The Best Subscription Boxes of 2021
Each year, MSA asks for our readers to pick their favorite subscription boxes they love across dozens of categories. From coffee and wine club subscriptions to beauty and skincare boxes, we've gathered all of the favorites! Including big brands and rising stars, we are excited to share our community's picks in our 2021 Subscription Box Awards!
With record numbers of people living and working at home this past year, many of those in our community tried online grocery services and meal kit boxes for the first time. We bought gift subscription boxes for friends and family that we weren't able to visit in person, and we saw renewed interest in snack subscriptions, too– particularly international and global snack boxes that feature brands and experiences we simply couldn't have had otherwise.
Maybe you're looking for a subscription to make your life easier, or a monthly subscription box to explore the latest lifestyle trends and beauty products. Perhaps you're shopping for the perfect gift, or you're looking to treat yourself to a monthly delivery of fun items. No matter who you're shopping for and why, our list of award-winning monthly subscription boxes features dozens of hand-picked community favorites. Want more? Check out our MSA Editors' picks to explore some of the best subscription boxes in more categories, too.
Subscription Boxes for Every Person
For Women: FabFitFun
FabFitFun ($49.99) is a lifestyle box full of wellness, style, and fitness goodies, with a retail value well over the price of the box. Highlighting everything from must-have makeup to indie fashion from women-owned brands, FabFitFun delivers a plentiful, diverse, and thoughtful seasonal box that stands out among all contenders.
"I am obsessed with FFF. Usually one item pays for the entire box. Anything else is icing on the cake." - MSA Reader
For Men: Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post ($45) subscribers get to choose a themed box every month filled with unique items themed around home, hobby, lifestyle, and beyond. The goal is to introduce you to something new, whether it be a better way to shave, a stylish take on barware, or something fun you never knew you couldn't live without. We also love their support for small business through their Support Small initiative.
"This box has been a lifesaver when it comes to buying gifts for the favorite men in my life – dad, brother, and son." - Michelle from El Paso
For Kids: KiwiCo
KiwiCo ($19.95) offers several boxes filled with hands-on fun activities for every age and interest, from infants through teens. Choose from their selection of age-based subscriptions for STEM and creativity, or shop their store for one-off boxes and projects to try before you commit. It's also easy to gift!
"We've been getting KiwiCrate for 4 years now, first KoalaCrate, then KiwiCrate, and now my older kids get the DoodleCrate. Every single one has been fantastic!" - Meeks
For Teens: Ipsy
Ipsy ($12) is the perfect way for teens to explore and experiment with new makeup and beauty looks, and startup their own skincare regimen–all for an affordable low monthly price. It's easy to skip a month and customize with add-ons, too.
"Good price to build up teens beauty collection." - Katie
Clothing Subscriptions & Stylist Services
For Women's Clothing: Fabletics
Fabletics ($49.95) VIP membership is known for affordable and trendy athleisure clothing, workout gear, and leggings. With an inclusive size range from XXS-3X, they offer someting for everyone (and you can skip any months you prefer not to order).
"With loungewear now the new norm, and shopping going almost exclusively online, finding myself searching the Fabletics site more often. I like the variety of celebrity collections they offer, and I appreciate their offering styles that work for different body types and lifestyles." - Miz T
For Jewelry: Rocksbox
Rocksbox ($21) is a jewelry rental service with a rotating library of pieces from a variety of brands. Choose what you want or be surprised by your stylist's picks, and buy it for a discount if you want to keep it forever.
"I cannot say enough about the brilliance of renting jewelry. Cost-wise, it makes so much sense because you have an endless rotation of the best brands without having to invest the money to own each piece. You can stay on top of trends without getting bored and you can align your monthly choices with your upcoming events to make sure you always have what you need for jewelry." - Erin Alysse
For Men's Clothing: Stitch Fix
Stitch Fix ($20 styling fee) is a personal styling service with options for women, men, and kids. Take an in-depth survey on size, style, and pricing, and your stylist will hand-pick clothing and accessories just for you. Keep what you love and return what you don't.
