Best Smartwatch for Kids: Top Picks and Essential Features
Best Smartwatches for Kids: As technology continues to advance, smartwatches have become an increasingly popular choice for adults and kids alike. While adult smartwatches often focus on productivity, fitness, and communication, smartwatches for kids offer a balance between fun features and functionality aligned with parents’ needs. Investing in a smartwatch for your child can provide an array of advantages, such as helping them learn time management, stay connected, and stay safe.
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With the vast array of options on the market today, choosing the best smartwatch for your child can be challenging.
When comparing top kids’ smartwatches, it’s essential to consider factors such as parental control features, connectivity options, network compatibility, and any additional features tailored to your child’s unique needs.
By evaluating these factors, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which smartwatch is best suited to your child’s needs and your preferences as a parent.
Key Takeaways
- Smartwatches for kids strike a balance between fun and functionality, offering features that enhance learning, communication, and safety.
- Parental control features and connectivity options are essential factors to consider when choosing the best smartwatch for your child.
- With numerous options on the market, evaluating and comparing smartwatches based on their features can help you make an informed decision.
Why a Smartwatch for Kids
As a parent, you may be wondering if a smartwatch is a good investment for your child. There are several reasons why having a smartwatch designed specifically for kids can be beneficial. Let’s explore a few of these key features.
Safety and Security
One of the most significant advantages of a smartwatch for kids is its safety and security. Many smartwatches for kids come with built-in emergency calling and SOS features, allowing your child to quickly contact you or another trusted adult in case of an emergency. This peace of mind is invaluable for both you and your child.(reference)
Parental Controls
In addition to safety features, smartwatches designed for kids often offer parental controls. These controls allow you to monitor your kids’ activities, set limits on what they can access, and approve or block specific contacts they can communicate with.
By providing a safe digital environment, you can rest assured that your child is engaging with appropriate content and individuals. (reference)
Location Tracking
Many smartwatches for kids include GPS tracking capabilities, enabling you to keep tabs on your child’s whereabouts.
This can be especially helpful for younger children or if you live in a busy urban area. Some smartwatches even allow you to designate safe zones so that you are notified if your child leaves a specific area, making it easier to stay on top of their safety.
Entertainment
Of course, let’s not forget the fun aspect of having a smartwatch. Besides the practical benefits, many kid-friendly smartwatches provide games, photo-taking features, and customizable watch faces to entertain your child.
These features not only make wearing the smartwatch more enjoyable for them, but they also encourage them to wear the device regularly, providing you with the reassurance of staying connected and informed.
To sum it up, smartwatches for kids offer a great combination of safety, security, parental controls, location tracking, and entertainment.
Investing in a smartwatch designed specifically for kids can provide your child with a tool that fosters their independence while still allowing you to stay connected and informed.
Top Kids Smartwatches Comparison
Price Range
When considering kids smartwatches, the price range can vary greatly. Affordable options such as the VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX3 start at around $50, while feature-rich models like the TickTalk4 can cost around $180. Keep your budget in mind while exploring options.
GPS Tracking
GPS tracking is important for parents who want to keep an eye on their child’s location. TickTalk4 offers unique location tracking features like emergency calling and GPS tracking, while the Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 focuses on fitness tracking but has a limited location tracking capability.
| Smartwatch | GPS Tracking |
|---|---|
| TickTalk4 | Yes |
| Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 | Limited |
- STAY CONNECTED: Best kids smartwatch with 2-way voice and HD video calling, talk-to-text, voice messages, photos, emojis, GIFs, and group chats keep your child linked to trusted family and friends….
- STAY SAFE: TickTalk 4 kids GPS tracker offers real-time location tracking, route history, SOS & 911 calls, block unknown calls & texts, and superior parental controls, all designed for peace of mind.
