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We rounded up the best tech gifts for teens with something for every budget.
From headphones to cameras, we have gift ideas for all interests.
Shopping for someone else? Check out our best tech gifts for women and our best picks under $25.
Teens are tough to shop for, but useful tech products can make great gifts for even the most difficult recipient.
Whether the teen on your shopping list is into video games, photography, music, or fitness, there's a recommendation on this list for everyone. Our tech gifts also cover a variety of budgets, with some items costing less than $15.
Here are the 32 best tech gifts for teens:A controller for mobile gaming
Amazon
Razer Kishi Mobile Game Controller for Android, available at Amazon, $55
Smartphones can do it all these days, even serve as a full-on gaming device. The Razer Kishi connects to your phone through its charging port to add buttons and analog sticks for even better mobile gaming. It's a great gift for Fortnite, Genshin Impact, and other multi-platform titles — just make sure to check if they use Android or iPhone.
Long, durable charging cables
Amazon
10-foot iPhone Charger 5-pack, available at Amazon, $10
Every iPhone owner of any age could use more charging cables. This set includes five 10-foot long cables, so your recipient can keep one in every room. Long cables like these are also super handy for when an outlet is inconveniently far away.
A drawing tablet for digital art beginners
B&H Photo
Wacom Intuos Creative Pen Tablet, available at B&H, $39.95
Travel-sized, affordable, and versatile, this Wacom Intuos pen tablet makes a great gift for the aspiring digital artist in your life. It's suitable for both left- and right-handed users, and even comes with customizable ExpressKeys at the top.
A subscription service with access to thousands of digital comic books
Marvel
Marvel Unlimited, $10 a month or $70 a year
Comixology Unlimited, $6 a month
If your teen is a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe or superheroes in general, you can give them access to thousands of comic books with a subscription to Marvel Unlimited. The digital service offers more than 29,000 comics, spanning from the classic origin stories of characters like Spider-Man and the X-Men, to recent comic book events like "Venom: King in Black."
You can access Marvel Unlimited on iPhone, Android, iPad, and your web browser, and download books for offline viewing.
If your teen is a more adventurous reader, you can get them a subscription to Comixology Unlimited, an Amazon owned comic reading service that features a wider range of content, including DC Comics like "Batman" and Image Comics like "The Walking Dead."
Comixology Unlimited costs $6 a month making it cheaper than Marvel Unlimited, but it offers fewer complete series. Comixology Unlimited subscribers also receive up to 15% off Marvel, DC, Image, and Dark Horse comic book purchases, making it easier to build a personal collection.
A customized gaming controllerThis is just a small selection of the colors available in the Xbox Design Lab.
Microsoft
Xbox design Lab Custom Controller, available at Microsoft, $69.99
Microsoft's Xbox controller has a classic design and is compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhone, iPad, Android products, Mac, and PC. But people might not be aware of Microsoft's Xbox Design Lab, which lets you customize the colors on every part of the controller and add a laser engraving. The custom controller will arrive within 28 days, usually taking about two weeks.
If you're worried about choosing a design for your teen, you can give them an $80 Xbox gift card and let them choose between a custom design, or just buying a new game with the store credit.
A webcam perfect for streaming your own videos
Logitech
Logitech c920x, available at Amazon, $59.99
This webcam is one of the most recommended for people getting started with YouTube videos or Twitch livestreams, and it's become even more popular with professionals working from home.
While lots of laptops come with built-in cameras, the Logitech c920 offers better video quality with resolutions up to 1080p, a wide viewing angle, streaming at 60 frames per second at 720p, and an adjustable base that can be easily attached to tripods and other stands.
A streaming subscription for music loversAn Android smartphone with the Spotify Music logo visible on screen, alongside a pair of earphones.
Olly Curtis/Future via Getty Images
Spotify Premium Subscription, available at Spotify, $9.99 a month
Teens love listening to music, and streaming services offer unlimited access to their favorite tunes. Spotify offers a huge music library and is compatible with Apple, Android, and Windows devices. The premium subscription gets rid of ads, allows your teen to download songs for offline listening, and lets them skip songs as they please. Plans start at $10 per month and are a great way to satisfy the music lover in your family.