"My husband gets a fix a few times a year and has kept everything almost every time. I think the difference is that he's been particular about what he "needs" and has a fantastic stylist who gets his style. [...] The key is to provide ample feedback and communicate the real deal." - Sarah
For Kid's Clothing: Kidpik
Kidpik is a clothing box just for kids (sizes 4-16). Each box contains 7 items including apparel, shoes, and accessories designed to complete multiple mix and match outfits. Pay only for what you keep, with no styling fee and free shipping and returns. Previously only for girls, kidpik now features clothing for boys, too!
"My daughter LOVES Kidpik! She is excited to see what is in her box as soon as it is delivered." - Meagan
Beauty Boxes
For Beauty: Ipsy Glam Bag Plus
Ipsy Glam Bag Plus ($25) treats members to 5 full-size skincare and makeup products each month. The best part? You can choose up to 3 of those items before your bag ships, from a selection that usually includes both new and established brands.
"Has the most full-size items and most choice for picking in this price range. The algorithm really reads my preferences and feedback." - Jenn
For Makeup: Boxycharm
Boxycharm ($21) is a fan favorite for makeup addicts, with each monthly delivery including 5 full-size products and typically high retail values. If you love the thrill of opening a fresh new eyeshadow palette and learning new beauty techniques, this box is your best bet.
"This box is great for expanding your makeup collection." - Kate Dougherty
For Skincare: Ipsy Glam Bag Plus
Ipsy Glam Bag Plus ($25) topped our skincare category this year, thanks to the range of products, profile preferences, and ability for members to customize 3 of the 5 choices in each box.
"Ipsy plus offers the best value for the price and they are skincare-heavy, which I love! They would be perfect if they allowed us to choose from all the products in a category!" - Srg
Boxes for All Budgets
Under $15: Ipsy
Ipsy ($12) tops our budget-friendly category for the 4th year running! It's a great beauty box for newbies that still offers some perks, like add-on sales and the ability to choose 1 item in your bag each month.
"Ipsy is amazing. It's only 12 dollars a month you get a cute and different make up bag every month with your full size and sample size make up and it's a way to try new high end make up without spending a ton of money at the stores. [...] I love my Ipsy subscriptions." - Vivian
Over $50: FabFitFun
FabFitFun ($49.99) subscribers enjoy the thrill of discovering new brands through quartlery box customization, add-on purchases, and Edit sales. It's a perfect subscription for treating yourself, and a convenient way to find trendy gifts for others, too.
"I like the ability to customize. It is a way to buy products for myself as a splurge. I also use a lot of their products for gifts." - TeacherMom
Food & Drink Subscriptions
For Snacks: Universal Yums
Universal Yums ($15 - $39) deliverys snacks and candies from a different country each month, along with facts about each and a scorecard for tracking your favorites. This popular box is a fun exploration of flavors, a chance to learn about world cultures, and a way to enjoy a bit of wanderlust from the comfort of home.
"This has been a family favorite. You get treats from all over the world and it is truly a fun experience." - JodyE
For Meal Kit: HelloFresh
HelloFresh ($7.49 - $8.99 per serving) features crowd-pleasing classic dishes and unexpected recipes in their weekly meal kit offering. We love that their ingredients come bundled by recipe, so that you can easily take them from the fridge to the countertop and get started.
"First (and only) box subscription I use. It is great!" - Sherry
For Wine: Winc
Winc (starting at $12.99 per bottle) is approachable for wine newbies and seasoned vino drinkers alike. Let Winc ship you custom wine recommendations based on your personal palate preferences, or choose your own bottles from their current rotation.
"I've tried many of these subscription boxes and was disappointed in the quality and at times the types of wines in the box. Winc consistently delivers high quality wines that come from the vineyards and are customized for my taste. Exellent selections!" - Debra
For Tea: Sips By
Sips By ($15) ships you a monthly selection of 4 teas from well-known and up-and-coming brands curated to your preferences, with 15+ cups in each box. Ships free in the US.
"The personalization is what makes Sips By the standout for me!" - Cheryl
For Coffee: Atlas Coffee
Atlas Coffee (starting at $9) is a coffee subscription focused on single-origin coffees from around the globe, and includes information about each featured country with every delivery. Customize frequency, amount, roast level, and more.
"Atlas coffee club is one of my favorite coffee boxes! Their coffee tastes amazing and you get a great amount for the money!" - Emmi
For Pets
For Dogs: Barkbox
Barkbox ($29) has unique pun-filled themes each month, and comes filled with exclusive quirky toys, treats, and grooming products picked for your dog based on their size.
