Well I was in the same boat, not sure what I wanted to get and I knew I wanted to upgrade from a V2. I chose the Innokin T22, 4.5 ml tank, 1.5 ohm coils, built in battery and one button operation. Doesn't get much simpler than that. Innokin focuses on the beginner with the T22. Then if he likes that he can step up to something a little more powerful and a sub ohm tank.
Did you tell him what kinds of flavors are available? lol, I'm sure he will like the taste if vaping opposed to the nasty taste and smell of smoking.