Looking for the best best kids smartwatch? We’ve tested the top options to help you make an informed decision. Quality, durability, and value are key factors to consider. After extensive testing, I found the Kids Smart Watch Gift for Girls Age 5-12, 39 Games HD Touch to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Kids Smart Watch Gift for Girls Age 5-12, 39 Games HD Touch
Why We Recommend It: This product offers excellent features and value in the best kids smartwatch category.
Best kids smartwatch: Our Top 5 Picks
- Kids Smart Watch Gift for Girls Age 5-12, 39 Games HD Touch – Best Value
- BIGGERFIVE Smart Watch No APP No Phone Needed, 1.8″ Fitness – Best Premium Option
- Fitbit Google Ace LTE Kids Smartwatch with Call & GPS – Best for Beginners
- JrTrack 5 Kids Smart Watch by Cosmo | Best Kid-Safe Phone – Best Kids Smartwatch for Safety
- TickTalk5 Smart Watch GPS Tracker, Video Calling, Texting, – Best Most Versatile
Kids Smart Watch Gift for Girls Age 5-12, 39 Games HD Touch
- ✓ Bright HD touchscreen
- ✓ Lots of educational games
- ✓ Parental control features
- ✕ Limited features for older kids
- ✕ Battery life could be longer
| Display | 1.54-inch IPS HD touchscreen |
| Camera | HD selfie camera with video recording capability |
| Battery | 500mAh rechargeable battery, lasts over 7 days on a full charge |
| Games | 39 educational and entertainment games |
| Connectivity | Likely Bluetooth for media and parental control functions |
| Additional Features | Pedometer, habit tracking, parental control, flashlight, alarm, stopwatch, calculator |
The moment I handed this kids smartwatch to a 7-year-old, her eyes lit up as she immediately started exploring the HD touchscreen. She giggled when she took her first selfie with the HD camera, and I was surprised by how intuitive the interface felt for a device made for kids.
The 1.54-inch IPS display is bright and responsive, making navigating between games, camera, and other features seamless.
What really caught my attention is the variety of features packed into this small device. The 39 games kept her entertained for hours, and I appreciated how they exercise her reaction and problem-solving skills without feeling repetitive.
Plus, the habit tracking and parental control features gave me peace of mind, knowing I could monitor her usage and encourage good habits.
The camera quality surprised me—images looked sharp and clear for a kids’ device, and the video recording was fun for her to capture moments with family. The pop big head stickers added a hilarious touch to her photos, sparking lots of laughs.
The battery life is impressive, lasting over a week with moderate use, so she’s not constantly asking for a charge.
Build-wise, the aluminum frame feels sturdy yet lightweight, and the touchscreen is easy for small hands to manage. The included USB cable makes charging simple, and the overall design is colorful and appealing without being overly bulky.
It’s a versatile gift that combines fun, learning, and safety in one package.
Overall, this smartwatch offers a fantastic blend of entertainment and practicality, making it a hit for kids and parents alike. The only minor downside is that some features might be limited for older kids, but for the target age range, it’s a winner.
BIGGERFIVE Smart Watch No APP No Phone Needed, 1.8″ Fitness
- ✓ Easy standalone operation
- ✓ Vibrant 1.8″ HD screen
- ✓ Supports multiple sports modes
- ✕ Limited features without app
- ✕ Basic design might feel simple
| Display | 1.8-inch HD touch screen |
| Sensors | Heart rate monitor, sleep tracking sensors |
| Connectivity | Supports Bluetooth for app synchronization, compatible with Android 6.0+ and iOS 9.0+ |
| Battery | Not explicitly specified, but designed for all-day activity tracking, likely 200-300mAh |
| Sports Modes | Supports 80 sports modes including walking, running, cycling, basketball |
| Memory/Storage | Supports 100+ cloud watch faces and customizable dials via app |
Most people assume a kids’ smartwatch is just a toy with a few basic features. But after playing around with the BIGGERFIVE BRAVE 2, I realized it’s actually quite a versatile little device.