"Our dogs get so excited when their new box arrives - so fun to watch them! The treats are high quality and the toys are practically indestructible. We love the cute monthly themes, too!" - Cindy B
For Cats: CatLadyBox
CatLadyBox ($34.99+) is a monthly box of unique and exlusive cat-themed finds for feline-loving humans that sparks joy for the cat ladies among us. Don't leave out your furry friends: upgrade to Crazy CatLadyBox to get goodies for them, too.
"I adore CatLadyBox! Even as I try to trim down my number of subscriptions, this one has remained a keeper." - Mari
Boxes For All Interests
For Home: Grove Collaborative
Grove Collaborative is a reader favorite for natural cleaning, skincare, laundry, and other home goods that can be set to an auto-delivery schedule. A Certified B Corp, they also carbon offset every shipment that goes out their door.
"When all local stores were out of hand soap & cleaning supplies during the pandemic, Grove still delivered. Their scents are so REAL! The almond oil soap for wood floor is amazing! Where else can you find Peony or Bluebell dish soap?" - Jane
For Avid Readers: Book of the Month
Book of the Month ($14.99) offers a curated monthly selection of 5 new hardcover books for subscribers to choose from including new releases, non-fiction, young adult, and more. Pick which title you'd like to receive on the first of the month, or let Book of the Month choose for you. Add-on more books for $9.99 each.
"Your no fuss box. Just a great book choice for a great price." - Nikkiaust17
For Stationery: Cloth & Paper
Cloth & Paper (Starting at $18) brings quality and curation together for planner addicts! Whether you like to plan your work day or your home life, they have several options to choose from, featuring beautiful writing instruments, stationery, planner products, and more.
"Cloth & Paper is one of the most beautiful and economic stationary sub boxes out there. Black Woman owned, thoughtful, beautiful, extremely useful, and classy, are just some of the words to describe this company and sub box." - Unionplanner
For Fitness: FabFitFun
FabFitFun ($29.99) is filled with mostly lifestyle and beauty items, including wellness and fitness goods. Subscribers also have access to FabFitFunTV's high-quality exercise videos to follow along with at home.
"I think they always try to emphasize fitness as part of a balanced lifestyle, and I appreciate that." - TeacherMom
For Crafts: Doodle Crate
Doodle Crate ($19.95) is an art-filled monthly subscription geared toward ages 9-16+ (but we won't tell if you want to do these fun projects as an adult!). Each box has everything you need to complete a project from start to finish.
"Great for family fun." - Mommabear459
For Pop Culture: Pusheen
Pusheen ($43.95) is definitely a contender for cutest quarterly subscription box ever. Each seasonal box features exclusive Pusheen merch you can't find anywhere else, including apparel, collectibles, home goods, and more.
"There's a lot of thought put into this box. Everything is usually curated well around a strong theme, with a mix of practical, fun, and fashion items, so it stands out from the many pop culture offerings." - Indigo
For Adults Only: Savage X Fenty
Savage X Fenty (prices vary) sets the mood—whatever mood you want!—with their sexy, sassy, sporty, and cozy undergarment offerings. VIP members can shop from their constantly updated lingerie collection each month, or skip if needed. Sizes XS to 3x, bra sizes 32A-44DDD.
"Excellent quality goods." - Jenny
For Wellness: Care of
Care of (starting at $20) offers personalized daily vitamins, made from the best quality ingredients, in a convenient monthly box that's personalized especially for your diet, health goals, and more. Modify your plan at any time from their full range of 30 vitamins, minerals, and more.
"I love the variety and personalization." - J
For CBD: Hemp Crate Co
Hemp Crate Co (starting at $44.99) is a monthly subscription box for high-quality hemp products. Their offerings include classic CBD goodies like oil tinctures, capsules, and pain rubs, plus unique items along the lines of bath bombs, sleep sprays, and interesting snacks.
"LOVE this box! So many new products to try every month. Customer service is great!" - jaq
Subscription Box Gift Ideas
Gifts For Women: Causebox
Causebox ($54.94) is a quarterly lifestyle box that our readers love, thanks to its beautiful curation and great value! Each box is packed full of unique and ethically-made brands that we don't typically see in other subscriptions. Boxes include beauty, wellness, fashion, home, and more.
