The 30 Best Gifts for 11-Year-Old Boys—From AirPods Pro to a Personalized Compass!

Remember when you were 11? It’s a weird age for sure—plenty of fun as you come into your own, but that also means… coming into your own. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift to encourage your middle schooler’s interests, navigate their growth spurts, or to simply bring them joy, do we have some ideas for you. Read on for the 30 best gifts for 11-year-old boys in 2022.

This is the age when kids are intro trying a lot of different hobbies and sports, figuring out what they enjoy most. It can be hard to know what to buy when their opinions change, sometimes within a few days. This roundup of gift ideas for boys includes everything from tech to clothing to books to card games, so you can be sure there's something here for your gift recipient.

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Best Gifts for 11-Year-Old Boys

1. Apple AirPods Pro, $239 on Amazon

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With a customizable fit, active noise cancellation, and adaptive EQ, there isn’t much these sweat- and water-resistant earbuds can’t do. Plus, their wireless charging case delivers more than 24 hours of battery life. Apple AirPods Pro, $239, Amazon

2. HP 11.6" 32GB Chromebook, $116.90 on Amazon

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Whether it’s for school or for surfing the net (if kids even say that anymore), this compact HP Chromebook is sure to be a showstopper of a gift. With 4GB of system memory, 32GB flash memory, a vivid display, and plenty of ports, the impressive specs alone make this a great option. HP 11.6" 32GB Chromebook, $116.90, Amazon

3. Dragonwatch Daring Collection by Brandon Mull, $29.99, Amazon

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If the voracious reader in your life can’t get enough of fantasy books, consider Brandon Mull’s Dragonwatch Daring Collection. Featuring the first three books of the series, this boxed set lets your imaginative bibliophile unlock the world of Fablehaven. Dragonwatch Daring Collection by Brandon Mull, $29.99, Amazon

4. Nintendo Switch Lite Bundle, $293.97, Adorama

It’s no secret that the Nintendo Switch is one of the hottest buys this year, so it’s time to strike while the iron’s hot if you see a reasonable deal. If your favorite gamer doesn’t need TV output, consider this bundle from Adorama, which comes with a Nintendo Switch Lite, a copy of Metroid Dread, and a 128 GB SanDisk MicroSDXC card to save your progress. This console offers virtually the same gaming experience, but, unlike the Switch, the Lite is equipped with a touchscreen and built-in speakers. Nintendo Switch Lite Bundle, $293.97, Adorama

5. Raen Myles Sunglasses, $119 at Madewell

Some kids have a future so bright, they’re gonna need shades—and a cool pair of shades at that. With premium Zeiss lenses and a hand-cut cellulose acetate design, these versatile sunglasses have a classic vintage look that will secure their spot as a go-to accessory for years to come. Raen Myles Sunglasses, $119, Madewell

Related: 50 Best Gifts for 2 Year Olds

6. Meta Quest 2 Advanced All-in-One VR Headset, $399.99 on Amazon

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If the reality of needing an impressive gift for your preteen has set in, why not opt for some virtual reality? With a crisp display and 128GB of storage, this is a great way to hop on the VR gaming trend without needing a PC or console (though you will need a Facebook account). Meta Quest 2 Advanced All-in-One VR Headset, $399.99, Amazon

7. Hogwarts Trunk Collectible Set, $31.50 on Amazon

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While your favorite young wizard waits on their Hogwarts letter, make sure they have everything a first-year needs with this Hogwarts Trunk Set. This replica of Harry Potter’s Hogwarts trunk is packed to the brim with all kinds of fun collectibles, including a journal and wand-themed pen, a chocolate frog enamel pin, and copies of the Marauder’s map and a Quidditch match ticket. Hogwarts Trunk Collectible Set, $31.50, Amazon

8. Adjustable Chef Apron (2-Pack), $15.99 on Amazon

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Every chef needs a durable apron, and we think we’ve found one of the best ones for your Iron Chef in training. In addition to boasting cool stripes and a front pocket, these adjustable kitchen aprons are lightweight and machine washable. Adjustable Chef Apron 2-Pack, $15.99, Amazon

9. Personalized Engraved Compass, $37 at Etsy

This engraved compass from SFdizayn is more than just a gift—it’s an heirloom piece that can be passed down for generations. Made of solid brass, this compass is suitable for outdoor use. This Etsy shop offers personalization on the inside, front, and back of the compass (or a combination of the three). SFdizayn Personalized Engraved Compass, $37, Etsy

