Smartwatches are the wave of the future, offering convenience, lots of apps, and fun. If you’re considering investing in a smartwatch for your child, though, you’ll need to do some research. For children, the line between a practical watch and a mere toy is fine.
That’s why we’re here. With our guide to the best smartwatch for kids, you’ll discover which are tops for tracking your child’s whereabouts, counting their steps, or playing games.
Why Invest in a Smartwatch for Kids
If you’ve ever owned a smartwatch yourself, you know how convenient and useful they are — it’s no different for children. They’re a great alternative to smartphones, especially for young children.
Often, giving young kids a phone isn’t ideal — many aren’t mature or responsible enough to own one (1). Smartwatches, however, are securely attached to their wrists, are less expensive, and have restricted access to inappropriate content.
Many smartwatches for children have educational games, GPS trackers, and SOS buttons. They’ll help you keep track of your little one when they’re at school or with friends. Some will even allow for two-way calls, enabling you to stay in contact.
They’re also great for older children. For ages 6 and up, smartwatches offer fitness trackers, timers, and calendars that can give youngsters the independence they yearn for.
If you feel that a smartwatch would distract your child, then it probably isn’t the best investment at this point. Or at least, don’t let them wear it to school.
Another reason why a smartwatch might not be needed is if your young child still spends lots of time at home, primarily with you.
Finding the Best Kids Smartwatch
Age Appropriateness
Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s recommended age range. Buying a smartwatch for your toddler when it’s suited for a 6-year-old isn’t ideal. Toddlers might not have the motor skills needed to use it, or it could contain apps or games unsuitable for someone that young.
GPS Tracking
Some smartwatches include a GPS tracker. Parents of younger children often see this as a must-have. It allows them to track their child during school hours and after when they’re on playdates.
If you decide that GPS tracking is needed, you’ll need a SIM card. Then you’ll connect the watch to an app on your smartphone to track their steps.
Some watches even allow for geo-fencing and location alerts. You can set a distance limit for the user, and you’ll receive notifications if they go beyond the “fence.”
Two-Way Communication
If you’re looking for a smartwatch that’ll operate as a phone, consider two-way communication functions. Such features enable you to talk to and sometimes text your child and vice versa. Again, you’ll need a compatible SIM card and a data plan.
For most watches, you get to control everything from a compatible app where you can add contacts. Some will only allow calls and messages from numbers in the phonebook, which is great when you have small children. You can usually add up to ten contacts.
SOS Button
Another desirable feature for young children is an SOS button. It’s usually the power switch, which is pressed several times or held in for some seconds. When they do this, the watch sends out notifications and calls to the selected emergency numbers.
Games and Apps
Consider whether you want the watch to offer games. Most smartwatches for kids do have one or two pre-installed games, and some allow for downloads.
Consider if it’s needed — if your child uses the watch in school, it’s probably best to lose the distractions.
Durability
With children, the items we invest in must always be tough enough to keep up with them. Most kids’ smartwatches are durable, but they won’t be able to withstand extremely rough handling. The place to look for strength is the wristband — make sure it’s attached securely, and the material is durable.
Other things to consider are water-resistant materials and impact-absorbing casing. A good way to check this is by looking at the reviews — parents will describe how durable the device is.
Battery Life
Having to charge the watch every few hours will only take the fun away, and maybe even cause frustration. Most hold their charge quite well — at most, parents reported having to charge the smartwatch every night.
Read Instructions
Ease of Use
The watch must be simple to operate. Needing you to help every second isn’t ideal. That will annoy both you and your child.
Look for big screens and child-friendly buttons, as well as a wide wristband that is easy for a young child to manipulate.
Fitness Features
For older children, smartwatches often include fitness features such as a pedometer, active minutes, and sleep tracker. These are great for helping children be more active and health-conscious.
Some devices present daily challenges, encouraging the wearer to get moving by offering points. Most of these will let the user track their progress through an app or online.
The Best Kids Smartwatch of 2020
With many smartwatches to choose from, we searched through features, user reviews, and expert sites to find our candidates. Then we narrowed them down to the seven best smartwatches for kids.
1. Karaforna Kids’ Game Smartwatch Phone
For the best smartwatch for kids, we chose this little beauty from Karaforna. It’s suitable for children between the ages of 4 and 10 years old.
With a total of nine apps and functions, this watch packs a punch. You can call your child at any time, thanks to the two-way call function. Your kid can snap photos and record their voice for fun or studies.