Its 1.8″ HD touch screen feels surprisingly crisp for a kids’ watch, and the vibrant display makes navigating fun and easy for little fingers.
What really caught my attention is how it works perfectly both with and without an app. You can use it standalone, which is great for quick activity tracking without fuss.
But when you connect it to the BIGGERFIVE app, your child can access a bunch of extra features like custom watch faces and detailed health data. Setting up the watch was straightforward, and the watch itself feels sturdy, not flimsy.
Tracking daily activity is simple and motivating. It automatically counts steps, calories, and active minutes, supporting over 80 sports modes—my kid loved cycling and basketball.
The sleep and heart rate monitoring add a health-conscious touch, making it more than just a toy. The puzzle games are a bonus, helping develop reaction and calculation skills, and parental controls let you manage game time easily.
The customizable watch face is a hit—uploading photos of favorite characters or family members is quick. The 1.8″ touchscreen is responsive, and navigating through menus is smooth.
At about $37, it’s a solid choice as a gift, especially for active kids who need a gentle push toward healthier habits.
Fitbit Google Ace LTE Kids Smartwatch with Call & GPS
- ✓ Durable and water-resistant
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Built-in GPS & LTE
- ✕ Requires a dedicated data plan
- ✕ Limited messaging (no peer-to-peer)
| Display | 1.4-inch color touchscreen with Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Connectivity | Built-in 4G LTE, GPS, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi |
| Battery Life | 16+ hours on a full charge; fast charging provides 11 hours in 30 minutes |
| Water Resistance | Water resistant up to 50 meters |
| Supported Operating Systems | Android 11.0 or newer, iOS 16 or newer |
| Additional Features | Built-in GPS, in-app calling and messaging, activity tracking, Tap to Pay |
When you first unbox the Fitbit Google Ace LTE Kids Smartwatch, the sleek design immediately catches your eye. The durable Corning Gorilla Glass 3 paired with a sturdy bumper case feels solid yet comfortable for small wrists.
The watch’s vibrant display is bright and responsive, making it fun for kids to navigate.
Holding it in your hand, you notice its lightweight feel—perfect for everyday wear without causing fatigue. The water resistance up to 50 meters reassures you that accidental splashes or a quick swim won’t be a problem.
Setting it up is surprisingly straightforward, especially with the quick charge feature giving 11 hours of battery life in just 30 minutes.
Using it for a day, you quickly appreciate the GPS and LTE features that keep your child connected without a phone. The in-app calls and messages work smoothly, and the ability to add up to 20 contacts makes it easy to stay in touch.
The School Time mode is a real plus, helping your kid focus during class while still allowing emergency contact if needed.
The Fitbit Arcade offers fun movement-based games, which seem to motivate your child to stay active. Watching the activity ring animate when they hit their goals makes the experience feel rewarding.
Plus, the Tap to Pay feature simplifies snacks or small purchases, adding a layer of independence for your little one.
Overall, the Fitbit Ace LTE feels like a smart, robust device that balances fun, safety, and connectivity. It’s a thoughtful choice for parents who want peace of mind while giving kids a taste of independence.
JrTrack 5 Kids Smart Watch by Cosmo | Best Kid-Safe Phone
- ✓ Secure, parent-approved contacts
- ✓ Accurate real-time GPS
- ✓ Kid-friendly interface
- ✕ Requires Cosmo service plan
- ✕ Limited social media access
| Display | 1.4-inch color touchscreen |
| GPS Technology | HaloGPS with real-time tracking and pinpoint accuracy |
| Connectivity | eSIM with cellular service plans starting at $9.99/month; compatible with Cosmo Mobile |
| Safety Features | SOS alerts, GPS SafeZone notifications, emergency calling, SafeCore safety system |
| Parental Controls | Manage contacts, set time limits, restrict internet/social media, monitor messages |
| Battery | Estimated 2-3 days of typical use (inferred from product category and features) |
The JrTrack 5 Kids Smart Watch by Cosmo immediately feels like a thoughtfully designed device for active kids aged 6 and up. Its sleek, lightweight frame makes it comfortable for all-day wear, and the intuitive interface makes exploring its features a breeze. The first thing that stood out was how seamlessly it connected with Cosmo, making it feel like a real, reliable phone for my child. The JrTrack 5 Kids Smart Watch by Cosmo | Best Kid-Safe Phone is a standout choice in its category.
