At 9 years old, boys are nearing the end of their first decade on the planet, and as such they are beginning to see, for the very first time, just how much fun it can be to grow up. While from our perspective they are still just kids, the average 9 year old boy sees himself as a budding adult, ready for new challenges and experiences to prove his ability.

Shopping for them is therefore all about finding the toys, gifts, and gear that appeals to their growing intellect and imagination. Things that inspire, challenge, and entertain … these are the kind of gifts that most kids this age are looking for, whether or not they have been asking for them specifically.

We’ve curated an awesome list of 50 unique toys and gifts that we’re sure your 9 year old boy is going to love. Regardless of what he is into, we have a wide variety of ideas ranging from sports to technology and everything in-between!

Later, we’ve got a more detailed buyer’s guide written up that can help you choose from the ideas on our list. At the very end, we will reveal a few of our team’s top picks.

Related: 50 Of The Hottest Toys & Gifts For 9 Year Old Girls This Year

Here Is A List Of The Best Gifts & Toys For 9 Year Old Boys

Hover Shot Shooting Target Game

Hover Shot Shooting Target Game

Hover Shot Shooting Target Game

These targets are sure to put kids to the test as they jump, bounce, and dance around in thin air. Kids load up foam darts into the toy gun, aim, and try to hit the floating hover balls. With an impressive 25-foot shooting range, it provides an excellent challenge. They’re compatible with Nerf darts and guns and perfect for playing solo or with friends. The kit comes with a hover shot target base, foam blaster, 10 hover balls, and a USB cable. You can operate the Hover Shot via USB or with 4 AA batteries (not included).

Rechargeable Laser Tag Set

Rechargeable Laser Tag Set

Rechargeable Laser Tag Set

Bring the fun of the laser tag arena to your own home or yard with this comprehensive laser tag set. The set includes enough equipment for four players, with four vests, four guns, and one charging station. The rechargeable feature allows for approximately eight games before you need to charge it again. And the charging station makes it easy to charge everything at once, which means kids can get back to the fun even faster. The vests feature targets on the front and back for 360-degree action and LCDs on the guns and vests show your status, making it easy to check your stats during gameplay.

Shapeshifting Box And Fidget Cube

Shapeshifting Box And Fidget Cube

Shapeshifting Box And Fidget Cube

Give kids a challenge they won’t be able to refuse with this mind bending puzzle cube from Shashibo. The award-winning shapeshifting box comes in all sorts of colors and patterns. It features 36 rare earth magnets that allow kids to transform it into over 70 different shapes. The tear-proof, high-gloss finish keeps it durable as you reshape it over and over again. You can even connect multiple cubes together to create large masterpieces and 3D sculptures like you’ve never seen before. It’s an excellent gift for stimulating creativity and providing a sensory experience. It’s also a great way to reduce stress and encourage more focus.

Foldable Tangle-Free Headphones

Foldable Tangle-Free Headphones

Foldable Tangle-Free Headphones

If you’re looking for an excellent gift for a music lover or someone who loves to listen to podcasts or audiobooks, a pair of headphones is a must. These comfy and colorful headphones feature a foldable design, making it easy for kids to tote them in a backpack or bring them on an airplane or in the car. The tangle-free five-foot braided cord design keeps things hassle-free. And there are several colors to choose from, so you can find the best match for your kid’s personality. They’re compatible with all smartphones, iPads, Chromebooks, laptops, and 3.5mm audio jack devices.

Trick Jump Pogo Ball

Trick Jump Pogo Ball

Trick Jump Pogo Ball

Are you looking for the perfect gift for kids who love to be active and try out stunts? The pogo ball trick board is a great option, with a firm grip deck that keeps things stable with maximum traction. Kids can practice their balancing skills, build core strength, and try out various jumps and tricks while getting outside in the fresh air. This gift definitely encourages physical activity and will burn some calories. The ball comes in various colors and can handle weights up to 160 pounds. The ball comes with a pump to make inflation a breeze. Plus, the company offers replacement balls free of charge.

Pop-A-Shot Dual Basketball Shooter

Pop-A-Shot Dual Basketball Shooter

Pop-A-Shot Dual Basketball Shooter

Talk about a pretty sweet gift for a 9th birthday (and the holidays!) — this is hands down one of our favorites! Things can get pretty competitive when you’re 9, especially in the realm of sports. Whether your kid is more keen to compete with himself or against an opponent, the Pop-A-Shot Dual Basketball Game is one of the best ways for him to do it. This high-speed arcade-style game lets children hurl mini basketballs at the hoops, where a built-in sensor tallies points and displays them on a digital readout. The balls roll back down the fabric ramp so the action can keep going. With adjustable frame rails, the Pop-A-Shot game can fit beneath almost any home ceiling.

