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50 Best Gifts for 17-Year-Old Boys of: 2024 Ideas

Updated
These are the gifts 17-year-old boys want to receive. 

Gift-giving can be simple when you know exactly what the recipient wants, you’re good with the request, and the gift is within your budget. However, if there’s no clear request, you don’t approve of the present, or it’s not within your budget, choosing the best gift for a 17-year-old boy can be difficult.

If you’re in this situation, don’t worry, we’ve got your back. We asked the 17-year-old boys in our lives, their friends, and anyone else with relevant insight and compiled what we learned into an ultimate guide to the best gifts for 17-year-old boys.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Razer Wireless Charging Pad
Quick Charge
Razer Wireless Charging Pad
  • Fast charging up to 10 Watts
  • 16.8 million colors or lighting effects
Product Image of the Canon EOS Rebel Camera Bundle
DSLR Dream
Canon EOS Rebel Camera Bundle
  • Full HD 1080p videos, 24.1MP photo
  • Complete camera bundle kit
Product Image of the Book Accidentally Wes Anderson
Whimsically Wonderful
Book Accidentally Wes Anderson
  • Stunning photographs of real-life places
  • Presented with fascinating human stories
Product Image of the Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop
Budget-Friendly Gaming Quality
Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop
  • 15-inch Full HD Widescreen display
  • 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9300H processor
Product Image of the U.S. Art Supply Tabletop Easel
Compact and Sturdy
U.S. Art Supply Tabletop Easel
  • Wooden H-Frame Studio Easel
  • Holds up to 23-inch canvas
Product Image of the Gonex Portable Home Gym
All-In-One Home Gym
Gonex Portable Home Gym
  • Full body workouts system
  • Includes 10 workout equipments
Product Image of the Aftco Reaper Hoodie
World’s Best Hoodie?
Aftco Reaper Hoodie
  • 100% micro fleece hoodie.
  • Integrated vented facemask
Product Image of the Multi-Tasking Lap Desk
Lap Work Comfort
Multi-Tasking Lap Desk
  • Foldable office workstation
  • Mouse pad features smart phone slot
Product Image of the Curve and Template Pack
Multi-Purpose Tools
Curve and Template Pack
  • 15 piece curve & template
  • Multi-purpose use
Product Image of the Adidas Adilette Shower Slides
Great for Almost Anyone
Adidas Adilette Shower Slides
  • Rubber soled
  • Available in 30 color combinations


The Best Gifts for 17-Year-Old Boys of 2024

Blending all of our gift choosing advice with our survey of teens and personal experience, here are our suggestions for the best gifts for 17-year-old boys.

Razer Wireless Charging Pad

Quick Charge

The soft rubber top of this wireless charging pad ensures your devices remain unscratched and do not slip off the charger. You have the option of setting one of 16.8 million colors or lighting effects.

For gamers who already own other items in the Razer Chroma RGB ecosystem, this charging pad links to and coordinates with your gear to create a seamless game lighting experience.

User Experience

I've been using this wireless charging pad for a while now, and it's not just a simple Qi charger - it comes with the added flair of Razer Chroma RGB. The customization options available through the Razer Synapse app are fantastic, allowing me to set different lighting effects and notifications based on my charging needs. The build quality is impressive, featuring non-slip rubber, aluminum frame, and a textured rubber or silicone top charging surface, ensuring my devices aren't scratched or sliding around. However, the included USB-C to USB-C cable is quite short, which may require additional purchases to fit your setup properly.

Canon EOS Rebel Camera Bundle

DSLR Dream

With various basic but invaluable items, this bundle is ideal for teens who want to upgrade from their phone’s camera to a DSLR.

The wi-fi enabled, 24.1 MP Canon EOS Rebel captures photographs and has the capacity to record full HD 1080p videos. In addition to the camera, this bundle has everything they need to get started, including an 18-55mm II lens, auxiliary wide-angle and telephoto lenses, two SDHC memory cards, a padded camera bag, tripod, and more.

Personal Perspective

Great camera for family photos and beginner photographers! I've been using this camera for a week now and I absolutely love it. The picture quality is impressive and the battery life is long-lasting. It was a bit tricky to learn at first, but once I got the hang of the different functions, it became much easier to use. The accessories that come with it are a nice bonus, although they're not the best quality, they still get the job done.

Book Accidentally Wes Anderson

Whimsically Wonderful

A team of photographers traveled the world for this book, capturing quirky, unconventional, and idiosyncratic locations. Authorized by and with a foreword by Mr. A, Accidentally Wes Anderson takes you on a journey to some real-life places evocative of the filmmaker’s unique visual style.

There are examples from every continent, and each image is accompanied by the location’s back story.

Community Feedback

For fans of Wes Anderson, this coffee-table book is a delightful collection of images inspired by his works. As I flipped through the pages, I was pleasantly surprised by the personal touch and stories behind each picture, making me feel connected to the subjects. The size of the book is slightly smaller than your average coffee table book, but the quality of the pages is top-notch, making it a fantastic gift for friends. I also appreciate how this book showcases real-world places that seem to be taken straight from a Wes Anderson movie.

Acer Nitro 5 Gaming Laptop

Budget-Friendly Gaming Quality

The Acer Nitro 5 has an LED-backlit, 15 inches full HD widescreen display, which is combined with an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU with 4GB of VRAM graphics card and delivers up to 90 frames per second.

Powered by a 9th Generation Intel Core i5-9300H processor, which can reach 4.1 GHz, the Acer can perform as well in gaming environments as it can in the academic.