Wireless earbuds that easily pair with an iPhone
Crystal Cox/Business Insider
Apple AirPods Pro, available at Amazon, $189.99
Apple's AirPods Pro offer a great way for your teen to listen to music, take calls, and tune out the world. These true wireless earbuds feature seamless pairing with Apple devices, active noise cancellation, and a transparency mode so they can still hear you when you remind them to do their homework. They come with three sizes of removable eartips for a perfect fit, and boast up to 24 hours of listening time with multiple charges in the included wireless charging case.
A subscription that's like Netflix for video games
Microsoft
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, $44.99 for 3 months
Playstation Plus Subscription, $24.99 for 3 months
Why buy just one game when you can get dozens? That's the premise behind Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Microsoft's Netflix-style subscription gaming service. Microsoft offers over 100 games, including blockbusters like "Grand Theft Auto V," "Destiny 2," and "FIFA 21" among many others. Game Pass Ultimate isn't cheap – it costs around $40 for three months – but offers a tremendous value considering that one new game costs $60.
For Playstation fans there's Playstation Plus, which is cheaper than Microsoft's service at $25 for three months, but offers far fewer games. Subscribers get access to a handful of titles each month that they can download and keep as long as they remain a member of the service.
The service also comes with other perks like online gameplay and discounts. Which subscription you should get depends on the console your teen owns, but they'll appreciate either one.
A gaming headset with audiophile-level sound
Amazon
SteelSeries Arctis Pro, available at Amazon, $133.06
If you're going to get your PC gamer a gaming headset, you might as well invest in one that produces audiophile-level sound. That way, they can listen to music and watch movies without having to switch to a different pair of headphones.
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro is a good choice for gamers who care about top-notch audio, as it comes with several input options, virtual surround sound, and a bass that can be pushed. Plus, teens will love the fact that they can customize its look with SteelSeries' range of headbands and ear cups.
If you're willing to splurge, the $349.99 wireless version makes it easier for your teen to seamlessly transition between playing games on their PC and taking a call on their phone.
An Instax printer to print all those selfies on
Amazon
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link Smartphone Printer, available at Amazon, $99.99
Instant cameras are so yesterday! With most teens relying on their camera phones to take photos, a mobile photo printer that lets them print all those friend selfies saved on their phone on 1.81 x 2.44 Instax film is just what the fun doctor ordered. Pair that with the photo clip fairy string lights, and you might just inspire your teen to decorate and declutter their room to make it visitor-friendly.
A unique electronic musical instrument that's big in Japan
Amazon
Otamatone Deluxe Electronic Musical Instrument, available at Amazon, $79.99
Music is one of the biggest outlets teens turn to channel their creativity and angst, and this musical synthesizer lets your budding musician create music in a fun and quirky way. Pressing the middle part of the Otamatone and sliding your fingers up and down it will produce higher and lower tones while opening and closing its mouth creates a "wah" sound. It can even connect to speakers, amps, and (preferably to the rest of your household) headphones.
A 3D pen with plastic refills in 15 different colors
3Doodler Create + 3D Printing Pen, available at Amazon, $79.99
Today's 3D printers may be pricey, but that doesn't mean that your artistic teen can't enjoy and master the art. With this 3D pen, they can even do so in a more analog way, stirring their creativity and allowing them to appreciate the value of working with one's hands. Plug this pen into a wall outlet, load up the plastic color, and once the pen heats the plastic, your teen is ready to create. It comes with an app with interactive step-by-step instructions on custom art projects.
A smartwatch that tracks activity and fitness goals
Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider
Apple Watch SE, available at Amazon, $249
Your athletic or health-conscious teen will definitely appreciate the Apple Watch SE. This smartwatch can do most of the things Apple's flagship smartwatch can, while keeping things more affordable. It's still on the pricey side, but it's worth it to keep teens on the healthy, active path. As for the fun factor, your teen can customize it with different faces, bands and memojis, as well as use it to play music and stay in touch with friends via iMessage, social media apps, and phone capabilities.