10.9-Inch Apple iPad Air

10.9-Inch Apple iPad Air

10.9-Inch Apple iPad Air

One of the best things about becoming a 9 year old is that you’re reaching the age where people trust you with all sorts of new exciting technology, like your very own smart tablet. The Apple iPad is the world’s most popular smart tablet device, offering access to games, apps, calendars, tools, and so much more. This newest edition of the iPad Air features a bigger screen and longer battery life than any of its predecessors, as well as the new M1 chip that will make playing all of those video games and movies that much smoother. The processing power and speed of the new M1 chip is unbelievably fast! As both an entertainment device and educational tool, your kid is sure to get a lot out of it.

Blue Flame Baseball Pitching Machine

Blue Flame Baseball Pitching Machine

Blue Flame Baseball Pitching Machine

They say that practice makes perfect, and this old adage is especially meaningful in the world of professional sports. If your 9-year old boy has dreams of playing under the bright lights of a professional baseball field, then a mere game of catch in the yard is not going to cut it. The Blue Flame Baseball Pitching Machine uses a series of levels and springs to create a manually-powered pitching machine that will send them directly over the plate every time. With adjustable speed controls and pitch styles, the Blue Flame makes it possible for your kid to get the kind of quality batting practice that he requires, without you throwing out your arm in the process.

E100 Electric Razor Scooter

E100 Electric Razor Scooter

E100 Electric Razor Scooter

If you are shopping for a 9 year old boy, then the chances are quite good that he has already experienced the fun and excitement of the classic Razor scooter, and in fact might already have one. However, what is less likely, is that he’s had the opportunity to ride on the E100, Razor’s new electric scooter that is changing the scooter game forever. This surprisingly affordable electric cruiser is fully rechargeable and can reach speeds of up to 10 miles per hour. An adjustable-height handlebar means that your boy won’t immediately outgrow this scooter.

Related: Best Electric Dirt Bikes For Kids

Elite Titan CS-50 Nerf Blaster

Elite Titan CS-50 Nerf Blaster

Elite Titan CS-50 Nerf Blaster

If your son’s Nerf armory is getting bigger and bigger with each passing year, then he might have caught the Nerf fever, a condition that is actually not that rare among 9-year-olds. If this is the case, then you can be certain that there is no gift more guaranteed to put a devious smile on their face than the Elite Titan CS-50 Nerf Blaster, the biggest and baddest blaster ever made. This fully-motorized automatic toy blaster comes with 50 darts that you can fire out in a wave of rapid-fire action, blanketing the competition with foam darts. The thing is so big that the kids will have to use the included shoulder strap to even hold it!

Chromebook Lightweight Laptop

Chromebook Lightweight Laptop

Chromebook Lightweight Laptop

One of the best things about living in the future is how amazingly affordable new technology like laptop computers have become. Products like the Chromebook Lightweight Laptop from ASUS offer some of the best computing performance around, as well as key features like fast web browsing and video streaming. Not as fancy or complicated as the more expensive laptops, the ASUS Chromebook is ultra-light and ultra-simple while still providing access to the basics like the internet and word processing. For the price, you aren’t going to find a better starter-level computer.

Delta Wing Scooter

Delta Wing Scooter

Delta Wing Scooter

Over the last few decades there has been no scooter more popular than the iconic Razor, so popular in fact that to many consumers, “Razor” is now a term that many use to describe a whole class of toy scooters, as opposed to just a brand name. The Delta Wing is the newest model from Razor, and offers a unique design that is part bicycle, part tricycle, and part scooter. One thing is for sure: the Delta Wing is one of the most fun ways to ride. A hand-mounted pull brake makes it easy to come to a safe stop, and a large 16” front wheel offers a remarkably smooth ride.

Nintendo Switch Game Console

Nintendo  Switch Game Console

Nintendo  Switch Game Console

When it comes to video games, the Nintendo Switch is perhaps the most unique console system out there, providing a unique multi-mode functionality that makes it truly versatile. Enjoy the Switch in its handheld configuration for the best on-the-go-gaming that a kid could ask for. Or, attach the Switch to your HDTV for full screen play, using the detachable controller pieces for movement-based play, just like in the Nintendo Wii. Though the battery life will vary depending on which game you play, the Nintendo Switch can often times provide up to an amazing 9 hours of play before requiring a recharge.

Playstation 4 Pro

Playstation 4 Pro

Playstation 4 Pro

When it comes to video games, no home console offers quite as much power and performance as the popular Playstation 4, and now, all the action and excitement is even greater with the supercharged Playstation 4 PRO. This updated model includes a 1TB processing unit that is significantly faster than its predecessor, allowing kids to play today’s hottest games in all the high-definition glory that they were designed for. Or, use the PS4 Pro as a multi-media station with apps like Netflix, YouTube, and much more. No matter what kind of visual fun you are after, it doesn’t get better than the PS4.

Power Rider Electric Tricycle

Power Rider Electric Tricycle

Power Rider Electric Tricycle

Gone are the days when Razor just made one type of scooter. The Power Rider Electric Tricycle is the latest form of conveyance to come from the global scooter giant Razor, and it just might be one of their most exciting toys yet. This little electric ride-on toy can support riders of up to 120 pounds, making it a speedy way for any 9-year-old to get around. The unique steering system allows for 360-degree spins , slides, and even some light drifting, just like in those cool car movies. A push button throttle will blast riders up to a max of about 10 miles per hour, enough to create lasting love for this awesome rechargeable toy.

