60+ Inexpensive & Thoughtful Christmas Gifts for Coworkers

When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gifts for coworkers, the line between thoughtful and office-appropriate can be tricky. Whether you're shopping for a casual Secret Santa, a cherished teammate, or your entire department, this guide covers over 60 gift ideas, including inexpensive, cute, funny, DIY, and personalized options, for every colleague and every budget.

Inexpensive Christmas Gift Ideas for Coworkers

If you’re shopping for Christmas gifts for coworkers that are thoughtful but won’t drain your wallet, these coworker gifts under $20 strike the perfect balance between personal and professional. Each of these picks offers meaning, usability, and that little spark of festive cheer your colleagues will appreciate.

• Personal Chic Personalized Mug for Coworker - $19.95

This mug works beautifully for both close colleagues and casual acquaintances. It’s one of the practical and personal gifts for coworkers​ without being too intimate—ideal as coworker Christmas gift ideas in shared office environments.

I love that it feels custom without going overboard. The ceramic quality is solid and microwave-safe, which is a must for office use. Based on over 2,000 reviews on Personal Chic’s site, buyers frequently highlight the sharp print quality and long-lasting design. A small note: shipping can take a few extra days during peak season, so plan ahead!

• Mini Desk Plant – Costa Farms Mini Succulent in 2.5” Pot (Amazon) - $8.99

Plants are universally appreciated in workspaces. They brighten up a cubicle or home office and don’t feel overly personal. Perfect for office Christmas gift ideas where you want to give something aesthetic and low-maintenance. Costa Farms is a reliable grower, and their plants arrive well-packaged and healthy. Reviews mention the size being smaller than expected, but I found it just right for desk corners.

• Personal Chic Personalized Christmas Ornament - $14.50

Ornaments are a classic go-to for coworker Christmas gift ideas, and this one adds just enough of a personal touch to feel thoughtful. It’s not overly sentimental, so it’s great for semi-formal gift exchanges or Secret Santa gift ideas for coworkers.

I gave this personalized Christmas ornament to three coworkers last Secret Santa, and it was a hit. According to other reviews, it's one of the top-selling Christmas items on Personal Chic every year, with over 1,000 units sold annually. I suggest opting for neutral holiday colors like white/gold or green/red so it fits most decor styles.

• Scented Candle – Chesapeake Bay Candle “Balance + Harmony” (Amazon) - $11.99

A candle is a universally safe and cozy gift. This particular scent—water lily pear—is calming and not overpowering, making it perfect for workplace use. Great as low-key yet polished coworker Christmas gifts. Many reviewers say this scent is their go-to because it’s neutral and not too perfumey. It’s also soy-based and burns clean, which I appreciate.

• Burt’s Bees Hand Repair Gift Set (Amazon) - $12.99

A hand care set is one of those universally useful gifts for coworkers Christmas. It’s practical, not too personal, and comes from a well-known, natural brand. I gifted this last year to two colleagues who were always applying hand lotion at their desks. They appreciated the rich texture and subtle scent. The packaging is already festive, so I didn’t even need to wrap it.

Funny Christmas Gifts for Coworkers

Nothing bonds a team like laughter, and funny gifts for coworkers Christmas are a great way to spread holiday cheer. These Christmas gift ideas for coworkers are ideal for White Elephant exchanges, Secret Santa, or simply making your office buddy smile.

• Personalized Funny Mug from Personal Chic - $19.95

A funny coffee mug is a timeless office gift. It’s affordable, personal, and sure to get daily use. Personal Chic offers a variety of humorous mug designs—from sarcasm and caffeine jokes to lighthearted office references—making it easy to match the gift to your coworker’s personality.

I’ve given several of these to teammates over the years. What I love most is the range—you can go from dry wit to goofy designs. From reviews I’ve read, people are often surprised by the print quality, especially for the price.

• “Decision Maker Paperweight” Spinner (Office Depot, Amazon) - $9.99

It spins between options like “Yes,” “No,” “Ask Mom,” and “Panic”—the perfect desk toy for the indecisive coworker. Functional? Not really. Hilarious? Absolutely. My manager got one of these, and it’s now the unofficial team mascot. We spin it before making big calls (kidding… sort of). Just note that the spinning mechanism can get squeaky after a while—but that might just make it funnier.

