Headspace Review: Is It Worth Gifting?

What We Like

1. Best Structured Learning for Beginners

Headspace's greatest strength is its systematic approach. The app offers structured courses like "Basics" (foundational meditation), "Stress" (managing anxiety), and "Sleep" (better rest). Each course builds on previous lessons, making it perfect for someone who's never meditated before. The recipient won't feel lost—they'll have a clear path forward.

2. Backed by Scientific Research

Headspace has been studied in over 25 peer-reviewed publications. Research shows it reduces stress by 14% in just 10 days and improves focus. Co-founder Andy Puddicombe is a former Buddhist monk, bringing authentic meditation expertise. If your recipient values evidence-based wellness, Headspace is the choice.

3. Charming Animations Make It Approachable

Headspace uses delightful animations to explain meditation concepts. Little cartoon characters demonstrate techniques, making abstract ideas concrete. For someone intimidated by meditation, these visuals make it less daunting and more approachable. The app feels friendly, not preachy.

4. Focus Music for Work and Study

Beyond meditation, Headspace offers focus music—curated soundscapes designed to help you concentrate. Students, remote workers, and anyone needing to get into "deep work" mode will love this feature. It's a bonus that extends Headspace's value beyond meditation itself.

5. Movement and Mindful Exercises

Headspace isn't just sitting meditation. It includes guided exercises for mindful walking, mindful eating, and movement sequences. Fitness enthusiasts and people who struggle to sit still will appreciate these active alternatives.

What to Consider

1. Smaller Content Library Than Calm

Headspace has about 500 guided meditations compared to Calm's 1,000+. For beginners working through courses, this doesn't matter. But experienced meditators might find they run out of fresh content faster than on Calm.

2. Animations May Feel Childish

While many find Headspace's animations charming, some users feel they're too cutesy or juvenile. If the recipient prefers a more "adult" aesthetic, Calm's elegant design might be a better fit.

3. No Celebrity Sleep Stories

Calm's celebrity-narrated Sleep Stories are a standout feature. Headspace has sleep content (sleepcasts and sleep music), but no Matthew McConaughey or Harry Styles narrations. If sleep is the primary concern, Calm might have the edge.

Who It's Best For

How to Gift Headspace

1. Visit Headspace's gift page using our link below (you'll see their latest offers).
2. Choose your gift subscription—annual ($69.99/yr), monthly ($12.99/mo), or family plan ($99.99/yr for 6 people).
3. Select delivery method: digital gift (sent via email immediately) or printable gift (download a PDF certificate to present in person).
4. Personalize with a message. Example: "I thought you'd love learning to meditate—this app makes it easy and science-backed!"
5. Complete checkout. The recipient receives redemption instructions via email, or you print the certificate for a physical presentation.

Pricing Breakdown

Headspace offers several subscription tiers. For gifting, we recommend the annual plan or the student plan if they qualify:

Alternatives

If Headspace doesn't feel quite right, consider:

• Calm — Better for experienced meditators wanting variety. Has celebrity Sleep Stories. Same price ($69.99/yr). Read our Calm review → See Headspace vs Calm comparison →
• Ten Percent Happier — Meditation app for skeptics, based on Dan Harris's book. Good for those put off by "woo-woo" language.
• Waking Up — Advanced meditation app by Sam Harris. Better for experienced practitioners, not beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Headspace gift cards work?

Purchase a gift subscription on Headspace's website, and the recipient gets an email with a redemption code. They create an account (or log into an existing one), enter the code, and gain immediate access to all Premium features.

Is Headspace good for beginners?

Absolutely—it's the best meditation app for beginners. The "Basics" course teaches meditation fundamentals step-by-step over 10 days. The animations explain concepts clearly. Headspace assumes zero prior knowledge.

What's the difference between Headspace and Calm?

Headspace is more structured with guided courses, better for beginners. Calm has a larger content library, celebrity Sleep Stories, and a more elegant design. Both cost $69.99/yr. Read our full comparison →

Does Headspace have sleep content?

Yes. Headspace has sleepcasts (45-55 minute audio experiences), sleep music, and wind-down exercises. It doesn't have celebrity-narrated Sleep Stories like Calm, but the sleep content is still effective.

Can I use Headspace for focus and work?

Yes! Headspace offers focus music—curated soundscapes designed to help you concentrate. Many users play this while working, studying, or doing deep work. It's a standout feature beyond meditation.

Is there a Headspace student discount?

Yes! College students get Headspace for $9.99/year (normally $69.99/yr) with valid student verification through SheerID. If you're gifting to a student, this is an incredible deal.

Final Verdict

Headspace earns our "Science-Backed" badge for meditation gifts. It's the best choice for beginners who want to learn meditation properly, backed by research and taught by experts. The structured courses provide a clear path, and the focus music adds bonus value.

If you're gifting to someone who's never meditated, is science-minded, or needs help with stress and focus, Headspace is an excellent choice. It's a gift that teaches a lifelong skill—and they'll thank you for introducing them to meditation.