It’s no secret that technology is making its way into every corner of our lives. And with the younger generations growing up in a digital world, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to find thoughtful and useful tech gifts for teens.
Today’s teens aren’t swayed as easily by commercials and flashy packaging as previous generations. Instead, they are more likely to be looking for quality products that can help them stay connected, inspired, educated, and entertained.
From virtual reality headsets to streaming devices to noise-canceling headphones, teen tech has gone from gimmick to “necessity.” In this guide, we will break down some of the top gift ideas for teens in 2023, as well as some tips on how to select the best gift for your teen.
Do they really need tech this holiday season?
As a parent of teenagers, perhaps you’d prefer your kids to get their heads out of their screens and connect with the real world? If that’s you, why not check out our tech free gift list first.
Technology doesn’t have to be our default option. But if we do decide to give technology as gifts to our teens, we should do so with care and forethought. There can be unforeseen consequences to giving your child a new phone, or VR goggles for example. Make sure you’ve thought it through in advance and if you think some additional household rules might be needed to regulate use, be ready to explain them to your teen.
Tech gifts are very popular with teenagers, (and frankly with adults and kids of all ages), in part because of their ability to connect us with each other. Whether it’s via social media and messengers, games, hobby or “influencer” based communities, or shared times watching movies together or playing music at home, there are plenty of ways that tech can help us bring our families together over the holiday season.
So if you’re looking for a gift that will keep your teen entertained and engaged this holiday season, you might want to consider one of our top tech gifts for teens in 2023!
The Top Gifts For Teens in 2023
To help you shop for the perfect tech gift for your teen, we’ve compiled a list of some of the must-have gifts for 2023.
1. Mini Drone
Drones have quickly become one of the top tech gifts for teens. With advanced drones available at affordable prices, you’ll be able to get your teen a mini drone that they can use to explore their world from the sky!
While there are plenty of drone options on the market – ranging from mini to massive – our go-to choice for 2023 is the DJi Mini 2. This robust mini drone offers is the perfect size to take anywhere and has the tech inside to capture breathtaking photos and video with its 10km OcuSync video transmission. With over thirty minutes of charge on each flight, your teen will have a blast exploring the world from the sky.
Pros and Cons of Drones
Drones are a fun and exciting way to explore the world, but they come with some drawbacks as well.
Pros:
- Fun and interactive: Drones can bring a level of fun and excitement that few other tech toys can match.
- Portable: Most drones are small enough that you can easily take them wherever you go.
- High-quality photos and videos: With advanced cameras and video transmission, some drones can capture high-quality images and videos.
Cons:
- Expensive: Many drones are quite expensive, so you’ll need to be prepared to invest in a quality drone.
- Limited flight time: Most drones have limited battery life, so you won’t be able to fly them for long periods of time without charging.
- Privacy concerns: Drones can be used to invade someone’s privacy, so it is important to be respectful of other people’s space when flying a drone.
2. Smartphones and Wearables
Smartphones and wearables are a must-have item for any teen. While many parents are on the fence as to what age is appropriate for their child to own a phone, they may want to consider giving them a more basic device as a gift.
While smartphones and wearables can be pricey, there are some great budget models on the market. They can also be purchased separately or as part of a deal to increase their overall value.
Why choose a smartphone or wearable for your teen? Not only do these devices keep teens connected to family and friends, but they also offer many educational features such as language learning apps, study guides, and more. Additionally, wearables can help teens track their fitness goals and provide them with reminders for important tasks.
So whether you’re looking for a powerful smartphone or a simpler wearable, these devices make great gifts for teens. Just be sure to consider your child’s age and lifestyle before making a purchase.
Here are some of our top picks for the best smartphone and wearables gifts in 2023:
Smartphones:
2. Google Pixel 8
Take jaw-dropping photos and videos of all your adventures with friends using Pixel’s upgraded camera and AI photo processing. Its Call Screen feature saves you from annoying spam by screening unknown calls and even suggesting smart replies for you. Use the voice assistant to quickly translate webpages for school assignments or send texts hands-free. The Pixel 8 looks sleek and stylish in your hands, letting you express your personal style. With the latest software and 7 years of updates direct from Google, it will keep all your personal information safe and secure.
2. Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A32 5G is a great gift for a teen who loves gaming and entertainment. It offers a high-quality screen and powerful processor that makes it perfect for gaming and streaming videos. Plus, it has a long battery life so your teen can stay entertained all day long.
3. Sunbeam F1
The Sunbeam F1 is an excellent gift for a teen who just wants a basic phone for making calls and sending texts. It has a simple flip design and comes with pre-installed apps that teens love, but at a price that won’t break the bank!
