Best Phones for Kids: Top Picks for Safety and Durability

by | Jun 24, 2021 | Smartphones

Are you looking for the best phones for kids to buy?

Choosing the right phone for your child is an important decision that balances safety, functionality, and affordability. As a parent, you want to ensure that your child stays connected while keeping them safe from the potential dangers of the internet and social media.

This guide will help you navigate the various options available on the market today, ranging from basic phones with limited features to smartphones with robust parental controls.

We’ll explore the best phones for kids based on their functionality, safety features, durability, and ease of use, so you can make an informed choice that best fits your family’s needs.

Best Phones for Kids

Now, let’s explore the best phones for kids that you choose from. 

Phones with Limited Functionality for Maximum Safety

If safety and simplicity are your top priorities, then phones with limited functionality are ideal. These phones focus on basic communication and safety features, minimizing exposure to the internet and social media.

They are perfect for younger children who only need to stay in touch with family and don’t require all the bells and whistles of a smartphone.

1. Gabb Phone Z2

The Gabb Phone Z2 is a smartphone designed with kids’ safety in mind. It eliminates internet access, social media, and app stores, focusing solely on communication and safety. It features GPS tracking, texting, and calling capabilities, allowing parents to maintain contact with their children without worrying about distractions or inappropriate content.

Pros: The Gabb Phone Z2’s lack of internet and social media makes it extremely safe for younger users. It has a durable design that can withstand the rough handling typical of children, and the GPS tracking feature provides parents with peace of mind about their child’s whereabouts.

Cons: The phone is very limited in functionality, akin to a feature phone rather than a true smartphone. It might not be suitable for older kids who need more features for learning or social purposes.

Ideal For: Younger children and parents who prioritize safety and basic communication over advanced functionality.

2. Nokia 3310 (2017)

The Nokia 3310 is a modern update of the classic, featuring basic functionalities like calling, texting, limited internet browsing, and the beloved Snake game. It’s designed for durability and long battery life, making it a great option for kids.

Pros: Known for its iconic durability, the Nokia 3310 can handle drops and rough use without breaking. It has a long battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging and providing a reliable communication tool.

Cons: It lacks smartphone capabilities and does not provide access to apps, which can limit its appeal to older children who may need more features.

Ideal For: Kids who need a basic phone for calls and texts only, particularly those prone to dropping their devices.

3. Relay Screenless Phone

The Relay Screenless Phone is a unique option that functions more like a walkie-talkie with GPS tracking. It has no screen, reducing distractions and making it safer for younger children. Parents can use the accompanying app to track their child’s location and communicate easily.

Pros: The Relay is extremely safe, as it has no internet access or apps. Its simple design is easy for young children to use, and it is durable enough to withstand rough handling. GPS tracking provides an added layer of safety for parents.

Cons: The device is limited to voice communication only, with no texting or internet capabilities. This could be a drawback for older kids who need more communication options.

Ideal For: Very young kids or those who only need to communicate directly with parents or caregivers.

4. Alcatel GO FLIP 4

The Alcatel GO FLIP 4 is a basic flip phone that offers call, text, and limited internet access. It’s designed to be simple and straightforward, making it ideal for younger children or those new to using a phone.

Pros: The Alcatel GO FLIP 4 is durable and simple to operate, with a long battery life that is perfect for young kids. The flip design protects the screen when not in use, and the limited internet access ensures minimal distractions.

Cons: The phone’s limited features may not be suitable for children who need more advanced technology or who want to use apps for learning and entertainment.

Ideal For: Kids who require basic communication tools without the distraction of apps or the internet.

Smartphones with Parental Controls and Kid-Friendly Features

For parents who want to give their children a smartphone experience but maintain a level of control over their usage, these options strike a balance. They come with built-in parental controls, allowing you to monitor and limit what your child can access, ensuring a safe and age-appropriate digital experience.

1. iPhone SE (2020)

The iPhone SE (2020) is a compact yet powerful smartphone that gives kids access to the Apple ecosystem while providing robust parental controls. With Apple Family Sharing, parents can easily manage what their children can access, set screen time limits, and monitor their activity.

Pros: The iPhone SE offers a high-quality camera and strong performance, making it ideal for children who may need more from their phone. The integration with Apple’s ecosystem allows for seamless family sharing and monitoring through Screen Time, giving parents control over app usage and screen time.

Cons: This phone comes at a higher price point than basic phones, which could be a consideration for families on a budget. It also provides access to the internet and social media, which requires diligent parental control.

Ideal For: Older kids or teenagers who need more features and have demonstrated responsible usage habits.

2. Samsung Galaxy A32

The Samsung Galaxy A32 is a mid-range smartphone with a large screen, good camera quality, and long battery life. It also includes customizable parental controls to restrict apps and screen time.

Pros: The Galaxy A32 is an affordable smartphone option with decent performance and good battery life. It comes with built-in parental controls, making it easy to manage what your child can access and for how long.