First-Hand Impression

I recently purchased the Nitro 5 with the i5-9300H and GTX 1650, and have had a mixed experience with it. While it has a decent processor and discrete GPU, it required an upgrade to 16GB of RAM for optimal performance. Once upgraded, the laptop could handle most modern games on medium to high settings, but the temperatures were a concern, reaching up to 104 Celsius. After under-volting the CPU and using a cooling pad, temperatures stayed below 65 Celsius even during intense gaming sessions. The keyboard's backlight and battery life were disappointing, but overall, this laptop offers good value for its price, especially for non-gamers using it for photo editing and general purposes.

U.S. Art Supply Tabletop Easel

Compact and Sturdy

If your teen is a budding artist, then a tabletop easel could be spot on.

This tabletop easel from U.S. Art Supply has an adjustable track bar with seven settings for quick and easy-angle settings. The angle ranges from almost vertical to completely horizontal, and the adjustable top bar will accommodate a canvas of up to 23 inches in height.

A fabulous gift idea for a 17-year-old boy, this easel is sturdy enough to be used at home, yet compact and light enough to be taken on the road.

User Experience

In my experience, this easel has been a great addition to my newfound painting hobby. While it's not too heavy and has a sturdy wooden base, I did have to make a minor adjustment to the adjustable bar for my 12" x 16" canvas. The overall construction and functionality are impressive, especially considering its affordability compared to other models. I appreciate that it came fully assembled and was ready to use right out of the box. However, I did encounter an issue with the top wooden support being uneven, which made it difficult to hold the canvas steady. Despite this flaw, I would still recommend this easel for those getting started in painting or seeking an economical option.

Gonex Portable Home Gym

All-In-One Home Gym

Gonex has combined resistance bands, ab rollers, push-up bars, and more to create a home gym that’s as suitable for beginners as it is for intermediate and advanced users.

The lightweight honeycomb structured training base will hold up to 300 pounds and can withstand up to 250 pounds of tension. This lack of weight combines with the fold-up design to create something tough, robust, and easy to store and transport.

Personal Perspective

I've been using this workout system for a while now, and it has proven to be a useful tool in my fitness journey. The platform is sturdier than expected, allowing me to perform a variety of exercises both standing and sitting. The elastic straps are strong and the included guide helps me maintain proper form during workouts. However, I did encounter some difficulty with the resistance bands due to my height, but overall, the product is effective and worth the investment.

Aftco Reaper Hoodie

World’s Best Hoodie?

Either as a hoodie alone or as a component of a layered clothing system, the Aftco technical fleece works is the ideal piece of clothing for almost every occasion your 17-year-old boy is likely to encounter.

Block Tapey closures keep pockets closed. Without the annoyance of hook and eye closures, laser-cut under-arm vents allow you to remain cool, and the integrated, vented face covering of Aftco’s technical fleece hoodie can be used with or without the hood raised.

Community Feedback

When I first tried this hoodie, I was impressed by the well-thought-out design, including the built-in neck gaiter that can be used as a mask and easily tucked away when not needed. As a middle layer in colder weather, it's perfect, with vent holes under the arms helping to regulate body temperature. However, in my experience, it doesn't perform as well as an outer layer, especially with other hooded or collared layers underneath. Despite this limitation, the hoodie kept me warm and dry during outdoor activities like fishing and early morning drives, making it a valuable addition to my wardrobe.

Multi-Tasking Lap Desk

Lap Work Comfort

Lap-top or no lap-top, this lap desk is an all-in-one spot to study or play in bed, on the sofa, at the park or anywhere your teen wants. The surface of this desk comfortably fits a 17” laptop, and the memory foam underside provides comfort for extended use.

A slide-out mouse pad gives the option of extra desk real estate when it’s needed and has a spot in which to stand your phone. An upper tray tablet-holder slot provides a place for your device, whether for use with a mobile keyboard or to watch while writing in a notepad.

First-Hand Impression

Great lap desk for both laptop users and non-laptop users alike, offering a versatile workspace for studying or relaxing in various locations. I found the memory foam underside to be comfortable during long periods of use, and the slide-out mouse pad provides extra space when needed. The desk also features a convenient phone stand and an upper tray tablet-holder slot, which came in handy for using a mobile keyboard or watching videos while writing in a notepad.

Curve and Template Pack

Multi-Purpose Tools

Whether your 17-year-old boy enjoys designing, planning, technical drawing, or exploring their artistic creativity, this French curve and template pack is likely to have all they need to expand their skills.

The templates and curves are made from rugged but flexible plastic so they won’t snap like other rigid plastic options. The selection includes basic curves, shapes, ellipses, measurement items, multiple electrical, plumbing, and building furniture templates.

The set is rounded out with both 0.7mm and 0.5 mm mechanical pencils and enough refills to keep them going until next birthday.

User Experience

This stencil set exceeded my expectations with its high-quality templates and impressive variety of shapes. I initially purchased them for creating masks on plastic aircraft models and found them especially useful for achieving flawless paint jobs on wheels. The added bonus of rulers and pencils makes this set an excellent value, and I'm excited to discover more uses for these versatile templates in the future.

Adidas Adilette Shower Slides

Great For Almost Anyone

These Adidas shower slides are on the wanted list of many teenagers, but by the time the teen in your life has been around for 17 years, these slides could be considered essential. Available in 30 color combinations and running up to a size 18, these shower slides are as appropriate outside the home as inside.

