What's the Best Kids' Smartwatch? Our Top 5 Picks Plus Real Parent Reviews

Smartwatches for kids are a great way to stay in touch with your child without handing over a potentially dangerous/fully-loaded smartphone. But with so many options available, it can be tough to know which one to choose! 

We’ve tried and compared a few top choices so you don’t have to guess. We’ve chosen:

• Gabb Watch 3
• Troomi XGO3
• Verizon Gizmo Watch 3
• T-Mobile SyncUP KIDS Watch 2 

We also include a section on Apple watches for older tweens if you want to give them access to a more traditional smartwatch experience.

And don't miss our comparison chart and real parent reviews near the end!

These smartwatches are all standalone LTE, meaning they have their own number and do not require a Bluetooth connection or share a number with a nearby phone to operate. They each offer:

• calling and text to/from selected contacts only,
• GPS tracking,
• activity tracking with motivational games to get kids moving,
• parent-approved contacts,
• water resistant rating IP68, and
• geofencing.

However, while they each have similar features, they work a little differently. So let’s get down to the nitty gritty.

Brands, models, and prices

Gabb Watch 3

The Gabb watch has been around for a while now and is in its 3rd generation. Gabb’s mission to keep kids safe online and protect their developing brains is one we love and we know you will too.

• Device cost: $149.99
• Monthly cellular plan: $17.99/month with no contract, $14.99 with 1 year contract, and $12.99 with 2 year contract
• Activation fee: $30
• Manufactured by: Foxconn
• Service provider: Gabb’s cellular service (Verizon towers)
• Contacts allowed: 100
• Picture messaging: No
• Camera: None
• Games: One game to motivate kids to be active and complete tasks on their to-do lists.
• Battery life: 14-18 hours with normal usage
  

What we love about the Gabb Watch 3

Manufacturer and network: Overall, the Gabb Watch 3 is a solid smartwatch for kids utilizing a top notch manufacturer (Foxconn also manufactures Apple products). Also, the reliability of the Verizon network is hard to beat if you have Verizon in your area.  

SMS texting: We also like that texting takes place over SMS rather than within an app making it a winner for communicating with any parent-approved contact. The contact doesn’t need the app to communicate with the watch. This is the only kid-safe smartwatch in our list with this flexibility.

Gabb Watch 3 considerations

Limited monitoring from the parent app: While Gabb offers SMS texting directly with contacts (no app needed), the watch doesn't allow monitoring of calls or texts from the parent app. Parents will need to review messages and calls directly on the watch itself. However, the benefit of direct texting without the need for a third-party app may make up for this limitation.

No camera: Kids might wish the watch had a camera, but Gabb always has child safety top of mind, so parents can rest easy that their child can’t take any compromising photos. We list this as a con for kids, but it could be a pro in your book.

Limited insurance coverage: We wish the additional insurance covered device loss as we all know how prone kids are to losing things!

🚨$25 off Gabb Smartwatch! Click here and use code DYM at checkout. Sign up to be notified when they come back in stock.

Related: 5 Easy Tricks to Manage Screen Time and Get a Happier Family, Too

Troomi XGO3 watch

Troomi’s XGO3 watch watch is made by Xplora, so parents might wonder why not buy the watch directly from them? 

Troomi has a few good incentives to purchase this watch through them. When your child is ready to graduate to a smartphone, customers get a $55 credit for a Troomi phone and can keep their phone number. There is no contract required and just one low monthly cost. We also love Troomi’s mission to keep kids safe.

If you’re outside the U.S., it’s good to know that Xplora watches—like the XGO3—are available in many countries where Troomi isn’t. So while the following review covers the XGO3 sold by Troomi, you can purchase the same watch directly from Xplora for international availability.

• Device cost: $129.95 
• Monthly cellular plan: $13.95
• Activation fee: $29.95
• Manufactured by: Xplora Technologies (Norwegian company)
• Service provider: Troomi’s cellular service (AT&T towers)
• Contacts allowed: 50
• Picture messaging: Yes, through the Troomi app
• Camera: 5 MP
• Games: Includes activity-based games that reward kids with Xplora Coins for completing tasks and staying active
• Battery life: Up to 2 days depending on usage
  

What we love about the Troomi XGO3

Call activity tracking: One helpful feature is that parents can see call history on the Xplora app. You’ll receive notifications when the watch turns on or off, and you’ll have visibility of any calls made or received, providing reassurance about your child’s interactions.

Camera: Kids love taking pictures with the camera and sending picture messages. And because parents have full visibility of all messages and control over contacts, you can monitor what is being sent and received. 

Troomi watch considerations

In-app communication: The Troomi watch doesn't support standard SMS texting. Instead, all text messages sent to and from the watch occurs in the Xplora app. This means contacts without the app can't send or receive texts. Phone calls can be made without the app, providing some flexibility. For parents who prefer managing all messaging through an app, this could be an advantage. But it’s important to note this setup might not work well for families where siblings or relatives can’t download the app (such as those using basic phones).