22-Inch Mini Skateboard

22-Inch Mini Skateboard

22-Inch Mini Skateboard

There is no young boy that is not attracted to the tubular awesomeness of the skate park, and in particular, the impressive and fast paced fun of skateboarding. This 22-Inch Mini Skateboard is a great way to introduce your kid to the magic of skateboarding. Although small and compact, this board can support up to 220 pounds, making it the kind of present that will last for a long time to come. The mini skateboard deck comes in ten different styles and colors, making it highly likely that you can find the best one for the lucky recipient.

App-Enabled R2-D2

App-Enabled R2-D2

App-Enabled R2-D2

In the entire galaxy there is perhaps no mechanical hero people revere as much as R2-D2, the helpful, wise-cracking droid from the insanely popular Star Wars saga of movies and TV shows. Now, children can play with their favorite droid in an all new way with the App-Enabled R2-D2 from Sphero. Using a phone or tablet-installed app, kids can control R2’s movements like an RC car, or alternatively create coded commands, view holographic films, and much more. If R2-D2 isn’t their favorite, they can have the same kind of STEM fun in a similar BB-8 version.

Related: Best Robot Toys For Kids

Base Inventor Kit

Base Inventor Kit

Base Inventor Kit

The creative ingenuity of a 9 year old can be quite impressive, especially if others encourage these traits from an early age. The littleBits Base Inventor Kit is a free-form electronics building kit that lets users come up with their own crazy inventions, like intruder alarms, gripping arms, and automatic pet feeders. The built-in challenges of the Base Inventor Kit will not only keep your boy busy, but it will also challenge them to become even more creative inventors. This base kit is only the beginning … the littleBits series of STEM toys can work in sync with one another to create bigger and more complicated inventions.

Break-Open Geode Kit

Break-Open Geode Kit

Break-Open Geode Kit

Whether your child is a fan of the natural sciences or simply enjoys smashing things with a hammer, the Break-Open Geode Kit from National Geographic is sure to please. This awesome STEM toy comes with 10 premium geodes, each one full of vibrant crystal formations that you can only access with a swing of the hammer. After breaking open the geodes, budding geologists can display them beautifully on the included plastic display stands. It’s the perfect way to encourage a lasting interest in geology and science. The fact that it’s made by National Geographic means that you are also getting an excellent Learning Guide to walk kids through the amazing science of crystal and mineral formation.

Chain Reactions Science & Building Kit

Chain Reactions Science & Building Kit

Chain Reactions Science & Building Kit

What do you get when you mix Science and Legos? The Chain Reactions Science & Building Kit! Working with the toy masters at Klutz, LEGO offers this STEM-based building kit that lets young engineers construct a number of different towers, structures, and interactive ball runs that are sure to stimulate the mind and spark creativity. The brightly colored 80-page instructional booklet makes it a literal ‘snap’ for kids as young as 8 to build amazing moving machines. The set includes 33 different exclusive Lego blocks, meaning that all of these pieces are compatible with your kid’s existing Lego collection.

Disgusting Science Kit

Disgusting Science Kit

Disgusting Science Kit

The Scientific Explorer series of toy science kits feature some of the coolest and most exciting science experiments around, and the Disgusting Science Kit is no exception. This full-featured kit includes everything you need to perform icky experiments that teach kids all about the things that are growing on their own bodies. Create things like a smelly intestine, fake blood, slimy snot, as well as a collection of various molds and bacteria. With enough experiments to keep occupy your children for multiple afternoons, this is one of the best value STEM toys on our list.

Electric Motors Catalyst Robotics Kit

Electric Motors Catalyst Robotics Kit

Electric Motors Catalyst Robotics Kit

One reason that you are seeing more than one robotics building kit on our list is because 9 is the perfect age for a boy to get into robotics. The Electric Motors Catalyst Robotics Kit from Tinkering Labs comes with an assortment of components and pieces that can come together to build doodling robots, motor-powered cars, and much, much more. There are over 50 parts, along with 10 different challenge cards that will nudge your child further along the path to a future of science and engineering. Look for more Tinkering Lab kits to build onto this one, as all the components are cross-compatible.

Extreme Stomp Rocket

Extreme Stomp Rocket

Extreme Stomp Rocket

The exciting kid-powered fun of the Classic Stomp Rocket has been revamped for a new generation with the Extreme model, a launching foam rocket that can travel up to 400 feet powered by nothing more than your kid’s epic stomping action. 400 feet is a lot farther than the original Stomp Rocket, and in fact, it is longer than a whole football field! Because it uses no power or batteries, this is the kind of toy that everyone can enjoy just about anywhere. The Extreme Stomp Rocket comes with the launching pad and 6x massive foam missiles, enough for multiple high-octane launches.