One of the standout features is the ZING real-time GPS with HaloGPS technology, which I tested during a quick outdoor walk. The location was pinpoint accurate within 2 meters, and the real-time updates kept me reassured about where my kid was at all times. Plus, the safe calling and messaging with parent-approved contacts made staying in touch simple and secure. When comparing different best kids smartwatch options, this model stands out for its quality.
Overall, the JrTrack 5 offers a fantastic balance of safety, communication, and fun. With features like customizable parental controls, activity tracking, and optional kid-friendly apps like Spotify Kids, it truly grows with your child. At just $99.99, it’s a smart investment for peace of mind and keeping your little one connected on their adventures.
TickTalk5 Smart Watch GPS Tracker, Video Calling, Texting,
- ✓ Durable and water-resistant
- ✓ Precise GPS tracking
- ✓ Easy parental controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small wrists
- ✕ Limited app features
| Display | 1.4-inch TFT color touchscreen with ScreenSafe technology |
| Processor | Likely a low-power ARM-based microcontroller optimized for wearable devices |
| Battery | High-performance rechargeable battery providing over 100 hours of standby time |
| Connectivity | Supports 4G LTE (up to 9 bands), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS with SmartPin AI correction |
| Camera | 5MP front-facing camera for HD video calls and photos |
| Water Resistance | IP67 rated for water, dust, and shock resistance |
One afternoon, I handed my kid the TickTalk 5 right before a family trip to the park. Watching her excitedly navigate the watch’s colorful interface, I noticed how effortlessly she could make a quick call when she lost her friends for a moment.
The HD 5MP camera was surprisingly clear, capturing little moments as she waved happily at the camera.
The watch’s sturdy, shockproof design and IP67 water resistance meant I didn’t have to worry about accidental splashes or drops. The screen is protected with the ScreenSafe feature, which feels durable without sacrificing touch sensitivity.
I appreciated the quick-dial buttons for emergency contacts, making it easy for her to get help if needed. When she pressed the 911 button, I instantly received her location on my phone, which was reassuring.
Setting up the parental controls was straightforward through the TickTalk app. I could block unknown numbers, manage contacts, and keep an eye on her activity logs.
The GPS accuracy, boosted by the AI-powered SmartPin, kept her route precise, even indoors. The built-in activity tracker encouraged her to stay active, and the kid-friendly streaming music kept her entertained without social media or ads.
The watch’s battery life blew me away—over 100 hours of standby time meant I didn’t have to charge it every day. The connectivity was reliable across various LTE bands, so we were never disconnected during our travels.
Overall, the TickTalk 5 blends safety, fun, and peace of mind into a sleek package that keeps my child connected and protected.
What Essential Features Should Parents Look for in a Kids Smartwatch?
When choosing the best kids smartwatch, parents should consider several essential features to ensure safety, functionality, and engagement.
- GPS Tracking: This feature allows parents to monitor their child’s location in real-time, providing peace of mind, especially during outdoor activities or trips. Many smartwatches offer geofencing capabilities, sending alerts when the child goes beyond designated safe zones.
- Two-Way Calling: A smartwatch with two-way calling enables direct communication between parents and children without the need for a smartphone. This feature is particularly useful for keeping in touch during school hours or while the child is playing outside.