Voice messaging format: The watch can only create voice recorded messages and utilize a handful of preset text responses and emojis. Therefore, when your child sends you a message, it’s in audio format, which can be inconvenient if you’re in a situation where you can’t listen to it. Parents might want to consider this if text-based communication is a priority.

Games on parent device: There aren’t games on the watch itself which helps reduce screen time. Instead, Xplora’s activity platform offers a range of fun games accessible only via the parent’s phone. In other words, if your child is interested in games, they’ll need your phone to access them. 

Our tester was glad not to have games on the watch and their child never even knew about the games. However, for parents who do want games accessible to their child, this could be frustrating. 

🚨$30 off Troomi Smartwatch! Click here and use code WATCH30 at checkout.

[[CTA]]

Gizmo Watch 3 by Verizon

The Verizon Gizmo 3 is an excellent option for parents who prefer a watch that can be easily added to their existing Verizon family plan. It offers a few more features than the others such as Bluetooth connections for earbuds, and even video calling.

• Device cost: $149.99
• Monthly cellular plan: $10/month
• Activation fee: $35
• Manufactured by: Qualcomm
• Service provider: Verizon Wireless
• Contacts allowed: 20
• Picture messaging: Yes, through the GizmoHub app
• Camera: Yes
• Games: Three on device
• Battery life: Approximately 3 days standby and 4 hours talk time
• Bluetooth: Allows pairing with wireless earbuds or headphones
• Video calling: Available within the GizmoHub app and limited to guardians

What we love about the Gizmo Watch 3

• Reliable manufacturer and network: Built by Qualcomm and run on Verizon’s robust network, the Gizmo 3 offers reliable connectivity in most areas. For families already using Verizon, adding this watch to a family plan is seamless and convenient, though having a Verizon line isn’t necessary. 
• “Buddy” connections: Children can easily add friends. If both children have a Gizmo Watch 3, they can send a quick request to become “buddies” and start messaging or calling each other after getting parent approval. 

Gizmo Watch 3 Considerations

• In-app communication: Like the Troomi watch, texting and video calling takes place through the GizmoHub app, though voice calls can be placed directly to the child’s number. This is a downside for families with members who have basic phones.
• Limited contacts: The Gizmo 3 allows up to 20 contacts, which may be restrictive if your child needs more.

SyncUP KIDS Watch 2 by T-Mobile

‍The SyncUp Kids Watch 2 is a solid choice for families already on the T-Mobile network. With the ability to pair with Bluetooth headphones and take advantage of T-Mobile’s strong network, this smartwatch keeps kids connected.

• Device cost: $174.00 or free with a 24-month contract
• Monthly cellular plan: $12/month
• Activation fee: None (under current promotions)
• Manufactured by: Qualcomm
• Service provider: T-Mobile (U.S., Canada, Mexico coverage)
• Contacts allowed: Unlimited
• Picture messaging: Yes, within the T Life app
• Camera: Dual cameras (for both pictures and video calls)
• Games: Includes several fun games like Tic Tac Toe, puzzles, and fitness-focused games
• Battery life: Approximately 2 days with moderate usage
• Bluetooth: Allows pairing with wireless earbuds or headphones
• Video calling: Yes, through the T Life app with designated admin or guardians only

What we love about the T-Mobile SyncUP KIDS Watch 2

• International coverage: The SyncUP Watch 2 offers international data roaming in over a dozen countries. It’s the only smartwatch in our lineup that has international capabilities.
• T-Mobile network: The SyncUP Watch 2 operates on T-Mobile’s network, making it the best option if T-Mobile is the strongest network in your area.

T-Mobile SyncUP KIDS Watch 2 Considerations

• In-app communication only: As with other kid smartwatches like Troomi and Gizmo, the SyncUP KIDS Watch 2 restricts all communication to the T Life app.
• Existing T-Mobile customer requirement: The SyncUP Watch 2 is only available to current T-Mobile customers with at least one active voice line. You will not be able to get a standalone line for your child’s watch if you use a different carrier.

Apple watches

Many tweens find kid-safe smartwatches too childish and restrictive, which makes Apple watches an attractive. Since it doesn’t share a number with or require a paired smartphone to work (ahem Galaxy and Pixel watches, we’re looking at you), it can seem like a great solution. 

However, we recommend Apple with great caution. While it has advantages over putting a traditional smartphone in your child’s hand, it isn’t designed for children. Apple watches provide full access to the internet—including pornography. It’s crucial for parents to be aware of potential risks and take steps to lock down the device. 

For younger kids, we still suggest opting for a dedicated kid-safe smartwatch.

