10 Cool Christmas Gifts for Teens and Tweens

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for a teen or tween takes considerable knowledge of the latest teen and tween trends. The coolest gifts for teens and tweens list has been compiled based on brief interviews with a few teens and tweens. The list includes cool gift ideas which range from as little as $10 to more elaborate gifts, such as a computer or gaming system.

1. Laptop computer

The top of the cool gifts for teens and tweens starts with a personal laptop computer. The benefits of a laptop computer for a teen or tween are many, and the portability of a laptop will make homework assignments and online fun easier when teens can carry their laptop around. There are educational benefits, as well as entertainment purposes for buying a laptop Christmas gift for a teen or tween.

The cost of a new mini notebook computer averages about $349, and this compact computer may be a good option for a younger tween or teen who needs a lightweight computer for basic purposes. Regular laptops start at around $500 and up, but have more features and technology, which may benefit a teen who plans to take their laptop along with them to college.

2. iPod

Though iPods have been around for a few years, they are still popular among teens and tweens. The iPod is the best choice for downloading songs and gift givers may want to consider adding an iTunes gift card with an iPod gift so their tween or teen can start downloading music. The least expensive iPods have less storage space, but start at around $80, when on sale.

3. Playstation 3 or Nintendo Wii Games

The latest Playstation 3 or Nintendo Wii game is always a hit with teens and tweens. In November, a number of new releases were put on the market, just in time for the holiday gift season. Some good choices for either system are Guitar Hero World Tour, Rock Band 2, or a game sequel based on the teen or tweens' favorite game.

Video games for Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii run about $49.99 and up, but there are other less expensive games available if newly released games are not a concern.

4. Gift Cards

Gift cards are always a good choice for teens or tweens who like to pick out their own gifts. Ask the teen or tween for a few ideas before purchasing a gift card to their favorite store. Some malls offer gift cards which can be used at a large number of stores, and these type of gift cards are a good choice for teens or tweens who spend considerable time shopping at the local mall.

5. Digital Camera

The Christmas holiday season is an excellent time to find the best deals on digital cameras. Many teens and tweens use digital cameras and this is a good choice for nearly any teen or tween. Look for a good camera with decent megapixels, and possibly video capacities. Teens and tweens can then use the digital camera for MySpace pics and for uploading their YouTube video clips.

6. Clothing from Popular Teen/Tween Stores

Cool clothing choices for teens and tweens will vary, so it pays to ask ahead of time what your teen or tween's favorite retail stores are. Among tween girls, Limited Too is at the top of the list, as well as Aeropostale. Hollister, American Eagle, and Abercrombie and Fitch are popular among teens. If the price tags at these stores are frightening, consider buying a t-shirt or hoodie, even an accessory with the name brand.

7. Visa Gift Card

If you don't want to hand over cash in a Christmas card, consider buying a Visa gift card for the teen or tween. Visa gift cards are available at many retail stores and serve as a pre-loaded credit card. Visa gift cards can be very helpful to teens who want to shop online.

8. Gaming System

If you are ready for a larger gift purchase, consider buying a new game system for a teen or tween. The least expensive gaming system is the Nintendo DS, which can be found in bundles for about $129. This choice is a better bet for tweens, rather than teens. The Nintendo Wii or Playstation 3 gaming systems are a great gift for teens or tweens who have a new game system at the top of their Christmas list this year.

9. The Twilight Series of Books

The recent release of Twilight, the movie based on the Twilight book series by Stephanie Meyer, will no doubt increase the popularity of this teen book series for the holiday season. The Twilight series of books are both interesting and appealing for teens. The Twilight series of books have also gone down in price and are available at retailers for as little as $7 each (Sam's Club, Walmart).

10. Movie Tickets

Movie tickets are always a good bet for gifts for teens or tweens. Regal Cinemas or other theater chains often offer gift cards online, as well as at the local theater. This is a great gift idea when you have a budget of between $20-$25 to spend. Add some candy and popcorn to a gift bag to complete the gift.