- STAY ENGAGED: This kids smartwatch phone, with a fun and engaging activity tracker, DND mode to minimize distractions during classes or homework, and 3D reminders, fosters good habits and effective…
- Includes interactive app experience that lets kids go on a garmin world tour; kiddos can uncover and tour exciting new places (requires garmin jr. app loaded on parent’s compatible smartphone paired…
- Durable, swim-friendly fitness tracker features a large color display with multiple watch face options and up to 1 year of battery life — no recharging needed, and the battery is parent replaceable
- Motivates kids to achieve active minute goals that unlock entertaining app adventures, games and icons (requires garmin jr. app loaded on parent’s compatible smartphone paired to vívofit jr. 3)
Camera and Video Calling
Having a camera on the smartwatch allows kids to capture memories and have fun. The VTech Kidizoom DX3 is a top choice for kids who enjoy taking photos. When it comes to video calling, the TickTalk4 offers this advanced feature, allowing you to communicate with your child more seamlessly.
Design and Durability
The design of the smartwatch should be appealing and durable enough to withstand children’s daily activities. The Fitbit Ace 3 provides a kid-friendly design with a comfortable strap and water-resistant features. The Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 also offers a durable design in addition to a customizable display.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, the Verizon GizmoWatch 2 stands out with an impressive seven-day battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging. The Fitbit Ace 3, on the other hand, offers a battery life of up to five days.
| Smartwatch | Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Verizon GizmoWatch 2 | 7 days |
| Fitbit Ace 3 | 5 days |
Considering these factors will help you find the best smartwatch that can meet your child’s needs and your preferences.
Parental Control Features
As a parent, keeping your child safe and maintaining a sense of control is important. The best smartwatches for kids come with various parental control features that help you monitor and manage your child’s smartwatch experience.
This section will discuss the following features: Phone Calls and Text Messaging, App Usage and Screen Time Limits, Safety Zones and Geofencing, and Emergency Contact Options.
Phone Calls and Text Messaging
Most smartwatches for kids support phone calls and text messaging, enabling you to stay connected with your child at all times. You can typically control who your child is allowed to call or text, ensuring their safety and preventing inappropriate communication.
Moreover, some smartwatches offer the option of preset messages for a simple and secure way for your child to communicate with you and other approved contacts.
App Usage and Screen Time Limits
To create a more balanced digital experience, managing which apps your child can access and setting daily screen time limits is crucial.
With most smartwatches, you can easily set restrictions on downloaded apps and monitor usage. Some watches, like the Garmin series for kids, include educational games and features that encourage healthy habits. (reference)
Safety Zones and Geofencing
A critical parental control feature is GPS tracking, which allows you to monitor your child’s location in real-time. Creating safety zones and geofencing ensures they stay within designated safe areas.
When your child leaves a predefined safety zone, you will receive an instant alert on your smartphone. This can help you keep track of your child’s whereabouts and ensure they don’t wander too far away. (reference)
Emergency Contact Options
In case of emergencies, having a reliable contact option is crucial. Some smartwatches, like the TickTalk4, come with a specialized emergency button that allows your child to send an alert to you and other predefined emergency contacts.
This feature provides peace of mind and ensures that your child can quickly reach out for help in urgent situations.
Popular Smartwatches for Kids
In this section, we will discuss some popular smartwatches for kids available in the market.
Apple Watch SE
The Apple Watch SE is a great option for older kids who don’t need the full features of the latest Apple Watch but still want a reliable and feature-packed device. With its easy-to-use interface, health and fitness tracking, and various customization options, your child can enjoy a versatile and user-friendly experience.
![Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smart Watch w/Starlight Aluminum Case & Starlight Sport Band -...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31SVp4zggpL._SL160_.jpg "Best Smartwatch for Kids: Top Picks and Essential Features 28")
- WHY APPLE WATCH SE — All the essentials to help you monitor your fitness, keep connected, track your health, and stay safe. Now up to 20 percent faster, with features like Crash Detection and…
- EASILY CUSTOMIZABLE — Available in a range of sizes and colors, with dozens of bands to choose from and watch faces with complications tailored to whatever you’re into.
