Teenagers have everything at their fingertips, meaning they usually know exactly what they want and when. All of this makes buying a gift for them challenging as parents feel like they need to get them exactly right.
If you have a teenage gamer in your home, birthdays and Christmas is the perfect time to give them accessories that will spice up their gaming setup and showcase their love of video games.
That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate list of gift ideas for teenage gamers; so that this year your gift will top the Steam charts.
It’s not all about teens, if the gamer in your life is a bit older or younger, check out our Christmas gift guide for gamers, catering to everything from the casual new gamer to old hats.
Just remember to learn how your gamer games. If they’re a PC only pro, then getting them a Switch accessory might make their heads explode.
👨🔧 Gift Ideas for Nintendo Switch Gamers
Carrying Case for Nintendo Switch
Given that a Nintendo Switch is intended for travel, the Switch gamer in your life needs the appropriate protective gear to keep it from getting bumped and scratched.
This is even more important if they happen to be a teenager because let’s face it, they’re not usually the most careful with their possessions.
Switch cases come in plenty of different styles, like this The Legend of Zelda case, perfect for teens who spend most of their time in Hyrule.
Extra Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
An extra pair of controllers is always handy, for when your teenager has friends over, or for when you want to beat him up at Mario Kart. And you can always take them away as a punishment if they win, too.
If your teenager prefers traditional controllers to Joy-cons, we recommend the Nintendo Switch Pro controller or an Afterglow controller, which has a stylish RGB design.
When it comes to controllers, we definitely recommend buying official Nintendo models. They might be slightly more expensive but they’re good quality and you’re guaranteed longevity. Unless one gets thrown across the room in a fit of rage.
A charging dock for Nintendo Switch
This dock offers a super convenient solution for charging the Nintendo Switch console with ease. We chose a non-Nintendo accessory here, for its additional functionality.
Not only can you charge an extra set of joy-cons but the Skywin Switch Charging Dock also comes equipped with a Switch dock, room for two Pro controllers and an additional storage space for up to 28 games.
Just plug it in and you can slide all your Switch components neatly in place like Tetris blocks.
A new video game
Nintendo Switch gamers have one advantage over those who prefer PlayStation, Xbox or PC. Unlike those other gaming platforms, the Switch’s games rarely cost more than $55.
Of course, that’s still a fair chunk of change but Nintendo’s official store often offers discounts you could take advantage for when looking for a gift for teen gamers.
⭕ 🟥🔺❌ Gifts for PlayStation gamers
If your teen is a PlayStation gamer you’ll know one thing for sure – it can get pretty expensive, pretty quickly.
The games, controllers, and official merchandise all cost a fair amount and can leave those looking for presents a bit stunned. That’s why, we’ve specifically looked for gifts your teenage gamer will love, without breaking the bank.
However, if you are planning to splash out and looking for a good option, the PlayStation Portal has the added bonus of stopping them from hogging the family television.
Neon PlayStation Light
A popular present that adds an extra layer of style to a teen gamer’s set up. Even non-gamers will recognize the iconic symbols of the PlayStation controller in this attractive, flashily designed LED light.
There are loads of different versions of this light available online for you to choose from, but we like this model for its different modes and music reactivity.
PlayStation 5's DualShock Awakens
As you know, most teenagers dislike getting out of bed in the morning. So why not give them a gift that will *shock* them awake (get it…DualShock….? I’ll see myself out).
Inspired by the iconic PlayStation controller, this alarm clock features a design that will delight Sony fans. With its LCD screen and versatile features, it's perfect for those tough mornings.
Plus, it removes the excuse that they didn’t wake up on time because their phone battery died.
PS4 or PS5 Gaming Headset
This officially licensed PlayStation gaming headset is a great gift idea for teenage PS4 or PS5 fans. It is compatible with both consoles and offers gaming comfort thanks to its soft over-ear pads and foldable gaming microphone.
It’s a good cost-effective headset and as it’s from the official PlayStation store, you can’t go wrong on quality and durability. But there are other licensed headsets out there that offer a little bit more oomph…. For a little bit more cash, of course.
If you want to go all out the Razer Kaira Pro HyperSpeed is perfect for competitive gamers, and sits comfortably with a pair of Horus X gaming glasses.
A new video game
Like Nintendo Switch fans, you can’t go wrong with getting a teen PlayStation gamer a game. Luckily Sony does run sales fairly often so be sure to check the online Store regularly. And remember, if all else fails, a year’s subscription to PS Plus will probably do the trick.
🎮 Gifts for teenage Xbox players
Xbox Headset and Controller Dock
A cool accessory for the messy teenager who will never forget where they left their controller and headset last night.
Ideal for keeping your room or console space tidy, this two in one headset and controller station offers 2 spare USB ports for additional charging and has integrated RGB lights for a cool atmosphere when gaming or just charging.
Xbox Series S / X controller
The Xbox Color Controller is a great choice to add a touch of personality. Available in a variety of bright, vibrant colors and wireless to keep them from tripping over it, it lets your teen express themselves and show off their passion for gaming.
It’s practical, useful, and always good to fight over before starting your next round of Street Fighter.
Xbox games you don’t need to sell a kidney for
Like PlayStation, Xbox games can be expensive when they first come out. But don’t worry you don’t need to be Elon Musk (and why would you want to), to afford a good Xbox game. Also like PlayStation, they offer regular sales and discounts so you can find the gift of your teenager’s gaming dreams.
