15 Christmas Gifts for 17-Year-Old Boys They’ll Remember

Last updated on November 11, 2024

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What do you get the boy who’s outgrown most holiday traditions but still counts down to Christmas? At 17, the perfect gift needs to acknowledge their independence while celebrating family connections.

We’ve gathered a thoughtfully selected range of holiday presents that resonate with today’s seventeen-year-olds. From innovative tech to practical luxuries, each suggestion has been chosen to create meaningful Christmas memories.

1.
Pro Classic Electric Guitar

Pro Classic Electric Guitar
Why we like it: A high-quality electric guitar to nurture the musical talents of a 17-year-old rocker.

For the aspiring rockstar on your shopping list, this Christmas gift won’t disappoint. This high-quality guitar is suitable for all levels, from beginner to pro. The classic electric guitar shape is beautifully accented by the vintage-style hardware and high-contrast body.

Equipped with a coil split system, it offers a versatile range of tones, from classic and clean to gritty rock. The smooth maple neck and ebony fingerboard give this guitar a distinct look while the balanced design means he can play for longer without discomfort. If the 17-year-old guy you’re shopping for has musical aspirations, he’ll think this Christmas gift rocks.

Pros
  • Rich vintage styling with modern features
  • Versatile coil split tonal system
  • Smooth, playable neck and fingerboard
  • Suitable for all skill levels
  • Inspires creativity and self-expression
Cons
  • Requires amplifier (not included)

2.
High Accuracy Metal Detector

High Accuracy Metal Detector
Why we like it: An exciting metal detector that turns treasure hunting into a fun hobby for 17-year-olds.

Give a Christmas gift that will turn the 17-year-old boy you know into an actual treasure hunter with this metal detector. This detector boasts high-accuracy detection capabilities, enhanced by its pinpoint function, ensuring precision in every hunt. The user-friendly LCD display provides clear information about potential treasures beneath, making all his searches more engaging.

With adjustable sensitivity levels, he can tailor his treasure-hunting experience to various terrains. The waterproof search coil allows him to venture into damp grounds or shallow waters, expanding the reach of his exploration. This is the gift of finding a very cool new hobby. Does it get any cooler than being a real-life treasure hunter?

Pros
  • High precision pinpoint detection
  • User-friendly LCD display
  • Adjustable sensitivity levels
  • Waterproof coil for all terrain
  • Engaging new hobby to explore
Cons
  • Requires open spaces to use
 

3.
Pop-Up Camping Tent

Pop-Up Camping Tent
Why we like it: A hassle-free pop-up tent, perfect for the adventurous 17-year-old's camping trips.

If you’re Christmas shopping for a 17-year-old boy who loves to have outdoor adventures, he’d be disappointed if he didn’t find something this cool under the tree this year. This pop-up tent will take the hassle out of his outdoor setup so he can spend less time fumbling with poles and more time soaking in nature.

Designed for multiple-season use, this tent offers excellent waterproof capabilities, ensuring he stays dry during unexpected showers. The mesh panels act as ventilation, keeping the interior fresh and bug-free. With enough space to comfortably accommodate three people, it’s perfect for solo trips or with a couple of friends.

Pros
  • Quick and easy setup
  • Waterproof for all-season use
  • Mesh panels for ventilation
  • Fits up to 3 people comfortably
Cons
  • Not suitable for extreme weather

4.
Water Bottle with Sleeve

Water Bottle with Sleeve
Why we like it: A convenient and health-conscious gift for the active 17-year-old.

This Christmas morning, surprise the 17-year-old boy in your life with a gift that champions both health and style. This water bottle, snugly housed in a protective neoprene sleeve, is perfect for keeping him hydrated, whether he’s working out, studying, or just out and about. Holding a generous gallon, it ensures he has enough water for the day ahead.

The sleeve with a carrying strap doesn’t just keep drinks cool and offer convenience, but it also holds his phone to free up pocket space. The phone sleeve cover is touch-sensitive, meaning he can text and make calls without having to take it out. This is the gift of healthy living and any health-conscious young man will appreciate that.