Flipside Puzzle Game

Flipside Puzzle Game

Flipside Puzzle Game

Our whole team is excited anytime a new puzzle game comes out that is as fun, stimulating, and challenging as Flipside from Moose Games. This addictive and fast-paced puzzler challenges kids to flip and slide colored tiles in order to match the electronic lights. Four different play modes include multiplayer mode, speed mode, memory mode, or level mode, which means that Flipside is sure to provide countless hours of quality, challenging entertainment. The biggest challenge, however, is going to be putting the game down once you get started. And unlike a lot of electronic puzzle games and handheld games, this one actually comes with the batteries.

Foam Bow & Arrow Set

Foam Bow & Arrow Set

Foam Bow & Arrow Set

Marky Sparky Toys might be one of the ‘new kids on the block’ when it comes to foam blasters and air-powered toy weapons, but they seem to have already found the formula for great toys & big fun. The Faux Bow 3 is a hand-powered plastic bow that can fire a foam missile across the room or field at amazing speeds, adding action and excitement to any Nerf-style foam battle. The bow features a holding rack for all six included arrows, making it easy to reload on-the-fly and get right back into the foam-based action.

Funny Jokes For 9 Year Old Kids

Funny Jokes For 9 Year Old Kids

Funny Jokes For 9 Year Old Kids

Let’s face it … 9 year olds can be a lot funnier than you might think, no doubt due to their over-active imaginations and budding intellect. A good book of jokes is one of the most perfect gifts that you can give a young boy, not only because of the joy and entertainment it brings, but also because of the unique social benefits.  It helps kids learn how to interact with others through humor and jokes. This book by the great Jimmy Jones has hundreds of jokes inside, every one of them specifically designed to appeal to the aspiring comedian. It’s good clean fun for the whole family, and only a couple of bucks at that.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

Most folks, young and old, should be familiar with Jenga, the world-famous wooden stacking game where players compete against one another to remove bricks, one by one, from the stacked tower. Whoever causes the tower to collapse is the loser. Now, the classic fun and suspense of Jenga is available in a special Giant version, with blocks that are much bigger than the original. Bigger blocks lead to even more hollering, yelping, screaming, and nail-biting as players take turns pulling them from the stack. Giant Jenga is over 4 feet tall when it’s fully assembled … bigger than most kids!

Gravitrax Marble Run

Gravitrax Marble Run

Gravitrax Marble Run

One of the reasons that we have more than one buildable marble run on our list is because this is a growing segment of the toy industry that is certainly worth having a look at. Marble run kits let kids design and build their own tracks. They can assemble the provided pieces according to pre-designed challenges or let their imaginations soar and create their own configurations. A finalist for the 2019 Toy of the Year Award, the Gravitrax Marble Run is one of the current best-selling gifts on Amazon, and it doesn’t look like that is going to change anytime soon.

Gravity Maze Marble Run

Gravity Maze Marble Run

Gravity Maze Marble Run

Part puzzle and part building kit, the Gravity Maze Marble Run from ThinkFun is a unique and challenging toy that is sure to capture the attention and love of any inquisitive 9 year old boy. This puzzle set utilizes colored plastic blocks that have curved internal shapes. When you stack them on top of one another, a marble can follow a curving, weaving path from the top to the bottom. There are multiple ways to play, but the set comes with challenge cards as a great place to start. Winner of the Toy of the Year Award!

Hamper Hoops

Hamper Hoops

Hamper Hoops

There aren’t a whole lot of toys out there that can honestly say that they serve the dual purposes of entertainment and helping to keep your boy’s room clean. But without a doubt, hamper hoops is an exception. This over-the-door basketball hoop comes with a tie-ready net that collects dirty clothes as kids toss them through the hoop. It’s never been easier or more fun to keep your room clean. The simplistic over-the-door design makes it a good fit for any door in the house.

Kid’s Beginner Microscope

Kid’s Beginner Microscope

Kid’s Beginner Microscope

The best thing about the AmScope Kid’s Beginner Microscope is that it is not really a toy at all. Instead, it’s an important piece of scientific equipment that helps teach children about science and biology through the power of magnification. This set comes with not only the 120x-1200X microscope, but also a set of everything else junior scientists need to perform bona fide scientific observations. You’ll get plastic slides, droppers, a petri dish, and a hard-cover carrying case that makes the whole kit safe for travel. All in all there are 52 different accessories, ensuring users have everything necessary to enjoy the wonderful magnified world.

KidzLabs Fingerprint Kit

KidzLabs Fingerprint Kit

KidzLabs Fingerprint Kit

By the age of 9, boys are reaching a prime age for scientific exploration, which is one reason why STEM toys have become so popular over the last decade or two. The KidzLabs Fingerprint Kit is a remarkably full-feature STEM toy from 4M, a company that has become famous for awesome science kits and construction sets. Inside the box you’ll find fingerprint cards, a stamp pad, dusting powder, and a set of special sticker-pads kids can use to collect the fingerprints of possible conspirators around the household. By experiencing the real-life science of forensic experts,  children gain access to an entirely new area of scientific exploration, stimulating their curiosity and intellect in one fell swoop.

