14 best gift cards for online shopping, offering smart choices for every type of shopper.

Finding the perfect gift card can feel like navigating a maze. With so many options out there, how do you pick one that actually gets used? The truth is, some gift cards sit forgotten in wallets while others become genuine lifesavers for busy shoppers.

We've rounded up 14 gift cards that people actually want to receive. These aren't just random retailers – they're the places where your friends and family are already shopping, or wish they could shop more often.

Amazon, Target, and Walmart gift cards for convenient online shopping and great deals.

1. Amazon Gift Card

Amazon gift cards remain the gold standard for good reason. When someone can buy everything from groceries to gadgets with a single card, you know you've made a safe bet.

What makes it special: The sheer variety is staggering. Books, electronics, home goods, clothing, streaming services – if it exists, Amazon probably sells it. Plus, the card never expires, so there's no pressure to spend it immediately.

Best for: Anyone who shops online regularly, tech enthusiasts, busy professionals who value convenience

Pros:

• Works across Amazon's entire marketplace
• Never expires
• Easy to redeem and use
• Available in any amount from $10 to $2,000

Cons:

• Can feel impersonal
• Might encourage impulse buying
• Some prefer supporting smaller businesses

2. Target Gift Card

Target hits that sweet spot between affordable and trendy. Whether someone needs household basics or wants to treat themselves to something special, this card covers both bases.

What makes it special: Target's brand partnerships and exclusive collections mean you'll find items you can't get elsewhere. The RedCard integration also adds extra savings for regular shoppers.

Best for: Families, college students, anyone who appreciates good design at reasonable prices

Pros:

• Works both online and in-store
• Covers everything from groceries to home decor
• Regular sales and promotions stretch the value
• Easy to combine with other offers

Cons:

• Limited to Target's product selection
• May not appeal to luxury shoppers
• Some items only available in certain regions

3. Walmart Gift Card

For families watching their budget, Walmart delivers on the promise of low prices across necessities and beyond. It's practical gifting at its finest.

What makes it special: The grocery pickup and delivery options have transformed how people shop at Walmart. Your gift card can cover everything from weekly groceries to electronics.

Best for: Large families, budget-conscious shoppers, people in areas with limited shopping options

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• Huge selection of everyday essentials
• Convenient pickup and delivery services
• Accepted at Sam's Club too

Cons:

• Brand perception may not appeal to everyone
• Limited luxury or specialty items
• Website can be overwhelming to navigate

4. Apple Gift Card

Apple users know the ecosystem, and they love staying within it. This card opens doors to apps, music, movies, and that next device upgrade they've been eyeing.

What makes it special: One card works across all Apple services – iTunes, App Store, Apple Music, iCloud storage, and even hardware purchases. It's like giving someone the keys to the Apple kingdom.

Best for: iPhone and Mac users, creative professionals, music and movie lovers

Pros:

• Works across all Apple services and products
• Perfect for digital content purchases
• High perceived value among Apple fans
• Easy to redeem through any Apple device

Cons:

• Only useful for Apple ecosystem users
• Can be expensive for hardware purchases
• Digital purchases may feel less tangible as gifts

5. Best Buy Gift Card

Tech enthusiasts light up when they see that familiar yellow tag. Best Buy gift cards mean access to the latest gadgets, plus the expertise to make smart choices.

What makes it special: Beyond just selling electronics, Best Buy offers services like Geek Squad support and installation. Your gift card can cover both the gadget and getting it set up properly.

Best for: Tech lovers, gamers, anyone setting up a new home or office

Pros:

• Wide selection of electronics and appliances
• Expert advice and installation services
• Regular sales on popular items
• Price matching policies add value

Cons:

• Limited to electronics and related items
• May not appeal to non-tech shoppers
• Some items require additional research

6. Home Depot Gift Card

Home improvement projects never really end – there's always something to fix, upgrade, or beautify. Home Depot gift cards fuel those weekend warrior ambitions.

What makes it special: From tiny screws to major appliances, Home Depot covers every aspect of home improvement. The card also works for tool rentals, which many people don't realize.

Best for: Homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, contractors, new homeowners

Pros:

• Massive selection of home improvement items
• Tool rental services included
• Professional installation available
• Frequent sales and bulk discounts

Cons:

• Only useful for home-related purchases
• Can be overwhelming for beginners
• May encourage expensive projects

7. Starbucks Gift Card

Some people run on coffee, and Starbucks gift cards keep them fueled. It's a small luxury that makes everyday routines feel special.

What makes it special: The mobile app integration makes spending seamless, and the rewards program means every purchase builds toward free drinks. It's gifting that keeps giving back.

Best for: Coffee lovers, busy professionals, students, frequent travelers

Pros:

• Convenient mobile app integration
• Rewards program adds extra value
• Available at many locations
• Can be used for food items too

Cons:

• Limited to Starbucks locations
• May not suit non-coffee drinkers
• Can encourage expensive daily habits

8. Netflix Gift Card

Entertainment is essential, especially when you're stuck at home or need to unwind after long days. Netflix gift cards remove the monthly payment worry and let people enjoy their shows guilt-free.

