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55 Best Gifts for Teen Boys They’ll *Actually* Appreciate

We’ve even consulted an expert (my own teen bro).

By Daisy Maldonado and Jacquelyn Greenfield
gifts for teen boyspinterest icon
Cristina Coppin

Do us a favor and think back to your teenage years real quick. Okay, now what's coming to mind (aside from the awkward haircuts and cringy school dances)? If you were anything like us during high school, it's probably an entitled attitude problem that definitely annoyed the shit out of your parents (sorry, Mom!). But on the real, teenagers have forever exuded that too-cool-for-school flair that leads them to think they always know best—spoiler alert: They don’t. Obvi, this makes them nearly impossible to shop for, even though you once were a teen yourself. Luckily, we professionals are here to be tapped in when the going gets tough.

Whether you're looking for a birthday gift, a high school graduation gift, or a lil present just because, you'll find the ~perfect~ one on our list of the 55 best gifts for teen boys below.Whether you're shopping for your son, brother, cousin, or some other adolescent you know, we've got the rundown on all the trendy and classic gifts for guys that'll speak to their interests. Say he’s someone who likes to spend time in his room blasting music so loud he pretends he can’t hear you—we’ve got that covered. And if he enjoys playing video games, you could help him amp up his space with some cool room decor and devices, like colorful LED strip lights. Or, if he's the type who thinks sweatpants are acceptable for any function (no judgment here!), help him out with some snazzy clothing pieces that he needs but would probably never buy for himself.

Below, we've got you covered with a master list of incredible presents they're sure to love—even if they act too cool to be excited when they open them.

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1
This gaming controller

Xbox Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core

On Sale
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core
1
This gaming controller

Xbox Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core

Now 16% Off
$110 at Amazon$110 at Walmart$130 at lenovo.com

Okay, this is a lil pricey, but if he uses an Xbox or a Windows operating system, his reaction to this controller will be priceless, we promise. It has tons of bells and whistles that any gamer would want in a controller, like a wrap-around rubberized grip for sweaty hands or a rechargeable battery that has up to 40 hours of life for those long gaming sessions.

2
this inflatable snow sled

FUNBOY 68" Inflatable Retro Snowmobile Winter Snow Sled

On Sale
68" Inflatable Retro Snowmobile Winter Snow Sled
2
this inflatable snow sled

FUNBOY 68" Inflatable Retro Snowmobile Winter Snow Sled

Now 27% Off

If he lives for a good snow day, he'll be beyond stoked to take this inflatable sled for a spin this winter. It has a reinforced rubberized base with directional grooves so that he can go straight down a steep, snowy hill with no problems. It's about 68 inches long and can hold up to two people or 250 pounds. And a major perk is when the season is over, or he's not using it anymore, he can deflate it for super easy storage.

3
this box of treats

CRAVEBOX CRAVEBOX Care Package

CRAVEBOX Care Package
3
this box of treats

CRAVEBOX CRAVEBOX Care Package

*Sigh.* This present won’t last long, but not for the reason you may think. Packed with a whopping 45 snacks inside, your teen will want to scarf down this assortment of cookies, crackers, and miscellaneous yummies immediately.

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4
this spicy gift set

Thoughtfully Thoughtfully Gourmet Master Hot Sauce Collection

Thoughtfully Gourmet Master Hot Sauce Collection
4
this spicy gift set

Thoughtfully Thoughtfully Gourmet Master Hot Sauce Collection

Credit: Amazon

Maybe he's one that likes to experiment with his taste buds orrrr he just likes watching Hot Ones. If he loves hot sauce, he'll love this gift set with 30 different options to choose from.

5
this charging pad

Native Union Drop Wireless Charger

Drop Wireless Charger
5
this charging pad

Native Union Drop Wireless Charger

Pro tip: Teens want things to be as easy and convenient as possible (oh, the youths!). Even I know that fumbling with your fallen phone cord in the middle of the night is v annoying, and any teenager will attest to wanting a simpler solution to avoid all of that. This small wireless dock (which is compatible with iPhones, Samsung, LG, and more) makes charging their devices so much easier. All they’ll need to do is just plop down their device to give it some juice.

6
these joggers

The Gym People Men’s Fleece Jogger Pants

On Sale
Men’s Fleece Jogger Pants
6
these joggers

The Gym People Men’s Fleece Jogger Pants

Now 18% Off

I’m not saying I exactly encourage sweatpants being worn for every occasion, but if they’re going to beg you to let them wear them to dinner; you might as well grab them a pair that looks sleek and polished.

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7
this basketball arcade game

Pop-A-Shot Official Dual Shot Sport Basketball Arcade Game

On Sale
Official Dual Shot Sport Basketball Arcade Game
7
this basketball arcade game

Pop-A-Shot Official Dual Shot Sport Basketball Arcade Game

Now 27% Off

Whether the guy is into sports or just loves a good game, this at-home basketball arcade setup is a gift that’ll definitely get used. It comes with two hoops, four mini basketballs, and 10 different game settings—everything he'll need for some friendly competition.

8
this external phone battery

Anker Anker PowerCore 10000

On Sale
Anker PowerCore 10000
8
this external phone battery

Anker Anker PowerCore 10000

Now 15% Off

If he spends ample time on his phone, this external battery pack is a great and practical present that he’ll get a lot of use out of.