• Funny Personalized Metal Sign from Personal Chic - $32.95

A funny metal sign is great for cubicle décor, break rooms, or even remote work setups. The jokes range from light sarcasm to laugh-out-loud punchlines, and Personal Chic lets you personalize the sign to suit your office vibe.

These are built to last—real coated metal, not flimsy tin. I love that the humor options can be customized with my own inside jokes. The signs I’ve seen in person looked professionally finished and got a ton of compliments from coworkers.

• “Dammit Doll” – Classic Stress Relief Doll (Amazon) - $12.95

Great Christmas gifts for coworkers dealing with office stress (read: everyone). You’re literally encouraged to whack it against your desk. It’s silly, cathartic, and a hilarious icebreaker. I’ve seen these gifted at two different offices and they always make people laugh. The only drawback is the fabric pattern is random, so you don’t get to choose. But that’s part of the charm.

• Funny Personalized T-Shirt from Personal Chic - $24.95

A personalized T-shirt is a fun gift for coworkers who embrace casual wear or remote workdays. Whether it features a sarcastic quote, an office pun, or a work-from-home joke, it’s a wearable laugh.

Personal Chic’s shirts are surprisingly high-quality. The material is soft, lightweight, and holds up well after washing. I chose one for a coworker last year with a dry-humor quote—and he wore it to our team’s virtual holiday party. Reviews consistently mention the comfort and sizing accuracy, though I recommend sizing up if you're unsure. A funny T-shirt is a safe bet for colleagues you know well.

Cute Coworker Christmas Gifts

Not every holiday gift has to be grand or deeply sentimental—sometimes, a bit of charm and thoughtful detail is all it takes. These cute Christmas gifts for coworkers are perfect for light-hearted giving, Secret Santa, or adding cheer to a desk.

• Personalized Metal Keychain from Personal Chic - $22.95

While it’s not the cheapest on the market, this keychain stands out for its high level of customization—you can add names, initials, meaningful icons, dates, or even short messages. That makes it an ideal gift for a closer colleague or for those in leadership roles where a more elevated, lasting token feels appropriate.

 I’ll admit, I hesitated at first because of the price. But after ordering one for a long-time teammate, I understood the appeal. The metal has a premium weight and shine, and the engraving looks precise and well-finished.

• Kawaii Gel Pens or Stationery Set (Amazon, Paperchase) - $9.99 – $14.99

According to an Adobe Office Life Survey, 33% of workers say cute or colorful stationery increases their mood and productivity. These pens are both adorable and functional—a perfect gift for coworkers who love lists, color coding, or journaling. It’s the most photographed gift at the office. The ink flows well, though some reviewers note the caps can loosen over time. It's definitely more about aesthetics than longevity—but that’s the charm.

• Custom Wood Sign from Personal Chic - $29.95

A custom wood sign adds a cozy, decorative touch to a desk or home office. With options like inspirational quotes, job titles, or funny sayings, it’s a versatile gift. Wooden gifts are trending—Pinterest’s 2024 holiday forecast lists “rustic home décor” among the top five gifting categories.

I gifted this to our office coordinator - she cracked up and placed it on her shelf right away. The wood feels sturdy, the paint doesn’t chip, and the size is perfect for a workspace. Reviews note the signs come well-packaged, though some buyers recommend double-checking the spelling on custom orders (a solid reminder during the holiday rush).

• Hand Warmer + Phone Holder Combo (Amazon) - $14.95

Compact hand warmers have become popular in colder regions, especially among commuters. In fact, searches for “USB hand warmer” spiked by 60% on Amazon in December 2023. I got one shaped like a bear for our finance coordinator—she said it was her “winter survival kit.” Some reviews warn of short battery life (~2–3 hours), so it’s not for all-day use, but it’s great for brief, cozy breaks.

