A smartwatch is an excellent option for a younger child who is not yet ready to use a full-fledged smartphone. It offers a number of benefits for both parents and children. But choosing the right smartwatch for kids can be a challenge, as it combines modern technology with the demands of safety and comfort.
Smartwatches for kids offer a wide range of features such as location tracking, secure communications, and interactive learning tools. These devices help parents stay connected to their children while giving them freedom and independence. Below, we highlight some of the best smartwatches for kids. Check out: Are luxury smartwatches worth the price?
Best Apple Watch for Kids
Overall, the best Apple smartwatch for kids is the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation). It strikes the perfect balance between cost and essential features, making it the best choice for kids.
The second-generation Apple Watch SE is available in 40mm and 44mm cases. The smaller 40mm watch is ideal for smaller wrists, while the 44mm variant features a larger display and takes up a bit more space on the wrist.
You can choose from a wide range of colors and aluminum bands. In addition to the official Apple band options, you can find a range of cheaper options at Amazon and other retailers.
Because it’s so cheap, there are a few trade-offs compared to other Apple Watch models. The Apple Watch SE lacks ECG functionality and doesn’t have an always-on display. But those features shouldn’t be at the top of the list for kids. However, it can still track heart rate and record important fitness metrics.
You can choose between two different types of Apple Watch SE. Requires GPS-only Apple Watch SE Paired iPhone to send text messages and make phone calls. GPS + Cellular Apple Watch SE Much better option for kids.
With the cellular model, you can use Family Setup to let your child use their Apple Watch without their iPhone. They can make phone calls, send messages, and share their location with you using Wi-Fi or a cellular network. Your child will have a separate phone number, but you'll have to pay an additional monthly fee — typically about $20 — to your carrier bill.
After purchasing the watch, set it up with your iPhone and then choose your child. During this process, you can enable Schooltime to limit some watchOS features during school hours. Check out how to set up your new Apple Watch for the first time using your iPhone.
Best Wear OS Watch for Kids
If you are an Android user and looking to give your child a Wear OS smartwatch, then… Google Pixel Watch 2 It's the best option. There's a lot to like about the Pixel Watch 2, most notably the Fitbit integration, which can help you better analyze your fitness metrics.
Unlike the Apple Watch, the Pixel Watch 2 is only available in one 41mm variant. It’s small and unobtrusive, and fits well on most kids’ wrists. You can choose from a number of case and band color options.
You can also choose between Wi-Fi and LTE variants. The cellular version is your best bet if you want to give your child the smartwatch only.
However, setting up the Pixel Watch 2 as a standalone device requires more work than the Apple Watch SE. There's no dedicated option to let a child use the smartwatch to make calls, text, and share location, without a paired Android device.
One solution is to buy an inexpensive Android device and pair it with the watch. The Pixel Watch 2 will work with most phones running Android 9.0 or later. Check out Pixel Watch 2: Compelling reasons to upgrade and some reasons you might want to wait.
Best Fitbit Watch for Kids
Another great option, compatible with both Android and iOS, is the Watch Fitbit Ace LTEThe smartwatch is specifically designed for kids ages seven and up. The wearable combines a Fitbit watch and a smartwatch into a kid-friendly combination.
There are two strap/case color options to choose from. And since it's designed for little kids, it comes with a shock-proof case.
Parents can use the companion Fitbit Ace app to connect with their kids and see where they are at all times. You can also approve up to 20 other people your kids can communicate with via calls, texts, and voice messages.
To make the device fun for kids, it contains: Fitbit Ace On Iggy Animation, your child becomes happier when they move and achieve their fitness goals. It also offers many other movement-based games to keep your children busy.
To use the watch, you'll have to pay a monthly fee of $9.99 for the Fitbit Ace Pass service, which provides unlimited calling, messaging, and location sharing along with all the games available. It's not tied to a specific carrier.
A smartwatch is a big step for both parents and children. Any of these wearable devices can provide a great first experience of mobile technology without some of the hassles and downsides of using a smartphone.
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