Are you looking for a perfect gift for a graphic designer friend, colleague or loved one? Fret not, as we are here to give you an in-depth insight into the 15 top-notch gift ideas that are sure to light up any graphic designer’s eyes. Here, we will highlight brand specifics, where to buy, price range, product descriptions, and purposes along with detailed specifications, sprinkled with some frequently asked questions for your comfort.
1. Apple iPad Pro (2020)
- Brand: Apple;
- Price: Approx $799;
- Where to Buy: Apple Store;
- Rating: 4.8/5.
The Apple iPad Pro, equipped with an advanced Liquid Retina display, is a tool that offers an exceptional digital workspace for designers. This device allows them to work on their creative endeavors anywhere, providing a seamless design experience. The Apple Pencil adds to the functionality, making it an ideal tool for precise sketching and drawing. Specifications include 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB storage options, 11 or 12.9-inch display, A12Z Bionic chip, and Pro cameras.
2. Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription
- Brand: Adobe;
- Price: Approx $52.99/month;
- Where to Buy: Adobe;
- Rating: 4.7/5.
The Adobe Creative Cloud subscription gives designers access to a suite of top-of-the-line software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. This software suite is considered the industry standard for graphic design and digital art, making this a must-have gift. A yearly subscription is a gesture that will surely be appreciated by any designer.
3. Wacom Intuos Pro Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet
- Brand: Wacom;
- Price: Approx $249.95;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.5/5.
A Wacom drawing tablet is an essential tool for any serious graphic designer. The Intuos Pro model offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt-response, and virtually lag-free tracking. It provides an efficient and natural creative experience for designers who prefer working directly on their art.
4. Pantone Color Guide
- Brand: Pantone;
- Price: Approx $190;
- Where to Buy: Pantone;
- Rating: 4.7/5.
The Pantone Color Guide is a crucial tool for any graphic designer, especially those working in print. This guidebook helps in achieving precise color matching and communication, making it an invaluable gift. It features more than 2,100 Pantone colors in a handy, fan guide format.
5. Lacie Rugged Mini Portable Hard Drive
- Brand: Lacie;
- Price: Approx $149.99;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.6/5.
With the high resolution, quality, and size of today’s design files, storage can become a challenge. The Lacie Rugged Mini Portable Hard Drive is shock, rain, and pressure-resistant, providing 4TB of storage. It’s an ideal on-the-go companion for any graphic designer.
6. The Design of Everyday Things Book
- Author: Don Norman;
- Price: Approx $16.29;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.7/5.
This book by Don Norman provides valuable insights into the concept of design thinking. An excellent read for designers who want to understand how users interact with design, it can provide inspiration and deepen their approach to creating usable, effective designs.
7. X-Rite ColorMunki Display Calibrator
- Brand: X-Rite;
- Price: Approx $168.99;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.4/5.
The X-Rite ColorMunki Display Calibrator is a must-have for graphic designers who require color accuracy in their work. It adjusts monitors to show colors accurately, providing a consistent color representation across all devices. It’s a practical tool for any designer.
8. MUJI Stationery Set
- Brand: MUJI;
- Price: Approx $25;
- Where to Buy: MUJI;
- Rating: 4.6/5.
MUJI’s minimalist and practical approach to stationery is a treat for designers who appreciate simplicity. This set includes a variety of pens, notebooks, and other stationery items that are practical yet stylish.
9. Herman Miller Aeron Chair
- Brand: Herman Miller;
- Price: Approx $1395;
- Where to Buy: Herman Miller;
- Rating: 4.7/5.
Graphic designers often work long hours, so having an ergonomic chair like the Aeron is a gift that will be truly appreciated. Known for its ergonomic design and superior comfort, the Aeron offers a comfortable workspace for those long design sessions.
10. Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbook
- Brand: Moleskine;
- Price: Approx $22.95;
- Where to Buy: Moleskine;
- Rating: 4.6/5.
The Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbook is a versatile and portable canvas for designers and artists. The high-quality paper can handle a variety of artistic mediums and is perfect for sketching ideas on the go.
11. Grids & Guides: A Notebook for Visual Thinkers
- Publisher: Princeton Architectural Press;
- Price: Approx $16.95;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.6/5.
This visually pleasing notebook is perfect for the graphic designer who appreciates structure. Featuring a variety of graph paper types, it’s ideal for sketching, drafting, and planning projects.
12. Logitech MX Master 3 Advanced Wireless Mouse
- Brand: Logitech;
- Price: Approx $99.99;
- Where to Buy: Logitech;
- Rating: 4.7/5.
The Logitech MX Master 3 is a popular choice among designers due to its advanced precision and customization options. With a comfortable design that fits right into the hand, it ensures smooth navigation, even during extended use.
13. Coffee Subscription from Blue Bottle
- Brand: Blue Bottle;
- Price: Approx $15/month;
- Where to Buy: Blue Bottle;
- Rating: 4.6/5.
Most designers will appreciate the gift of caffeine, and a coffee subscription from Blue Bottle can deliver top-notch coffee beans right to their doorstep. It’s a thoughtful, practical gift that will keep them energized during those late-night projects.
14. Brainstorm Puzzle Co. Graphic Design Jigsaw Puzzle
- Brand: Brainstorm Puzzle Co;
- Price: Approx $20;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.5/5.
Graphic designers often appreciate visual challenges. This jigsaw puzzle can provide a creative outlet for when they need a break from the digital world. Plus, once finished, it can serve as stylish wall decor.
15. 3M LX500 Adjustable Laptop Stand
- Brand: 3M;
- Price: Approx $30.99;
- Where to Buy: Amazon;
- Rating: 4.4/5.
A laptop stand is a great gift that can help graphic designers maintain a comfortable posture during work. The 3M LX500 Adjustable Laptop Stand is sturdy and provides good ventilation for laptops, making it a great choice.
Conclusion
The pursuit of the perfect gift for a graphic designer doesn’t have to be daunting. The variety of options highlighted in this list caters to different needs, preferences, and budgets, while ensuring the selection remains relevant to the designer’s profession and passion. From high-end devices like the Apple iPad Pro that enhance digital creativity, to the Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription, essential for mastering industry-standard design tools, these gifts offer immense value. Through thoughtful selection, these gifts demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of the work that graphic designers do, making them perfect for any occasion.
FAQ
Yes, these gifts are suitable for graphic designers at any level, from beginners to professionals.
Yes, these items are widely available and can be found at various online and physical retailers. The ones suggested are popular choices for these items.
Most digital platforms provide gifting options. You can purchase the subscription and send it directly to the recipient’s email.
Prices can fluctuate based on location, availability, and the retailer’s discretion. It’s always a good idea to check the current price when you are ready to purchase.