Personal experience tells me they’re a popular beachwear item, a must-have for those sharing a bathroom at college, and an easy-to-clean option for parents who suffer from their kid’s stinky feet.

Personal Perspective

For someone who's constantly in and out of the house, these Adidas slides have been a comfortable and reliable choice for the past three years. Although there was a slight issue with sizing when I initially purchased them, the overall quality and softness make them a great option for casual wear. They're especially handy for college dorm life or quick visits to the indoor pool, making them a versatile and essential addition to my footwear collection.

Vivi Electric Mountain Bike

Powered Support

In our very hilly area, this Vivi mountain bike powers through 44 to 50 miles on a single charge with up to 330-pound teen and their basic college gear onboard.

Charging the 36V 8Ah lithium-ion battery will take approximately four to six hours making this an incredibly affordable form of transport. Moreover, the battery is even removable.

Community Feedback

These electric bikes are great for riding around the neighborhood or taking on camping trips. Assembly was mostly straightforward and the pedal assist feature is amazing, especially for tackling hills. The seat, however, is quite uncomfortable, so I suggest upgrading it for a better experience. The bike is heavy and can be cumbersome to transport, but overall, it's an enjoyable and sturdy ride with impressive battery life.

Bedside Caddy

Keeping The Floor Clear

Designed to fit practically any style bed, this bedside caddy organizer will hold up to 20 pounds of whatever your teenage boy would generally leave on the floor next to his bed.

There’s a sizeable internal laptop pocket, three external pockets for tablets, phones, and a strap to hold headphones. The soft pressed felt fabric won’t scratch glasses or screens, and the entire thing is machine washable.

There’s even an opening at the bottom through which you can thread charging cables, so your teen doesn’t have to get up and plug things in. It’s also something that will come in handy if your child plans to live in a college dorm.

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this bedside caddy has been mostly positive, as it helped declutter my bedside table and provided easy access to my essentials like phone, remote, earbuds, books, and eyeglasses. The different sized pockets are convenient, and it's sturdy enough to hold heavy items without sagging. However, the front pockets are a bit small, and if the caddy is too full, it tends to hang down at an odd angle. I also found that it's important to position the caddy carefully to avoid accidentally stepping into it when getting out of bed.

Ticket Stub Organizer and Diary

No Stub Left Behind

Whether your 17-year-old boy likes to attend concerts, sporting events, theatre shows, or any other event that requires tickets, this organizer provides a spot to keep all of those meaningful ticket stubs safe in one place.

Each page has two pockets on each side and a place to write notes about the event, such as who else was with them, what they bought, or anything else of importance.

User Experience

This ticket stub diary is a fantastic way to organize and preserve cherished memories from concerts, special events, and movies. I recently bought one for my husband as an un-Valentine's Day gift and it truly helped us declutter our space while keeping him happy. The diary is quite adaptable, catering to various ticket sizes, and has a durable build. However, one drawback is that it could be thicker to hold more tickets.

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

Tough Hydration

This wide-mouth water bottle holds up to 40 ounces of hot or cold fluids. The inside is made of pro-grade stainless steel, which ensures there are no unwanted odors or tastes transferred to the contents. The outside is powder-coated for a sweat-free, easy-grip surface.

Honeycomb insulation ensures hot fluids retain their temperature for up to 6 hours while cold liquids stay chilled for up to 24.

Personal Perspective

My experience with the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle with Flex Cap has been nothing short of exceptional. The incredible insulation keeps my cold drinks chilled for up to 24 hours and hot beverages warm for up to 12 hours, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and daily use. The wide mouth opening allows for easy filling, cleaning, and sipping, while the durable construction and stylish design make it a reliable and eye-catching hydration companion.

Anker Portable Charger

For The Forgetful

Teens seem to be especially prone to forgetting to charge devices, making a portable charger an ideal gift for a 17-year-old boy.

Using a 10W power cable, recharging the power bank takes about 10.5 hours, and if you use a 5W cable, it will take a full 20 hours. Recharge the power bank with a USB-C or Micro USB cable, although charging of devices is only possible through the USB ports.

Twin USB ports let you recharge two devices at once, and you’ll get around five full phone recharges from a full power bank.

Community Feedback

When I first got this power bank, I was amazed by its sturdiness and capacity. It took around 6 hours to fully charge, and it powered two phones simultaneously without any issues. However, it doesn't charge devices as quickly as a wall charger, but it's sufficient for keeping them running while in use. This power bank is perfect for those who don't mind a slightly slower charge time and need a reliable power source during travels or power outages.

X Rocker Floor Chair

For An Epic Gamer’s Seat

The X Rocker is an extremely comfortable, ergonomically designed chair with neck and lumbar support and Bluetooth connectivity, twin speakers, and a subwoofer for an immersive music or gaming experience.

Compatible with Bluetooth-enabled gaming systems, computers, tablets, phones, and more, it can also be connected via HDMI cables to non-Bluetooth devices. The chair also has RCA outputs and a headphone jack for those times you don’t want the entire house to enjoy your teen’s sounds.

First-Hand Impression

I'm impressed with the immersive experience this gaming chair provides for both video games and movie nights. The wireless connectivity with the PS4 is a great feature, eliminating the need for extra cables. The low seat design is perfect for my gaming sessions, and the foldable aspect makes storage a breeze. However, the sound quality when using headphones plugged into the chair is disappointing, and the fabric seems fragile, so be cautious during summer gaming.

