The Best Smart Watches for Kids: In 2025, the smartwatch market for kids is booming, with technology evolving to meet the unique needs of young users and their guardians. These devices are no longer simple toys they’re powerful tools for communication, safety, education, and entertainment. Whether you’re a parent seeking peace of mind or a child eager for your first tech gadget, smartwatches for kids offer a perfect blend of functionality and fun.
This guide breaks down the best smartwatches for kids in 2025 by age group, features, safety capabilities, and overall value, helping you make an informed decision for your family.
Why Choose a Smartwatch for Your Child?
Smartwatches can be a practical alternative to smartphones for children. Here are some key benefits:
- Safety and tracking: Many models offer GPS tracking, geofencing, and emergency calling.
- Controlled communication: Voice or video calling and messaging with parental approval.
- Fitness tracking: Encourages movement and healthy habits through fun activity goals.
- Learning tools: Games and apps that develop memory, logic, and even coding skills.
- No full internet or social media access: Keeps them connected without overexposure.
1. Verizon Gizmo Watch 3 – Best Overall Smartwatch for Kids
Price: ~$149
Ideal Age Range: 7–12
Network: Verizon LTE
Key Features:
- GPS tracking and geofencing
- Voice calling with 20 parent-approved contacts
- Step counter and fun fitness games
- Front-facing camera for video calls
- IP68 water resistance
Why It’s Great:
Gizmo Watch 3 strikes the perfect balance between parental controls and child engagement. The GizmoHub app gives parents real-time control over communication, while kids get a bright screen and intuitive interface.
Downsides:
Requires a Verizon plan; only compatible with Verizon’s network.
2. TickTalk 5 – Best for Communication and Parental Controls
Price: ~$199
Ideal Age Range: 6–13
Network: Compatible with AT&T and T-Mobile
Key Features:
- 2-way video and voice calling
- Encrypted messaging
- GPS location tracking and SOS button
- Activity tracking and school mode
- 20+ parental controls via the companion app
Why It’s Great:
The TickTalk 5 offers features close to a smartphone with heavy parental management. It includes AI filtering, spam call protection, and location history tracking.
Downsides:
Bulkier than some alternatives and has a higher learning curve for setup.
3. Angel Watch Series R – Best for Health Monitoring
Price: ~$179
Ideal Age Range: 5–12
Network: AT&T, T-Mobile, or Wi-Fi
Key Features:
- 4G video calling and messaging
- GPS tracking and SOS button
- Heart rate and temperature monitoring
- Medication reminders
- Works internationally
Why It’s Great:
This is one of the few smartwatches for kids that offers genuine health monitoring features, ideal for children with medical conditions or those who need reminders for medications.
Downsides:
Shorter battery life with daily use of health features.
4. Gabb Watch 3 – Best for Younger Kids and Simplicity
Price: ~$149
Ideal Age Range: 5–10
Network: Gabb Wireless
Key Features:
- Safe calling and texting with parent-approved contacts
- GPS and geofencing
- No internet, games, or social media
- Built-in to-do lists and alarms
Why It’s Great:
Gabb Watch 3 keeps things simple and safe. It’s built for families that want communication and safety without distractions. It’s particularly suited for first-time smartwatch users.
Downsides:
Very limited customization and app availability.
5. Garmin Bounce – Best for Fitness and Activity Tracking
Price: ~$149
Ideal Age Range: 6–12
Network: Garmin LTE (subscription required)
Key Features:
- GPS tracking and text messaging
- Fitness tracking with gamified movement goals
- Durable design for active kids
- No internet browsing or games
Why It’s Great:
Garmin is known for fitness tracking, and the Bounce brings that to kids in a durable, focused smartwatch. It encourages physical activity with badges and progress milestones.
Downsides:
Limited communication features compared to competitors.
6. imoo Z6 Ultra – Best for International Travel
Price: ~$199
Ideal Age Range: 7–13
Network: Global 4G compatibility
Key Features:
- Flip dual-camera design
- Crystal-clear video calling
- AI step counting
- Waterproof (IPX8)
- Precise GPS + location history
Why It’s Great:
This is one of the most versatile smartwatches for traveling families. It works in over 80 countries and has superb build quality, including an innovative flip-camera for better photos.
Downsides:
Higher price and larger design.
7. Apple Watch SE (with Family Setup) – Best for Tech-Savvy Families
Price: ~$249
Ideal Age Range: 10+
Network: Any major carrier (with cellular)
Key Features:
- Activity tracking, heart rate, fall detection
- Full support via Apple’s Family Setup
- Siri, iMessage, Walkie-Talkie
- Tons of apps and customization
Why It’s Great:
If you’re already an Apple family, the Watch SE is a great long-term investment. With Family Setup, kids can use it without needing an iPhone.
Downsides:
More expensive and allows more freedom than some parents may want for younger kids.
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How to Choose the Right Kids Smartwatch in 2025
Here’s what to consider when shopping:
1. Safety Features
Look for GPS tracking, SOS buttons, and location history. Geofencing alerts you when your child leaves a safe zone.
2. Communication
Most watches offer limited voice or video calling and secure texting. Ensure contacts are parent-approved.
3. Durability
Kids can be rough on tech. Choose water-resistant or shockproof models with strong battery life.
4. Age Appropriateness
Younger kids may need simpler devices (like Gabb or Garmin), while older ones can handle more advanced options (like TickTalk or Apple Watch SE).
5. No Social Media
A kid-friendly smartwatch should not allow access to open internet or social platforms unless fully managed.
6. App & Parental Controls
Most smartwatches come with a companion app that allows you to manage contacts, set school mode, and review activity.
FAQs
At what age should my child get a smartwatch?
Most children can begin using a smartwatch responsibly around age 6–7, depending on maturity. Start with simpler devices and upgrade as they grow.
Do kids’ smartwatches require a monthly plan?
Yes, most smartwatches with GPS and calling need a cellular plan. Prices range from $5 to $15/month depending on the carrier.
Can my child use the internet on these watches?
Generally, no. Most models block internet and social media access by design to keep kids safe and minimize distractions.
How accurate is the GPS tracking?
GPS on most kids’ smartwatches is accurate within 5–10 meters, especially when paired with cellular and Wi-Fi triangulation.
Are these watches waterproof?
Many watches are water-resistant or waterproof for everyday splashes and swimming. Always check the rating (e.g., IP68, IPX8).
Can I restrict features during school time?
Yes, almost all models include a “School Mode” or Do Not Disturb feature that disables non-essential functions during set hours.
What if the watch is lost or stolen?
You can usually track it via the companion app. Some models even include remote locking or sound alarms.
Are smartwatches better than giving a phone?
For many younger children, yes. Smartwatches are easier to manage, harder to lose, and offer less access to the internet or social media.