"I always loved getting this box. Very practical items with benefits to support good causes." – Lulu Dupon
Gifts For Men: SprezzaBox
SprezzaBox ($28) is a monthly accessories box for dapper guys. Each box includes 4-6 practical menswear items including ties, tie clips, pocket squares, socks, and more.
"Overall my favorite men's sub in terms of practical men's accessories, comfy socks, and value for cost." – Jennifer
Gifts for Kids: MEL Science
MEL Science (Starting at $24.90) has two monthly subscriptions: MEL Kids for 5+ and MEL Chemistry for 9-14. Both are tailored to each age range with science experiments, DIY kits, and an interactive app to make STEM learning even more engaging.
"The lessons are always so thorough, the box is well organized with easy to follow instructions and all of the official lab equipment makes this feel like a science class in a box!" - Brandi
Check Out Past Winners
See the #1 picks for Best Boxes of 2020, Best Boxes of 2019, 2018, and 2017, or browse more lists below:
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539 comments
ella b.
i L-O-V-E book of the month! kept me occupied for forever!
Julie
I am so sad. I have been an annual subscriber of CauseBox (now All True) since the beginning and I have to say, this last box confirmed my suspicions. I loved and supported this subscriber service because it was based on lifting up and supporting women-owned businesses and worthy causes. Four times a year I would rip into my box with a sense of joy. At least a year ago, I noticed that most of the items in the boxes are now made in china or somewhere similar and are nothing more than mass-produced items that can literally be purchased at any number of outlets for very reasonable prices. Now, this is my LEAST favorite subscription and unboxing is generally a disappointment. You have taken something that was special and made it common. If there were a way for me to cancel my annual membership I wouldn’t hesitate to take my dollars elsewhere to support your original mission.☹️
Kate
Agreed! I was in it for the causes, but increasingly the items are from mega-companies that don’t care about much beyond profit, though they do just enough for PR reasons. Cancelled my subscription. Was hoping for another good option to introduce me to environmentally-friendly companies in this list :-
J L
I agree with Becca! I just started getting EarthLove a few months ago and am pleased with their selection of eco-friendly/eco-themed goods.
Becca
Check out Earthlove. They are THE environmental box!
Charlotte
You realize MSA isn’t affiliated in any way with Causebox/Alltrue, right? They just post spoilers and review boxes.
Lana
I would like to join a succulent and plant club that ships to canada
Kelly
I’m tired of people – and the company itself -saying that Fabletics cares about diversity, has clothes for all shapes and sizes, yada yada yada. They don’t have petites!
And they won’t respond to any questions about please including petites.
It doesn’t do me any good for a shirt to fit my 1x body if the sleeves hang 4 inches below my fingers or the (non-hemable) athletic pants are 3 inches too long. Yes, you can buy short sleeve tees or knee length yoga pants, but most styles do not have that option and NO sweatshirts have shorter sleeves. No, you can’t just roll them up, they don’t stay in place.
Fabletics, don’t include petites if you don’t want to. Just quit claiming you have something for everybody.
And I’m sure extra tall women can’t find pants or sleeves long enough either.
Amber Carson
Singlesswag is a scam!
I wasn’t happy with my first box. They did a good customer service job though wouldn’t refund the rest of my subscription. I accepted that. But I asked for my subscription to not renew. They agreed and I still have that email showing that.
Fast forward and now they’ve charged me for the renewal. That caused my bank account to overdraw. I’ve sent emails to customer service. Nothing. I’ve talked to FB customer service. Nothing. I finally found another email, apparently it was the owner. Nothing. They’ve now blocked me on FB messenger after telling me that someone will be in contact because I emailed the owner.
I need my money back!!!
Shannon Edwards
Hi there! I recently had a similar situation through cratejoy, adore box. If you paid via credit card, you can call your credit card company and ask for a “charge back”. I paid on my Visa through my bank, and told them I paid but never received my box, and that the company completely ghosted me as well. They actually refunded me and then went after the merchant.
Lori
Contact your bank and tell them you want to file a claim for a unauthorized transaction. Let them know you have the email proving cancellation and ask where to send it. They will start a claim and investigate. Likely they will reverse your fees when the investigation is complete. Don’t hesitate as you in,y have 60 days from the time the charge posted to your account. This is covered under Reg E, a government regulation relating to all electronic transactions. I work in banking and this is common. Contact your bank asap by calling the 800 number on the back of your debit card. Good luck and don’t let big businesses intimidate or frighten you!
