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E-gifts For Birthday [TOP PICKS]

ByBen
Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

Gift-giving can be one of the most meaningful gestures, whether for a birthday, holiday, or any special occasion. Yet, it can also feel a bit daunting, especially when you’re trying to find that perfect gift. With the rise of digital gifting, e-gifts have become increasingly popular due to their convenience, versatility, and wide range of options. Whether it’s a voucher, an online subscription, or a custom digital card, e-gifts can be tailored to fit almost anyone’s preferences.

But here’s the thing-just because e-gifts are digital doesn’t mean they should lack that personal touch. There’s a common misconception that e-gifts are impersonal, but in reality, they can be just as thoughtful as physical gifts, if you approach them the right way. The secret lies in understanding the recipient, picking a platform that offers the right options, and adding a personal note or creative spin to the digital gesture. In this guide, we’ll explore how to navigate the world of e-gifts, learn what someone really wants, avoid common gifting mistakes, and find the best places to shop for those perfect virtual presents.

10 E-gifts For Birthday

1. Gift Cards

Gift cards are like the Swiss Army knife of birthday presents-they fit every taste and style! Whether the recipient loves shopping, gaming, or dining out, a gift card gives them the freedom to choose exactly what they want. It’s perfect when you’re unsure of their preferences or when you want to give something instantly without worrying about shipping or returns.

Plus, gift cards come with the convenience of being digital, so you can send them immediately via email. You can even personalize them with a fun message or a quirky design, making it feel much more thoughtful than just sending money. Trust me, the right gift card can make you look like a genius in the eyes of the birthday person!

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2. E-Books

For the bookworms in your life, e-books are a fantastic way to celebrate their special day. They’re instantly accessible, which means no waiting for delivery and no wrapping paper! Plus, an e-book can take them on an adventure, teach them something new, or just provide hours of cozy entertainment at the click of a button.

The beauty of gifting e-books is that you can tailor it to their interests. Whether they love mystery novels, sci-fi, self-help guides, or cookbooks, there’s something available instantly for everyone. And let’s be honest-who doesn’t appreciate a gift that fits right in their pocket or tablet?

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3. Streaming Service Subscriptions

Streaming subscriptions are like giving the gift of endless entertainment. Imagine telling your friend, ’Hey, this birthday, I got you a few months of Netflix, Disney+, or Spotify!’-suddenly, their binge-watching or music-listening dreams are fulfilled. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, long after the birthday cake is gone.

Even better, these subscriptions are completely digital, so you don’t have to worry about shipping or delivery delays. They’re perfect for anyone who loves movies, series, music, or even educational content. Plus, they can enjoy it instantly and feel like you really get what they love to do in their free time.

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4. Online Cooking Classes

If your friend or family member loves to cook (or even just loves to eat), gifting an online cooking class can be a total win. They’ll get to explore new cuisines, sharpen their culinary skills, and maybe even discover a new favorite dish. Imagine them thanking you after nailing the perfect soufflé or homemade pasta-total brownie points for you!

These classes are super convenient because they’re online. No matter where they live, they can participate in the class right from their kitchen. And honestly, learning something new is way more exciting than just getting another material item-it’s an experience that will stick with them long after the birthday is over.

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5. Digital Art and Design Software

For the creative minds, digital art and design software can make a birthday unforgettable. Whether they’re into painting, graphic design, or digital illustrations, gifting them a tool that sparks creativity shows that you really understand their passions. It’s like saying, ’I believe in your talent and I want you to create even more amazing stuff!’

Plus, it’s all digital-instant access, no shipping delays, and endless possibilities to explore. They can start their project immediately, experiment with new styles, or even use it for professional purposes. It’s both practical and inspiring, making it a gift that feels personal and thoughtful.

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6. Online Fitness Classes

Fitness enthusiasts or anyone wanting to get active will love the gift of online fitness classes. You’re basically giving them a personal trainer, but without the awkward gym timings! From yoga and pilates to high-intensity interval training, there’s something for every level and interest.

The great thing is they can do it from home, which means no excuses about bad weather or packed gyms. It’s a thoughtful way to show you care about their health and wellness, and let’s be real, it’s a gift that keeps motivating long after the birthday candles are blown out.

