The Best Smartwatches for Kids in 2025: Smartwatches for kids have evolved into essential tools that blend safety, connectivity, and fun, offering parents peace of mind while engaging children with age-appropriate features.
These devices provide GPS tracking, communication options, and educational tools without the risks of full smartphone access. With the global wearable market for kids projected to grow by 12% annually, choosing the right smartwatch involves balancing safety, durability, and entertainment.
Why Smartwatches for Kids Matter
Kids’ smartwatches bridge the gap between GPS trackers and smartphones, offering controlled connectivity for children not yet ready for a phone. They provide safety features like real-time location tracking, SOS buttons, and restricted contacts, alongside fun elements like games, cameras, and activity tracking. These devices foster independence while ensuring parental oversight, making them ideal for kids aged 4–14. In 2025, advancements in AI, LTE connectivity, and durable designs make smartwatches safer and more engaging, catering to both younger children and tech-savvy teens.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kids’ Smartwatch
1. Age Appropriateness
- Younger Kids (4–8): Prioritize simple interfaces, colorful designs, and fun features like games or themed characters (e.g., VTech Kidizoom DX3).
- Older Kids (9–14): Opt for advanced features like GPS, calling, and fitness tracking (e.g., Apple Watch SE with Family Setup).
- Fit: Ensure adjustable, comfortable straps and lightweight designs for small wrists.
2. Safety and Privacy Features
- GPS Tracking: Essential for monitoring location (e.g., Gabb Watch 3e’s real-time GPS).
- Geofencing: Alerts parents when kids leave designated areas (e.g., Spacetalk Adventurer).
- SOS Button: Allows quick emergency calls (e.g., TickTalk 5).
- Parental Controls: Restrict contacts, block internet access, and enable school modes to limit distractions.
- Privacy: Look for encryption and GDPR compliance to protect data.
3. Communication Options
- Two-Way Calling: Enables voice calls with approved contacts (e.g., Verizon Gizmo Watch 3).
- Video Calling: Useful for visual check-ins (e.g., TickTalk 5’s 5MP camera).
- Texting: Voice-to-text or full keyboards (e.g., Gabb Watch 3e) suit different ages.
- Contact Limits: Most allow 10–100 pre-approved contacts for safety.
4. Durability and Battery Life
- Durability: IP67/68 waterproofing and Gorilla Glass (e.g., Cosmo JrTrack 4) withstand rough play.
- Battery Life: Aim for 24–72 hours. Models like Xplora XGO3 last up to 72 hours, while Apple Watch SE lasts ~18 hours.
- Materials: Silicone straps and impact-resistant screens ensure longevity.
5. Entertainment and Educational Features
- Games: Educational or movement-based games (e.g., Fitbit Ace LTE) engage kids.
- Cameras: Allow photo/video capture (e.g., VTech Kidizoom DX3).
- Activity Tracking: Pedometers and fitness challenges (e.g., Garmin Bounce) promote health.
- Learning Tools: Calculators, alarms, or chore reminders (e.g., Phyulls Kids Smart Watch) foster responsibility.
6. Budget and Subscription Costs
- Price Range: $50–$250 upfront, with some requiring monthly plans ($10–$18) for LTE (e.g., Fitbit Ace LTE).
- Budget Options: Wyze Kids Watch (~$50) offers basic features without subscriptions.
- Premium: Apple Watch SE (~$249) suits older kids in Apple ecosystems.
- Subscriptions: Check for ongoing costs (e.g., Gabb Watch 3e’s $13–$18/month plan).
Top 5 Smartwatches for Kids in 2025
Based on safety, features, and value, here are the top picks for 2025, informed by recent insights.
- Gabb Watch 3e (~$150)
- Specs: IP68, 24-hour battery, GPS, 100 contacts, SOS, speech-to-text, Gorilla Glass 3, Gabb plan ($13–$18/month)
- Why It’s Great: Offers robust GPS tracking, safe zone alerts, and parental controls without social media or internet access. Its digital pet game encourages activity, and the durable design suits active kids.
