Top 10 Kids Smart Watches

Updated Oct 8, 2024 8:07 am ET


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Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the top 10 kids’ smartwatches. If an Apple Watch or iPhone is too advanced for your child’s age, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ve narrowed down our top picks so you can buy confidently.

Please note that when choosing the perfect smartwatch for your little one, consider these key points:

  • Age-Appropriate Features: Look for watches that match your child’s age and maturity level.
  • Durability and Waterproofing: Essential for withstanding playful
  • Parental Controls: For peace of mind and managing screen time.
  • Battery Life: Longer battery life means less frequent charging.
  • Fun Elements: Games, camera features, and customizable watch faces keep it exciting for kids.

Now that you have a baseline for what to look for, let’s jump right into our top Amazon picks to help you find the ideal tech companion for your youngster.

Best for Connectivity: TickTalk 4 Unlocked

Key specs: 44mm screen, GPS, SOS & 911 calls, HD video call, text messaging, waterproof

As one of the best smartwatches for kids, the TickTalk 4 Unlocked gets a lot right. It’s geared toward children aged five to 12 and ensures seamless connectivity with features like HD video calling and text messaging. It’s like having a cell phone on your wrist while offering a combination of fun, safety, and durability.

Pros

The TickTalk 4 shines with its rich communication capabilities. The HD video calling and voice messaging features act as lifelines for kids to stay in touch with family. Even better, only phone calls can be made to and from the watch via your approved contacts. As an added layer of fun, this watch has access to plenty of emojis!

Parents can breathe easier knowing their child’s location, thanks to the GPS tracker. Emergency calling and SOS functions add an extra layer of safety. You can also purchase a screen protector made specially for this watch, giving you some added relief by avoiding breakage.

Plus, the watch is tough enough to withstand the rigors of childhood adventures, thanks to its water resistance and shock-proof design. This watch also works on AT&T’s network, which is perfect for those who have an existing phone plan.

Cons

Some kids might find the watch a tad bulky. Additionally, the screen size can be a challenge for typing out messages — a task requiring patience and dexterity that younger kids might struggle with.

Best for Creative and Playful Kids: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3

Key specs: Dual cameras, 50+ animated clock faces, School mode, built-in games, rechargeable battery, compatible with Learning Lodge, preset messages

The VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 smartly combines fun and functionality for young explorers. More than just a child’s watch, your kid can capture their world in photos and videos while keeping them engaged with interactive games.

Pros

What makes the KidiZoom DX3 a hit is its dual cameras. This setup allows kids to unleash their creativity by capturing selfies and action videos. It’s a feature that’s further shown through the watch’s ability to add fun effects, fostering a playful learning environment.

This kids’ watch also doubles as an educational tool with games that entertain and encourage physical activity, like the Monster Catcher game. It’s a clever mix of tech and play. The School Mode is another thoughtful (and much welcome) addition, ensuring the watch is not distracting during learning hours.

Cons

The DX3 falls short in advanced tech features. Its lack of GPS tracking, Bluetooth, or even Wi-Fi connectivity might be a miss for parents seeking more than basic functionalities. Also, its compatibility only with Learning Lodge limits access to a wider range of apps.

Best for Ages Three to 14 Years: Phyulls Smartwatch for Kids

Key specs: 1.54-inch touchscreen, 0.3 MP camera, silicone wristband, 400mAh battery, multiple colors, stopwatch

The Phyulls Smartwatch for Kids is a vibrant and multi-functional gadget tailor-made for young minds. Its playful design and varied color options like purple, blue, and pink certainly make it an attractive accessory for kids. It even comes with features like a camera, games, and a pedometer.

Pros

Parents will appreciate how the Phyulls Smartwatch balances fun and functionality. It’s a digital playground with 24 educational games and a camera that lets kids capture moments in photos or videos, fostering their creativity. The included MP3 player is a hit for music-loving kids, and the pedometer serves as a great activity tracker.

