Buying Guide for the Best Smartwatch For Kids
When choosing a smartwatch for kids, it's important to focus on safety, ease of use, and features that match your child's age and interests. Consider how the watch will be used—will it help your child keep in touch with you, track fitness activities, or simply provide entertainment and learning opportunities? Your child's level of responsibility and familiarity with technology should guide your choices as well. Always prioritize watches that are designed for children to ensure they are safe and appropriate.Durability and Water ResistanceDurability in a kids’ smartwatch means the device can withstand drops, bumps, and rough play, which are common in children’s routines. Water resistance makes sure the watch survives handwashing, rain, or accidental splashes. Generally, water resistance is rated from basic splash-proof designs to higher ratings that allow brief immersion. Younger or more active children may benefit from higher durability and better water resistance, while older or careful kids can manage with simpler protection.
GPS and Location TrackingGPS features allow parents to see the child’s location in real-time, which is crucial for safety and peace of mind. Some watches provide only approximate locations, while others offer more precise, updated tracking. If safety and supervision are your main concerns, opt for models with accurate, real-time GPS. However, if you’re simply interested in fitness data, less accurate location tracking may suffice.
Communication AbilitiesCommunication features can include calling, texting, or sending voice messages. Some smartwatches let kids call only pre-approved contacts, while others have more open capabilities. Choose a watch that matches your child's maturity—restrict calling for younger children and allow more independence as they grow older. If your main goal is keeping in touch during emergencies, focus on models that prioritize simple and secure communication.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the watch can operate on a single charge, ranging from a day to several days. Watches with advanced features (like GPS and frequent data use) may have shorter battery lives. Consider your routine—if your child won’t charge the watch daily, choose a model with a longer battery life. For those comfortable with regular charging, a shorter battery life may be acceptable in exchange for more features.
Educational and Entertainment FeaturesMany kids’ smartwatches offer games, educational apps, and learning tools to keep children engaged. Some focus on fitness and step-counting, while others include math games or story-reading. Decide if you want the watch to mainly serve as a communication or safety tool, or if you’d like it to double as a fun and interactive device for your child. Pick features that align with your child’s interests and your expectations for screen time.
Parental ControlsParental controls provide parents with the ability to manage what their child can do on the smartwatch, such as limiting contacts, setting usage times, or restricting access to some features. Some watches offer basic controls, while others allow for very detailed management. If your child is young or you have concerns about overuse, prioritize watches with robust parental control options.
Design and ComfortDesign and comfort include the size, weight, and style of the watch, as well as the type of strap and available colors. Lighter, brightly colored watches with soft, adjustable straps tend to suit younger kids, making them more likely to wear the watch every day. Older children may appreciate more neutral or stylish designs that look closer to adult devices. Consider what your child will find appealing and comfortable enough for all-day wear.