‍What we love about Apple watches

• Appeal for older tweens and teens: Apple watches tend to attract older children due to their sleek design and extensive features.
• Variety of models: Apple offers several watch models, giving parents the flexibility to choose a version that best fits their needs and budget.
• Carrier flexibility: Apple watches can be used on any carrier so parents can add it to their existing family plan.
• Traditional texting and calling: Like Gabb, Apple watches support standard texting and calling, so contacts don’t need an app to communicate with the watch.

Apple watch considerations

• Potential for distractions: Due to access to many apps, Apple watches may be more distracting and addictive, leading to more screen time.
• Internet access: These watches come with full internet capabilities, requiring extra effort from parents to set up and manage proper controls.
• Expensive: Prices range from $249-$799, which is much costlier than other brands. However, they can be obtained used!

Related: Porn on an Apple Watch?! How Clever Kids Find It and How You Can Block It

Real feedback: What parents say about smartwatches for kids

We polled parents about their experiences with smartwatches for kids, and here's what we learned.

Age given‍

Most parents reported giving smartwatches to their kids between ages 7 and 11, with many transitioning to Apple Watches in middle school as kid-focused watches became "too childish."

Verizon/T-Mobile Watches‍

Parents generally liked these watches, especially for younger children, citing ease of use and safety. Parents shared:

• "We gave our child a SyncUp Watch at age 9, and it’s been great for peace of mind." 
• “We gave our child one age 5 because she got lost on a school bus. Great experience with the watch! Easy to use.”
• “ SyncUP audio quality is not good.”
• “Did not have a good experience with Gabb watch- swapped to Gizmo.”
• “Gizmo was choppy — not great service despite being through a service provider. It was nice that my kids could run around the neighborhood and play with friends/let us know where they were. Also games are boring so they were not distracted for more than a week.”
  

Gabb

Feedback was more mixed, likely because 69% of our survey respondents use the Gabb Watch, making it the largest pool of respondents. Most parents loved its simplicity and safety, while others reported issues with tracking and overheating. Parents shared:

• "Tracking is my biggest complaint. It’s not super accurate." 
• "Love it, wish they were more waterproof." 
• “No negative issues. Can tell when she gets to school and then back home.”
• “Gabb watch is awesome. No drawbacks at all!”
• “No bad experiences other than issues with gps every once in a while.”
• “Love that it doesn’t take an app to communicate with the watch. Very user friendly on both ends.”
• “Have used both Gizmo and Gabb. Gabb has lasted longer than Gizmo.”
  

Troomi‍

Parents liked Troomi’s call tracking in the parent portal. Other parents had some frustrations with voice messaging, reporting that it was difficult to hear. Parents shared:

• “Love being able to see who my kids make calls to on their watches.”
• “My kids have a blast with the camera and love to send pictures of our dog to each other.”
• "The step tracker was great, but my kids kept asking for my phone to play the games, which defeated the purpose of giving them their own watch."
• “2 thumbs down, voice texts were hard to hear & game incentives required parents phone to play.”
  

Apple

Overall parents found Apple watches more appealing to their tweens/teens and they liked that they could be added onto their existing cell plans for a low cost. Additionally it's easy to find used or refurbished Apple watches online, making them an affordable option. Parents shared:

• “Once my kids hit middle school, the other watches seemed 'babyish.' We moved to Apple watches and now they can talk to friends too."
• “We use Apple Watch on kid mode or with restrictions -- has great reception."
• “We chose Apple watch and use family mode for protections so once my child gets a phone the watch isn’t obsolete.”
• "I liked that the monthly fee to add the Apple watch onto my family plan was affordable, and it passed the "cool" test for my tween. One drawback is it doesn't have as many default parental controls as the kid-safe watches. But I was able to use Apple's parental controls to lock it down."
  

Concerns

Several respondents raised concerns about smartwatches in general. Here’s what they’re saying:

• "I haven’t given my child a smartwatch—these fitness trackers and apps can lead to an unhealthy obsession with movement."
• “Too much EMF!!”
• “As a teacher, I hate them. Just get them a regular old watch.”
• “Would never give to my kid because of harmful EMF directly to my kids arm/body. We opted for the Gabb Phone Plus at age 12/end of 6th grade.”

Related: 7 Essential Rules for New Tech to Safeguard Your Child‍

Which smartwatch is right for your child? Final thoughts

Choosing the right smartwatch for your child depends on your family’s unique needs. Each watch in our lineup provides different strengths: the Gabb Watch 3 is perfect for those who want simplicity and SMS texting, while the Troomi XGO3 offers great parental oversight and camera features. If your family is on Verizon or T-Mobile, both the Gizmo Watch 3 and SyncUp Kids Watch 2 can easily be added to your family's cell phone plan and have extra perks like video calling.

For older tweens or teens, an Apple Watch may be the right choice. With more advanced features, it bridges the gap between kid-safe devices and full-fledged smartphones — but it comes with the responsibility of locking down content and ensuring online safety.

No matter what you choose, these watches offer safe and reliable ways to stay connected with your child without the need for a smartphone. We hope our roundup has made it easier for you to make an informed decision!