• Mini Desktop Suncatcher (Etsy or Amazon) - $12–$18

These light-catching trinkets are a top pick for creative colleagues or those who love calm, uplifting workspaces. On Etsy, suncatchers saw a 40% increase in sales during Q4 2023, especially around Christmas. I bought one with a simple moon-and-stars design for a graphic designer on my team. When sunlight hits it, rainbows dance across the wall—it’s a small joy.

Do It Yourself Christmas Gifts for Coworkers

DIY gifts are a great way to show thoughtfulness while staying budget-friendly. From edible treats to handmade desk decor, here are some clever, office-appropriate DIY Christmas gifts for coworkers that blend charm, practicality, and fun.

• DIY Hot Chocolate in a Jar

Cozy, festive, and easy to make in batches, these Xmas gifts for colleagues are a winter favorite. It's great for larger teams or Secret Santa exchanges. Not too intimate, but warm and appreciated. I've made these for years, and they’re always a hit. I use mason jars layered with cocoa powder, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and a candy cane. One tip is to use wide-mouth jars—they’re easier to fill and clean.

DIY Hot Chocolate Jars as DIY Christmas Gifts for Coworkers

• DIY Desk Calendar with Team Photos or Motivational Quotes

Personal but still professional, this idea works well for close colleagues or team leads. Add team pictures, inside jokes, or uplifting quotes to make it feel custom without being overly sentimental. I designed a small photo desk calendar using Canva and printed it on heavy cardstock at Staples. Everyone on my team loved flipping through the months, and it made people laugh. If you're not into design, you can also buy printable templates online and just plug in your images or text.

• Homemade Holiday Cookies with Custom Tags

Edible gifts are always welcome, especially during the holidays. This one is perfect for teams where everyone loves a snack. Bonus: cookies are easy to divide among multiple people. The only drawback is time—it takes a few hours to bake and package. But the personal touch is always remembered. Just be sure to ask about dietary preferences in advance!

Homemade Holiday Cookies as DIY Christmas Gift Ideas for Coworkers

• DIY Personalized Cork Coasters

These are easy to make in bulk and useful for both the office and home. You can use paint pens, stencils, or even stamp ink to add initials, icons, or simple quotes. It’s personal, functional, and not overly sentimental—ideal for office Christmas gift ideas. I used a stencil set to create clean, modern designs like coffee cups, initials, and stars. The cork absorbs condensation well, and I sealed them with Mod Podge to prevent fading. People liked that they were unique and handmade.

• DIY Scent Sachets or Simmer Pot Kits

A sensory gift that’s seasonal and relaxing. Use dried lavender, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange peel in small muslin bags or mason jars. These smell amazing and give off cozy holiday vibes without being too personal. These were a surprise hit when I made them last year. Just a heads-up—some people may be sensitive to strong smells, so keep the fragrance mild.

Christmas Gifts for Female Coworkers

When choosing Christmas gifts for coworkers female, whether she’s a manager, teammate, or the office organizer, these gifts strike the right tone—useful, stylish, and just festive enough for the season.

• Personalized Tote Bag from Personal Chic - $24.95

Totes are universally useful and stylish. Whether she uses it for commuting, lunch runs, or weekend errands, a personalized tote feels special without being too intimate. With many design options—from minimal to playful—it’s a standout among Xmas gifts for colleagues that are both practical and custom.

I’ve gifted this tote to a colleague who’s always carrying files, snacks, and tech gear—it was an upgrade from her plain canvas bag. The fabric is thicker than expected, the stitching is clean, and the personalization is crisp. It also folds flat for easy wrapping or mailing.

• Sephora Mini Holiday Lip Gloss Set - $12.00

A small, festive beauty gift that's safe to give even if you don’t know her personal style. It’s a great addition to a larger gift basket or an easy standalone token of appreciation. I bought one for a colleague who always reapplies lip gloss before meetings—it was a hit. It’s not super unique, but it feels luxe thanks to the packaging and trusted brand. One tip: grab it early—Sephora holiday sets tend to sell out fast.