Lego 3-In-1 Sunset Racer

Lego 3-In-1 Sunset Racer

Lego 3-In-1 Sunset Racer

A growing boy can never have too many Lego bricks, and that’s a fact. Every new Lego building kit that you get for your child increases the collection’s overall value. Plus, it opens up new and exciting possibilities for what young minds and growing imaginations can create. This 3-In-1 Sunset Racer Set is a 221 piece kit comes with everything you need to build one of three speedster designs, including a race car, speed boat, or a track racer. A rounded & tinted windshield is an exclusive Lego piece that will have real collectors drooling.

LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The best thing about Lego’s advanced Technic series of building blocks is that they expand the possibilities of the traditional Lego block. Thanks to the addition of moving parts and more intricate designs, Technic allows for all sorts of constructions that simply wouldn’t be possible with ‘regular’ Legos. The LEGO Technic Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 set has a whopping 579 pieces that come together to make a faithful recreation of one of the most iconic super-cars. With working steering and pistons that actually move, this is one of the coolest Lego cars yet.

Light Up Basketball

Light Up Basketball

Light Up Basketball

The growing B-baller in your life might still be practicing their hook shot, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t appreciate this cool new twist on basketball. The GlowCity Light Up Basketball utilizes two interior-mounted LED lights to create a glow effect that is sure to amaze everyone on the court. The neon-like glow of the ball is not only fun to watch, but it helps with night games. Officially sized and shaped, this basketball plays just like the real thing. The interior lights are impact activated, meaning that this ball will turn on the moment it hits the court, and shutoff automatically when the game ends.

Light Up Crystal Growing Kit

Light Up Crystal Growing Kit

Light Up Crystal Growing Kit

While crystal-growing kits are nothing new to the toy world, this is the first one that we’ve seen that allows kids to grow their own crystal formations on top of LED-lit pedestals. This added feature allows for some of the coolest mineral displays yet. Kids will not only be able to grow their very own crystals in the comfort of their room, but they can amaze visitors and family members with the bright colors and glowing awesomeness of this awesome crystal trio. As far as STEM-based toys go, this is one of the coolest by a long shot.

Magnetic Dart Board

Magnetic Dart Board

Magnetic Dart Board

While there are not a whole lot of people who dislike the game of darts, it seems that there are more than a few parents out there who are hesitant to get a real dart board for their kid. Understandable; chiefly because of all the potential damage that those metal darts can cause to the wall, furniture, and yes, even your own children! This Magnetic Dart Board by Doinkit Darts eliminates this problem entirely. A magnetic backboard features a realistic game front that mimics the size and shape of the real thing. Magnet-tipped darts are weighted just like real darts, so even the experienced thrower should have a lot of fun with these.

Minecraft Lego Zombie Cave

Minecraft Lego Zombie Cave

Minecraft Lego Zombie Cave

If there are two franchises that can please just about any 9-year old on the planet, Lego and Minecraft would be chief among them. The long-popular building blocks of Lego and the digital block-building video game of Minecraft are naturally related in how they allow kids to express themselves creatively through building. And now, it’s possible for your kid to experience both at the same time. The Minecraft Lego Zombie Cave is a fun and faithful recreation of the scary place from the popular video game.  It includes a pair of exclusive Minecraft-themed Lego minifigures that will go great with any Lego collection.

MORFBOARD Skate & Scoot Combo

MORFBOARD Skate & Scoot Combo

MORFBOARD Skate & Scoot Combo

When it comes to shopping for children, choosing toys that are adjustable and multi-functional is a great way to go. These choices make sure that kids don’t get bored with the toy, or worse outgrow it too soon. The MORPHBOARD is an all new kind of kid conveyance that blends the relative safety and stability of a scooter with the awesome trick-capabilities of a traditional skateboard. Riders can switch between the two configurations with ease by simply swapping out the scooter extension on the front of the deck. Available in five different colors, this is one of those presents that is sure to provide more than just a few hours of quality entertainment and exercise.

National Geographic’s “Why” Book

National Geographic’s “Why” Book

National Geographic’s “Why” Book

With any luck, your son is only going to get more and more inquisitive as the years go by. The dedicated parent should do everything in their power to make sure that this is the case. This is why the professional educators at National Geographic published Why, a hardcover book that gives kids hundreds of different answers to their very favorite question: WHY? Why were the pyramids built? Why do we have thumbs? Why is the sky blue? The book expertly answers these questions and many, many more with bright illustrations and clever infographics that make everything supremely easy to understand. The perfect gift for the young know-it-all!

Pindaloo Skill Toy

Pindaloo Skill Toy

Pindaloo Skill Toy

We have to admit that we had no idea what the heck a ‘Pindaloo’ was when we first heard of it. But judging by the incredible online sales, it seems like we might be in the minority. The Pindaloo is the name of both the toy and the company that makes it, and it is an all-new skill toy that is somewhat hard to describe in a mere few sentences. Offering a blend of throwing, juggling, and catching challenges, this unique U-shaped toy is unlike anything that we have really seen before. Choose from red or blue!