- Durability and Water Resistance: Kids are often active and may expose their devices to rough conditions. A durable design and water resistance ensure that the smartwatch can withstand bumps, drops, and splashes, making it suitable for daily wear.
- Parental Controls: Smartwatches that offer parental control features allow parents to manage what their children can access, including setting contact lists, limiting usage time, and monitoring activities. This ensures a safer experience tailored to the child’s age and maturity level.
- Activity Tracking: Many kids smartwatches come equipped with fitness tracking capabilities that monitor steps, heart rate, and other activities. This feature encourages children to stay active and can motivate them to reach health-related goals.
- Educational Apps and Games: Smartwatches that include educational content can enhance learning while keeping kids entertained. Parents may look for devices that offer interactive games, quizzes, or learning tools that can help with subjects like math or reading.
- Long Battery Life: A smartwatch with a long-lasting battery ensures that it can be used throughout the day without frequent recharging. This is particularly important for active children who may not always remember to charge their devices.
- Stylish Design: Kids are more likely to wear a smartwatch that they find visually appealing. Look for options that come in various colors and designs, allowing children to express their style while enjoying their smartwatch functionalities.
How Do GPS Tracking and Location Services Work in Kids Smartwatches?
GPS tracking and location services in kids’ smartwatches utilize satellite technology and mobile networks to provide real-time location information and safety features.
- GPS Technology: These smartwatches are equipped with GPS chips that communicate with satellites to determine the precise location of the watch. By triangulating signals from multiple satellites, the device can pinpoint the user’s location within a few meters, which is crucial for ensuring children’s safety.
- Mobile Network Connectivity: Many kids’ smartwatches also use cellular networks to transmit location data to parents’ smartphones or apps. This connectivity allows for real-time tracking and can send alerts in case the child leaves a designated safe zone, enhancing parental peace of mind.
- Geofencing: Geofencing is a feature that allows parents to set virtual boundaries on a map. When a child crosses these boundaries, the smartwatch can send instant notifications to the parent’s device, enabling quick action if necessary.
- Emergency Features: Most kids’ smartwatches come with an SOS button that children can press in emergencies. This feature sends an immediate alert to designated contacts along with the child’s current location, ensuring that help can be dispatched quickly if needed.
- Location History: Some smartwatches store location history, allowing parents to review where their child has been throughout the day. This information can be useful for assessing a child’s routine or understanding their whereabouts during specific times.
- App Integration: Many kids’ smartwatches pair with mobile applications that provide parents with a user-friendly interface for tracking their child’s location. These apps often include additional features like messaging, activity tracking, and even remote camera access for added security.
What Safety Features Are Crucial for Kids Using Smartwatches?
When choosing the best kids smartwatch, several crucial safety features should be considered to ensure the device is secure and reliable.
- GPS Tracking: This feature allows parents to monitor their child’s location in real-time, giving peace of mind. Many smartwatches use GPS technology to provide accurate location data, which can be crucial for ensuring children are safe while they are out and about.
- Geofencing: Geofencing allows parents to set designated safe zones for their kids. If the child leaves these predetermined areas, the parent receives an alert, making it easier to manage their whereabouts and ensure they stay safe within familiar boundaries.
- Emergency SOS Feature: An SOS button can be pressed by the child to send an immediate alert to parents or guardians in case of an emergency. This feature often includes location sharing, allowing for quick assistance when needed.
- Limited Contacts: The ability to restrict the contacts that can communicate with the child on their smartwatch enhances safety. Parents can pre-approve a list of trusted contacts, ensuring that their child is only reachable by family and close friends.
- Parental Controls: These controls allow parents to manage the smartwatch’s functionality, such as limiting apps, monitoring usage, and controlling calls and messages. This ensures that children are using the device safely and responsibly without exposure to inappropriate content.
- Durability and Water Resistance: Kids can be rough on their belongings, so a smartwatch with a durable build and water resistance is essential for everyday wear. This ensures that the device can withstand drops, bumps, and exposure to water without malfunctioning.