Double Arm Book Light

For Book Fueled All-Nighters

Dubbed the Lamborghini of book lights, I’ve never owned a Lamborghini, so I can’t say if this is accurate. However, there are five LEDs in each lamp, and you can swap between white, yellow, or natural light modes.

A full charge provides up to 130 hours of use, and there’s a USB cable for mains use. The arms are flexible, and you can clip the light onto your book, hang it up, or stand it on a flat surface.

User Experience

If you're an avid reader who enjoys reading in bed, this book light is an excellent addition to your nighttime routine. The adjustable brightness levels and warm light color make it easy on the eyes, while the rechargeable feature ensures constant use without the need for batteries. However, be aware that the large clip may not be suitable for smaller books and could potentially leave stains due to some oil residue on the rubber grips—so make sure to clean them before use. The double-arm design allows for versatile positioning and eliminates shadows, making it perfect for not only reading but also writing or drawing. Lastly, the light comes with a convenient carrying case and a charging cord that doubles as a phone charger, making it a practical and portable choice for readers on the go.

High Peak 4-Season Tent

Year-Round Comfort

At 9.7 pounds, this four-season tent from High Peak is just as suitable for longer-term backpacking as it is for a weekend away with buddies.

Clip-together poles make this a quick and easy tent to erect. The taped, double-stitched seams, water-resistant fly, and waterproof floor provide a dry camping experience. Two vestibules give enough room for one camper and loads of gear or up to three when storage space isn’t essential.

Personal Perspective

I've been using this tent for several years now, and it has proven to be durable and reliable. It's super easy to set up, and the spacious vestibules provide a dry area to store shoes and gear. The interior comfortably fits two people, but it can get a bit snug with three. One downside is the weight, making it a bit heavy for backpacking trips, but it's perfect for car camping or hunting trips.

HyperX Cloud II - Gaming Headset

Where Comfort And Quality Collide

Available in both wired and wireless models, HyperX combines a durable aluminum frame with memory foam cushioning to create a headset that stays comfortable for hours.

There’s 7.1 virtual surround sound, and the earpiece design blocks almost all external noise distractions. Meanwhile, the detachable noise-canceling microphone is Discord, and TeamSpeak certified.

The 53mm drivers provide excellent quality, immersive sound, and the wireless model has a range of over 65 feet and up to 30 hours of battery life.

Community Feedback

In my experience, the Cloud II gaming headset provides excellent sound quality and a comfortable fit. The detachable and flexible microphone is a great feature, and the overall build quality is impressive for the price. However, I did encounter occasional issues with sound output, requiring me to unplug and reconnect the USB control box. Despite this minor drawback, I found these headphones to be a fantastic choice for casual gamers who prioritize bass and immersive gameplay.

Speks Fleks Desk Toy And Fidget

Brain Boosting Bendability

Each of the six pieces in this desk toy is made of silicone with rare earth magnets in each end; that’s a total of 24 magnets. You can connect the pieces in over 100 ways or simply fidget with one or two while you work. It comes with four color options to choose from and is perfect for children over 14 years of age.


The Naked Roommate

Essential College Prep

For those who are off to college, this fully updated edition of The Naked Roommate takes you on a behind-the-scenes journey through life in higher learning.

While high school focuses on getting you into college and how to succeed academically once you’re in, there’s little preparation for things like how to budget, save, and earn money, the complexities of relationships, and how to deal with roommates of every type.

The Naked Roommate gives sensible advice on all of this, and more along with real-life stories from students on over 100 campuses.

User Experience

My experience with this book has been insightful and entertaining, as it offers valuable advice for students and parents alike. The engaging writing style and inclusion of personal testimonies from current college students make it feel like receiving advice from an older sibling. While primarily targeted at college students, I found that even as a middle-aged adult, there are still nuggets of wisdom that can be applied to my own life.

Musicians Grip Hand Exerciser

Flex Fans

Those who play an instrument requiring strong and nimble fingers may appreciate this gift.

The musician’s grip builds strength and flexibility in the muscles and tendons of the fingers, wrist, and elbow, and a creative ambidextrous design makes it suitable for either hand.

The palm piece allows you to adjust the bands’ placement to increase or decrease the tension. The inner padding ensures the exerciser remains comfortable, even after extended use.

Personal Perspective

This hand exerciser has been a helpful tool for my finger strengthening journey, especially after my elbow surgery. I found it particularly useful for targeting the opposing muscles that often get neglected by other gadgets. However, if you have large hands, this device might not be the best fit for you, as the rubber straps and palm piece seem more suited for smaller hands. In terms of resistance, it might be more suitable for those in rehabilitation or with exceptionally weak hands, but it still provided a decent workout for me. One downside is the potential for the bands to break, so be cautious when assembling and using it.

Garland Avery Area Rug

Rugged

An area rug is a simple, affordable way to add a splash of color and comfort to a room either at home or in a college dorm.

This simple striped design comes in five colors and six sizes, so with 30 options to choose from, you’re likely to find something suitable for the 17-year-old boy in your life.

Community Feedback

Got this navy and white striped rug recently, and it really adds a nice touch to my bathroom. The colors are vibrant, with the navy being a true navy blue and the white being crisp. However, the rug arrived folded, so I'm hoping the creases will disappear over time. While it's on the thinner side, it's still a good purchase for the price and works well in my space.

Brute Force Sandbags

Builder of Strength

For the teen who wants to build their strength, endurance, and agility, these sandbags from Brute Force are a made-in-the-U.S. option that’s good enough for the country’s military, law enforcement, firefighters, and elite athletes.