Bluetooth trackers that keep your teen from losing their, well, everything
Tile
Tile Limited Edition Bluetooth trackers, available at Tile, starting at $16.99
You want to be able to entrust them with important things, from necessities like house and car keys to devices that cost money like laptops. But, let's face it: teenagers are basically bigger versions of kids, and they still tend to lose their stuff. This is why Tile's Bluetooth trackers are super handy. Attach one to their keys or wallet, connect it with their phone, and that's one last question you'll have to field. With their range of Limited Edition trackers that come in several fun designs, they'll be proud to show these off to friends.
If your teen owns an iPhone, you can also consider purchasing AirTags, Apple's official tracking device that works with the Find My app. They're a bit more expensive than Tile trackers at $29 each, but offer more features for iPhone users. They also come with a free engraving for personalization.
A handheld gaming system with multiplayer capabilities
Nintendo
Nintendo Switch Lite, available at Amazon, $199
If you're on a limited budget (times have been tough, after all) but want to reward your teen with a handheld gaming console, you cannot go wrong with a Nintendo Switch Lite. This pocket-friendly device may not be able to connect to the TV, but it's got a few advantages over the standard Switch beyond the price. It plays all but a few of the same games while being more portable. And, for color-loving teens, it comes in three fun shades plus gray.
A PC gaming controller with wireless connectivity
Amazon
Logitech Gamepad F310, available at Target, $17.59
This is a must-have for any teen who enjoys PC and console gaming. With the Logitech Gamepad F310, they can play their favorite Steam and other PC games from the comfort of a couch without the need for a mouse or keyboard — partly thanks to the 6-foot long cable. This will give them better control and a more seamless gaming experience during long sessions as well. If your teen hasn't experienced PC gaming from the couch, this will be a game-changer.
Affordable wireless earbuds
Best Buy
JLab Audio JBuds Air, available at Amazon, $23.43
These true wireless earbuds don't boast the same feature set as Apple's AirPods but they do have Bluetooth 5.0, quality sound, a microphone for calls, and basic water resistance. The battery lasts for six hours, and the case holds an additional 18 hours of charge, giving them comparable battery life to AirPods.
A drone with high-quality video capabilities
Amazon
DJI Mini SE, available at Amazon, $299
Whether you've got a future influencer or a budding content creator in the family, you've got an ace gift in this mini drone from DJI. This is an impressive drone for the price point, with a battery life of 30 minutes and a camera touting great stabilization and 2.7K Quad HD video capability. This drone even has automatic motion presets and a smooth motion mode, allowing beginner videographers such as your teen to utilize pro-level shooting techniques effortlessly. Just remember to teach them proper drone etiquette before they let their new toy fly.
Winter gloves with touchscreen-capable fingertips
Amazon
Achiou Winter Knit Gloves, available at Amazon, from $9.99
Teens aren't going to stop using their phones just because it's freezing outside. They need to stay in touch, and a lot of the time, they'll take off their gloves so they can rub and tap on a touchscreen. With these gloves, they can protect their digits while catching up on social media. And, at this price, you might want to buy a few pairs – and in different colors, if you want – for when they inevitably lose them.
A portable Bluetooth speaker with a hardshell carrying case
Amazon
JBL Flip 5 Portable Speaker, available at Amazon, $129.99
Teens love blasting music away, and this speaker from JBL will let them do so wherever they are — including at the beach or even while floating in the pool. To keep things portable, it boasts up to 12 hours of playtime and comes with a gSport Deluxe Hardshell Case. Best of all, it features IPX7 waterproof protection so it can go in up to three feet of water. With this, they'll have something to look forward to next summer.
A power bank with enough juice to charge a phone 2 times
Amazon
Anker Portable Charger, available at Amazon, $22
It's not surprising for a teen to spend all day and night draining their phone's battery, but if their phone is frequently dying while they're out, consider buying them a portable charger to provide some extra juice on the go. Anker's PowerCore Slim portable charger holds more than two full charges for the latest iPhone, and should work with any USB device. If you're willing to spend a bit more, you can buy a portable battery with wireless charging, to eliminate the need for cords.
A handheld gimbal for shooting cinematic videos with friends
Amazon
Zhiyun Smooth 4 Handheld Smartphone Gimbal, available at Amazon, $99
Whether it's for shooting TikTok content to making full-fledged YouTube videos, a handheld gimbal will let your teen produce better, smoother-looking content. But, while many options out there will set you back more than $100, this gimbal from Zhiyun costs less, which makes it the perfect gift for teens. And, while most teens seem to be naturally tech savvy, this one is especially effortless to figure out, complete with different shooting modes and pro-level shooting techniques turned automated.