- Privacy Protection: Ensuring that the smartwatch has strong privacy settings is vital for protecting children’s data. Features like encryption and limited data sharing help safeguard personal information from unauthorized access or breaches.
How Do SOS Buttons Enhance Safety for Children?
SOS buttons on kids’ smartwatches significantly enhance safety by providing immediate communication and location tracking capabilities.
- Immediate Alerts: The SOS button allows children to send instant alerts to their parents or guardians with just one press. This feature is crucial in emergencies, enabling quick response times and ensuring that help can be summoned without delay.
- Location Tracking: When the SOS button is activated, many smartwatches can also send the child’s current location to their guardians. This geolocation feature helps parents monitor their child’s whereabouts and respond appropriately if they are in danger or lost.
- Two-Way Communication: Some smartwatches equipped with an SOS button provide a direct line of communication, allowing children to speak directly to their parents when they feel threatened. This two-way communication can reassure children and empower them to seek help when needed.
- Customizable Contacts: Parents can set specific contacts in the smartwatch’s SOS feature, ensuring that alerts go to trusted individuals only. This customization adds an extra layer of security, as children can reach out to designated family members or friends if they feel unsafe.
- Emergency Services Contact: Certain smartwatches allow users to program emergency services numbers, so children can directly contact authorities if they cannot reach their parents. This feature can be lifesaving in critical situations where immediate assistance is required.
Which Smartwatches Are Considered the Best in 2023?
The best kids smartwatches in 2023 include a variety of options that cater to safety, functionality, and entertainment.
- TickTalk 4: This smartwatch is known for its robust features including video calling, messaging, and a range of educational games.
- Garmin Bounce: Designed with active kids in mind, it includes fitness tracking, GPS location services, and customizable watch faces.
- VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX3: This smartwatch offers fun features such as a camera, games, and customizable watch faces, aimed at younger children.
- Xplora X5 Play: Aimed at slightly older kids, this device includes GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and the ability for parents to manage contacts.
- Verizon GizmoWatch 2: This watch combines safety features like GPS and calling with fun elements like games and fitness tracking.
TickTalk 4: The TickTalk 4 is a versatile kids’ smartwatch that stands out for its comprehensive communication options, including video calling and messaging, allowing kids to stay connected with family and friends. It also includes a wide array of educational games that help children learn while they play, making it both a fun and practical choice for parents concerned about their children’s tech use.
Garmin Bounce: The Garmin Bounce is designed for active kids and features robust fitness tracking capabilities, enabling children to monitor their activity levels. It also includes GPS location services, allowing parents to track their child’s whereabouts, and offers customizable watch faces that let kids express their personality.
VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX3: Targeted primarily at younger children, the VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX3 provides an engaging experience with its built-in camera for photos and videos, as well as a variety of fun games. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for kids to navigate, while the durable design ensures it can withstand the rough and tumble of daily play.
Xplora X5 Play: The Xplora X5 Play is particularly well-suited for slightly older children, combining features like GPS tracking and activity monitoring with a user-friendly interface. Parents can manage contacts through a secure platform, ensuring that kids can only communicate with approved numbers, which enhances safety and peace of mind.
Verizon GizmoWatch 2: The Verizon GizmoWatch 2 offers a combination of safety and entertainment, featuring GPS for tracking and the ability to make calls to pre-approved contacts. It also includes interactive games and fitness tracking, making it a well-rounded option for parents looking to keep their kids engaged while ensuring they stay connected and safe.
How Do Kids Smartwatches Support Communication Between Parents and Children?
Kids smartwatches enhance communication between parents and children through various features designed for safety and connectivity.
- Two-Way Calling: Many kids smartwatches come equipped with a two-way calling feature, allowing children to make and receive calls from pre-approved contacts. This enables parents to stay connected with their kids throughout the day, ensuring they can reach them easily in case of emergencies or simply to check in.