Pros
  • Insulating neoprene sleeve
  • Integrated phone sleeve with touchscreen
  • Carrying strap for easy transport
Cons
  • Hand-wash recommended
 

5.
Stylish USB Smart Backpack

Stylish USB Smart Backpack
Why we like it: A tech-savvy backpack with USB charging for the always-connected 17-year-old.

For the tech-savvy 17-year-old boy, here’s something he’ll appreciate on Christmas morning. This USB-enabled backpack seamlessly combines technology and style. Designed for both daily commutes and longer journeys, it comes with a dedicated external USB charging port. He can conveniently charge his devices on-the-go, ensuring he’s always connected.

Beyond the tech features, the backpack also boasts multiple compartments, perfect for organizing gadgets, books and essentials. It even holds a 15.6-inch laptop, a feature many smart backpacks don’t provide. The modern and minimalist design, paired with functionality, ensures he stays ahead in both tech and trend.

Pros
  • External USB charging port
  • Multiple compartments for organization
  • Fits up to 15.6" laptop
  • Minimalist yet stylish design
Cons
  • Power bank not included

6.
Voice Recorder Ballpoint Pen

Voice Recorder Ballpoint Pen
Why we like it: A discreet and innovative pen that doubles as a voice recorder for the always-busy 17-year-old.

For the 17-year-old boy who’s always on the go and needs to capture ideas, conversations, or lectures at a moment’s notice, this voice recorder pen is a Christmas gift that marries innovation with utility. Crafted with a modern design, this pen functions not only as a smooth writing instrument but also as a high-quality voice recorder.

With a powerful noise reduction feature, it ensures crystal clear recordings every time. The pen’s impressive 64 GB storage can hold hours of recordings and its USB connectivity allows easy transfers to a computer.

Discreet and functional, it’s ideal for interviews, meetings, or simply noting down spur-of-the-moment inspirations. This holiday season, empower him with the dual capability of jotting and recording in one sleek device.

Pros
  • Built-in high-quality voice recorder
  • Noise reduction for clear audio
  • USB connectivity for easy file transfer
Cons
  • Requires careful handling to avoid damage
 

7.
RFID Vegan Leather Wallet

RFID Vegan Leather Wallet
Why we like it: A slim and secure vegan leather wallet, perfect for the organized 17-year-old.

Here’s a practical Christmas gift idea that a 17-year-old boy will use every day. This classically designed wallet is a made made out of a heavy-duty blend of polyester and vegan leather. Its sleek design exudes maturity while maintaining a youthful edge. The wallet offers multiple card slots, ensuring he can keep his essentials organized.

The RFID blocking feature adds an extra layer of security against unwanted card scans while the slim profile ensures it fits comfortably in his pocket. This is a gift that balances style, functionality and security and one he’ll be using for many years to come.

Pros
  • Multiple card slots for organization
  • RFID blocking prevents wireless skimming
  • Slim profile fits comfortably in pocket
  • Durable polyester/vegan leather blend
  • Mature yet youthful style
Cons
  • Not genuine leather
  • Limited colors available

8.
Bamboo Wireless Charging Station

Bamboo Wireless Charging Station
Why we like it: An eco-friendly charging station that combines nature and technology for the modern 17-year-old.

Give a Christmas gift that any 17-year-old boy who loves tech will appreciate. Beautifully crafted from eco-friendly bamboo, this charging station seamlessly integrates nature with technology.

Its design allows for efficient cable management, ensuring the desk remains clutter-free while charging multiple devices. The wireless charging pad is compatible with most smartphones, providing a rapid charge without the hassle of tangled cords.

The additional compartment can hold essentials such as pens, earbuds, or watches, keeping everything organized. With this classy charging station, you’re choosing a gift that blends sophistication and modern tech while making daily charging routines both elegant and efficient.