10. What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions by Randall Munroe, $28 on Amazon

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No, this book isn’t related to the Marvel series What If…?, but if you have a preteen who loves to learn, this is one of the best books for 11-year-old boys. There are sure to be plenty of laughs and maybe even a few “aha” moments with this book’s delightfully absurd topics like nuclear reactor swimming pools and making a periodic table with actual pieces of each element. What If?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions by Randall Munroe, $28, Amazon

Related: 35 Fun Outdoor Games for Kids

11. Adidas Originals Washed Bucket Hat, $20.35 on Amazon

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We know, we thought we’d seen the last of bucket hats too, but no, TikTok had to bring them back. (Also, Y2K fashion is considered “vintage” now by Zoomers, so have fun with that internal crisis.) You can be sure your preteen will be wearing this option again and again. Adidas Originals Washed Bucket Hat, $20.35, Amazon

12. StubHub eGift Card, $50 at StubHub

Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Bad Bunny, oh my! This is a great chance to give the budding musician or pop star superfan in your life a chance to see one of their idols in the (probably sweaty) flesh. You can customize StubHub’s eGift cards for plenty of special occasions while adding as much to the balance as you’d like. StubHub eGift Card, $50, StubHub

13. Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker, $29.59, Amazon

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The days of carrying around your boom box as you hang out with friends aren’t over—they’ve just gotten a bit of a facelift. This compact waterproof speaker boasts a battery life of up to 24 hours and Bluetooth connectivity with a range of up to 100 feet. Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker, $29.59, Amazon

14. National Geographic Mega Gemstone Dig Kit, $20 on Amazon 

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Boasting a chisel, brush, and magnifying glass, this kit by National Geographic has all the tools your favorite geologist needs to embark on their very first dig. The set comes with 15 gems, including aventurine, pyrite, amethyst, tiger’s eye, and obsidian, plus a guide to learn how to identify each stone and how they’re formed. National Geographic Mega Gemstone Dig Kit, $20, Amazon 

15. UGG South Bay Sneaker, $100 at UGG

Fun fact: UGG carries tons of fun (and equally comfy) styles outside of their classic boots! These sneakers will be sure to put some spring in your 11-year-old’s step with a leather outer design, cushioned insole and sock liner. UGG South Bay Sneaker, $100, UGG

Related: 50+ Best Baby Shower Gifts

16. The Crooked Tavern Ocean Moss DnD Dice Set, $15 at Etsy

We don’t know if it’s the heavy featuring in Stranger Things, but the popularity of Dungeons and Dragons is seeing quite the resurgence, especially among kids. Gift your favorite dungeon master a set of quality dice, which have been handcrafted with resin and sea moss. You’ll be sure to roll a nat 20 with this gift! The Crooked Tavern Ocean Moss DnD Dice Set, $15, Etsy

17. Minger 16.4-foot LED Strip Lights, $13.99 on Amazon

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Be honest: When’s the last time you gave your 11-year-old’s room an update? To reflect their personal style and transition from childhood into their pre-teenage years, this TikTok-approved set of lights is an affordable way to make their bedroom the cool safe haven every kid needs. This 16+ foot long set of lights comes with 20 basic colors, 6 lighting modes, and a handy remote to adjust their lights with their mood. Minger 16.4-foot LED Strip Lights, $13.99, Amazon

18. Carpool Karaoke Wireless Bluetooth Microphone, $33.29 on Amazon

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If your kid’s on TikTok, odds are they’ve seen the videos with this Carpool Karaoke Mic. Let them join in on the fun with all its musical features anytime anywhere with its three sound effects, six voice-changing effects, and Bluetooth connectivity. Carpool Karaoke The Mic 2.0, $33.29, Amazon

19. Nike Air Force 1 Mid Sneaker, $120 at Nike

Ever the classic, you can easily up your preteen’s shoe game with these Nike Air Force 1s. Whether they dress them up or dress them down, there isn’t a single outfit these timeless leather sneakers can’t elevate. Plus, the durable rubber heel provides plenty of traction while the Nike Air cushioning offers ample support, making this a great option to wear all year round. Nike Air Force 1 Mid Sneaker, $120, Nike