9
this mini projector

KODAK Mini Pocket Pico Projector

On Sale
Mini Pocket Pico Projector
9
this mini projector

KODAK Mini Pocket Pico Projector

Now 19% Off
Credit: Amazon

When Harry Styles said "you got the cinema," he meant it for moments like these. For when they want a larger screen than their TVs, this projector they can connect to their phone will make them feel like they've stepped into a movie theater.

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10
this cushy lounger

Fatboy USA Fatboy Lamzac Inflatable Lounger

On Sale
Fatboy Lamzac Inflatable Lounger
10
this cushy lounger

Fatboy USA Fatboy Lamzac Inflatable Lounger

Now 10% Off
Credit: Amazon

A lounging cushion to use anywhere, at any time. As much as they might want to, they can't take their bed with them everywhere. But this inflatable lounger can be transported to festivals, beach trips, camping, or to hang out in the park—and it's the next best thing.

11
a fully leather jacket

The Jacket Maker Brown Leather Biker Jacket

Brown Leather Biker Jacket
11
a fully leather jacket

The Jacket Maker Brown Leather Biker Jacket

Credit: Courtesy Image

Obvi this is for the teen who lives in cooler weather, but a leather jacket goes with everything and fits with literally their most casual gear. Bonus? You can absolutely make it custom to his measurements, so he will look ultra-cool and effortless at the same time.

12
this sleek mini fridge

Cooluli Cooluli Mini Fridge

Cooluli Mini Fridge
12
this sleek mini fridge

Cooluli Cooluli Mini Fridge

Credit: Amazon

My teen brother has literally called me while being in the room next to me so I can grab him a drink from the kitchen. Yes, they are that lazy sometimes and that's fine! I'm lazy, too! This fridge will make it so they can grab a soda or seltzer from the comfort of their own bedroom.

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13
a watch bracelet

Breda Breda Pulse Watch

Breda Pulse Watch
13
a watch bracelet

Breda Breda Pulse Watch

Credit: Courtesy Image

It's a cool cuff—no wait! It's a watch with a teeny tiny numerical display. The minimal vibe is perfect for his multifunctional needs, and it's a totally unobtrusive alternative to an Apple Watch.

14
these cool LED lights

MINGER LED Strip Lights

LED Strip Lights
14
these cool LED lights

MINGER LED Strip Lights

Credit: Amazon

Try as they might, teen boys are actually simple folks for the most part. These LED strip lights can be added all around their room (like around their TV, drawers, etc.) to make the ultimate den.

15
a luxe robe

Parachute Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe

Best Seller
Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe
15
a luxe robe

Parachute Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe

Credit: Courtesy Image

I mean. A robe is a pretty standard gift, sure. But! This one is apparently so comfy that buyers literally wear it every day. Like, he could sleep in it—and probably will, tbh.

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16
a custom gift basket

BeyondBookmarks BeyondBookmarks Rule the Cool Teen Guy's Gift Box

BeyondBookmarks Rule the Cool Teen Guy's Gift Box
16
a custom gift basket

BeyondBookmarks BeyondBookmarks Rule the Cool Teen Guy's Gift Box

Now 10% Off
Credit: Courtesy Image

From the lol (a nail clipper!) to the yay (a retro arcade game!), this gift basket full of tiny fun things will have *at least* one thing he likes.

17
laser tag kit

ArmoGear ArmoGear Laser Tag

On Sale
ArmoGear Laser Tag
17
laser tag kit

ArmoGear ArmoGear Laser Tag

Now 23% Off
Credit: Courtesy Image

Sure, laster tag is cool, but sometimes you're not always near a center and it can kinda be expensive. Voila: homemade laser tag!! You can do it with family or (as he probably prefers) with friends out in the backyard at night.

18
this lamp

Casper Casper The Glow Light

On Sale
Casper The Glow Light
18
this lamp

Casper Casper The Glow Light

Now 10% Off

Fact: Teens love to sleep, so a dimming light that makes each night easy to fall into a deeper, more restful sleep is one they'll appreciate. This lamp also allows them to wake up naturally since the lighting emulates a rising sun each morning.

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19
this logo hoodie

Champion Champion Graphic Powerblend Fleece Hoodie

Amazon’s Choice
Champion Graphic Powerblend Fleece Hoodie
19
this logo hoodie

Champion Champion Graphic Powerblend Fleece Hoodie

Now 27% Off

The guy lives in sweats and streetwear, so he’d be into an oversize pullover hoodie. Bonus points if it also has a Champion logo somewhere on it.

20
this dry bag

Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag in 20L

Best Seller
Floating Waterproof Dry Bag in 20L
20
this dry bag

Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag in 20L

Whether he surfs, waterskis, or likes to kayak, he’ll, no doubt, get a lot of use out of a floating dry bag like this.

Headshot of Daisy Maldonado
Daisy Maldonado
Associate Shopping Editor

Daisy Maldonado is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan who loves writing about fashion trends, must-have beauty products, and digital culture. When she's not writing, you can almost certainly find her shopping (she knows her credit card numbers by heart) or obsessing over celebrity news. Although she’s acquired an extensive closet over the years, her favorite item she owns is a Harry Styles Love On Tour hoodie she purchased at his concert in Manchester. Daisy's work has appeared on Refinery29, The Daily Beast, E! News, Allure and more. Keep up with all of her chaotic travels, NYC life and fashionable moments on her Instagram. 

Lettermark

Jacquelyn Greenfield is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers the best gift ideas, sales, and more across all things beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and sex. She has a serious obsession with sneakers and lives for a great clear lip gloss. She previously worked at Nylon and has had bylines in The Zoe Report, Coveteur, and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter

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