If nothing jumps out, or there’s a game coming out in a few months you know they’ll enjoy, you could always get a gift card or an Xbox Game Pass subscription so they have access to a huge library of gaming titles to pick from.
⌨🖱 The Perfect Gifts for PC Gamers
Backlit headset stand
Did you know? Gamers are like magpies, they love shiny things. Which is why a backlit headset stand with a touch sensor and 7 different color options is sure to catch their eye. With additional mouse support and 2 USB 3.0 ports, you can connect any gaming accessory you wish.
As a bonus, you’re also reducing the likelihood of the headset getting accidentally stepped on.
Backlit mouse pad
Much like the headset stand, an LED-backlit RGB gaming mouse pad is something that’s bound to please a teenage gamer’s magpie sensibilities.
It provides a large surface area for intense gaming mouse movements and protects the desk you paid for from scratches in the process.
Alloy Gaming Keyboard
The keyboard is an important (and expensive) tool for gamers. But there are good models out there that don’t require a second mortgage to afford.
Featuring responsive, mechanical keys, this Hyper X Alloy keyboard ensures precise and fast movements, ideal for action games and online competitive players.
Programmable keys allow you to customize your experience and personalized lighting profiles mean you can adjust the backlighting according to the type of game being played.
Aesthetically pleasing, even a teenager should be impressed with this keyboard’s functionality and design. Plus, with the backlight you can even game in the dark… although that might encourage them to stay up even later, leading to a grumpy school day and tired, achy eyes.
Or as before…a new game
New games are always appreciated, whether it’s Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox or PC. You can always splash out and pay full price, but luckily with Steam, there’s lots of sales available.
The games are linked to a gamer’s personal profile but you can always gift the games you buy (as long as you know your teenager’s Steam username), or if all else fails, purchase a gift card.
Or alternatively, Microsoft also offer a Game Pass that gives access to hundreds of games across all genres and periods of gaming history.
📕 Gifts for teenage gamers who read
The Art of Elden Ring
Even now, some teenagers still see the value in a physical book, especially if it comes packed with gaming information.
The Art of Elden Ring volumes 1 and 2 are a real treasure trove for fans of this ultra-popular video game.
Beautifully illustrated, the pages are filled with stunning artwork, developer notes and concept art that helped conceptualize the immersive fantasy world of Elden Ring. Get an exclusive look at how the game was created by the team that brought you Dark Souls, and what inspired the world of The Lands Between.
Just make sure they actually like Elden Ring first.
The Art of Game Design
The book "The Art of Game Design" is a must-have for all video game enthusiasts, especially if your teenager sees a future in the gaming industry.
This captivating book takes readers behind the scenes of video game creation, exploring in detail the fundamental concepts of game design and offering practical advice for creating immersive and exciting gaming experiences.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of this legendary game and discover the secrets of its making.
This Legend of Zelda book explores the different stages of the development process, from the first ideas to the final cut. With magnificent illustrations and detailed descriptions, this book transports us into the epic universe of Hyrule and makes us live the extraordinary adventure of the hero, Link.
Minecraft’s Survival Guide
To this day, teenage gamers are still tuning in to Minecraft. If your teen has just started their Minecraft journey then this 4-book set is the ultimate getting started guide, teaching everything from creation to survival to redstone.
👕 Clothing for teen gamers
Still not convinced by our ideas? What if you offered your teenager a T-shirt or an accessory that showcased their love of gaming to the world?
Fortnite backpack
A Fortnite backpack is the perfect choice for a teenager who wants to show off their style while paying homage to their favorite game. The padded shoulder straps provide optimal comfort, even during long days of classes.
They’ll be able to carry their things in style and there are plenty of different designs to suit almost any teen gamer’s fashion style.
Super Mario socks
If your teenager is passionate about the world of Mario, give them Super Mario-themed socks featuring the mustachioed plumber (or one of his sidekicks). An original gift idea and if it’s Christmas, then the perfect stocking stuffer.
Anti-blue light gaming glasses
If you’re worried about the negative effects of long hours in front of screens, then you can equip your teenage gamer with a pair of anti-blue light gaming glasses that help protect their eyes from harmful waves of blue light.
Not only do they help limit the effects of blue light, like struggle to sleep, achy eyes, Computer Vision Syndrome and more, but they look extremely stylish too.
If your teen is a fan of League of Legends, you can make this gift even more personalized. Horus X have teamed up with RIOT to bring you…. The Nexus collection!!
This very special League of Legends edition offers two of our iconic frames with a solid collector’s box and a League of Legends-themed microfiber cloth. And like all our other high-performance gaming glasses, they are guaranteed for life.
Gift ideas for teenage gamers: Consoles, accessories, games, décor and beyond
When looking for the perfect gift for a teen gamer, it's important to understand their passion for video games and tailor your choice accordingly. Teens have varying tastes, so it's important to consider their individual preferences.
Gaming accessories are a great choice for teenagers who can’t afford to invest in their own quality headphones, responsive keyboards, décor and controllers. It’s the perfect choice for them to personalize their space and live in the gaming moment.
If you want to give a more original gift, why not opt for a unique gaming experience? Tickets to video game shows or eSports events can offer a memorable experience to a teenage gamer.
Don’t forget to take advantage of commercial events like Black Friday or sales to get expensive gaming and tech items at reduced prices.
Ultimately, finding the perfect gift for a teenage gamer is like finding the perfect gift for anyone: learn their likes and dislikes and you’ll soon find yourself loaded with ideas.
And if all else fails… the gift card option is one click away.
