic.
For the Programmer Who Loves Math
Good Math: A Geek’s Guide to the Beauty of Numbers, Logic, and Computation (The Pragmatic Programmers) by Mark C. Chu-Carroll
Math is often the backbone of algorithms and software development foundation. Depending on their work, or simply, their interests, consider getting them one of the best books in the field.
For the Programmer Who Plays With Algorithms
Introduction to Algorithms, 3rd Edition (MIT Press) by Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, and Clifford Stein
And speaking of algorithms, this book has been widely recognized to provide valuable knowledge on the topic. On its third edition, the book is relevant and up-to-date, for anyone who wishes to consume its knowledge.
For the Programmer Who Likes to Read the Classics
If Hemingway Wrote JavaScript by Angus Croll
This one playfully bridges the worlds of programming and literature in an interesting and hilarious take on how different JS programs would read if they were written by famous writers throughout history.
For the Programmer Looking to Build or Improve Their Career
Sure, this one is a little biased, but almost 500 reviews and a 4.7 rating on Amazon goes to show that we aren’t the only ones who think so. This is the book to buy for anyone looking to level up in the new year.
Of course, when it comes to getting a book for a programmer, you should try to find one that fits their general field of work. Even if you go a little bit outside of it, it could still be beneficial; you want to get them something they will get a lot of use out of.
But don’t worry. If you don’t know what field of programming they are into, or if the person is simply not into reading, we have many more options for you below!
Gifts and Apparel
Perhaps there is a programmer in your life who would like to say, loud and proud to the world, that they have a love for code and other perceived geekery. Even (especially!) if they aren’t geeks themselves.
These holiday gifts are broken out by type, and then some different options are provided for you to choose the perfect one.
Coffee Mugs
If you know developers closely, then you know they love their coffee! They use it as a mental cue to start their workday and an association with taking a break. Why not add a smile on their face by getting a fun mug just for them?
You can buy one that is ready to go—there are plenty of cheeky mugs on the market!
You win the added bonus of being the person they think of whenever they sip their favorite beverage.
Notebooks
Some developers can still be somewhat old-fashioned in how they take notes. Consider grabbing them a cool notebook to put their thoughts in.
A Rubber Duck
Yes, a rubber duck. Have you heard of the rubber duck debugging method? It originates from the book The Pragmatic Programmer by David Thomas and Andrew Hunt, and it requires the developer to attempt explaining the code’s method to the duck as if teaching a person who knows nothing about programming.
A programmer may develop the solution further while getting into the details of how the method works. Being forced to evaluate it from different perspectives can provide a deeper understanding altogether.
By giving them a rubber duck, aside from sharing a joke, you might end up introducing them to a helpful working method they can use to their success.
Apparel
Life isn’t all sweatpants and activewear when you are a programmer, though those outfits are certainly comfy for long coding sessions. But as it’s been mentioned in multiple posts here on Simple Programmer, how you present yourself professionally is important to your career.
If you aren’t in a workplace that requires ties and dresses, or business casual wear, a sharp tee or hoodie letting coworkers know what you do in the company might just do the trick.
T-Shirts
Hoodies
Sports Band and Fitness Tracker
As people who spend a considerable amount of time sitting down, adding a constant reminder to be active and moving is a must for developers. Sports bands are mobile accessories that have gained a lot of traction, and it is easy to see why.
Smartwatch
The smartwatch is a definite upgrade from the sports band. It has many more functionalities. Notifications are more visible with the added bonus that you can respond to texts and messages from the watch itself. You can connect wireless headphones to your phone, and only use your watch even if your phone is not nearby for things like tracking steps while jogging, listening to music, and using navigation.
Desk and Work Set-Up
Programmers spend much of their time sitting at a desk typing away at their computers. They break up their day into timed chunks so that they don’t spend six hours deep in thought, without realizing how much time has passed.
Or being so distracted by their space that they can’t get through six minutes of development.
Help them to make sure that their work set-up is put together.
Laptop Bag
Most of the people who prefer using a laptop over a desktop feel so due to the perks of mobility. Help them with their location independence by grabbing a cool laptop bag for their working office.
Choose something that is practical and is also the type of bag they would use. Some prefer a more sport-like appearance; others are more inclined to use more of a fashionable business briefcase. If you are unsure of what the dimensions of their laptop are, you would do better to go a size up.
Time Management Tools
As programmers are met with deadlines and a consistent stream of assignments, managing their time properly is a priority. Consider getting them a timer that allows them to track their activities, in addition to serving as a reminder to be productive.
Lighting Solutions
As developers need to have a controlled work environment, many of them also like to have better control of their lighting. Here are some customizable options with timers and light density, and opacity specter. They can be used anywhere they may need them!
Coffee Maker to Go With Their Programming Mug
As we mentioned, programmers love their coffee! So maybe grab them a good espresso machine. They can use it at home or in the office, and it can bring them a little happiness when they use it daily.
Under-the-Desk Mini Fridge
Sure, some developers love coffee. But for those who prefer Coke, energy drinks, or any other types of soft drinks, chances are they have thought about the convenience of having a fridge nearby.
You can grab them a small under-the-desk refrigerator—some are even built into a drawer, so it blends with the desk environment. Stock it up with their favorite choice of drinks, and they will think about you whenever they take a sip!
Noise-Cancelling Headphones and Earbuds
There can be a lot of noise at work. That is perfectly understandable when it comes to working in an office environment. But having the option to tune out the noise and focus on your own work is great. Consider giving your friend the gift of isolation and productivity through noise-cancelling headphones such as these.