The bags come in three sizes, each of which has multiple fillable inserts so you can train with a variety of weights.

First-Hand Impression

I'm thrilled with this addition to my home gym, as it has helped me diversify my workout routine and build functional strength. Setting up and using the sandbag system is simple, and the various handles make it versatile for different exercises. I filled the bags with playground sand and have been using them for intense workouts, including aggressively slamming the bag on the ground. So far, I haven't experienced any issues with the stitching coming apart or sand leaking out.

Toaster Bags

Less Mess

We can buy the teenagers in our lives cookbooks, but we can’t make them cook. So for those who are culinarily challenged, there’s this pack of ten toaster bags, in three sizes, each of which can be used up to 100 times.

In addition to the toaster, you can use these non-stick bags in a toaster oven, regular oven, grill, microwave or almost anywhere as long as it’s under 500 degrees.

User Experience

In my experience, this product has proven to be extremely convenient and efficient in the kitchen. The ease of cleaning allowed me to quickly dispose of any residue after removing the food, making the process hassle-free. I found this product to be a great addition to my daily routine, as it saved me both time and effort.

Goodthreads Slim-Fit Cargo Pant

Modern Vintage

These vintage-inspired cargo pants get a modern-day twist with slim through the thigh legs, a 15-inch leg opening, and distressed pocket edges for that yesterday meets today vibe.

Made from a 97 percent cotton and 3 percent elastane mix fabric, these cargo pants are hard-wearing but have enough give to make them comfortable all day long.

Personal Perspective

I recently purchased these pants and found them to be quite comfortable and well-fitting. The quality of the material is good, but I did notice some color fading after the first couple of washes. The belt loops are a bit small for wider belts, and the sizing can be a bit inconsistent at times.

Bose SoundLink Micro

Big Sound, Tiny Package

The passive radiators and transducer produce crisp, clean sound and an amount of bass far above this speaker’s small proportions.

Meanwhile, with a built-in microphone, you can take calls without having to grab your phone, and the Bluetooth pairing enables hands-free voice prompt use with your phone’s personal assistant.

Community Feedback

I recently purchased the Bose SoundLink Micro and it has quickly become my go-to portable speaker. The sound quality is impressive, especially the bass, which is deep and rich without being overpowering. Connecting it to my phone via Bluetooth was a breeze, and the waterproof design makes it perfect for outdoor adventures. The only downside is its inability to stand upright, but overall, this speaker is a fantastic choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful audio experience.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star

Timeless Footwear

These sneakers have the traditional look and feel of Converse with the one-inch rubber sole, canvas upper, and metal eyelets for the laces.

A padded collar, ortholite insole, and inner elastic tongue combine to create an incredibly comfortable new incarnation of the classic Converse, Chuck Taylor All-Star.


Amazon Gift Card

The Gift Of (Almost) Anything

When you’ve tried your best to covertly extract a gift idea from your teen, but nothing has been forthcoming, an Amazon gift card may be your best option.

Choose from a physical gift card with a range of holders — the tiny Amazon box is our favorite — or a virtual gift card that will hit their inbox almost the instant you hit checkout.

User Experience

Best gift decision I've made recently was getting this Amazon gift card for a friend's birthday. The cute holder and envelope made it feel more personal, and my friend absolutely adored it. I appreciated the added security measures like the plastic wrapping and the peel-off claim code, ensuring that the gift card would be safe until used. This gift card is versatile and perfect for any occasion, making gift shopping stress-free and enjoyable.

Fregenbo Bluetooth Eye Mask

Musical ZZZ’s

Bluetooth connectivity lets you hook up this eye mask and listen to music, white noise, or other sounds as you relax or drift off to sleep. A two-hour charge gives 10 hours of playing time, and the electronics are removable so the mask can be machine washed.

Padding around the nose and the eyes make this eye mask comfortable, and a soft, adjustable, elasticated headband ensures this mask will be a comfortable fit for almost any size head.

Personal Perspective

In my experience with this sleep mask, it has both pros and cons. On the positive side, it effectively blocks out light, has a good sound quality, and is easy to connect to Bluetooth. However, I found it to be uncomfortable as a side sleeper due to the speaker placement and it can get quite warm around the eyes. Additionally, the thin wire may not be very durable in the long run, but overall, it does serve its purpose for those who prefer music or ambient sounds while sleeping.

Stack 52 Quick Sweat Fitness Dice

Decisions, Decisions

For beginner, intermediate, and advanced exercise guidance, this box of dice will allow the fickle finger of fate to dictate your exercise regime.

Each level of difficulty has five dice. With a different exercise on each of the six sides, there are 30 potential exercises. Three other dice dictate your number of reps, ranging from 4 to 16.

Finally, there’s an instruction booklet and a QR code to access videos so you can see how to do each exercise correctly.

Community Feedback

My experience with this workout dice set has been fantastic. As someone who easily gets bored with repetitive exercises, these dice have added variety and excitement to my fitness routine. Not only are they compact and portable, but they also come with a helpful booklet that provides descriptions and links to YouTube videos for each exercise. While the small text on the dice might be a slight issue for some, using these dice has become a fun way to keep both myself and my family engaged in staying active. I've even incorporated them into my daily routine by rolling one row of dice and turning it into a HIIT finisher after my main workout.

Screen Printing Starter kit

Personal Style

Creative gifts for 17-year-old boys can be tricky to find, which is why we are excited about this beginner’s screen printing starter kit. The set has the basics you need to get started, including a variety of frame sizes, mixing sticks, and transparency film.