A beanie with headphones that pair with their phone
Amazon
SoundBot SB210 Bluetooth Smart Beanie Headset, available on Amazon, $19.99
We all agree – beanies are some of the comfiest accessories out there. But, this nifty one from SoundBot takes it to a new level, with built-in speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, and up to five hours of music listening. Now, your teen can stay warm and listen to music at the same time, without having to wear or carry two things at once. Best yet, it comes in several different colors, some even with poms, so you can get it in their favorite color or design.
A smart light strip that changes colors
Philips
Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance LightStrip Plus, available at Philips-Hue, $79.99
Fairy or string lights are among the top accessories teens love to decorate their rooms with, and Hue's light strip takes that to a new level with its smart light capabilities, ability to display 16 million colors, and Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility. It's terrific for sprucing up every teen's room, whether they're gamers, Bohemians, nature-lovers, or those with an eclectic taste. They can even change the colors depending on their mood, what they're into, or what they're currently doing.
A subscription to the best audiobook service
Amazon
Audible Subscription, available at Amazon, $15 a month
Give teens the gift of knowledge with this audiobook subscription. This gives them an audiobook and two Audible originals each month. They will also get 30% off any other audiobooks they choose to buy, which they will own even after their subscription expires. This is an excellent solution for students who learn better by listening than reading.
An alarm clock that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker
Amazon
Anker Soundcore Wakey Bluetooth Speakers with Alarm Clock, available at Amazon, $89.99
This alarm clock is packed full of features. It pairs with your teen's phone via Bluetooth and plays audio from any of the apps, as well as FM radio or any combination of the 10 sleep-inducing ambient sounds. There are 10 different alarm sounds, and it wirelessly charges Qi-compatible devices as well.
A Bluetooth speaker that teens can use in the shower
Amazon
iFox iF012 Bluetooth Shower Speaker, available at Amazon, $29.66
Teens need to have their music everywhere at all times – that's right, even in the shower. Sure, the JBL Flip 5 mentioned above will work in the shower. For a quarter of the price, however, you can get your teen a dedicated shower speaker, one with a 33-foot range and up to 10 hours of battery life. iFox backs this with a 12-month, no-risk, money-back guarantee. What have you got to lose?
A microphone that plugs into a USB port
Amazon
Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone, available at Amazon, $40
We bet you haven't considered giving your teen a microphone before. It is a bit of an unconventional gift, but one that teens will love whether they have their own Twitch or YouTube channel, or produce their own podcast. It's an outstanding plug-and-play microphone solution that delivers crystal clear audio to your recordings, all while looking cool and retro.
An action camera that will record their adventures
Les Shu/Insider
GoPro Hero 10 Black, available at B&H, $429.99
Teens, especially active and adventurous ones, are always up to something new and exciting, whether it's taking an electric skateboard out for a spin or taking on the latest TikTok trends. And, a GoPro action camera will let them record those exploits with friends hands-free. This latest one is obviously the best with 5.3K Ultra HD recording, 23MP still images, and improved HyperSmooth stabilization.
A smart speaker that helps keep them organized
Amazon
Echo Dot (4th Gen), available at Amazon, $34.99
With the help of Alexa, this mini smart speaker is capable of doing a host of things, from playing your teen's favorite tunes on Spotify or Amazon Music to controlling other smart devices and setting reminders and schedules hands-free. It'll even tell jokes and play trivia games. Teens have a lot going on in their lives, and this gadget is among the best tools they can use to stay organized.
A laptop with great durability and battery life
Apple
Apple MacBook Air with Apple M1 Chip, available at Amazon, $949
If you're looking to splurge on your kid, then the latest MacBook Air will go a long way. This thin and light 13-inch comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage, as well as Apple's M1 chip, should get them through daily homework, projects and papers, while letting them play games and enjoy some streaming post-school work. And, since Apple's laptops are practically built like a tank, you'll have the peace of mind that it'll survive some beatings.
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