The watch includes a memory card that enables music to be uploaded. There are fun learning games and other useful features that can make the wearer feel more independent.
Why We Love It
Two-Way Calls
You’ll be able to stay in contact with your youngster at all times thanks to the two-way call function. The wearer can easily make calls or receive them from a total of up to ten contacts. However, you can’t modify the names — they’ll be known as ‘Contact 1, Contact 2’ and so on.
An SOS call can be sent in emergencies by pressing the power button twice. The watch will call the selected emergency numbers until someone answers.
Camera and Music Features
The wearer can record their daily life using the watch. It has a camera and an audio-record function so the wearer can snap photos or record voice messages for themselves. The smartwatch comes with a 1GB Micro SD memory card, so everything is saved.
What’s more, it also works as an MP3 player. Your youngster can upload music from their computer and save it on the memory card. The sound is excellent for a smartwatch, and it has a volume control.
Fun Games and Other Features
The smartwatch comes with seven pre-installed learning games. They’re easy to play, thanks to the touch screen, and they’ll promote logical thinking, hand-eye coordination, and quick responses.
Other features included with the watch are an alarm clock and a calculator.
Easy to Use
Using the watch is a breeze. The strap is fully adjustable, and the package comes with a user manual and a USB charge cable, as well as the 1GB micro SD card.
Keep In Mind
No Names for Contacts
Parents wish there was an option to name the contacts. This would make it easier for the child to see whom to call.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 4 to 10 years |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| GPS tracker | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| SOS call | Yes |
2. Themoemoe Kids’ Smartwatch
If you have smaller children who you’d like to track when they’re away from home, you might like this smartwatch from Themoemoe. It includes an exceptional GPS tracker that gives you accurate information. It’s suitable for children aged 4 to 12 years.
In addition to the GPS, you’ll be able to remain in touch at all times. By connecting to the compatible app, you can add contacts to the watch that your child can call when needed.
With a front camera, your youngster can snap photos. Then, thanks to a sneaky function, you can hack in and watch their whereabouts. It’s an excellent watch for parental control that also offers useful features and fun for the wearer.
Why We Love It
Excellent GPS Tracker
You’ll know exactly where your little one is at all times with this watch. It utilizes a GPS positioning system that is based on Assisted GPS, or AGPS.
This provides real-time information about your child’s location with high accuracy. You connect the watch to your phone through the app to access the GPS information.
Calls and Phonebook
The smartwatch allows for two-way calls so you can contact your child and vice versa at any time. It comes with a pre-installed phonebook for all the essential contacts needed. This is also controlled by you through the app when you set up the watch.
Camera and Parent Function
Not only can your little one use the camera to record their day, but you can also benefit. Through the app, you can open the camera remotely. This enables you to see precisely where the user is and what they’re doing.
The quality of the photos is good. The images are clear with a high definition.
No Disturb and SOS
By using the app, you can set specific no disturb times for when it’s school time. When this function is on, your child won’t be able to use the watch or receive calls. If they sense danger, however, they can still use the SOS button, which sends notifications and calls to selected numbers.
Keep In Mind
Poor Instructions
The instructions aren’t great, particularly for the SIM card. However, there are images, which do help a little.
Not for Older Children
Although the recommended age is 4 to 12, other parents suggest you avoid buying it for older children. It’s a simple device and doesn’t include many functions that will appeal to children above the age of 7.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 4 to 12 years |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| GPS tracker | Yes |
| Camera | Yes |
| SOS call | Yes |
3. VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX
Some children love taking photos, so for them, a watch like this will be appreciated. The VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX offers one of the best camera functions on today’s list.
Besides the camera, the watch has a lot to offer. It comes with built-in functions, including an alarm clock, timer, and a calendar. This allows the user to take some control, which can help a child feel independent.
Your youngster can have lots of fun. There are challenges and activities that are tracked by a built-in motion sensor. It’s a great watch for children aged 4 to 9.
Why We Love It
Outstanding Camera
Whether your kid is into photography or loves taking selfies, the VTech camera is outstanding. The camera offers decent quality and has an option to add different photo effects. It can also record videos and audio, and it features a fun voice-changing effect.
The watch has a decent amount of storage. However, it’s best to upload your data files to a computer using the included USB cable for continuous use.
Useful Functions
Your child can gain some independence when using the watch due to the various functions. It includes a timer, stopwatch, and alarm clock. In addition to this, there’s also a calendar and calculator, too.