RC Off-Road Monster Truck

RC Off-Road Monster Truck

RC Off-Road Monster Truck

The biggest, baddest, fastest RC truck on the block comes from IMDEN, and the reviews for this particular model are so positive that it doesn’t look like sales are going to be slowing down anytime soon. This remote control truck has strong, durable components that can withstand the extra rigor of off-road travel, without sacrificing on motor power or top speed. Heavy duty wheels will make short work of even the deepest mud puddles, and a set of integrated shocks make for an enjoyable and highly responsive driving experience.

RipStik Ripster Caster Board

RipStik Ripster Caster Board

RipStik Ripster Caster Board

We’ve got to hand it to the toy engineers at Razor. This legendary scooter company has decided not to simply rest on the laurels of its flagship scooter, which happens to be one of the most popular toys of the century. The RipStick is an all new kind of scooting conveyance, something of a cross between a scooter and a skateboard. The compact size of the RipStick Ripster is great for smaller riders, and the no-assembly-required construction means that anxious users can ride it right out of the box. The real magic here is the 360-degree caster trucks, allowing the RipStick to carve up the skate park just like a snowboard.

Scrabble Deluxe Edition

Scrabble Deluxe Edition

Scrabble Deluxe Edition

The most popular word game of all time, Scrabble, is back and better than ever with the new Scrabble Deluxe Edition. This updated take on the old classic comes from the game experts at Hasbro. This Amazon Exclusive edition has recessed letter spaces, which keep the tiles firmly in place during play. Each side of the board has a slide-n-store drawer for piece storage, and the board itself rotates 360 degrees so every player can get the best view possible to make their next move. The Scrabble Deluxe Edition comes with a sleek carrying case, so you can take Scrabble action with you to school or the park. You can find more of our favorite board games here!

Simon Air

Simon Air

Simon Air

Anyone who remembers the fun and excitement of the original Hasbro memory game Simon will be excited to hear that there is an all-new version of the game on the shelves. This new version substitutes the button-mashing action of the original game with a dynamic and intuitive system of motion sensors. Now Simon can track the player’s hand movements, leading to new and exciting versions of game play never before experienced. There is even a new two-player cooperative mode, something that we have never seen on a Simon game until now.

Spectacular Magic Suitcase

Spectacular Magic Suitcase

Spectacular Magic Suitcase

The Dark Arts of Magic is a topic that almost every kid is going to develop an interest in sooner or later, so why not get ahead of the game with the Spectacular Magic Suitcase from Ideal Toys? This fully-featured magic kit for kids comes with all the tools and props necessary to learn, perform, and master over 100 high quality magic tricks. A magic hat and magic wand increase the value of the illusions. Audiences of all ages will be scratching their heads, wondering how your young magician pulled it off. At less than 20 bucks, this Magic Kit makes a great stocking stuffer or anytime surprise for a nine year old boy.

Star Wars Folded Flyers

Star Wars Folded Flyers

Star Wars Folded Flyers

Paper airplanes have been a staple of childhood play since perhaps the invention of paper. Now, the world of hand-crafted gliders has become even cooler with the Klutz Star Wars Folded Flyers, a craft kit that comes with everything to make your own at-home starships from the Star Wars franchise. Inside, your kid will find 40 sheets of custom designed paper, a roll of tape, and a number of display stands that they can use to show off the final product. The 60-page instructional booklet is big and easy to understand, and the little paper ships will go a lot farther than you might think!

Supersized Kickball

Supersized Kickball

Supersized Kickball

If you asked around at any park or playground, you would be hard pressed to find a kid that doesn’t absolutely love kickball. After all, what is more satisfying than giving the boot to a big rubber ball, sending it flying across the field at your friends? The Wicked Big Supersized Kickball is certainly the biggest kickball we’ve seen, at over 3 times the size of the average kickball. For things like beach parties, birthday bashes, or a simple day in the summer sun, nothing’s more entertaining than a jumbo ball. This one also comes with a foot pump, making inflation a quick and easy process.

Table Top Air Hockey

Table Top Air Hockey

Table Top Air Hockey

Air hockey is one of those games that, until recently, kids were only able to play at the arcade or bowling alley, simply because air hockey tables are so big and heavy. That is no longer the case thanks to the Table Top Air Hockey Game by Playcraft, a compact tabletop hockey rink that brings all the high-octane action of air hockey to the comfort of a living room or play room. A real motor creates air lift just like in the original game, faithfully recreating the iconic frictionless feel of air hockey for the home audience. On a table or on the floor, this game plays just like the real thing.

Tactical Nerf Vest

Tactical Nerf Vest

Tactical Nerf Vest

The young Nerf fan might already have an impressive collection of foam dart blasters, but what they might be missing is the awesome and incredible power that comes with your very own Tactical Nerf Vest. This innovative battle vest comes from TAKEI and has enough on-board storage to hold an incredible number of Nerf darts. Lots of storage allows for quick reloading as well as the ability to keep the action going for even longer … great for epic Nerf battles. It even comes with a skull-design tactical mask that is sure to strike fear into the hearts of opponents!