Pros
  • Made from sustainable bamboo
  • Built-in wireless charging pad
  • Cable management system keeps desk organized
  • Elegant blend of style and functionality
Cons
  • May require extra cables/adapters
  • Limited to Qi-enabled devices for wireless charging
 

9.
Designer Leather Belt Set

Designer Leather Belt Set
Why we like it: A stylish leather belt set with designer accents for the fashion-forward 17-year-old.

Give the gift of style this Christmas with this gorgeous belt designed for the trend-setting 17-year-old boy. Made from premium leather, the luxurious look and feel are obvious. The oversized, silver Michael Kors logo buckle acts as a hallmark of its distinguished design.

The belt comes packaged as a set so he can assemble the belt with or without the buckle. On the leather belt is a subtle repeating logo pattern that makes sure everyone around him knows he takes his style seriously. Whether it’s an upscale event or a casual day at school, this belt seamlessly complements any attire, ensuring he’s always in vogue.

Pros
  • Premium leather construction
  • Signature logo embossed buckle
  • Can be worn with or without buckle
  • Complements any outfit, casual or dressy
Cons
  • More expensive than basic belts

10.
Adjustable Hands-Free Book Stand

Adjustable Hands-Free Book Stand
Why we like it: A versatile book stand that allows hands-free reading in any position for the studious 17-year-old.

This Christmas, surprise the 17-year-old bookworm with a gift that enhances his reading experience. Designed to support everything from hefty textbooks to lighter paperbacks, this hands-free book stand ensures comfortable reading sessions without the strain of holding a book for prolonged periods.

The adjustable page holders accommodate various book thicknesses, securing pages in place and preventing them from flipping. The variable height and viewing angle mean he can go hands-free in a chair, standing, or even in the bath.

Whether he’s diving deep into academic research or simply enjoying a novel, this stand will become his favorite reading companion. He’ll definitely be taking this gift with him when he goes off to college.

Pros
  • Adjustable height and viewing angles
  • Accommodates books of varying thicknesses
  • Page holders keep books securely open
  • Allows reading while standing, sitting or in bath
  • Reduces strain from holding books
Cons
  • Not suitable for extremely large/heavy books
 

11.
Leather Slip-On Shoes

Leather Slip-On Shoes
Why we like it: Versatile and comfortable slip-on shoes with a classy look for the style-savvy 17-year-old.

This is a Christmas gift any style-loving, comfort-craving, 17-year-old boy is going to love. These slip-on shoes look effortlessly sophisticated. The uppers are made of top-quality nubuck leather and the interior is lined with a soft, moisture-wicking material that will keep his feet comfortable from school to nights out with friends.

The amazing design of these shoes allows the heel to be folded down so they can be worn as a full shoe or as a slip-on. The waxed leather and thick rubber soles make these shoes ideal for all weather conditions, as they are water resistant and will prevent him from slipping in rainy weather. If casual but classy is how he describes his style, these shoes belong in his closet.

Pros
  • Premium leather uppers
  • Moisture-wicking lining for comfort
  • Can be worn as full shoe or slip-on
  • Water-resistant with rubber soles
  • Suits casual and dressier styles
Cons
  • May require breaking in period

12.
Adaptive Noise Cancelation Earbuds

Adaptive Noise Cancelation Earbuds
Why we like it: Premium earbuds with active noise cancellation for the audio-loving 17-year-old.

Step up the audio game for a 17-year-old boy who values impeccable sound quality when listening to his music with this Christmas gift. These wireless earbuds from Bowers & Wilkins ensure clear trebles, deep bass and an overall balanced sound profile. With active noise cancellation that adapts to his surroundings, they become an oasis of calm in bustling environments, letting him focus on his favorite tracks.

They also feature six built-in microphones for enhanced sound and clarity while making calls. With a comfortable fit for extended use and a durable charging case for on-the-go convenience, these earbuds are a premium choice for audio enthusiasts this festive season.