- HEALTH AND SAFETY FEATURES — Get help when you need it with Crash Detection, Fall Detection, and Emergency SOS. Get deep insights into your health, including notifications if you have an irregular…
TickTalk 4
TickTalk 4 is our top pick for kids’ smartwatches, offering features such as emergency calling, texting, and GPS tracking to give you peace of mind. This smartwatch is designed with kids in mind and provides a user-friendly interface, making it easy for your child to navigate the watch.
| Feature | Apple Watch SE | TickTalk 4 |
|---|---|---|
| GPS Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Fitness Track | Yes | Limited |
| Messaging | Yes | Yes |
| Customization | Yes | Limited |
- STAY CONNECTED: Best kids smartwatch with 2-way voice and HD video calling, talk-to-text, voice messages, photos, emojis, GIFs, and group chats keep your child linked to trusted family and friends….
- STAY SAFE: TickTalk 4 kids GPS tracker offers real-time location tracking, route history, SOS & 911 calls, block unknown calls & texts, and superior parental controls, all designed for peace of mind.
- STAY ENGAGED: This kids smartwatch phone, with a fun and engaging activity tracker, DND mode to minimize distractions during classes or homework, and 3D reminders, fosters good habits and effective…
Fitbit Ace 3
The Fitbit Ace 3 is an excellent choice for kids focused on fitness and health tracking. With its attractive design and reliable performance, the Ace 3 motivates your child to stay active, compete with friends, and develop healthy habits.
- Kids spend less time charging and more time moving with up to 8 days of battery (varies with use and other factors)
- Animated clock faces grow and develop as kids move more throughout the day
- All-day activity tracking shows how healthy habits add up to a healthier life
Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3
For those looking for a durable and feature-packed smartwatch, the Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 is a solid choice. This smartwatch offers various activity tracking features, customizable screen options, and a user-friendly interface that makes it suitable for younger kids.
- Durable, swim-friendly fitness tracker features a large color display with multiple watch face options and up to 1 year of battery life — no recharging needed, and the battery is parent replaceable
- Motivates kids to achieve active minute goals that unlock entertaining app adventures, games and icons on the parent-controlled smartphone app
- For easy chore management, parents can use the Garmin Jr. app to assign tasks, schedule alerts and alarms, and reward kids for good behavior
VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX
The VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX is ideal for kids who love taking photos and videos. This smartwatch offers a camera and numerous other features like games, voice recorder, and customizable watch faces, making it a fun and engaging smartwatch for youngsters.
In summary, each smartwatch offers unique features catering to specific needs, so choose the one that best fits your child’s interests and age.
- Cool, kid-friendly DX3 features dual cameras for photos and videos; watch light is camera flash or flashlight
- Create clockfaces from your photos or choose from 50+ animated faces; switch to School mode to use the DX3 as watch only
- Pair with another DX3 and share preset messages or play games, or play solo; challenge yourself with three movement games
Connectivity and Network Options
Verizon GizmoWatch 2
The Verizon GizmoWatch 2 offers a user-friendly interface for both kids and adults. This watch has a built-in GPS, easy communication options, and compatibility with Verizon’s network. It provides reliable connectivity for parents and allows you to keep an eye on your child’s location at all times.
AT&T
AT&T also offers smartwatches for kids with various connectivity options. Although they don’t have any smartwatches specifically designed for kids, you can opt for general models that feature parental control options and the AT&T network compatibility.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile’s SyncUP Kids Watch is an attractive option for parents looking for a T-Mobile compatible smartwatch. This watch comes with a 911 call option and a monthly subscription fee, providing added security for your child.
| Network | Smartwatch | GPS | Parental Controls | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | GizmoWatch 2 | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| AT&T | Various models | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| T-Mobile | SyncUP Kids Watch | Yes | Yes | $10 |
Gabb Watch
Gabb Wireless offers the Gabb Watch, a kid-friendly smartwatch focused on communication and safety. It functions on its own independent network and offers GPS tracking alongside a range of other basic features. It’s a solid choice for parents looking for a standalone smartwatch that focuses on essential options for kids.
