• Small appliances make for great holiday gifts.
• High-end models of coffee makers, toasters, and ovens are durable, look good, and stand the test of time.
• Consider small appliances that fit into the recipient’s everyday routine; bonus points if it’s a high-ticket item they won’t usually think of getting for themselves.

---

We’re entering peak holiday shopping season, and it can get dicey, whether you’re going off a wishlist or not. Taking a shot in the dark can lead to immediate re-gifting, and getting something off a list feels like taking the easy way out (wedding and baby registries are different; stick to the script). I used to think gifts were only categorized as a “want” or a “need,” but there’s something that covers both bases. A fancy small appliance is the best gift you can give this holiday season.

I’m not suggesting you have a dishwasher or generator delivered on Christmas morning; think on a smaller scale—high-end espresso makers, convenient air fryers, a home pizza oven, or even a toaster—niceties that will be used almost daily with enjoyment.

Best Drip Coffee Maker

Technivorm Moccamaster 53923 KBGV Select Coffee Maker

This is the most popular drip coffee maker in an office where we constantly test products for a living. I’m not at all picky when it comes to coffee — I like Folgers with a bit of powdered creamer, no sugar — and didn’t think my simple palate was missing out by using a basic Mr Coffee machine. After two years with the Moccamaster, I can’t go back.

The Moccamaster heats up faster than my old machine and consistently makes a great cup of coffee. It doesn’t take up a lot of space on the counter, and it commands attention with its stylish looks. There’s only a power button and a toggle button to choose how much coffee you want to brew (half or whole carafe), no timers, clock, or smart features.

Retro Toaster with Precision

Smeg Two-Slice Toaster

Smeg is a good example of the need vs. want conundrum. The brand makes everyday household items elevated to a gift-worthy level with its attention to design and detail. I got a Smeg tea kettle for my girlfriend, and it was a hit; she absolutely loved it. The retro, glossy red finish looked great, and the build quality was more durable than expected. When our toaster gave out, I knew exactly which model to replace it with.

This Smeg toaster has proven to be just as satisfying to use. The control knob has six different browning settings and four different heating modes for precise toasting. Its slots are larger than our older toaster, which means we’re not having to dig out bagels that get stuck. Our record is two thick-sliced pieces of sourdough in one slot.

They Really Will Save on Toilet Paper

Tushy Classic 3.0 Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment

I can’t overstate how much I love this bidet. The Tushy comes with everything you need, and installation took all of ten minutes. My bathroom is small, and I was worried the control knob would stick out too far, but it fit perfectly. The brand also offers other options, such as the Tushy Wave, which don’t stand out at all if you’re really limited on space.

The Tushy attaches to the bowl and connects to the water line of your toilet. The knob controls water pressure, and there’s a switch that moves the angle of the nozzle for an efficient clean. The Classic 3.0 is non-electric, and there’s no controlling water temperature, but it really isn’t a deal breaker. (The only downside is they’ll now want a bidet available every time they use the restroom and that’s not the world we live in.)

For Their Shakes, Dressings, or Meal Prep

NutriBullet 24-ounce Blending System

This replaced my blender when I moved to New York and lost all my kitchen counter space. The 24-ounce capacity can blend just as much as a full-size blender in a couple of batches and takes up a lot less room. The gaskets and blades are replaceable, so it lasts longer than cheaper options that can’t be fixed.

Other Gift-Worthy Appliances to Consider

A Steam-Toast-Roast Combo

Balmuda The Toaster

Now 11% Off

For Coffee and Matcha Makers

Dreo 8-in-1 Milk Frother

Now 10% Off

Better than Ooni

For Better Skin and Hair

Gear of the Year Award Winner

All-in-one Espresso Bar

For Frying Purists

Danny Perez is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men’s style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men’s shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.