Mechanized Elevatable Desk
Developers spend an insane amount of time at their desk, which can be detrimental to their health. Consider choosing a mechanized elevatable desk. This type of office furniture can be set to any specific height in a range from a sitting person of below the average height, to fully standing, taller than the average person.
It’s comfort at the press of a button. A standing desk can help with the health risks of a sedentary life, along with raising productivity and adding a sense of feeling refreshed while working.
Virtual Reality Set-up
OK, so a VR set-up might not be a work set-up for most programmers. But it’s important for them to understand the software, right?!
The Gift of Learning
As you know, here at Simple Programmer, we are big on self-improvement and advancing your knowledge and experience. What could be better than unlimited access to online courses on any topic they may be interested in?
Yearly Gift Certificate for a Learning Platform
Luckily, you have the option to buy a yearly membership at a preferential cost to such platforms, and you can even find discount codes that help you stay in budget. There are many such platforms, but you can start by taking a look Udemy and Skillshare. Look into the courses that each platform offers, and consider picking the one that seems to be the best fit for the person who will be using it.
The Sentimental Gesture
Budget: Up to $50
If you are shopping for a colleague, someone you like but are not too close with, or simply enjoy giving small but sentimental gifts that bring happiness on an emotional level, this is the list for you!
We’ve given you a lot of suggestions to get coffee, tea, and soft drinks for the programmers in your life. Now make sure they aren’t leaving mug rings on important documents.
The Unemployed Philosophers Guild Ada Lovelace Secular Saint Candle
We all have heroes and figures in history that we revere, so why not let them say a little prayer to one of the (secular) Patron Saints of Programming?
Recycled Circuit Board Copper Necklace
Programmers know the beauty that lies within tech, so give them a chance to show that off with this crafted piece of jewelry
Ravensburger Minecraft: Builders & Biomes Strategy Board Game
A game that’s based on building and breaking civilizations, block by block, is something that programmers identify with. Take it analog with this physical version of the video game.
It’s the hottest streaming service of the season, with the entire Disney library as well as Marvel and Star Wars. Plus, we have two words for you: Baby Yoda.
It’s likely that your programmer has at least 42 cables and charging needs, and it is a pain to manage that snarl of cords. With this wireless charger, they can charge a number of their devices on contact.
Not Too Big, Not Too Small
Budget: $50 to $150
Computer Patent Collection Art
There are lots of motivational posters and various prints that someone can hang on a wall, but with this intricate piece of art, they can stare at the history of something vitally important to them; personally and professionally.
Learning Resources Botley the Coding Robot Activity Set, Coding Robot for Kids
What kid doesn’t love looking up to their parents, hoping one day they might turn out to be just like them? Give someone the gift of sharing their love for programming with a special little one in their lives.
GoCube The Connected, Smart Rubik’s Puzzle Cube
One of the most popular tech gifts on guides across the internet, this takes the ‘80s toy craze to a whole new level.
Speaking of throwbacks and nostalgia, the programmer in your life will melt down when they get their hands on one of the original gaming systems they might have learned it all on.
Yes! We’re including something that isn’t caffeinated. If your programmer needs to kick their sugary-drink habit, but still likes the fizzy pop of bubbles, this will get their water everything they are looking for.
They’ll never lose an important item like their keys or wallet with this pack of “find what you’ve lost” trackers from Tile.
The Polaroid Lab - Digital to Analog Polaroid Photo Printer
It seems like just yesterday that the technology of Polaroid photos was … well … so yesterday. But they are making a comeback, especially when you can get your digital photos directly into your hot little hands.
Breo iSee4 Electric Portable Eye Massager
Eye strain is a real thing, and staring at a screen for long hours can do a number on a programmer. Help them avoid the migraines and blurred vision by getting them something to relax the day away.
A smart house has many benefits—plus it’s just fun to set up and play around with. But if you don’t have a ton of money to invest in smart devices, it almost seems like it isn’t worth it. This helps to get things going, whether they are wired or not.
The Big Present
Budget: Over $150
Syfer - Unlimited Smart VPN Router
With the tracking and privacy issues that pervade online work these days, coders often have to lay a path of virtual and private networks. This sets a permanent mask on their network connection, one step in the process.
PEGASI 2 - Smart Light Therapy Glasses
If your programmer is up into the late hours staring at a screen and disrupting their sleep cycle, they might need to get their circadian rhythm back in a groove.
Going again with “next level,” this could be a fun project for parents and kids. Or for the programmer with the heart of a kid who has always wanted their own robot.
What’s more fun than designing cool new things in software? Printing them out to see what they really look like.
Philips SmartSleep Connected Sleep and Wake-up Light Therapy Lamp
There’s a belief that waking up with the sun and getting to work early allows thought workers to get their best work done. Whether your programmer has a west-facing bedroom or lives in the basement, now you can bring the rays to them.
Pay It Forward
Budget: Whatever you want to donate
Not every programmer wants more things. While cool new gadgets and tech to optimize their workflows are always appreciated, sometimes knowing that they have helped someone else is the gift they want the most this holiday season.
Giving a donation in their name allows them to bring another programmer into the ranks, the same way that someone else might have brought them in.
The Best Gift Is Personal
When you are considering what to get your friend, partner, or colleague, there are a lot of factors to take into account. Of course, the budget is a common one.
But it really is not about how much you spend on a gift.
Make the choice based on how well you know the person. A lot of the time, they will be more impressed with a gesture that shows them you have paid attention to what is important to them.
I hope you found this helpful and that the special programmer in your life is happy with our picks!
Want to see some of our previous recommendations? Check out the Simple Programmer Gift Guide for Developers from: 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015 & 2014.