13 subscription boxes that make great gifts in 2025
Subscription boxes are among the best gifts because they deliver a fresh surprise month after month. Engadget compiled a list of 13 subscription boxes for 2025 that cover a wide range of interests — from electronics kits and mystery puzzles to Japanese treats and freshly roasted coffee. These boxes are ideal for giftees who already own a lot of gear or who love discovering new things on a regular schedule.
The picks are grouped by vibe so you can match the box to your recipient: builder and maker boxes for hands‑on folks, snack and foodie boxes for adventurous eaters, puzzle and mystery boxes for the curious, and collector or hobby boxes for niche interests. Subscriptions are flexible — many offer month‑to‑month plans and curated themes that keep things interesting.
Highlighted box types
- Electronics & maker kits: monthly projects that teach soldering, microcontrollers and practical DIY skills.
- Mystery & puzzle boxes: escape‑room style challenges and serialized puzzles for group play or solo puzzling.
- International snacks: Japanese candy and other regional treats delivered for a global tasting experience.
- Coffee & tea subscriptions: rotating beans or blends from specialty roasters for daily caffeine variety.
- Books & media: curated reads and extras for avid readers and collectors.
Why subscription boxes make good gifts
They keep giving: a single purchase becomes multiple moments of delight. They’re easy to personalize by theme and often introduce recipients to new hobbies or high‑quality products they might not try otherwise. They’re also convenient for gifting long‑distance — many services offer direct shipping and gift packaging.
How to choose
- Consider interests and skill level (e.g., beginner electronics vs. advanced maker kits).
- Check plan flexibility and cancellation terms — many boxes allow skipping months.
- Look for reviews or unboxing videos to see if the box’s style and quality match your expectations.
- Compare prices per month vs. the cost of similar one‑off items to judge value.
For the full list of 13 curated subscription boxes and direct links to each service, see the original roundup: Engadget — The best subscription box gifts for 2025. You can also browse options on Amazon: subscription box on Amazon.
Discussion: Which subscription box would you pick for a friend — a maker kit, snack box, puzzle subscription or something else?