What’s more, it includes several layouts for the analog clock. Users can customize the look with approximately 50 displays to choose from.
Splash-Proof
The watch is splash-proof, so your youngster can easily play in the rain or get sweaty while wearing it. However, please note it isn’t waterproof — don’t submerge it, and remove it before showering or bathing.
Games and Challenges
Included with the smartwatch are five games as well as three activities and three action challenges. The watch has a built-in motion sensor to record the user’s progress.
Keep In Mind
Bulky Watch
Both the watch and the band are quite bulky. They don’t look discreet on the wrist, especially on younger children.
No Parental Control
In contrast to the other watches, this one doesn’t offer any parental control. There’s no GPS tracker, and you can’t lock the watch for school times.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 4 to 9 years |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| GPS tracker | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| SOS call | No |
4. PROGRACE Kids’ Smartwatch
For active boys, we recommend having a look at this watch from Prograce. It’s a great watch, stuffed with features and functions. It’s suitable for children between the ages of 4 and 12 years.
With the watch, the wearer can keep track of how many steps they take every day. While they’re walking, they can listen to their favorite music or the built-in FM radio. Thanks to an earphone port, you won’t get disturbed.
There is a lot to do with this watch. There are games, a rotatable camera, and even a flashlight. The design is outstanding, too — with a large touch screen and a bright strap, it’s an eye-catcher.
Why We Love It
Built-In Fitness Tracker
With built-in motion sensors, you and your child can track their steps and calories. It’s excellent for active boys and may even help them build healthy habits for the future.
Rotatable Camera
The camera included can rotate 90 degrees, allowing the user to take selfies or front-faced photos. It’s easy to adjust the angle, but you will need a micro SD card installed — otherwise, the images aren’t saved.
Four Fun Games
With four pre-installed games, your little dude will have loads of fun. The games include Whac-A-Mole, Welcome the God of Wealth, Ninja Run Online, and Brave Money. The watch has a touch screen, so accessing and playing the games is easy.
Earphone Port and Music Player
When you’ve inserted a memory card, you can upload your child’s favorite tunes to the watch. Then they can listen without disturbing you, thanks to the earphone port. There are also speakers, so when they’re with friends they can listen at full volume.
Keep In Mind
Only 24-Hour Time
The watch can only display 24-hour time, and not 12-hour, as most of us are used to in the U.S. It’s not a huge issue for older children, but smaller ones may find it challenging to figure out.
Difficult to Insert Memory Card
When inserting the memory card, you have to open the back of the watch, removing the battery. Some parents noted they didn’t feel entirely comfortable doing this as they were scared of breaking something.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 4 to 12 years |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| GPS tracker | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| SOS call | No |
5. VTech Star Wars BB-8 Smartwatch
Get your Jedi clothes and Stormtrooper uniforms ready because here comes a watch for Star Wars lovers. This smartwatch from VTech is a good pick for little fans. It’s recommended for children aged 5 to 9 years.
This watch is ready to venture into a galaxy far, far away. It has a BB-8-themed wrist band and even more Star Wars goodies on the inside. With various sound and photo effects, your child can feel like a Jedi master.
They can swing a lightsaber or battle against Stormtroopers to restore peace and equality in the galaxy. There are also useful functions for children in school, like an alarm clock and calendar.
Why We Love It
Fun Camera Effects
Let your little one explore their creativity by taking photos and videos with Star Wars photo effects. The smartwatch can save up to 1,600 pictures or 11 one-minute videos.
Star Wars Sound Effects
Besides taking fun photos, the watch has a built-in motion sensor, which triggers cool, Star Wars-themed sound effects. When your little one swings their arm, it sounds like a lightsaber, spaceship, or a droid.
Space-Inspired Activities
Wearers can challenge themselves with the three mini activities included in the watch. They can blast asteroids, escape the Stormtroopers, or race with BB-8. There’s also a voice recorder with voice-changing effects, so your youngster can sound like a galaxy native.
Other Great Features
In addition to the Star Wars features, the watch also includes an alarm clock, stopwatch, timer, calculator, and calendar. The clock displays time in the AM and PM format. With 30 Star Wars-inspired designs to choose from, your youngster can customize their watch.
Keep In Mind
Difficult to Take Pictures
The camera is positioned in an awkward spot. It’s not suitable for taking selfies, and for the best angle, you’d have to remove it from the wrist.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 5 to 9 years |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| GPS tracker | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| SOS call | No |
6. VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2
This bright purple smartwatch from VTech is a great option for girls aged 4 to 12 years. It’s a newer version of the previous DX, and the main differences are a more sleek design and an additional selfie camera.