The watch’s usability is a major plus — it’s simple enough for kids to use without constant adult supervision. Its durability, highlighted by a sturdy silicone band, ensures it can withstand the rough and tumble of everyday play.

Cons

The battery life can be inconsistent, especially with heavy use. The SIM card can also be challenging to remove. The watch’s size and bulk might be a bit cumbersome for very young or small-wristed children.

Best for Comprehensive Parental Controls: Berilona Smart Watch for Kids

Key specs: 1.54-inch touch screen, camera, games, music, flashlight, alarm clock, video, pedometer, calendar, parental control

The Berilona X38 is a versatile gadget that delivers a splash of fun and safety. With its array of features like audiobooks, a camera with stickers, and a habit tracker, the X38 transcends basic watch functions to provide a mini companion for kids aged four to 12.

Pros

What makes the Berilona X38 stand out is its innovative mix of education and entertainment. The audiobook feature is a delightful addition, encouraging listening skills and imagination in children. The Time Teacher and Sound Teacher functions are great for learning, making this watch a plaything and a learning tool.

With 15 puzzle games, it keeps young minds engaged and active. Parents will surely appreciate all of the parental controls on board here, allowing them to manage usage times so that the watch doesn’t become a distraction.

Cons

Battery life and charging aren’t the most reliable for long-term use, and while the watch offers a range of activities, they’re somewhat basic.

Best for Young Ryan’s World Fans: Accutime Touchscreen Smart Watch

Key specs: Touchscreen LCD, silicone band, square plastic case, features like camera, pedometer, games, and rechargeable battery

The Accutime Touchscreen Smart Watch is a nice introduction for kids into the world of smart wearables. It’s designed to be a child’s companion, offering a blend of fun and functionality without the challenges (or risks) of giving your child access to social media.

Pros

What makes the Accutime Touchscreen Smart Watch stand out is that it’s both entertaining and practical. The smartwatch strikes a balance between being fun — with its games, camera, and Ryan’s World theme — and functional, with tools like a pedometer and alarm clock.

Its lack of internet connectivity is a thoughtful touch, ensuring parents can breathe easy about their child’s safety. Additionally, the durable, rechargeable battery means fewer worries about constant battery replacement. And from one parent to another, fewer things are as wholesome as Ryan’s World. This is an easy buy if your little tyke’s a fan of the series.

Cons

There is some concern over the durability of the screen and the watch band’s resilience. A sturdier build to withstand the rough and tumble of kids’ play may be in order. Also, the touchscreen can sometimes be less intuitive for younger users, requiring a bit of a learning curve.

Best for Multi-Functional Fun: Cubitt Jr Smart Watch Fitness Tracker

Key specs: 1.52-inch color touch screen, multiple smart functions, fitness and sleep tracking, heart rate monitor, compatible with iOS and Android

The Cubitt Jr Smart Watch Fitness Tracker is like a mini personal assistant for kids! With its large, vivid 1.52-inch touch screen, kids can easily enjoy its numerous features. Not only is it a watch, but it’s also a fitness buddy, a sleep tracker, and even a playmate with its brain-teasing games.

Pros

This watch is a real crowd-pleaser for the young ones. The body temperature monitor keeps health checks fun and easy. Its games are entertaining and brain-stimulating, which is a clever way to inject some fun into learning. Plus, the fitness tracking aspect promotes physical activity, making it a hit for health-conscious families.

What really stands out is the ability for parents to set reminders for daily activities, thus fostering good habits in kids. The lock feature with a password adds a layer of security (and peace of mind), ensuring that it’s kid-friendly in every sense of the word.

Cons

For the price, the battery life doesn’t always match up to the mark. While the watch boasts a variety of functions, its performance can be a bit hit or miss at times.

Best for Kids and Young Photographers: AIWIEP Kids Smart Watch

Key specs: 1.54-inch touch screen, HD camera, pedometer, 24 educational games

AIWIEP Kids Smart Watch sports a vibrant 1.54-inch screen and impressive features like a camera, games, and a pedometer. It’s a true tech buddy for kids aged three to 12.