You do have to buy the ink separately, but this allows your gift recipient to choose the colors they would like.

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this screen printing kit has been generally positive, as it offered a budget-friendly way for my daughter to explore her creativity. Although the screens were not the exact dimensions and mesh count advertised, they still functioned well for a beginner's introduction to screen printing. Just be prepared to clean off any residue from the included tools and purchase additional items, such as emulsion and ink, to fully utilize this kit.

Ultimo Strategy Game

Pocket Fun

The two-player game consists of 15 pentagonal face dice, one of which is gold. The pieces are poured onto the playing surface, and players take turns to remove either one, two, or three pieces on each turn.

The aim of the game is to pick up the gold piece, but you can only do that on the last play, so a great deal of planning and strategy is involved, especially when you don’t know how many pieces your opponent will take each turn.

User Experience

When I first played this game, I found it to be a fun, travel-friendly option that requires strategic thinking. The simplicity of it makes it suitable for all ages, and it's easy to learn and enjoy within a short period of time, though it may not be engaging enough for some. While the quality of the packaging could be better, the game itself offers a quick and entertaining experience for those with a short attention span or looking for a simple challenge.

Flippy Multi-Angle Pillow

Multi-Angle Stand

While we’re not fans of the name, we do adore the Flippy pillow in practice. Use the Flippy to hold your book, magazine, or tablet while you cook, snack, or kick back and relax.

Designed by an optical engineer, it’s eleven inches wide by eight inches tall and nine inches deep, with a different viewing angle on each side. You can choose the pitch that’s most comfortable whether you’re standing, lying, or somewhere in between.

Personal Perspective

Love how versatile and comfortable this Flippy is for holding my devices, especially when I'm in bed or on vacation. It's perfect for propping up my iPad, phone, or Kindle, and the three sides provide different angles for optimal viewing. The lightweight and soft design makes it easy to use on my lap, even for extended periods. While it could be slightly heavier to prevent sliding, the central storage pocket can be used to add weight if needed.

Hercules DJ DJControl Compact

Portable Tracks

The DJControl Compact weighs less than 1.3 pounds and measures 13.4 inches x 3.9 inches.

The twin deck DJ Controller has four pads and four modes per deck, one volume potentiometer, and two equalization potentiometers per deck. Two 2.95-inch jog wheels allow natural scratching and control the navigation and pitch within the tracks.

Compatible with most major DJ software and all MIDI-compatible software, we have no idea what most of these specs mean, but our teens assure us that this is a cost-effective, wantable option for beginners.

Community Feedback

I'm thrilled with this DJ set, especially because of its portability and simplicity. As a beginner, I found it easy to learn and practice on, and it even impressed people at a beach party I took it to. The compact size and compatibility with Mac and Windows make it a great choice for anyone starting out or wanting a convenient, on-the-go mixer.

ASUS ZenScreen

Portable Multi-tasking

Reading from or viewing video on a tablet or phone while typing on your computer or laptop can be difficult, tiring, and can result in mistakes. That means a second monitor screen can be invaluable for today’s teens.

Low blue light and flicker-free technology minimize eye strain and physical effects of late-night use while power and signal are carried to the screen via a single cable.

Meanwhile, the auto rotation display allows you to use the monitor in either vertical or horizontal mode, and the lite, foldable storage case converts into a stand for either orientation.

First-Hand Impression

Definitely a useful addition for multitaskers, this second monitor screen has been a great help in easing the struggle of switching between devices while working. The blue light and flicker-free technology have been a blessing, reducing eye strain and other discomforts during those late-night sessions. I also appreciate the single cable for power and signal, which helps to keep my workspace clutter-free. The auto rotation display is a neat feature, allowing me to use it in either vertical or horizontal mode as needed. The lightweight, foldable storage case doubles as a stand, making it convenient for any orientation and easy to store when not in use.

Corsair Smart Lighting Tower

Brilliant

The smart lighting tower starter kit from Corsair extends your PC’s RGB lighting to create an immersive ambient lighting experience. Sync the lighting with your PC or gaming system to enhance your experience or connect it to your stereo for musical visualization.

Each tower has 46 LEDs and is 16.6 inches tall. Set the towers facing forward for a bright, intense experience or turn them to face away for more diffuse lighting.

User Experience

I'm loving the vibrant colors and compatibility with iCue software that these LED strips offer, but installation was a bit tricky, especially on my curved monitor. The adhesive magnets could be stronger, and I had to improvise with double-sided tape to keep them in place. While the brightness could be slightly improved, these LEDs still create an immersive atmosphere for my gaming setup.

How Not to Be a Dick

Much-Needed Guidance

How Not To Be A Dick is a book that offers practical, no-nonsense advice interspersed with hilarious, early-reader style Dick and Jane illustrations.

From the seemingly obvious “Don’t stare at someone’s boobs while you’re talking to them” to the less evident “Try to smell of nothing in particular,” this book will provide a road-map through the unexplored lands of adulthood.

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Personal Perspective

As a parent, I purchased this book for my family members to enjoy and learn from. The content is not only funny, but also offers valuable life lessons for both adults and kids. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it uses humor to address important topics such as online dating and appropriate behavior in different situations. My husband and son have both found it entertaining and educational, which is a rare combination these days.

Have Fun Keychain

Gift Simplicity

Gifts don’t have to be big or expensive to be meaningful. This U.S.-based company makes a diverse range of stainless steel keyrings with cute, amusing, and occasionally sweary slogans.