- Best For: Parents seeking safety-focused watches for ages 7–14.
- Drawbacks: No camera or 911 direct dial; requires subscription.
- Spacetalk Adventurer (~$199)
- Specs: IP67, 36-hour battery, 4G LTE, 5MP camera, GPS, geofencing, school mode, heart rate monitor
- Why It’s Great: Balances safety (GPS, SOS) and fun (camera, fitness tracking). Its OLED display and Gorilla Glass ensure durability, while school mode minimizes distractions.
- Best For: Active kids aged 6–12 needing connectivity.
- Drawbacks: Chunky design; monthly SIM cost.
- Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen, GPS + Cellular) (~$249)
- Specs: 50m waterproof, 18-hour battery, GPS, Family Setup, Schooltime mode, iOS integration
- Why It’s Great: Offers a sleek design with Family Setup for parental control, GPS tracking, and Schooltime mode. Ideal for older kids in Apple ecosystems.
- Best For: Tech-savvy teens aged 10–14.
- Drawbacks: Expensive; shorter battery life; not for younger kids.
- TickTalk 5 (~$160)
- Specs: IP67, 2-day battery, 4G LTE, 5MP camera, video calling, GPS, 53 contacts, SOS
- Why It’s Great: Features HD video calling, GPS tracking, and music streaming. Robust parental controls and a durable design make it versatile for communication and safety.
- Best For: Kids aged 5–12 needing video calls and tracking.
- Drawbacks: Limited contact slots; subscription required.
- VTech Kidizoom DX3 (~$50)
- Specs: Splash-proof, 2-day battery, 0.3MP dual camera, games, pedometer, no GPS
- Why It’s Great: Focuses on fun with cameras, games, and educational tools. Affordable and durable, it’s perfect for younger kids without connectivity needs.
- Best For: Younger kids aged 4–9 seeking entertainment.
- Drawbacks: No GPS or calling; low-res camera.
READ ALSO: Top 10 Tech Gadgets for Kids: Safe and Fun Options for 2025
Tips for Choosing and Using a Kids’ Smartwatch
- Assess Needs: For younger kids, prioritize fun and durability; for older kids, focus on GPS and communication.
- Set Rules: Establish usage guidelines, like no watch during school hours unless in school mode.
- Test Connectivity: Ensure reliable Wi-Fi or LTE for GPS and calls; check carrier compatibility.
- Monitor Privacy: Use 2FA and review data policies to protect your child’s information.
- Shop Smart: Look for deals on Amazon, Best Buy, or brand sites during sales like Prime Day.
FAQs
What is a kids’ smartwatch?
A kids’ smartwatch is a wearable device with features like GPS tracking, calling, texting, games, and parental controls, designed for safety and fun without full smartphone access.
Why choose a smartwatch over a smartphone for kids?
Smartwatches offer controlled connectivity, safety features like GPS and SOS, and limited internet access, making them safer for kids not ready for phones.
Which smartwatch is best for younger kids?
The VTech Kidizoom DX3 (~$50) is ideal for ages 4–9, with games, cameras, and a fun, durable design but no GPS or calling.
Which smartwatch is best for safety?
The Gabb Watch 3e (~$150) excels with GPS, geofencing, SOS, and parental controls, ensuring safety for ages 7–14.
Do kids’ smartwatches require subscriptions?
Many, like Gabb Watch 3e and TickTalk 5, require monthly plans ($10–$18) for LTE features. Models like VTech Kidizoom DX3 don’t need subscriptions.
Are kids’ smartwatches safe from hacking?
Reputable brands use encryption and parental controls. Enable 2FA and choose models with strong privacy policies (e.g., Gabb Watch 3e) to minimize risks.
Which smartwatch is best for Apple users?
The Apple Watch SE (~$249) with Family Setup integrates seamlessly with iOS, offering GPS, calling, and Schooltime mode for older kids.
How durable are kids’ smartwatches?
Most, like Spacetalk Adventurer and Cosmo JrTrack 4, feature IP67/68 waterproofing and Gorilla Glass, designed for rough play by active kids.