The 22 Best Gifts for Teens of 2021

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

Teens are always up on the latest gadgets and fashion trends, so shopping for a cool gift they’ll love can be tricky. You could go with a gift card or cold hard cash, but they don't offer the same personal touch as a present that requires unwrapping. You could also choose clothes, but something that doesn't exactly match a teen's unique style may wind up collecting dust in the back of their closet.

According to our research, the best gifts for teens are things they can use that they may not have thought about themselves. These could be accessories for their smartphones or laptops, things that will make them or their rooms more comfortable, or games or other gifts that allow them to express their creativity and individuality.

To help avoid a gift gaffe, we've rounded up suggestions for teen boys and girls, whatever their interests and hobbies may be. With something for everyone, you’re sure to find a present to impress even the pickiest teen.

Here, our top picks for gifts for teens.

Holiday Shopping Tip

Many retailers are currently experiencing shipping delays due to disruptions in the global supply chain. As a result, we recommend shopping for the holiday season early to avoid late deliveries.

Our Top Picks

Beats By Dr. Dre Solo3 Wireless Headphones at Walmart

These wireless headphones feature award-winning sound, a cool, sleek design, and up to 40 hours of battery life.

Tryone Gooseneck Tablet Stand at Amazon

Teens can use this clever tablet stand to secure their tablet to their desk, headboard, or nightstand for hands-free viewing.

Nintendo Switch Lite at Amazon

The Lite features a built-in plus control pad and fully integrated controls for games that are also compatible with the Switch.

UGG Genuine Shearling Slipper at Nordstrom

Whether they’re at home or in a dorm room, teens will appreciate the comfort and warmth of these cozy slippers.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Camera + Film Pack at Amazon

The camera comes with a case, four color closeup filter lens, mini photo album, selfie mirror, and more.

BaubleBar Block It Out IPhone Case at Baublebar.com

Whether you go with your initials or name, this handmade iPhone case can fit up to 12 characters.

Yes4All Wobble Balance Board at Amazon

It's a simple, easy way for teens to improve their coordination and build core strength at home.

Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack at Amazon

Available in a wide range of both fun and basic colors, it’s durable, water resistant, and fits many laptops.

Danfi Audio DF Record Player Bluetooth Turntable at Amazon

Your teen can stream their favorite songs on their phone or tablet thanks to this record player’s Bluetooth option.

Apple AirPods with Charging Case at Amazon

For gadget gurus and music lovers, you can’t go wrong with a pair of AirPods.

Need a can’t-miss gift for a teen? They’ll flip over these wireless headphones that feature award-winning sound, a cool, sleek design, and up to 40 hours of battery life. The on-ear controls make it easy to control music, take calls, and use Siri.

Whether they want to play with their Nintendo Switch, watch videos, or read a book, teens can use this clever tablet stand to secure their tablet to their desk, headboard, or nightstand for hands-free viewing. The flexible gooseneck arm makes it easy to adjust and get the right angle, while the durable base clamp holds it tightly in place.

For gaming on the go, meet the Nintendo Switch Lite. Similar to the Nintendo Switch, the Lite is smaller and more portable. The Lite features a built-in plus control pad and fully integrated controls for games that are also compatible with the Switch.

Whether they’re at home or in a dorm room, teens will appreciate the comfort and warmth of these cozy slippers. Made with a soft, genuine shearling lining, they have a durable, sturdy sole that also makes them suitable for outdoor wear.

Watch your picture come to life with the press of a button on this adorable mini camera. The camera comes with a case, four color closeup filter lens, mini photo album, and much more. Choose from five different colors and have fun taking dozens of pictures.

For an iPhone case that can be personalized, you’ll want to check this one out from BaubleBar. Whether you go with your initials or name, this handmade iPhone case can fit up to 12 characters. The letters are raised and acrylic, providing you with a 3D effect.

This wobble balance board is a simple, easy way for teens to improve their coordination and build core strength at home. Lightweight and easy to carry, it can be used indoors or outside for balance moves, stretching, and strengthening workouts.

The stylish yet practical Fjällräven Kanken backpack is a hit among teens of all ages, from middle schoolers to college kids. Available in a wide range of both fun and basic colors, it’s durable, water resistant, and fits many laptops.

Your teen can stream their favorite songs on their phone or tablet thanks to this record player’s Bluetooth option. Or, if they decide to use the turntable, they can buy records in three different sizes. There’s also an auto-stop button that prevents the record from being scratched.

For gadget gurus and music lovers, you can’t go wrong with a pair of AirPods. They come with a charging case, and as of 2019, they feature hands-free access to Siri using just your voice.

String lights are a must-have item for many teen’s rooms, and this set allows them to also show off their favorite photos, cards, or artwork in a unique way. They run on 3AA batteries, so teens don’t have to worry about their display being near an outlet.