4. Apple iPhone SE
Apple released the latest model in their flagship series – the iPhone 15 – earlier this year. However, the price tag on the newest model can be a bit too expensive for some. The iPhone SE is the perfect alternative to the latest model, and it still offers plenty of features teens will enjoy.
Wearables:
1. Fitbit Sense Advanced Smartwatch for Teens
Fitbit is known for its quality fitness trackers, and the Sense Advanced is no exception. It offers many great features such as heart rate monitoring, stress management tracking, and more.
2. VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2
If you are searching for a starter wearable for your teen, the KidiZoom Smartwatch is a great option. It comes with a variety of features including games and activities, a camera, and more, but comes at a much more affordable price.
3. Garmin 010-02173-11 Venu GPS Smartwatch
If you are looking for a gift for a teen that is always on the move, Garmin is a great choice. This smartwatch offers GPS tracking and long battery life, plus it’s stylish enough to wear all day. And with a brand like Garmin, you can trust that it will last.
4. Apple Watch SE
Finally, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line wearable, look no further than the Apple Watch Series SE. An upgrade on the Apple Watch model from last year, the SE brings advanced features to a smaller, more affordable package.
The Apple Watch does come with a hefty price tag but is one of the best options if your teen already has an iPhone. This smartwatch continues to lead the pack in wearable tech.
Pros and Cons of Smartphones and Wearables
As you can imagine, smartphones and wearables are at the top of most teens’ gift lists this year. They offer so many great features, but it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each device before making a purchase.
First, these devices can be great tools for staying connected with friends and family but also come with potential risks. Most smartphones and wearables offer access to the internet, which can be a great thing if used responsibly but can also lead to viewing inappropriate content or cyberbullying.
Also, these devices tend to be quite expensive, so it’s important to consider your budget when shopping for a gift. If you are looking to stay on a budget, there are plenty of great options that offer similar features at a lower price.
Finally, while smartphones and wearables can be very helpful in staying connected and organized, they can also lead to distraction if used too much. If you are looking for a gift for your teen, make sure you set boundaries on how it will be used, and how often.
2. Tablets
With the rise of online education and hybrid classes, tablets have become common devices for students of all ages. With a tablet, teens can access their schoolwork and stay connected with friends, plus use apps to stay entertained.
While Apple and Samsung tablets are at the top of most teens’ lists, there are plenty of great budget options out there as well. The key to choosing the right tablet option is to understand the needs of your teen. Consider what they are using it for, and how much storage and battery life they need.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, there are also options that offer many of the same features as higher-priced models.
Here are our top picks for the best tablets for teens in 2023:
1. Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids (2021)
If you want to gift a tablet that offers plenty of features while staying fairly kid-friendly, then Amazon’s Fire HD 10 Kids is a great choice. It comes with parental controls, plus access to thousands of educational apps and games that your teen can explore.
The Fire has features such as curated content that is age-appropriate, plus controls that make it easy to keep track of their usage. Parents who have Amazon Kindle devices will be familiar with Fire’s format and functionality.
2. Apple iPad (2023)
Apple continues to offer quality products with their iPads, and the latest model is no exception. With its powerful chip and retina display, this tablet can handle any task your teen throws at it. And it seamlessly connects with Apple’s other products, making it an ideal choice for those already using Apple devices.
3. Lenovo Tab P11 Plus
Parents may be familiar with Lenovo – the creator of today’s most popular workplace laptops and desktops. Well, they also make tablets, and the Tab P11 Plus is one of the best options for teens.
It runs on Android with a high-quality display and is durable enough to hang in there with your teen. Plus, it’s relatively affordable compared to other tablets on the market.
4. Surface Laptop SE
Microsoft’s Surface devices are known for their tablet-to-desktop versatility, and the Surface Laptop SE is no exception. The cheaper of the Surface products, the SE has a 10.5-inch display and runs on an Intel® Core™ i3 Processor.
Perfect for completing homework and more, the Surface is a great choice for teens who need more than just an entertainment tablet.
Pros and Cons of Tablets
When it comes tо tablets, there are a few things to consider before buying.
For starters, the price tag of many tablets can be high – especially if you are looking for one with premium features. Another thing to keep in mind is that most tablets don’t have full access to all apps available in the App Store or Google Play store. If your teen wants to access specific apps or games, you may need to purchase those separately.
Finally, tablets are great for certain tasks such as homework, but they can also be easily used for distracting activities like playing games or watching videos. Plus, they can give students access to the world wide web of unapproved content. If you are looking to gift your teen a tablet, it’s important to set boundaries and expectations on how the device will be used.