• Personalized Pillow from Personal Chic - $22.95

A personalized throw pillow is one of the most thoughtful Christmas gifts for coworkers—especially for a female coworker who enjoys decorating her home or creating a comfy WFH space. It’s decorative, affordable, and professional enough to give to almost anyone.

I picked this for a coworker who had recently moved into a new apartment. She loved the extra detail of having her name and a quote on it. The print quality is vivid and the pillow insert is firm, not flat like some inexpensive options.

• Aromatherapy Shower Steamers – Cleverfy 6-Pack (Amazon) - $15.97

Like bath bombs—but for showers. These are great for coworkers who appreciate wellness or need a bit of “me time” but don’t have bathtubs. It’s a luxurious and low-effort way to say “you deserve to relax.” I added these to gift bags for our department last year, and people kept asking where they were from. The eucalyptus and lavender scents are especially loved.

• Silk Sleep Mask –  $9.99 (Alaska Bear) or $20+ (Slip mini)

A sleep mask feels like a tiny luxury. It’s ideal for coworkers who travel, work late, or just need help winding down. I personally use the Alaska Bear mask—it’s soft, doesn’t slip, and blocks out light like a dream. One colleague even said it helped her nap in the office wellness room. Slip is pricier but makes a great upgrade if you’re gifting a team lead or manager.

Christmas Gifts for Male Coworkers

When picking out Christmas gifts for coworkers male, the goal is to keep it useful, neutral, and thoughtful. Whether he’s the coffee lover, the office joker, or the quiet team player who’s always on time, these gifts are sure to land well.

• Personalized Whiskey Glass from Personal Chic - $19.95

A whiskey glass is classy and low-key masculine, and personalizing it adds a touch of thought without making things awkward. It’s a great gift for after-hours enjoyment or display in a home bar setup.

This was my go-to for my last office Secret Santa. The glass is solid, with a good weight—doesn’t feel cheap at all. The engraving looked clean and sharp. Several reviewers said it was one of the best gifts they’d received, especially when paired with mini whiskey bottles.

• Tech Organizer Pouch – BAGSMART or Bellroy Tech Kit (Amazon) - $15.99 – $24.95

Everyone in the office has cables, chargers, earbuds, and USB drives—this pouch keeps it all tidy. It’s functional and neutral, making it an excellent choice for coworker Christmas gifts for both office and remote workers. I recently gave one to our IT guy. He said it instantly became his daily carry item. BAGSMART’s version has enough compartments without feeling bulky, and it fits in a backpack or drawer.

• Personalized Leather Wallet from Personal Chic - $29.95

Sleek, durable, and practical, a wallet is a safe yet stylish gift. Personal Chic offers customizable options, such as initials or a short quote inside. It’s a step above generic gifts but still appropriate for a professional setting.

I haven’t gifted this yet, but reviews speak highly of the stitching quality and soft PU leather texture. Many customers said the personalization held up well over time and added a nice personal touch. I’d suggest it for someone you work with often or know fairly well—like a close colleague or manager. Not ideal for very new team members.

• Mini Desktop Basketball Hoop (Amazon) - $11.99

Great for stress relief and casual office fun, this gift adds personality to any desk. It’s especially fitting for those who need a mental break during workdays. It’s made of plastic and foam, so it’s quiet—no disturbing nearby coworkers. Some reviews noted it doesn’t last forever (the hoop arm can get loose), but for under $15, it’s one of the most amusing and effective Christmas gifts for coworkers.

• Magnetic Wristband for Tools – RAK (Amazon) - $15.99

If your coworker is into DIY, home improvement, or even just assembling furniture, this wristband holds screws, nails, and drill bits. It’s practical, a little rugged, and unexpected. I got this for a colleague who’d just bought his first home. He texted me weeks later saying it was the “most useful gag gift he’s ever received.” One note: it’s definitely a niche gift, so save this for someone who’s actually handy.

In the end, choosing the right Christmas gifts for coworkers doesn’t have to be stressful. From cheap surprises to meaningful keepsakes, each gift in this guide was chosen to balance professionalism with a personal touch. These ideas will help you spread cheer without overstepping the line. Happy gifting!