Finding the right smartwatch for your child is a mix of fun features, parent-friendly controls, and durability. Here’s our top 10 list to make your search a little easier!
Important Considerations
- Age: Choose age-appropriate features and screen sizes.
- Needs: Prioritize communication, fitness, or entertainment.
- Durability: Opt for water-resistant and sturdy materials.
- Price: Set a budget, but be wary of extremely low-priced options.
1. VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3
- Best for: Creative kids who love taking photos, videos, and playing games.
- Features: Dual cameras, motion-sensing games, customizable watch faces, splash-proof design.
- Pros: Affordable, tons of entertaining content, easy to use.
- Cons: Limited parental controls, not the most durable.
2. Fitbit Ace 3
- Best for: Active kids who enjoy challenges and rewards.
- Features: Fitness tracking (steps, sleep, active minutes), fun animated watch faces, long battery life, water-resistant.
- Pros: Motivates healthy habits, excellent battery, comfortable to wear.
- Cons: Lacks GPS, games are limited.
3. TickTalk 4
- Best for: Staying connected with parents and approved contacts.
- Features: Two-way calling, voice and text messaging, GPS tracking, SOS alerts, safe-zone setting.
- Pros: Excellent communication features, good parental controls, durable build.
- Cons: Requires a monthly service plan, fewer entertainment features compared to others.
4. Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
- Best for: Younger kids and fans of Marvel or Disney characters.
- Features: Activity tracker synced to themed app adventures, chore/reward system, 1-year battery life.
- Pros: Fun motivational design, no recharging needed, basic fitness tracking.
- Cons: Limited features beyond step-counting and app adventures.
5. Themoemoe Kids Smartwatch
- Best for: Budget-conscious parents seeking basic communication and fun features.
- Features: Phone calling, games, camera, music player, water-resistant.
- Pros: Very affordable, simple to use, bright colors.
- Cons: Build quality may not be the most durable, lacks GPS tracking.
6. Xplora X5 Play
- Best for: Families prioritizing safety and outdoor adventures.
- Features: GPS tracking, geofencing, school mode, two-way calling, camera.
- Pros: Advanced location tracking, encourages outdoor play, good build quality.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, some features require a subscription.
7. Little Tikes Tobi 2 Robot Smartwatch
- Best for: Very young children who love imaginative play.
- Features: Built-in robot personality, playful watch faces, games, camera, activity tracker.
- Pros: Super fun design, promotes activity, easy for little ones to use.
- Cons: Features focus more on entertainment than advanced tracking.
8. LeapFrog LeapBand Activity Tracker
- Best for: Younger kids inspired by virtual pets and active games.
- Features: Pet-themed activity tracker, challenges unlock games and rewards, basic step counting.
- Pros: Very affordable, motivates movement in a playful way, no screen time involved.
- Cons: Not a true smartwatch, limited features compared to others.
9. Amazfit Bip U Pro
- Best for: Older kids and tweens who want a more grown-up smartwatch feel.
- Features: Longer battery life, SpO2 sensor, basic fitness tracking, built-in Alexa.
- Pros: Affordable, sleek design, useful fitness features for older kids.
- Cons: May be too large for younger kids, lacks some kid-specific features.
10. Gabb Watch 2
- Best for: Parents seeking a distraction-free, safe communication device.
- Features: Calling, texting, GPS location tracking, customizable contact list.
- Pros: No internet, games, or social media, promotes focused connection.
- Cons: Very limited features beyond basic communication.
Below are a list of considerations for your kids’ touch screen watch.
What features are most important to my child and our family?
- Communication: Do you want calling, texting, or GPS tracking?
- Entertainment: Are games, camera functions, and music storage a priority?
- Fitness Tracking: Does your child like seeing their steps, active minutes, and goals?
- Safety Features: Are geofencing (setting safe zones) and SOS alerts crucial?
Is the watch age-appropriate?
- Interface: Can my child easily navigate the menus and features?
- Size and Durability: Is the band comfortable and the watch sturdy for their age?
- Content: Are the games and any pre-loaded content suitable for their age?
Does it have parental controls?
- App Restrictions: Can I control which apps or features are accessible?
- Contact Management: Can I approve their contact list?
- Location Tracking: Do I have options for seeing their location or setting geofences?
- Screen Time Limits: Can I manage their usage?
Is it water-resistant or waterproof?
- Kids will be kids! Look for water resistance that matches their activities (splash-proof vs. swimming).
How long does the battery last?
- Avoid constant recharging – longer battery life means fewer interruptions.
What are the additional costs?
- Subscription Fees: Do any of the features (calling, advanced tracking) require monthly plans?
- Replacement Bands: Are the bands replaceable if they break?
Does the design appeal to my child?
- Let them have a say in color and style to encourage them to actually wear it.
Is the smartwatch compatible with our phones?
- Check if it works with your family’s devices (iOS or Android).
What are the reviews and reputation of the brand?
- Look for reputable companies and read reviews about the specific model.
Does it fit within my budget?
- Smartwatches range widely in price. Set a realistic budget before you start shopping.