It includes motion sensors with motion apps as well as other fun games utilizing the camera. You can also download more if needed.
The camera effects have received plenty of praise from parents. Users can add to the images and change their voice on videos. The watch is also great for telling time, and your little one can customize the clock display.
Why We Love It
Motion Apps
The DX2 watch includes a built-in motion sensor, which feeds information to the two motion apps. The apps are Funky Jump, Racing Run, and Crazy Dance that encourage the player to jump, run, and dance. As they engage in the activities, the watch will play fun sound effects while tracking their steps.
Fun Games
Included are five exciting games. One of these is Monster Catcher, where the player must find and catch monsters in the real world using the camera. Another pre-installed game is a logic puzzle called Noodle Booster.
If this isn’t enough, you can download more games from the Learning Lodge.
Learn About Time
The watch isn’t all about playing — it can also teach a child about the concept of time. They can customize the analog or digital clock with over 55 different designs. Then they can set alarms, use the timer, or plan a date with the calendar.
Photo Effects
Let the creativity flow with fun photo and video effects. Your youngster can add stamps, filters, and frames to the pictures and videos. Then you can upload them to the computer.
Keep In Mind
No Quiet Option
Although you can set the volume, it doesn’t go completely quiet. It’s not ideal for wearing to school or other places where volume control is a must.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 4 to 12 years |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| GPS tracker | No |
| Camera | Yes |
| SOS call | No |
7. Fitbit Ace 2 Activity Tracker for Kids
If you’re searching for a watch that’ll inspire your child to be active, the Fitbit Ace 2 is great for dynamic families and children aged 6 years and up.
It features all the must-haves you’d expect from Fitbit. It will track your youngster’s steps and active minutes — then it offers challenges for more activity. You can track all their progress through your family account.
The Fitbit Ace 2 can be worn around the clock. The battery can last up to five days before needing a recharge. Even when they sleep, the watch is busy analyzing the user’s sleep habits for optimal rest.
Why We Love It
Encouragement for Staying Active
The Fitbit Ace 2 is a miniature Fitbit made for kids, so it includes all the benefits the adult version has. The watch will track your child’s steps and even their active minutes where they jump, skip, or swim. Through the app, users can earn virtual badges and also challenge friends and family to stay active.
Step Challenges
Because the CDC recommends 60 minutes of activity for children daily, the Ace 2 includes a one-hour step challenge (2). This shows as a daily challenge, where the user is encouraged to stay active for one hour. You can customize this to suit your child’s needs in the app.
Swimproof
Water activities are fine with this watch, which is waterproof for up to 164 feet. This is ample for backyard fun and pool play.
Parental Control
When you receive the watch, hook it up to the family account and create an exclusive account for your child. This lets you track their progress and even their sleep habits to ensure they get sufficient rest. It also allows you to monitor and approve who they connect to.
Keep In Mind
Bands are Fragile
The wrist bands aren’t as durable as they could be. Parents noted that they’re quite fragile. They’re easy to replace and available in various colors.
Additional Specs
| Recommended age | 6 years and up |
| Touch screen | No |
| GPS tracker | No |
| Camera | No |
| SOS call | No |
Detailed Comparison Chart
| Product | Best | Recommended age | Touch screen | GPS tracker | Camera | SOS call |
| Karaforna Kids’ Game Smartwatch | Overall Choice | 4 – 10 years | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Themoemoe Kids’ Smartwatch | GPS Tracker | 4 – 12 years | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch DX | Smartwatch Camera | 4 – 9 years | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| PROGRACE Kids’ Smartwatch | Boys | 4 – 12 years | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| VTech Star Wars BB-8 Smartwatch | Themed | 5 – 9 years | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX2 | Girls | 4 – 12 years | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Fitbit Ace 2 Activity Tracker | Getting Kids Active | 6 years plus | No | No | No | No |
Only the Smartest of Watches
Investing in the best smartwatch for kids is an excellent idea, whether your child is young or old. There are loads of options, and they offer great convenience for children who aren’t mature enough for a phone.
When you start searching, consider which features are necessary. For young children, we recommend GPS trackers, SOS buttons, and two-way calls. For older kids, smartwatches with fitness trackers are ideal for making sure your youngster stays active.
