Comparing Popular Low-Cost Makeup Boxes

Love makeup but don’t want to spend a fortune? You’re not alone. Many beauty lovers are turning to low-cost subscription makeup boxes to explore new brands and build their collection without overspending.

Whether you’re new to the world of beauty or just want more bang for your buck, there are plenty of budget-friendly beauty options out there. This blog compares some of the best cheap makeup boxes available today, all priced under $25.

We’ll look at what you get, what makes each box special, and who they’re best for. If you’re ready to add value to your vanity without draining your wallet, let’s dive in.

Why Choose a Budget Makeup Box?

Subscription makeup boxes are an easy and affordable way to:

• Try new products
• Get surprise goodies each month
• Save money on makeup
• Discover indie and well-known brands

For a monthly fee, you get a mix of items, often worth double or triple the cost of the box.

What to Expect from a Low-Cost Box

Most budget boxes include:

• 4–5 items per box
• Sample sizes, deluxe minis, or occasional full-size items
• A mix of lip, eye, and face products
• Extras like brushes, tools, or skincare

Now let’s compare the best options.

1. Ipsy Glam Bag

Price: $14/month

What’s Inside: 5 deluxe-sized beauty samples

Focus: Skincare + makeup (mostly makeup with preferences)

Customisation: Yes, through a quiz and monthly product choices

Highlights:

• One of the most popular boxes under $20
• Great mix of brands — Tarte, Fenty, Benefit, and more
• High personalisation and a monthly bag included
• Frequent sales for add-ons

Best for: Those who want a little of everything and love variety

Cons: Some months lean more toward skincare if not adjusted

2. Lip Monthly

Price: $12.95/month

What’s Inside: 4–5 lip products (gloss, balm, stick, liner)

Focus: All things lips

Customisation: No, but variety in colour and type

Highlights:

• Focused box — great for lipstick lovers
• Full-size products in every box
• Often includes indie brands

Best for: Lip product fans building a colourful collection

Cons: Not for those wanting full-face variety

3. Allure Beauty Box (Starter Deals)

Price: First box often $10–$15 with promos

What’s Inside: Mix of 6+ editor-approved items

Focus: Makeup, skincare, and haircare

Customisation: Limited, but curated by Allure’s beauty team

Highlights:

• Includes well-known and high-end products
• Many boxes include full-size items
• Often includes best-sellers and trendy picks

Best for: Trying higher-end beauty on a budget

Cons: Regular price increases to $25/month after promo

4. BoxyCharm by Ipsy (Base Mini Subscription)

Price: $20–$25/month

What’s Inside: 4–5 full-size items

Focus: Makeup-heavy with occasional skincare

Customisation: Some choice and personalisation available

Highlights:

• Best for full-size makeup on a budget
• Great value for the price
• Frequent access to discounts and Ipsy shop

Best for: Serious beauty lovers who want full sizes

Cons: Slightly over the $20 mark, but often discounted

5. Kinder Beauty (Mini Box)

Price: $16/month

What’s Inside: 3–4 clean beauty products

Focus: Vegan, cruelty-free makeup and skincare

Customisation: No, but curated with care

Highlights:

• Ethical, conscious beauty products
• Frequent focus on lip care, highlighter, and soft makeup
• Clean ingredients and eco-friendly packaging

Best for: Clean beauty fans with a makeup interest

Cons: Lighter on bold or glam looks

Quick Comparison Chart

How to Choose the Right Box

Here are some quick tips to help you decide:

1. Know your focus

• Want lipsticks? Choose Lip Monthly
• Want a clean, natural look? Go with Kinder Beauty
• Like trying everything? Ipsy or Allure are solid bets

2. Think about size

• Full-size items feel more valuable
• Deluxe samples are great for testing without clutter

3. Set your expectations

• A $13 box won’t include every trendy product, but it’ll give you a great sampling
• Not every box will be perfect, but most will offer something useful

Get the Most Out of Your Box

• Fill out your beauty profile accurately
• Keep track of what you like — helps when buying full sizes
• Swap with friends if you get something you won’t use
• Unsubscribe or pause anytime — most boxes are flexible

Real-Life Case: Jasmine’s Budget Beauty Routine

Jasmine, 25, was spending $50+ a month on beauty before switching to two subscription boxes: Ipsy and Lip Monthly.

Over three months:

• She discovered a lipstick that she now buys full-size
• She built a go-to travel kit from minis
• She stopped buying random products at the drugstore

“Now I look forward to my boxes more than shopping in-store,” she says. “It keeps things fresh and affordable.”

Final Thoughts: Budget Boxes That Deliver

You don’t have to spend big to enjoy quality makeup. With the right subscription makeup box, you can build a beautiful routine that fits your style — and your wallet.

Each box above has its own strengths, whether you want bold looks, eco-friendly picks, or just a monthly surprise.

Try one for a few months, see what you love, and don’t be afraid to mix it up.

Affordable beauty isn’t about having more — it’s about choosing better.