Best Gifts for Dad Under $50
For a dad who’s happiest at the grill, the ThermoPop 2 and Cutluxe slicing knife are useful cooking upgrades. The key-ring multi-tool adds a handy gadget, the Anker speaker brings music to the backyard, and the potato baker is a more playful choice for grilling sides. Below, each pick includes what reviewers liked, what to watch out for, and the sources we used. Prices are approximate.
1ThermoPop 2
A practical grilling gadget he can use to check food doneness, and it’s included in an under-$50 grilling gift guide.
What reviewers like
- Useful at the grill without taking up much space
- A good fit if he enjoys getting the cook just right
Watch out for
- The guide doesn’t specify its price
- Less appealing if he already has a thermometer he likes
2Cutluxe 12-inch Slicing Knife
A strong choice for a dad who likes smoking or grilling larger cuts: The Barbecue Lab picked it as its favorite brisket knife among seven contenders, and notes it costs under $50.
What reviewers like
- Made for slicing larger cooked cuts
- Recognized by a grilling-focused reviewer
Watch out for
- A long knife needs careful storage
- Less useful if he rarely cooks roasts or brisket
3Thinga-Ma-Bob Multi-Tool Key Ring
This tiny key-ring tool could delight a dad who likes handy gadgets, especially if he doesn’t already carry a regular multi-tool.
What reviewers like
- Compact enough to keep on a key ring
- Appears in a New York Times guide to gifts under $50
Watch out for
- Its small size may limit how comfortable it is for substantial tasks
- Fewer independent reviews than the other picks
4Anker Soundcore 2
A portable speaker is a fun change of pace from grill gear and could make backyard cookouts more enjoyable.
What reviewers like
- Portable speaker suited to taking music outdoors
- Included in a roundup of gadgets under $50
Watch out for
- Less relevant if he already has a speaker he uses outside
- The roundup doesn’t give a specific price
5Cast Iron Potato Baker
A distinctive grilling accessory that lets him make a potato side dish alongside the main course; it’s listed for $40.
What reviewers like
- A giftable, specialized cooking accessory
- A straightforward under-budget pick
Watch out for
- Its use is narrower than an everyday grill tool
- Cast iron can be heavy
Describe your exact situation and the parrot will find your best match.