This particular example is engraved with a message reminding your teen to have fun, be safe, make good choices, and call their mom.

Community Feedback

I've recently purchased this keychain as a reminder for my teenager who's starting college, and it has been a fantastic buy. The quality is impressive, with durable craftsmanship and a shiny, sturdy appearance that's just the right size without looking clunky. Although there was a minor issue with the jump ring coming apart, it was easily fixable and the keychain remains a charming and functional accessory for teens on the go.

LEGO Nintendo Entertainment System

A Gift In 2,646 Pieces

If your teen is an AFOL, Adult Fan Of LEGO for the uninitiated, they may appreciate this 1980’s Nintendo entertainment system and TV build.

The old-school-style TV has a handle-operated scrolling screen. Crank the handle, and a brick-built screen scrolls Mario as he leaps, jumps, slides, and bounces through the game. If you have the new Super Mario set, place the electronic interactive Mario on the set’s top, and he’ll respond to the “on-screen” action.

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this LEGO set has been nothing short of amazing. Assembling it was a total blast, though a bit more challenging than most sets due to its interactive nature. I found myself humming the Super Mario music while building, which brought back nostalgic memories from my childhood. The quality of the set is impressive and it looks fantastic when completed. My family members, including my grandson and husband, have also enjoyed putting it together and admiring the finished product.

Murder Most Puzzling

Mystery Gift

Would-be detectives and fans of old-fashioned literary sleuths will enjoy this book, which contains 20 fictional, darkly humorous murder mysteries to solve.

The illustrations are a modern-day re-styling of 19th-century gothic, within which there are hidden obvious and not-so-obvious clues. You’ll have to call on your observation skills, interpret some subtle word trickery, and mine the depths of your trivia stores, but it’s worth it.

User Experience

My experience with this book has been a mix of intrigue and challenge, as it offers a variety of word games, number games, logic puzzles, and discerning searches. The author's attention to detail in both writing and artwork is impressive, though some puzzles may require specialized knowledge or a keen eye for watercolor illustrations. While not suitable for younger readers, high school and up can appreciate the engaging mysteries to solve. Despite the occasional convoluted puzzle, this book makes for an entertaining and mind-stimulating experience for those who enjoy exercising their detective skills.

Signal-Boosting HDMI Cable

Practical Power

This signal boosting, directional, HDMI cable is available in nine lengths ranging from 15 to 165 feet.

The built-in signal booster supports 4K, 3D, 1080P, increasing your transfer speed to 18 Gbps, while the 24K gold-plated connectors with 99.99 percent oxygen-free copper conductor ensure superior sound and audio transmission.

Personal Perspective

When I first got this HDMI cable, I had a little trouble figuring out the input and output sides, but once I paid attention to the markings, it worked perfectly. The picture quality is excellent, and I appreciate how sturdy and durable the cable is. It is a bit stiff, which makes it ideal for hiding behind something, but it might not be the best choice if you need flexibility. Installation was a breeze, and I'm overall satisfied with the cable's performance. If I need another HDMI cable in the future, I wouldn't hesitate to buy this one again.

Haundry Mesh Shower Caddy

Hefty Hauler

This polyester mesh shower caddy has one large central compartment and seven additional pockets around the outside. The top of the caddy is trimmed with Oxford cloth, with handles of the same material.

The caddy’s bottom is mesh, which allows water to drain, preventing water build-up and mold. Machine washable and quick-drying, these caddies remain usable for years.

Community Feedback

This mesh bag may not be the sturdiest, but it's surprisingly strong and roomy. I've used it as a bingo bag and for storing various items like craft supplies, hair products, gardening tools, and even car essentials. The multiple pockets make it perfect for organizing my kids' hair stuff, and it has made our mornings much smoother. I've also seen it used for dorm room organization and as a gift filled with a high school graduate's favorite items. It even works well for indoor pool workouts, with space for microfiber towels, goggles, caps, and other essentials.

Motorcycle Name Art

Made-To-Order

Suitable art for a 17-year-old boy can be tricky to find, but the Personal Prints Store creates themed name art in a variety of colors and styles.

Choose from interests such as hunting, motorcycles, music, space exploration, adult coloring, and more. There are also options for a small number of professions, such as firefighters. Then you decide on an alternative such as a block mounted, framed canvas, or vintage look.

Personal Print Store will then create a one-of-a-kind art piece with whatever name you request.

First-Hand Impression

Got this unique name art from Personal Prints Store and I must say, it's perfect for my 17-year-old son. The variety of themes, like motorcycles and space exploration, allowed me to find something that really matches his interests. Being able to choose from different styles, such as block mounted, framed canvas, or vintage look, made it even more personalized.

Traveler Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitar

Mobile Music

Weighing 3 pounds and measuring 28 inches long, this travel electric guitar has a full scale, yet will still fit in an airplane overhead locker.

With a choice of three fretboard woods, up to six colors, and left or right-handed configuration, there’s a guitar to suit almost everyone. You can also buy the guitar alone or choose a guitar kit with a gig bag.

User Experience

This guitar's compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for travelers or those with limited space. The construction is sturdy and high-quality, and the tuning pegs are well protected within the body, ensuring great tuning stability. The playing position may take some getting used to, and it is recommended to use a strap to maintain proper positioning. The installed pickup is bass-heavy, but with some adjustments, it produces a versatile and enjoyable sound, making this a convenient and satisfying guitar to play.