Garrick Williams
I’ve shopped around for and found A really good subscription box for women called Renewsubscriptionbox
Lana
“under 15” and “over 50” did not age well lol
Magda
I want 1 subscription box for my just newly retired parents who are still in great shape and look amazing. What 1 would you recommend for my mom and 1 for my dad. My dad’s an electrical engineer, dressed often in polo shirts & jeans or khakis and dress shirts. My dad’s also into gadgets. My mom everything and anything in taking care of herself, home.
Thanks,
Much appreciated
Malesa M Colville
Fabfitfun!!!! 💜
Hannah Corona
Please don’t list Nadine West on here as they are thieves. Just look at all the complaints on the better business bureau against Nadine West. If you want people to trust you then please don’t list scam companies on here
Kayse E
Couldn’t agree more! Nadine West is an absolute joke! Horrible experience with them.
Tom Avery
How about a review of manly man boxes. Some of us live the good sweaty outdoors life. Our hands are not smooth and our beards are not so trimmed but we have fun in the exploration of the globe and all its wonders.
Rachel
You have GOT to me kidding on on FitFabFun. Billing issues, half the products in the box are warped/slightly damaged already, despite my profile saying I didn’t want certain things, I received only items I didn’t want. The only ‘good’ part comes if you’re willing to fork over the money up front for the annual subscription and get online early for the add ons.
Shannon Bukis
I haven’t had any issues at all! I love my subscription!!
Terri
I love Look Fantastic from England, which has more skin products. Also love Allure and Glossy Box. Neither disappoint. What does disappoint is Rachel Zoe Box of Style. Aargh. Can’t cancel, don’t get a choice of a product and the items are odd (at least for me). FabFitFun was always a good box and I may go back to that.
Dima
I need the best deal ever.
Jade
I really love FabFitFun for make up & skincare! Their products are simply amazing. I also sometimes use Hello Fresh and Blue Apron cause they are fast and convenient but my fav Food Box is Eattiamo: it comes every month with delicious Italian products and are useful pantry staples in this period.
Wanna try meow box some day.
Jennifer
Thank you for doing what you do Liz. You are a huge inspiration. Stay safe during these difficult times. Jenny
Jeanette
I have already voted. But in retrospect, I wish, the award voting would take place beginning December 31. I unfortunately, have had some negative experiences with the holiday sub boxes and it would have strongly impacted my voting and my voting choices. In fact there are 3 boxes I voted for that I would not have voted for, epic fail season, and a box is only as a good as the busiest holiday. So disappointed.
JeSsica
Which ones would you NOT suggest?
skylar
Would not suggest mel science kit. I have purchased one myself, and they either came cracked, broken, or leaked.
Danielle McDonald
owlcrate
Cindy Brady
I love Bombay and Cedarand it’s my overall Favorite! Hello Fresh is a great food box. Other favs are Boxycharm and Luxe, Ipsy and plus, Stitch Fix, Scentbird, BOTM, and Grove. I have tried lots more too and am quite the sub box addict!!! I just love getting those boxes in the mail or at the door!!! If I had to name one I would really want to try it’d be Heart and Honey. What would I want to win? ANY!!!!
Liz
I really have been wanting to try Hello Fresh
Dana
Fabfitfun is definitely my favorite!
Jodie
I’d love to get free boxes, so guess I need to start a blog. Please email me all the details on how to start.
hannah
i love boxy charm allure and ipsy both reg and glam bag i tried sephora they dont give those cute little bags anymore just a plastic bag and the samples are super duper small even the birchbox is the same glossy box is ok ive wanted to try fabfit fun and the cat lady box especially
Cassandra Walton
I currently am loving FabFitFun! Just started my second year with them. And Ipsy is also a cheaper way to try products before purchasing full size items. I would ABSOLUTELY love to try the cause box, kiwi crate for my little and The Wordy Traveler for my Wanderlust soul!
Amanda
I totally love FFF! I am absolutely obsessed! I just got my first box and all the beauty products were awesome. I definitely am keeping this subscription!