Cons: The device is more fragile compared to more basic phones and may require a protective case for children.

Ideal For: Kids who are ready for a smartphone experience but still need some level of supervision.

3. Moto G Power (2021)

The Moto G Power (2021) is a budget-friendly smartphone known for its exceptional battery life and solid performance at a low cost. It is a great choice for kids who need a reliable phone without breaking the bank.

Pros: With a battery life that lasts all day and then some, the Moto G Power ensures your child stays connected without frequent recharging. It’s also affordable, making it an attractive option for families looking for a cost-effective smartphone.

Cons: The camera quality is average, and the phone lacks 5G support, which might be a downside for tech-savvy kids.

Ideal For: Kids who need a reliable smartphone for everyday use without high costs or advanced features.

4. Google Pixel 4a

The Google Pixel 4a is a compact smartphone with a good camera and a clean Android experience. It supports Google Family Link, allowing parents to set digital ground rules and monitor their child’s activity.

Pros: The Pixel 4a offers a high-quality camera and a clean software experience, which is ideal for kids who enjoy photography or need a reliable device for school projects. Google Family Link provides a robust set of tools for managing screen time and app usage.

Cons: The phone is less durable compared to other models, so it’s recommended to use a protective case for kids.

Ideal For: Tech-savvy kids or those interested in photography and social media, with parental oversight.

Minimalist Phones for Reduced Screen Time

For parents who want to ensure minimal screen time while still providing their kids with a means of communication, minimalist phones are the perfect solution. These phones offer basic functionalities without the distractions of apps and games, encouraging kids to focus on essential communication.

1. Light Phone II

The Light Phone II is a minimalist phone that provides basic functionalities like calling and texting, with no internet or app store. It encourages minimal screen time and focuses on essential communication, making it a great choice for parents who want to limit their child’s screen exposure.

Pros: The Light Phone II encourages minimal screen time and reduces distractions, making it an ideal choice for parents who want their kids to focus on school and family time. Its durable design can handle the rough handling typical of children.

Cons: The lack of internet and app functionality could be limiting for older kids who may need these features for educational or social purposes.

Ideal For: Parents who want to minimize their children’s screen time and prevent distractions from apps and social media.

2. Jitterbug Flip2

The Jitterbug Flip2 is a simple flip phone with large buttons, an emergency button, and a user-friendly menu. It’s designed to be easy to use for young kids or those not familiar with more advanced technology.

Pros: The Jitterbug Flip2 is easy to use, even for kids who are not tech-savvy. The large buttons and simple interface make it accessible, while features like the emergency button add a layer of security.

Cons: The phone is very basic and lacks modern smartphone features, which may not appeal to older kids.

Ideal For: Young children or those who only need a phone for emergencies and simple communication.

Key Things to Look for in Phones for Kids

When selecting phones for kids, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure the device suits their needs and keeps them safe. Here are some key aspects to think about:

Parental Controls and Safety Features
Look for phones with strong parental controls that allow you to manage screen time, monitor app usage, and limit access to certain content. Many phones for kids come with built-in safety settings that help you stay informed about how they’re using their device and protect them from inappropriate content online.

Durability and Design
Kids can be rough on their belongings, so choosing a durable phone is essential. Opt for models with sturdy builds or cases that can withstand drops and everyday wear. For younger kids, consider phones with simplified designs or rugged cases to help protect the device.

Battery Life
Long battery life is a must, especially if your child uses the phone frequently. Good battery life ensures that the phone will last through the day, whether they’re using it for calls, texting, or light entertainment. Many phones for kids offer excellent battery performance to match their usage habits.

Affordability
Kids don’t need the latest, high-end smartphone. There are many affordable phones for kids that offer all the necessary features without breaking the bank. Look for options that provide good value for money, balancing price with essential functions and durability.

Age-Appropriate Features
Think about what features are suitable for your child’s age. Younger kids might only need basic calling and texting, while older children may benefit from cameras, educational apps, or limited internet access. Choosing age-appropriate features helps your child use their phone responsibly while providing you with peace of mind.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best phones for kids that align with both your expectations and your child’s needs, creating a positive and secure digital experience for them.

Conclusion

Choosing the best phone for your child involves carefully considering their age, maturity level, and unique needs from a device. Whether you opt for a basic model with limited functionality to prioritize safety or a smartphone with enhanced parental controls, selecting from the range of phones for kids available today ensures you find a device that aligns with your family’s values and digital preferences.

Reflect on your child’s usage habits, the level of digital independence you’re comfortable with, and involve your child in the decision-making process. This way, you can choose a phone that strikes the perfect balance of safety, functionality, and affordability—providing both peace of mind for you and an engaging experience for your child.

Visiting a store or exploring various options online can help you find the ideal fit among phones for kids, setting your child on a path toward healthy and responsible digital habits for the future!

I hope this article helped you to learn about the best phones for kids that you can choose from. If you liked it then please subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and the latest blog posts.

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