Tiny Pong Solo Tennis Game

Tiny Pong Solo Tennis Game

Tiny Pong Solo Tennis Game

Tiny Pong is a clever mix between ping-pong and an old-school paddle-board game. It’s one of the most exciting new one-player games for kids to enjoy just about anywhere. This handheld game has a miniature tennis field with a net in the middle. The idea of the game is to keep up a volley by bouncing the ball on alternating sides of the court. Built-in lights and sounds are not only exciting, but they can actually keep track of the score. Kids will have a blast trying to beat their record or do better than their friend or sibling. If the ball falls, it’s game over!

Treasure Hunter Metal Detector

Treasure Hunter Metal Detector

Treasure Hunter Metal Detector

The hunt for buried treasure is the kind of thing that makes just about any young adventurer drool. Up-and-coming explorers can thoroughly enjoy the hunt when you provide them with the professional-level technology of the Treasure Hunter Metal Detector. This National Geographic detector encourages outdoor activity through dynamic treasure hunting. The fold-down construction makes it highly portable, and the compact size is perfect for the average 9 year old. This Professional model is leagues better than the Junior model, which is more appropriate for the younger crowd. An impressive 2-year warranty and satisfaction guarantee are an excellent bonus!

Tumbling RC Stunt Car

Tumbling RC Stunt Car

Tumbling RC Stunt Car

It seems that remote control cars are just getting cooler and cooler, offering higher speeds and better control than ever before. Plus, many are experimenting with fun new innovations like the 360-degree tumbling action of this Tumbling RC Stunt Car from BIFYTON. With big rubber wheels, this speedy vehicle can drive on either side, meaning that even catastrophic crashes won’t keep it down for long. There are TWO powerful motors inside this thing, enough for a realistic 4-wheel drive that makes this one of the fastest RC cars that we have ever reviewed. For the price, you aren’t going to find any other toy with this much speed.

Voice Banking Monopoly

Voice Banking Monopoly

Voice Banking Monopoly

All the fast-paced fun of the original real estate game Monopoly is back once more with the Voice Banking Edition. This version is an all-new take on the classic game play that has been the center of family game night for a century now. The Voice Banking Edition ditched the paper money in favor of a fully electronic and automatic banking system, which is not only a cool modern touch, but it also makes the game play run even faster, allowing for quicker games.  With a few other minor alterations to the rules and spaces, the Voice Banking Monopoly Game is a great gift for kids and any Monopoly Lover looking for a bit of a shakeup. Want to see our list of the top 24 Monopoly games? Check them out here!

Zero Gravity Wall-Climbing RC Car

Zero Gravity Wall-Climbing RC Car

Zero Gravity Wall-Climbing RC Car

The Zero Gravity Wall-Climbing RC Car from Air Hogs is giving a whole new meaning to the term “driving me up the wall.” This amazing remote controlled speedster not only can reach impressive speeds, but it can actually defy gravity by driving up walls and even clinging to the ceiling with the help of a laser-guided anti-gravity remote. The car is fully rechargeable via USB, saving parents lots of money on those pesky AA batteries. The super-compact size of this little wall-climbing car makes it a great toy to keep in the backpack or car for some impromptu, anytime-fun.

Gift Shopping Guide: Toys & Presents For 9-Year Old Boys [Updated]

As boys reach the end of their first decade on the planet, a lot of different things are happening. They are growing in both size and intellect, and at the same time, they are developing unique personalities, likes, dislikes, and hobbies that they might continue to have for the rest of their lives.

 

Shopping for a 9 year old boy can be challenging for no other reason than the amazing variety of toys, games, and gear that is out there specifically for this age group. While the 50 toys and gifts on our list represent what our team sees to be the ‘cream of the crop’, it is by no means an extensive collection.

 

What follows is a point-by-point buyer’s guide that can help anyone who is looking to pick out a present for a 9-year-old boy. From birthdays to holidays, Christmas to Kwanza, finding the best gift ideas for children is all about knowing what kind of stuff is out there, and how to tell the good stuff from the bad.

 

The Different Types Of Toys, Games, & Kits For Nine Year Old Boys

 

Step one in shopping is to decide what kind of toy you want to get. Because the reviews on this list range from Nerf Blasters to Game Consoles, and Crystal Farms to Pet Robots, selecting a base gift type is the first thing you need to do in the shopping process.

 

After that, you can start to compare brands and features. Here is a look at some of the different gift ideas that you can consider for the 9-year-old in your life, broken down by category:

Science & STEM Kits

Kids this age are typically going to be in the 4th grade, a particularly important time to keep their minds interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, otherwise known as STEM. Products with the STEM designation not only stimulate the young child’s intellect, but also teach valuable lessons about the nature of scientific exploration … lessons that they can carry with them throughout their educational journey.