Whether they want to binge-watch in bed or have a comfy place to do their homework, teens will love this convenient lap desk. It features slots for your phone and tablet, as well as a mousepad, cushioned wrist pillow, and handle for easy carrying.

Wrap yourself nice and cozy like a burrito (literally!) with this super soft and warm throw blanket from Casofu. Made with flannel fabric, this blanket is available in four different size options: 47 inches, 60 inches, 71 inches, and 80 inches. When it needs a wash, simply toss it in the washing machine and then tumble dry on low.

If your teen has thick hair, you’ll definitely want to consider these as a gift. Designed with durable plastics and non-slip materials, these hair clips are sure to stay secure all day long.

Dubbed an “inappropriately appropriate game for mischief-makers,” this card game will have teens looking forward to family game night. Recommended for ages 8 and up, it’s fun, easy to learn, and the perfect way to convince teens to unplug and get off their phones.

BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone

Great for sleepovers or nights in with family and friends, this microphone will have teens discovering their inner rock star. They can simply connect their phone to the singing app using Bluetooth and then pick from thousands of karaoke songs.

Candles are a great go-to gift for teens, but what sets apart this candle set from this Black-owned business is that you’re getting a variety of scents. From warm and spicy to floral, you can burn these candles for no more than four hours at a time and put it out by simply placing the lid on top of the candle flame to put it out.

For the explorer at heart, this diary comes with clear sleeves to store and protect mementos and memorabilia—including postcards, ticket stubs, photos, and maps. There’s also space in the margins to write down trip details and highlights.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, using weighted blankets at nighttime may help lower anxiety and reduce sleeplessness. If your teen has anxiety or is feeling particularly stressed, a weighted blanket could help them relax.

This popular, affordable weighted blanket comes in a variety of weights, colors, and sizes, so it’s easy to find one that’s perfect for your teen.

These lightweight loungers are ideal for chilling in the back yard, on the beach, or at a campsite. You just wave it around a few times and it’ll fill with air, and it’s just as easy to collapse and pack up.

If you’re looking for a gift that will spark creativity and creation, then you’ve come to the right place. Once finished, this LEGO set creates a beautiful botanical garden flower plant that’s adjustable. It’s a project that will take time since it has more than 1,000 pieces, but it provides a meaningful connection to art and creation.

Tired of seeing your teen wear their wrapped blanket around the house? Check out this wearable blanket from The Comfy. It’s oversized, so one size fits all, and features a large pocket for a phone, snacks, or other items. The best part? It’s also machine washable.

What to Look for in Gifts for Teens

Up-to-Date Tech and Accessories

Between a smartphone, laptop, tablet, and video game console, chances are your teen has lots of technology they use on a daily basis. Teens will welcome and appreciate fun accessories or gifts that make their tech easier or more enjoyable, like headphones, speakers and stands. You also can't go wrong with a new piece of tech, especially one they can use to interact with their friends.

Cozy Comfort

There's nothing better at the end of a busy day filled with school and extracurriculars than having something cozy to slip on or somewhere comfortable to curl up. To that end, gifts that prioritize warmth and comfort around the house are always crowd-pleasers. Since growth spurts are common during the teenage years, opt for something like slippers, a blanket or a comfy chair that your teen won't grow out of too quickly.

Creative Outlets

Encouraging your kids to express themselves is critical during these difficult years, so gifts that help them do this are great options. Indeed, motivating them to try new things and discover hidden talents can help them build confidence. Not to mention the fact that many of these gifts are just plain fun!

Why Trust Verywell Family

Christine Luff is a freelance writer who covers fitness, health, parenting, and other topics. She’s also mom to a 13-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son, as well as an aunt to eight teenage nieces and nephews. When shopping for teens, she sometimes opts for gift cards, but prefers to research and seek out the perfect presents.

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

What are your concerns?

1 Source

Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Cleveland Clinic. Can weighted blankets banish nighttime anxiety? What to know before you buy. Updated May 31, 2019.

The 22 Best Gifts for Teens of 2021

Perfect gifts for the young adult in your life

Beats By Dr. Dre Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Tryone Gooseneck Tablet Stand

Nintendo Switch Lite

UGG Genuine Shearling Slipper

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Camera + Film Pack

BaubleBar Block It Out IPhone Case

Yes4All Wooden Wobble Balance Board

Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack

Danfi Audio DF Record Player Bluetooth Turntable

Apple AirPods with Charging Case

Magnoloran LED Photo String Lights

HUANUO Lap Desk

CASOFU Throw Blanket

Shalac Claw Clips for Thick Hair

Not Parent Approved Card Game

BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone

FORVR Mini Candle Gift Set

Travel Stub Diary

YnM Weighted Blanket

Wekapo Air Lounger Sofa

LEGO Creator Botanical Collection Bird of Paradise

The Comfy Oversized Microfiber Blanket