What makes it special: Netflix's original content and vast library mean there's always something new to discover. The gift card covers months of entertainment without any commitment.

Best for: Movie and TV show enthusiasts, families, anyone who loves binge-watching

Pros:

• Covers several months of subscription
• Access to exclusive Netflix originals
• Works across all devices
• No ads or interruptions

Cons:

• Subscription-based, so value depletes over time
• Content varies by region
• May duplicate existing subscriptions

9. Sephora Gift Card

Beauty enthusiasts know that Sephora is where you go for the good stuff. From drugstore dupes to luxury splurges, this card opens doors to serious beauty experimentation.

What makes it special: Sephora's beauty advisors and extensive product reviews help shoppers make informed choices. The card also covers services like makeovers and skincare consultations.

Best for: Beauty lovers, anyone wanting to try new products, people who enjoy self-care rituals

Pros:

• Access to high-end beauty brands
• Expert advice and services available
• Generous return policy
• Regular samples and promotions

Cons:

• Products can be expensive
• May overwhelm beauty beginners
• Limited appeal outside beauty enthusiasts

10. Nordstrom Gift Card

When you want to give someone permission to splurge on quality, Nordstrom delivers. Their reputation for customer service means the shopping experience matches the premium products.

What makes it special: Nordstrom's legendary return policy and personal shopping services turn gift card spending into a luxury experience. The card works across all Nordstrom brands, including Nordstrom Rack.

Best for: Fashion-conscious individuals, special occasion shoppers, anyone who appreciates quality

Pros:

• High-quality merchandise and brands
• Excellent customer service
• Works at Nordstrom Rack for discounts
• Personal shopping services available

Cons:

• Higher price points than many retailers
• May feel intimidating to casual shoppers
• Limited locations in some areas

11. REI Gift Card

Outdoor adventures require gear you can trust. REI gift cards help fund everything from weekend camping trips to serious mountain expeditions.

What makes it special: REI's co-op membership program and expert staff guidance ensure people get gear that actually works for their adventures. The generous return policy removes the risk from trying new activities.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, anyone starting a new outdoor hobby

Pros:

• High-quality outdoor gear and clothing
• Expert advice from experienced staff
• Excellent return policy
• Co-op membership benefits

Cons:

• Specialized for outdoor activities only
• Higher prices than general retailers
• May not appeal to indoor-focused people

12. Etsy Gift Card

Handmade and unique items have a special appeal that mass-produced goods can't match. Etsy gift cards let people discover one-of-a-kind treasures from creative entrepreneurs.

What makes it special: Every purchase supports independent artists and makers. The variety is endless – from custom jewelry to vintage finds to personalized home decor.

Best for: People who love unique items, supporters of small businesses, anyone seeking personalized gifts

Pros:

• Supports independent creators
• Unique, often customizable items
• Wide variety of handmade goods
• Personal connection with makers

Cons:

• Shipping times can vary widely
• Quality may be inconsistent
• Returns can be complicated

13. GameStop Gift Card

Gaming culture continues to grow, and GameStop remains central to that community. These gift cards cover everything from the latest releases to retro classics.

What makes it special: Beyond games, GameStop sells gaming accessories, collectibles, and merchandise. The trade-in program also means the card can stretch further when combined with old games.

Best for: Gamers of all ages, collectors, parents of gaming enthusiasts

Pros:

• Wide selection of games and gaming gear
• Trade-in program adds value
• Covers both new and used items
• Gaming expertise from staff

Cons:

• Limited to gaming-related purchases
• Digital gaming may reduce relevance
• Store locations have decreased

14. Visa/Mastercard Prepaid Gift Card

Sometimes the most flexible option is the best option. Prepaid gift cards work anywhere credit cards are accepted, giving recipients complete freedom to choose.

What makes it special: True flexibility means never worrying about whether someone will use the gift. They can spend it on groceries, gas, online purchases, or anything else they need.

Best for: Anyone when you're unsure of preferences, people who value flexibility, last-minute gift situations

Pros:

• Accepted virtually everywhere
• Complete spending flexibility
• Available in many denominations
• No expiration on most cards

Cons:

• Activation and maintenance fees
• Can feel impersonal
• May be lost or forgotten more easily
• Some online merchants don't accept them

How to Choose the Right Gift Card

The best gift card matches how someone actually lives and shops. Think about their daily routines, hobbies, and preferences. A coffee lover will appreciate Starbucks more than Home Depot, while a new homeowner might prefer the opposite.

Consider their shopping habits too. Do they prefer online convenience or in-store experiences? Are they brand loyal or bargain hunters? These details help you pick a card they'll actually use with enthusiasm.

Pro tip: When in doubt, go with versatility. Amazon and Visa gift cards work for almost everyone, while specialized cards show you've paid attention to someone's specific interests.

The goal isn't just giving a gift card – it's giving someone the joy of choosing exactly what they want, when they want it. That's a gift that keeps on giving.

​14 Best Gift Cards for Online Shopping: Smart Choices for Every Shopper

14 Best Gift Cards for Online Shopping: Smart Choices for Every Shopper