Pros

This watch is full of fun and learning. Its 24 educational games are brain-boosters, sharpening kids’ reaction skills and logical thinking. But the perks don’t stop there.

The HD camera transforms your child into a young photographer, capturing the world in their unique perspective. The watch comes with a soft silicone strap so your little one can embark on their tech adventures comfortably and without fear of easy breakage.

Cons

The battery life can be a bit of a rollercoaster, varying greatly with use. Though admittedly, that’s to be expected when the camera is in use.

Best Budget-Friendly Smartwatch: VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2

Key specs: Dual cameras, touch screen, 256MB memory, motion sensor, pedometer

The VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2 is a mini-tech hub. It’s designed with a fun, child-friendly interface and comes packed with features that help kids creativity and physical activity. This watch stands as a competent gateway to photography and active play.

Pros

The KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2 excels in merging technology with fun. Its dual cameras are a hit, allowing kids to effortlessly switch between taking photos and capturing selfies. What’s really cool is that VTech didn’t stop at including cameras — they included software that lets your kid add filters and effects to their photos.

The inclusion of games, particularly the Monster Detector, offers an exciting augmented reality experience that combines play with physical movement. Its educational watch faces make learning to tell time an enjoyable and interactive process. Also, its design is kid-proof, with a sturdy and splash-proof construction perfect for everyday adventures.

Cons

The Smartwatch DX2’s 256MB of internal memory might not be sufficient enough for the young photographer or gamer. The absence of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity means no real-time notifications or location tracking.

Best for Kid-Friendly Wearable Technology: Accutime L.O.L. Surprise! Touchscreen Smart Watch

Key specs: Pink striped, 40mm screen, camera, pedometer, games, no Wi-Fi/call/text

The Accutime L.O.L. Surprise! Touchscreen Smart Watch is a dream come true for kids who want to mimic the grown-up smartwatch experience. It’s thoughtfully designed with fun and safety in mind, sporting a playful pink-striped look and features that are tailored for young users.

Pros

It’s way more than a shrunken-down version of an adult’s smartwatch — it’s a cool, interactive toy that also tells time. Parents will appreciate that it doesn’t have Wi-Fi, calling, or texting, keeping online safety worries at bay.

There’s also a camera, games, and a pedometer on board. It’ll keep your little one entertained while tracking their activity. The long-lasting rechargeable battery is another major plus. No more constant battery changes, making life a bit easier for everyone!

Cons

This watch might not align with everyone’s expectations in terms of size and build quality. This model may seem a bit basic or underwhelming for those looking for a more advanced gadget, perhaps with location tracking or voice calling features.

Best Reliable Child-Friendly Smartwatch: MgaoLo Kids Smart Watch

Key specs: 1.5-inch screen, compatible with Android 4.4/iOS 8.0 or above, waterproof, heart rate and sleep tracking, 19 sport activity modes, and a battery life of five to seven days

The last entry on our list of top picks comes courtesy of MgaoLo. Its Kids Smart Watch is a versatile gadget packed with features like activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, and even a DIY watch face for a personal touch.

Pros

This smartwatch hits the mark for parents and kids alike. It’s like a mini assistant on your child’s wrist, tracking their activities and heart rate. The waterproof design means it’s swim-friendly, too, which is a big plus for active kids.

Cons

Most notably, the plastic material doesn’t scream luxury and might not appeal to all. Plus, as it’s designed more for kids, it lacks some advanced functionalities that older children or techy parents might be looking for.

The Bottom Line

Selecting the right smartwatch for your child is about striking a balance between fun, functionality, and parental controls.

Whether your priority is educational content, durability, or safety features, there’s a watch on this list to suit every need and make your child’s tech experience both enjoyable and enriching.

Sources

Chase Clements

Chase Clements

Author McClatchy Commerce

Based in Kansas City, Chase Clements is the Commerce Content Operations Manager. He has many years of experience as a Commerce Writer and Editor for McClatchy.