Pros
  • Balanced sound profile with deep bass
  • Adaptive noise cancellation in any environment
  • Comfortable fit for extended use
  • Durable charging case for portability
Cons
  • Expensive gift option
 

13.
Mechanical Globe Tracking Watch

Mechanical Globe Tracking Watch
Why we like it: A luxurious and innovative timepiece that exudes style for the fashion-conscious 17-year-old.

For Christmas, elevate the style of any 17-year-old boy with this stunning timepiece that exudes sophistication and contemporary style. This mechanical automatic watch is a harmonious blend of form and function, merging classic elegance with innovative design elements.

Look through the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal face and witness the earth shift as time changes. Inspired by how the earth revolves, this watch is unlike anything he has in his collection. Driven by a reliable automatic movement, the watch ensures timekeeping is as accurate as it is visually mesmerizing.

The sleek Fluororubber strap complements the bold, black dial, creating a striking aesthetic that stands out on any wrist. If you’re looking to splurge, this gift is worth it.

Pros
  • Mechanical automatic movement
  • Sapphire crystal face
  • Earth rotates on the dial as time changes
Cons
  • May be too large for smaller wrists

14.
LED 3D Titanic Puzzle

LED 3D Titanic Puzzle
Why we like it: A highly detailed 3D puzzle with LED lights that will appeal to the puzzle-loving, history buff 17-year-old.

Gift a journey back in time this Christmas with this 3D puzzle that brings the legendary Titanic to life. Perfect for any 17-year-old boy who loves history and puzzles, this intricate puzzle boasts an astonishing level of detail, capturing the grandeur of the iconic ship.

With 193 pieces, it presents both a fun challenge and an educational experience, teaching patience and precision. This puzzle has a twist though as it’s designed with 85 LED lights that will glow throughout each deck. Once it’s assembled, it would be an impressive showcase piece on his bookshelf to add to the collection of his other puzzle conquests.

Pros
  • Captures incredible details of the Titanic
  • 193 piece puzzle is an engaging challenge
  • 85 LED lights illuminate the assembled model
Cons
  • Advanced skill level required
 

15.
Star Wars Lego Set

Star Wars Lego Set
Why we like it: The ultimate collectible Lego set for the 17-year-old Star Wars aficionado.

If you’re Christmas shopping for a 17-year-old boy who can’t stop talking about how much he loves Star Wars, this is the gift he wants. This Lego set builds an impressive representation of R2-D2. The elaborate detail of this droid will have him excited to display it as part of his Star Wars memorabilia collection. It even comes with its own display stand.

The set includes 2,314 pieces and provides a host of authentic features, such as a retractable mid-leg, rotating head, a periscope that can be pulled up and a hidden lightsaber in the head. This is a collectible piece and a fantastic gift option for any Star Wars aficionado.

Pros
  • Includes authentic features like retractable leg
  • Comes with display stand
  • Perfect for collections and display
  • Suitable for any Star Wars fan
Cons
  • Expensive gift option
  • Time-consuming build

Need more inspiration?

Molly Barlett
About Molly Barlett

As the founder of GiftExperts, I have spent the past decade refining my expertise in finding heartfelt and meaningful gifts that are tailored to each individual recipient. Over the years, I have developed a passion for helping people express their appreciation and love through thoughtful gift-giving.

I offer personalized services that extend beyond simply finding suitable gifts. In addition to recommending unique presents for any occasion, I also provide advice on gift-giving strategies, etiquette, and budgeting. My clients appreciate my knowledge of the psychology behind gifting and my ability to show genuine care and thoughtfulness when selecting a present.

My goal is to help make every gift experience special by finding ideal presents that fit within any budget or occasion. From sophisticated corporate gifts to one-of-a-kind birthday surprises, I strive to find something special for every person. With an eye for detail and a knack for understanding what makes someone feel appreciated, I am confident in my ability to help you find the perfect gift that will stand out from the rest.