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7. Music Downloads and Digital Albums

For anyone who lives and breathes music, gifting digital albums or music downloads is a surefire way to hit the right note. You’re giving them a personal soundtrack to enjoy anytime, anywhere. It could be their favorite band, an up-and-coming artist, or a curated playlist that screams, ’I thought of you!’

And the beauty of digital music is that it’s instantly accessible. No waiting for CDs or shipping delays. They can start listening right away, and every time they hit play, they’ll think of you-bonus points for making a gift that keeps playing!

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8. Virtual Experiences and Tours

If your loved one is a travel enthusiast or just loves discovering new things, virtual experiences are perfect. From exploring the Louvre in Paris to going on a guided virtual safari in Africa, these experiences allow them to travel without leaving their couch. It’s an amazing way to broaden horizons and create memories digitally.

What’s especially cool is that it’s interactive-many virtual tours include Q&A sessions, live guides, or immersive storytelling. It’s not just a gift; it’s an experience they’ll remember, and it shows that you went the extra mile to find something unique and thoughtful.

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9. E-Magazine Subscriptions

For someone who loves reading but wants something light and convenient, e-magazine subscriptions are a perfect fit. Whether they’re into fashion, science, gaming, or lifestyle, they’ll get new content delivered digitally every month. It’s like a little gift that keeps showing up in their inbox.

Plus, they don’t have to worry about storage or recycling paper magazines. They can access it anywhere-on their tablet, phone, or computer. It’s thoughtful, easy, and shows that you considered their interests carefully when picking a gift.

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10. Digital Games and In-App Currency

For the gamers in your life, digital games or in-app currency can make them absolutely ecstatic. Imagine the joy of receiving that special game they’ve been eyeing or enough in-game coins to upgrade their character or unlock premium content. It’s a gift that guarantees hours of entertainment and fun.

The best part? It’s instant! No shipping, no waiting, and no risk of buying the wrong edition. They can start playing immediately and think of you while leveling up or winning that epic battle. Honestly, it’s like being the hero of their birthday gaming adventure.

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Buyer Guide For E-gifts For Birthday

When it comes to birthday gifts, e-gifts have become a go-to for many reasons. They’re instant, often customizable, and there’s no hassle of wrapping or shipping delays. However, buying an e-gift doesn’t just mean clicking on a gift card. There’s a strategy behind picking something that’s meaningful yet convenient. Let’s break down some key factors that will help guide you in your purchasing decision:

  • Know The Recipient’s Interests

    Before even considering any platform, think about what the birthday person enjoys. Are they into gaming? Music? Food? Fitness? These factors will help you narrow down your search. Look at the recipient’s social media, past gifts, or even casual conversations to get a better sense of what they like.

  • Gift Types: What Are You Looking For?

    E-gifts come in many forms, and each serves a different purpose:

    • Gift Cards: Almost everyone loves the freedom to choose their own present. From Amazon to specific stores or even online food delivery services like UberEats, gift cards are versatile. Be sure to pick a retailer the recipient frequently shops at.
    • Subscriptions: Subscription services like Netflix, Spotify, or Audible are thoughtful choices for someone who loves entertainment. If they’re more into books or podcasts, maybe a subscription to Audible or a specialized magazine is ideal.
    • Experiences: Experience-based gifts are a hit. From virtual cooking classes to online concerts, you can give them an experience they won’t forget. Even better, it shows you’re thinking about something personal they can enjoy.
    • Digital Products: For the tech-savvy person, gifting a digital product like a software, an app, or even a course can be meaningful. Whether it’s a design tool, a productivity app, or a learning platform like MasterClass, these gifts can serve a practical purpose and show you’ve thought about their growth.

  • Consider Timing

    E-gifts are fast, but that doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute. Planning ahead ensures you have time to choose something thoughtful and personalize it. Make sure to schedule the e-gift delivery so it arrives on the right day, especially if it’s tied to a specific date, like a birthday.

  • Personalization Options

    Even though e-gifts are digital, you can still add a personal touch. Whether it’s a heartfelt note, a fun video message, or a custom e-card, personalization helps elevate the experience. Many platforms allow you to include a message with the e-gift, so don’t skip that part!