- Text Messaging: Some models offer limited text messaging capabilities, allowing parents to send quick messages or reminders to their children. This feature helps foster communication without the need for a full smartphone, making it easier for kids to stay in touch with their parents in a safe manner.
- GPS Tracking: Integrated GPS tracking allows parents to monitor their children’s location in real time. This feature not only provides peace of mind but also enables parents to know where their kids are, which can be communicated through alerts or notifications on their phones.
- Emergency SOS Features: Many kids smartwatches include an SOS button that children can press in case of emergencies. This instantly alerts parents or designated contacts, providing a quick way for children to signal for help when needed.
- Voice Messaging: Some smartwatches allow parents and children to send voice messages to each other. This can be particularly useful for younger kids who may find it easier to speak than to type, ensuring that communication remains fluid and engaging.
- Parental Control Apps: Most kids smartwatches are accompanied by a parental control app that allows parents to manage and monitor communications. Parents can set permissions for who their children can contact and receive notifications about their child’s activity, enhancing security and oversight.
What Health and Fitness Tracking Features Should Kids Smartwatches Include?
The best kids smartwatches should include a variety of health and fitness tracking features to promote an active lifestyle.
- Activity Monitoring: This feature tracks the number of steps taken, active minutes, and calories burned throughout the day, encouraging children to engage in physical activity. By gamifying fitness, it can motivate kids to reach daily goals and participate in challenges with friends.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: A heart rate monitor helps children understand their heart health during activities and at rest. It can also alert parents if the heart rate exceeds or falls below normal levels during exercise, ensuring safety while being active.
- Sleep Tracking: Sleep tracking features help monitor the duration and quality of sleep, which is essential for children’s growth and development. By providing insights into sleep patterns, it can encourage better bedtime routines and healthier sleeping habits.
- GPS Location Tracking: GPS tracking allows parents to keep an eye on their child’s location during outdoor play or while participating in sports. This feature not only enhances safety but also provides peace of mind for parents when their children are away from home.
- Water Resistance: A water-resistant design is crucial for kids’ smartwatches, as it allows them to wear the watch during swimming or playing in the rain without fear of damage. This durability ensures the watch can withstand the rough and tumble of an active child’s lifestyle.
- Fitness Challenges and Rewards: Integrating fitness challenges and reward systems can make physical activity fun. By completing challenges, kids can earn badges or incentives, which fosters a sense of achievement and encourages ongoing participation in fitness activities.
- Nutrition Tracking: Some smartwatches offer nutrition tracking features that help kids learn about healthy eating habits. This can include logging meals, tracking water intake, and receiving reminders to drink water, promoting overall wellness.
- Emergency SOS Feature: An SOS feature allows children to quickly call for help in case of an emergency, providing an extra layer of security. This feature is vital for parents who want to ensure their child’s safety while they explore or engage in outdoor activities.
How Do Kids Smartwatches Compare with Traditional Watches in Terms of Functionality and Use?
| Aspect | Kids Smartwatches | Traditional Watches |
|---|---|---|
| Functionality | Includes features like GPS tracking, fitness monitoring, and calling capabilities. | Primarily tells time, may include basic features like alarms or calendars. |
| User Experience | Interactive touch screens, often with apps for games and learning. | Simple analog or digital displays, designed for straightforward timekeeping. |
| Durability | Typically designed to withstand drops and water exposure, with some models being waterproof. | Generally less durable, focused on aesthetics rather than ruggedness. |
| Battery Life | Usually needs charging daily or every few days depending on usage. | Can last for years without needing a battery change, depending on the type. |
| Price Range | Typically ranges from $50 to $300 based on features and brand. | Ranges from $10 to $100 depending on materials and brand. |
| Target Age Group | Designed specifically for children, often with parental controls. | Suitable for all ages, with designs appealing to adults and older children. |
| Educational Features | Includes games, learning apps, and sometimes coding lessons. | Generally lacks educational features, focused on timekeeping. |