20. EarFun Free 2 Wireless Earbuds, $49.99 on Amazon

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Your 11-year-old can enjoy features like touch controls, noise canceling, and wireless charging over the course of 30+ hours of listening time with these waterproof wireless earbuds—just remember to clip the on-page coupon when you buy! EarFun Free 2 Wireless Earbuds, $49.99, Amazon

21. Antsy Labs Fidget Cube, $6.99 at Walmart

With nearly 155,000 backers and $6.5 million raised through their viral Kickstarter fundraiser, Antsy Labs’ viral Fidget Cube continues to be a crowd-pleaser since the campaign’s launch in August 2016. All six sides of this convenient and compact gadget have different features, such as clickable switches and clickable buttons, with some being noiseless so they don’t pose a distraction to others. Antsy Labs Fidget Cube, $6.99, Walmart

22. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller, $16.99 on Amazon

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This Newbery Medal-winning novel is sure to capture your kid’s heart and imagination. Tae Keller brings a classic Korean folktale to life with When You Trap a Tiger, in which the book’s heroine, Lily, makes a deal with a magical tiger to embark on a quest in exchange for healing her sickly grandmother. When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller, $16.99, Amazon

23. J.Crew Kids’ Half-Zip Cotton Popover Shirt, $49.50 at J.Crew

Made of sustainably-sourced cotton, this machine washable pullover is perfect for when your kid needs to stay warm, but a sweatshirt is just a little too casual. It’s good to note, though, that it runs a bit small, so you’re better off sizing up. J.Crew Kids’ Half-Zip Cotton Popover, $49.50, J.Crew

24. The Original Buddha Board Art Set, $37.95 on Amazon

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Whether your 11-year-old is an avid painter or just needs something to chill, the Buddha Board is a great option to practice some doodling. Equipped with a bamboo paintbrush, simply use water to paint or write a message, then watch your creations fade away over time to make room for new ideas. The Original Buddha Board Art Set, $37.95, Amazon

25. Google Nest Mini (Charcoal, 2nd Generation), $49 at B&H

Whether it’s homework help or chilling with friends, there’s a lot your favorite little dude can get out of a Google Nest Mini. Available in the charcoal colorway, this is a great opportunity to save on a smart speaker that can be used for streaming music, broadcasting messages between rooms (think like a more high-tech game of telephone), controlling room lights, and more. Google Nest Mini (Charcoal, 2nd Generation), $49, B&H

26. Yeti Rambler 18 oz. Water Bottle with Chug Cap, $30 at Yeti

Whether it’s for hiking, gym class, after school sports, or simply to stay hydrated, every kid needs a good water bottle. This durable option from Yeti is as easy to drink from as it is to clean and comes in a wide range of colors. Not to mention, it boasts an impressive 5-year warranty. Yeti Rambler 18 oz. Water Bottle with Chug Cap, $30, Yeti

27. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer Series Box Set, $29.07 on Amazon

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If your 11-year-old is a fan of the Disney+ movie, immerse them in the world of criminal prodigy Artemis Fowl as he searches for his missing father, who has disappeared under some… magical circumstances. This collection features the first eight books in the series, which your kid is sure to breeze right through. Artemis Fowl Collection by Eoin Colfer 8 Book Set, $29.07, Amazon

28. Mango Zipped Pockets Anorak, $85.99 at Mango

Winter is coming… Okay, winter is pretty much here, but that’s all the more reason to pick up a durable winter coat like this one from Mango, which is available in navy in sizes XS-L. Its classic design and removable hood are sure to keep your middle schooler warm while looking cool. Mango Zipped Pockets Anorak, $85.99, Mango

29. Sushi Go!, $8.72 at Walmart

If the candy factory scene from I Love Lucy was filmed at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, we’re pretty sure it would be the equivalent of playing Sushi Go! In this fast-paced card game, 2-5 players must obtain the best combination of sushi dishes, from sashimi to maki rolls. Just don’t blame us for the sushi cravings that are sure to follow! Sushi Go!, $8.72, Walmart

30. Word of Mouse by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein, $6.78 on Amazon

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If your kid is an animal lover and a bookworm, they’ll love this heartwarming book by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein. After blue-haired Isaiah the mouse escapes from his lab and is separated from his family, he uses his impressive reading, writing, and, yes, speaking skills to befriend a young girl named Haley. Together, the two work to reunite him with his family, while discovering a beautiful friendship along the way. Word of Mouse by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein, $6.78, Amazon

Check out:

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