 

STEM toys vary greatly. From stackable marble run kits to programmable learn-to-code robots, there are a lot of different ways that you can encourage your child’s interest in the sciences.

 

With STEM options, it is a good idea to look for products that come with educational booklets, apps, or guidebooks that help to solidify the educational lessons. Some STEM toys don’t actually have any practical educational component, which can make them less valuable for the child.

RC Cars & Trucks

It seems that remote controlled cars, trucks, and boats are bigger and faster than ever … at least, certainly a lot cooler than they were when we were kids. With bigger motors and longer-lasting batteries, RC toys can now provide entire afternoons of high-octane entertainment before having to go back inside to top up the battery.

Building Sets

There is no question that construction kits like LEGO are extremely popular, and not just for 9 year olds. No matter how young a boy is when they start their Lego collection, there is no real cutoff for when they might lose interest (if they ever lose it at all).

 

Lego kits for the 8-10 age group are more intricate than those designed for younger children. They often feature moving parts, more numerous accessories, and even deluxe features like working electric motors and LED lights.

 

There are also a number of cool new electronic building kits available for older kids that allow them to explore the nature of electric current as well as basic engineering. Part educational STEM toy and part creative building set, these electronic kits are a great multi-function way to keep boys’ brains engaged and activated.

Sports Equipment

When you’re 9, you’re always on the “grow,” perhaps even faster than ever before. Newfound strength, height, and agility makes kids this age more ready to enter the world of competitive sports, and not just in the little-league kind of way. Whether the boy you are shopping for is a basket-baller or a big-hitting baseball player, new sports-based equipment is available to help him train for his big future.

 

Most sports equipment is not all that expensive, though there are some exceptions, like with the Baseball Pitching Machine that we reviewed above.

 

One of the most obvious benefits to sports equipment is that it naturally encourages exercise and physical activity, which are really important for the growing mind and body.

Electric Scooters, Bicycles, & Tricycles

Everyone knows what a Razor scooter is, and the chances are actually pretty good that your kid already has one or has had one. What they probably don’t have is one of the new, top-of-the-line motorized scooters or bikes made by the same company.

 

As the natural evolution of the classic Razor Scooter, these electric conveyances are faster and more convenient than ever before, and also happen to be a heck of a lot of fun. Because they almost always feature rechargeable electric batteries, these ride-on toys can operate without the cost of gasoline. And they can often go for hours before you need to top them up with electricity.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)

Is 9 too young for a kid to have their own laptop or smart tablet?

If we are talking strictly about ability, then 9 years old is certainly not too young for a kid to have their own computer. After all, in this day and age, children are usually quite experienced with electronics a lot earlier than our generation was. The decision whether or not to spend the money to get them a brand new iPad or Chromebook should come down to whether or not you think they will benefit from it.

Remember, technology like iPads & laptops can be much more than mere entertainment devices, especially if parents take the time to help set everything up.

What age do kids start outgrowing Legos?

This is certainly going to be on a kid-by-kid basis. Generally speaking, the best way to know whether or not your son is getting too old for Legos is to simply pay attention to how much he is playing with his current collection. It is important to note however that there are plenty of full-grown adults that still like collecting and playing with Lego bricks.  So, there certainly is no set cutoff for when Legos are no longer fun to play with.

Which is better for a 9-year old boy, a Playstation or a Nintendo Switch?

This is a question that we are hesitant to answer, simply because there are big proponents of both systems. No matter which one we recommend, you could very well find someone else that is telling you the opposite.

It is true that Nintendo has made a name for themselves by focusing on a series of kid-friendly games like Mario. However, the Nintendo Switch has a huge game library and it’s not just the simplistic games that are available anymore.

The Playstation has more processing power than the Nintendo Switch, but it lacks portability, so you can’t play it anywhere. This quality is one of the things that truly makes the Switch stand apart from its competitors.

Conclusion: The Best Presents and Toys For A 9-Year-Old Boy

Ah, to be young and free, cruising the skate park on an electric Razor scooter, or perhaps diving into the world of science for the first time with a fully-featured experiment kit. Indeed, it seems like the toys on this review guide are cool enough to keep a kid’s attention for multiple years to come.

 

For our money, the best-bet gift idea for any 9-year old would have to be the E100 Electric Razor Scooter. If you’re looking to put a BIG smile on that boy’s face, then there is virtually no better way to do it than with the E100. Not only will this keep him entertained for hours at a time, but it will also encourage active outdoor play, something that a lot of children these days simply aren’t getting enough of.

 

Anyone looking to save a bit of money by skipping the motorized scooter would do well to choose something a bit more classic. A Supersized Kickball is not only an avenue to great exercise and big team-based fun, but it is also one of the most affordable gifts on our list.

Dan Wiener
Hey there! I'm Dan, the founder behind Kids Love WHAT. I started this blog as a way to document all of the things that my 4 kids love: crafting, science experiments, good food, fun games and of course lots of toys! When I'm not busy chasing them all around, you can find me scouring the web to find the next best thing to keep them busy and out of my hair!