Angel Watch
Angel Watch is another smartwatch designed specifically for kids. It provides several network options, depending on the model you choose. With Angel Watch, you can ensure that your child is connected and within reach while offering a secure communication channel.
In conclusion, when choosing the best smartwatch for your child, consider the network compatibility and connectivity options provided. Be sure to compare the features, pricing, and parental control options to find the most suitable match for your needs and preferred network provider.
Additional Features to Consider
Fitness Tracking and Activities
When choosing a smartwatch for your child, consider devices with built-in fitness tracking features. Many kids’ smartwatches come equipped with step counters, activity tracking, and simple fitness challenges to encourage healthy habits and physical activity. For example, the Fitbit Ace 3 is a popular option designed specifically for kids, focusing on fitness tracking.
Games and Entertainment
Look for smartwatches with age-appropriate games and entertainment options to keep your child engaged and entertained.
Some smartwatches, such as the Vtech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX3, come with built-in games and camera features, making the device fun and interactive for your child.
Water Resistance
Children often play in various environments, making water resistance an essential feature for a kid’s smartwatch.
Not all smartwatches are equally water-resistant; some may be able to resist splashes, while others can withstand being submerged in water.
Be sure to check the specific water resistance information for each smartwatch before making your decision.
| Smartwatch | Water Resistance Level |
|---|---|
| Fitbit Ace 3 | Splash-resistant |
| Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3 | Swim-friendly |
| GizmoWatch | IPX7 Water-resistant |
Customization Options
Finally, look for smartwatches with customization features that allow your child to express their personality and interests.
Many smartwatches, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, offer interchangeable bands and customizable watch faces. These options can make the device more appealing to your child while ensuring they feel a sense of pride and ownership.
- BODY COMPOSITION ANALYSIS: Galaxy Watch4 is the first smartwatch to off body composition data right on your wrist, On your own schedule, now you can get readings on body fat, skeletal muscle, body…
- BETTER SLEEP STARTS HERE: Wake up feeling refreshed and recharged with advanced sleep tracking; When you go to bed, your Galaxy Watch4 sleep tracker starts monitoring your sleep and SpO2 levels…
- BE SMART ABOUT YOUR HEART: Take care of your heart with accurate ECG monitoring and keep an eye on possible atrial fibrillation, a common form of irregular heart rhythm; Share personalized readings…
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Features To Consider In A Kids’ Smartwatch?
When choosing a smartwatch for your child, consider features like GPS tracking, age-appropriate games or activities, parental controls, and compatibility with your phone carrier. Additionally, look for a durable and water-resistant design, a kid-friendly interface, and options for emergency calling or communication with trusted contacts.
Which Smartwatches Have GPS Tracking For Children?
The TickTalk4 is a top pick for GPS tracking in kids’ smartwatches. GPS tracking enables you to monitor your child’s location and ensure their safety. Other options include the GizmoWatch 2 and the Xplora X5 Play.
Are There Age-Appropriate Smartwatches For Young Kids?
Yes, several smartwatches cater to young children. The VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX is designed for kids aged 4+, offering fun games and learning activities. The LeapFrog LeapBand is another option for younger children, focusing on physical activity and healthy habits.
What Are The Best Smartwatches With Parental Controls?
Parental controls are essential to limit your child’s screen time and access to specific features. TickTalk4 comes with robust parental controls, and the Verizon GizmoWatch 2 allows parents to manage contacts, set GPS boundaries, and monitor activity.
Which Smartwatches Are Compatible With Specific Phone Carriers?
Compatibility with your phone carrier is crucial for communication and GPS tracking features. Check with your carrier for compatible kids’ smartwatches. For example, the GizmoWatch 2 is designed for Verizon customers, while the TickTalk4 is available for AT&T, T-Mobile, and other carriers.
How Do Kids’ Smartwatches Compare In Terms Of Battery Life?
Battery life varies among kids’ smartwatches. The YNCTE Smartwatch boasts a long battery life, making it convenient for daily use. The TickTalk4 and GizmoWatch 2 also have decent battery life, lasting up to 2-3 days, depending on usage. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for battery performance information.