  • Budgeting

    Set a budget before you start browsing. It’s easy to get carried away, but remember that a meaningful e-gift doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, the best gifts often come with thoughtfulness rather than a hefty price tag. Stick to your budget to avoid stress.

How To Learn What Someone Really Wants

One of the biggest hurdles when buying an e-gift-or any gift, for that matter-is figuring out what the recipient actually wants. There’s nothing worse than giving someone a present they won’t use, but don’t worry; there are plenty of ways to learn about their preferences without being too obvious. Here’s how to do it:

  • Pay Attention To Hints

    Often, people drop subtle hints about what they like in everyday conversations. Have they mentioned a book they’ve been meaning to read? Or a gadget they’ve been eyeing? Take notes during casual chats or even during group events when they talk about what they enjoy or need.

  • Check Their Wishlist

    If the person you’re buying for has a public wishlist on platforms like Amazon or Etsy, you’re in luck. Many people keep lists of things they want to purchase. This is a goldmine for gift ideas.

  • Ask Them Directly

    While it might seem a little too obvious, sometimes simply asking someone what they would like can be a great approach-especially if you want to avoid any guesswork. You can ask for something general, like "Is there anything you’ve been wanting recently?" or get more specific if you know the person’s tastes.

  • Social Media Sleuthing

    Check their social media posts, stories, or even Pinterest boards. People often post about things they like, activities they’re into, or items they want. It’s a great way to find inspiration without directly asking.

  • Know Their Current Needs

    Consider the stage they’re in life. Are they moving into a new home? Starting a new job? About to travel? The best gifts often align with what’s going on in someone’s life, so tailoring your gift to fit their current lifestyle or future plans shows you’re paying attention.

Top Gift-Giving Errors To Watch Out For

Even though e-gifts are designed to be easy, there are still a few common mistakes that can make them feel less than thoughtful. Watch out for these gifting errors:

  • Choosing A Generic Gift

    It’s tempting to choose a gift card to a large retailer like Amazon, but while it might seem convenient, it can come off as impersonal. Try to choose something more specific to their interests instead of going with something too broad.

  • Forgetting To Personalize The Message

    A personalized note or message can make a huge difference. Don’t send an e-gift without adding a thoughtful note. It doesn’t have to be long, just something that shows you care and thought about them.

  • Choosing Something They Already Have

    If you know someone already owns a subscription or a gift card to a certain platform, double-check before buying the same thing. It can be awkward to give someone a duplicate item.

  • Not Checking Expiration Dates

    Some e-gift cards or subscriptions have an expiration date, and if they’re not used within a certain time frame, they may lose their value. Make sure to check the fine print before gifting.

  • Picking A Too-Narrow Option

    While personalized and thoughtful gifts are great, don’t go overboard with super niche options. If you pick something too specific, like a certain brand of tea that the recipient might not like, it might fall flat. Balance is key.

Best Places To Shop For Gifts

The beauty of e-gifts is that they can be bought from anywhere, but not all platforms are created equal. Here are some of the best places to look for the perfect e-gift:

  • Amazon

    A go-to for gift cards, e-books, and almost anything else. The variety here is unmatched, so you can find something for nearly anyone.

  • Etsy

    Ideal for personalized and handmade e-gifts, from custom artwork to printable planners or digital designs. Etsy allows you to support independent creators while giving a unique gift.

  • Apple & Google Play

    If your recipient is a tech lover, an app gift card or a subscription to an Apple service like iCloud storage or Apple Music could be perfect. Google Play has similar options for Android users.

  • MasterClass

    If you know someone who’s a fan of learning, MasterClass offers subscriptions to expert-led courses across various topics, from cooking to writing, leadership to acting.

  • Spotify

    A Spotify gift card for a premium subscription is ideal for the music lover. Plus, they can create their own playlists and enjoy an ad-free experience.

  • Airbnb

    A travel experience gift is one of the most memorable options. An Airbnb gift card can be used to book travel accommodations or unique experiences.

  • Giftly

    A great platform for choosing flexible gift cards. You can send a gift card for anything from dining to experiences, and the recipient can choose the best use for it.

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