Ultimately, tablets can be great tools for teens of all ages if used properly. Just make sure you research all available options before making your purchase and know how to set the proper boundaries to protect them while they use their new device!
3. Video Game Platforms
Video games are becoming a major part of how teens stay entertained and connected with friends, so gifting them a console can be an excellent choice. Video games have come a long way from their original 2D, 8-bit days; many now offer high-definition gaming, virtual reality, and even motion control options.
The latest consoles on the market offer features such as 4K resolution, streaming services, and online gaming with friends. With the ability to play many of today’s top-rated games, teens can stay connected with those they care about and explore new digital worlds.
Here are our picks for the best video game platforms to consider in 2023:
1. Sony PlayStation 5
The latest in Sony’s gaming system line-up is the powerful PlayStation 5 – a must-have for serious gamers. This hard-to-find console offers stunning 4K graphics and lightning-fast loading times, plus plenty of online capabilities. The PS5 also supports 8K visuals and 3D audio, creating a truly immersive gaming experience.
Of the many features that make this console stand out, the DualSense controller is particularly noteworthy. With its haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, gamers can feel every action they take in the game – from shooting a bow to driving a car. Plus, with online play and remote device access, teens can game with friends no matter where they are.
2. Microsoft Xbox Series X
The newest in the Xbox series, the Xbox Series X offers gamers 4K resolution, up to 120 frames per second, and fast loading times. With 8K gaming capabilities, teens can experience a level of graphics near cinematic quality.
The console also includes the ability to stream games and download others quickly, plus access to hundreds of games through the Xbox Game Pass. Teens can enjoy playing multiplayer games with their friends through online play.
The Xbox Series X also includes an improved version of the controller from its predecessor – the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. This enhanced controller gives gamers more control with its adjustable tension thumbsticks, shorter hair trigger locks, and larger-than-life buttons.
3. Nintendo Switch Lite
While Xbox and Playstation duke it out for the title of ‘best console’, Nintendo’s Switch Lite is a great option for those looking for something more portable. With its slim and lightweight design, teens can easily take this device with them wherever they go.
The Switch Lite also has a built-in gyroscope and accelerometer that allow users to play motion games like Mario Kart, as well as access a large library of titles. Plus, this console runs games in high resolution, making for a crisp and clear visual experience.
The Switch features many titles that are specific to its platform, so teens won’t miss out on any exclusive games. The device also features parental controls that give parents greater control over their teen’s experience and safety.
4. Steam Deck OLED
If your teen is a gamer, they may have mentioned Steam – the online market for PC games. Along with the usual array of downloads, Steam now has its own console – the Steam Deck OLED. This console is a great choice for teens because it combines affordability with powerful gaming capabilities.
The Steam Deck OLED is the new upgraded model of Valve’s handheld gaming PC. It features a vibrant 7.4″ OLED display with higher contrast, deeper blacks, and more vivid colors compared to the original Steam Deck’s LCD screen. The OLED model also has a faster WiFi 6E connection and a longer battery life – bringing console-level games to a handheld teens will love.
Pros and Cons of Video Game Consoles
You can bet that a video game console is on your teen’s 2023 gift list if they don’t have one already. But it’s important to understand the pros and cons of these devices before you purchase one for them.
When it comes to community in the digital age, video game consoles are great for socializing. Teens can play games with friends and family, or join online groups to make new connections. Consoles also offer unique experiences like virtual reality, motion control gaming, and more.
On the flip side, video game consoles can be expensive and require frequent upgrades if your teen wants to stay up-to-date. Purchasing games can also quickly become expensive, and different consoles have exclusive titles only released on their platform.
Plus, many teens can face the temptation of spending too much time gaming. Parents should set ground rules to ensure kids are playing games responsibly. Online play with others can also lead to cyberbullying and other harmful activities, so it’s important to monitor your teen’s online behavior.
4. Unique Tech Gifts for Teens
The products above are often the first items on teens’ lists, but more unique tech gifts can be the perfect way to surprise your teen. Some of these items include:
1. Meta Quest 2
The metaverse and virtual reality were once a dream of our youth. But now, our teens are becoming the first generation to experience these realities with the rise of the Meta Quest 2.
This device is designed to make simulations interactive, allowing teens to truly become part of the game. First introduced as the Oculus Quest 2, the VR headset was purchased by Facebook’s parent company Meta and renamed the Meta Quest 2.
Meta Quest 2 allows users to experience virtual environments, explore other worlds, and have a sense of presence within the game. Teens can even use their devices to play online with friends or access educational content.
The device’s next-gen processors, high-resolution displays, and improved motion tracking make it one of the most powerful VR headsets available on the market today.
2. Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Smart Glasses
If the full-face Meta Quest isn’t up your teen’s alley, then these fashion-forward specs will be. Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer is the first smart glasses co-developed by Meta and Ray-Ban. They feature classic Ray-Ban styles with integrated tech for capturing photos, video, and audio.
The glasses have two front-facing cameras for taking first-person photos and video. Five built-in microphones allow you to make calls, send messages, and issue voice commands using Meta’s voice assistant.
The Ray-Ban Stories app lets you manage, edit, and share content captured on the glasses, and 32GB of storage onboard will give them plenty of storage space. Plus, they are compatible with prescription lenses – making it one of the coolest (if not most expensive) tech gadgets on our list!
3. Cooluli Skincare Beauty Fridge
Does your teen already have an extensive skincare routine? The Cooluli Skincare Beauty Fridge is the perfect accessory to keep skincare products cool and help them stay fresh.
This chic mini fridge has a compact size that fits easily on most bedroom dressers, while its adjustable temperature setting ensures your teen’s products are stored at their ideal conditions.
The Cooluli Skincare Beauty Fridge is one of the most affordable products on our list of tech gifts for teens in 2023, but it offers plenty of features that teens will love. Don’t miss this unique gift option for this year!
4. Ring Light
Do you have a TikTok star in the making? Ring lights are a must-have for content creators and influencers, as they provide even lighting that perfects any video. A ring light can be wall-mounted or freestanding, and teens can choose from various colors to customize their lighting needs.
Ring lights offer the perfect photo op for your teen’s Instagram page or YouTube channel. They also come in easy-to-carry sizes, making them ideal for transporting wherever they need.
5. Philips Wake-Up Light
All teens can tend to struggle with getting up in the morning. But a Philips Wake-Up Light can provide just the motivation they need for an earlier start. This device mimics natural sunlight, gradually increasing brightness over a 30-minute period to help teens naturally wake up without that dreaded alarm clock sound.
The Philips Wake-Up Light also features personalized alarms, color-changing LED lights, and sunrise simulation – all of which can be controlled via the app. This is a thoughtful gift that will help teens learn to manage their time better and become more productive throughout the day.
6. 3Doodler Create+ 3D Printing Pen
One of our favorite unique tech gifts for teens in 2023 is the 3Doodler Create+ 3D Printing Pen. This pen allows teens to create 3D structures, sculptures, and jewelry without any software or design expertise. The device uses eco-plastic filament that can be heated and bent into various shapes with just a few clicks.
This tool is perfect for teens with an artistic streak and can help them explore their creative side. Teens can even use the 3Doodler Create+ to build complex structures or create unique jewelry pieces that they can wear or give away as gifts.
Tips for Choosing the Best Tech Gifts for Teens in 2023
When it comes to selecting the best tech gifts for your teens, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Tip 1: Consider their interests. Think about the things that your teen is passionate about and look for tech gifts that can help them explore those interests further.
Tip 2: Opt for quality. Don’t be tempted to go for the cheapest option, as it may not last as long as expected. Aim to get the best value for your money by investing in quality products.
Tip 3: Look for age-appropriate gifts. There are many tech gifts suitable for different age groups, so make sure you select an appropriate item for your teen’s age and maturity level.
Tip 4: Read the reviews. Reviews can give you a better understanding of a product and what it has to offer. This can help you decide whether or not a tech gift is a right choice for your teen.
Tip 5: Know the risks. Tech gifts come with some risks, so make sure you are aware of the potential security issues and how to protect your teen from them. Take the time to research the safety features of any tech gifts before making a purchase.
Give the Gift of Online Tech Safety with Kidslox
Technology is constantly advancing, and teens are increasingly becoming more tech-savvy – so why not treat them to one of these amazing tech gifts this year? Whether it’s an advanced gaming console, smart home device, or educational tool – there are plenty of options out there.
Remember to research, read the reviews, and select age-appropriate gifts. With the right tech gift, you can help your teen stay connected, inspired, and entertained for years to come!
If you want to take your tech gift for teens a step further in safety, consider adding Kidslox to gifted phones and tablets. With Kidslox, you can add an extra layer of digital protection to your family’s devices and give yourself the gift of peace of mind by knowing that their online activity is safe and secure.
So, why not give them the gift of online safety this year? With Kidslox, you can ensure your teen is always protected when browsing and exploring the digital world. One account controls all of your devices and grants you parental controls to keep your teen safe, no matter where they are.
With Kidslox, you can give the best tech gifts for teens in 2023 – and peace of mind all year round! Learn more online today, and happy holidays from Kidslox!