EBags Laptop Backpack

Secure Transit

This backpack from eBags has a padded, air mesh back panel to keep you cool during extended wear and fleece padded shoulder straps for long-trip comfort. The bag fits into most airplane overhead bins and under airplane seats.

A padded inner sleeve protects laptops up to 17 inches and multiple compartments, mesh pockets, and zippered sections make organization a cinch.

Personal Perspective

This backpack offers a surprising amount of storage and has held up well for almost a year now, despite a minor stitch issue on one seam. The keychain loop design could be improved, as it's difficult to access and use with one hand. However, the overall weight distribution and efficient pocket design make it comfortable to wear and ideal for carrying various essential items, making it a great choice for both daily use and travel.

Klask The Party Game of Skill

Hybrid Fun

If air hockey and foosball had a baby, that child would be Klask.

Each player holds their handle under the table and uses it to direct the ball into their opponent’s goal while avoiding the in-table magnets. Shipped fully assembled, this tabletop game can be played straight out of the box, and each game lasts roughly 10 minutes.

Community Feedback

I'm thrilled with this Klask game I purchased for a family party, as it turned out to be perfect for all age groups, from young kids to adults. This indoor game is similar to air hockey, but with magnets, and requires some skill to win, making it both challenging and entertaining. The design is bulky, but the quality craftsmanship makes up for it. Although it could use heavier legs to prevent sliding during aggressive play, it's not a major issue if you hold the leg with your free hand.

BookLover Socks

Read My Feet

Out Of Print produces a range of socks, each of which has a literary theme. Options range from cartoon-style animals with books such as “book sloth” and “cats and stacks” to pairs with slogans like “book nerd” and “fight evil read books.”

There’s also a variety of title or author-specific pairs. So, if your teen’s a fan of Fahrenheit 451, The Shining, or Edgar Allen Poe, there’s a gift here for them.

First-Hand Impression

For avid readers and fans of Piggy, Gerald, and Pigeon, these socks are a delightful addition to your wardrobe. I found them to be comfortable, well-made, and perfect for showing off my love for books. However, it's worth noting that some may experience issues with threads pulling after one use, so keep an eye on their durability over time.

No Screw Pull Up Bar

Fixings Free

This simple-to-install, expandable pull-up bar can be mounted within any door frame between 28.35 inches and 35.43 inches. The bar’s weight limit is 440 pounds.

Designed with cushioned, non-slip grip pads, using the bar is gentle on the hands without the risk of blisters, even after extended use. However, the pads are already fixed on the bar which is something you have to note.

User Experience

This pull-up bar is not only easy to install, but also feels incredibly sturdy and well-made, even featuring soft cushioning on the support legs to prevent marks on the door frame. However, be cautious if your door frame is old or not very rigid, as it may cause issues with the bar's stability and potentially damage your home. Despite the grips getting slippery rather quickly, the overall convenience and versatility make this pull-up bar a great addition to any small living space or for those who travel frequently. Just keep in mind that the width may not be wide enough for some preferences, and the levels might not be perfectly centered.

OCM Core Dorm Essentials Value Pack

Practical Gift

For teens who are off to college or a home of their own, this 16-piece bundle includes a mattress topper, bedding, towels of various sizes, and a bed blanket. The bedding fits XL twin beds, and the fitted sheets are deep enough to accommodate the mattress topper.

You can choose between 23 bundles, each of which has a different design and color scheme.

What Gifts Do Teenage Boys Like?

As we grow older, it becomes less appropriate to generalize what gifts someone would like according to their age and gender. People have a wide range of interests.

If you have no idea what to give, gift cards or cash may be your best bet. At least that way, you won’t be wasting your money, and your teen will get something they want.

However, if you’d rather get a tangible gift, there are ways to narrow down the possibilities. You can:

  1. Try to chat casually about what they are planning to do in the near future and try to choose something that links to their plans.
  2. Ask if they’re planning to give a gift to a friend or what their friend wants for their birthday. Then you can sneakily listen to your teen’s opinion on that gift.
  3. Get your teen to maintain an ongoing “Things I would like or would be useful” Google document, an Amazon wishlist, or something similar. Then your teen can share the list with friends and family.
  4. Ask what they would like. Although you might enjoy an element of surprise when it comes to gift-giving, finding an item they want without the surprise is better than an unwanted gift as a surprise.

If you’re thinking of giving an accessory for a phone, computer, gaming system, or another electronic item, be sure the gift you are considering is compatible with your teen’s hardware or existing accessories.

When you choose gifts to support hobbies, ensure you know exactly what your teen likes to use. If they enjoy painting in acrylics, your teen might have a specific brand of paint or palette of colors they prefer.

The same goes for music, books, and other media. Just because someone enjoyed a particular book or album doesn’t mean they will automatically want other books or albums by the same artist or on the same theme.


Choose Wisely

It might sound like a cop-out, but the best gifts for 17-year-old boys are the ones they want. The trick is finding out what they would like as a gift and then finding a gift in your budget.

For those cases where you can’t find out, or your teen doesn’t know what they want, we hope this gift guide helps you find something they’ll be happy to receive.

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Headshot of Patricia Barnes

About the Author

Patricia Barnes

Patricia Barnes is a homeschooling mom of 5 who has been featured on Global TV, quoted in Parents magazine, and writes for a variety of websites and publications. Doing her best to keep it together in a life of constant chaos, Patti would describe herself as an eclectic mess maker, lousy crafter, book lover, autism mom, and insomniac.