Top 5 Kids Smartwatches: Essential Buying Guide Now

Remember when a watch just told time? Today, our kids’ wrists can do so much more! But with all the flashing screens and endless features, how do you pick a smartwatch that’s actually good for your child? It can feel like navigating a digital jungle. You want something fun and safe, but you also worry about too much screen time or features that aren’t age-appropriate.

Finding the perfect balance between cool tech and responsible parenting is tough. You need to know which watches offer reliable tracking, durable designs for active play, and simple controls. Don’t worry! We’ve done the homework for you.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will explore the must-have features, the best safety options, and which smartwatches truly offer the best value for your family. Get ready to ditch the confusion and find the perfect wrist companion for your young explorer!

Top Kids Smartwatch Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
Kids Smart Watch Gift for Girls Age 5-12, 39 Games HD Touch Screen Watches with Video Camera Music Player Pedometer Flashlight 12/24 hr Educational Toys Birthday Gifts for Girls Ages 7 8 9 10
  • 【All in One Smart Watch for Kids】Kids smart watch with selfie-cam, MP3 player, voice recorder, habit tracking, games, pedometer, flashlight, alarm, stopwatch, calculator, theme, screensaver select, parental control, silent profile, time format, volume, etc. Which can bring convenience, fun and unprecedented new experience to children's lives.
  • 【Upgrade Kids Watch】As the fun kids smart watch, with 39 games to choose from kids. These games are more playable and suitable for children of multiple ages. That can effectively exercise kids logical thinking ability, reaction ability and hand-eye coordination. It is a gift for 4-12 year old boys and girls. There are Habits Tracking and Parental Control that traditional watches don't have.
  • 【HD Selfie-Camera & Video】The kids touchscreen smartwatch not only has camera and video support, but also has amazing HD pixels. Children can take photos and record videos, capture record every wonderful moment in their lives. With pop big head sticker shooting, children can take some hilarious photos with family or friends. The first step in training a child to be a photographer.
  • 【Powerful Battery Life】Kids watch built-in rechargeable battery that lasts more than 7 days on a full charge, the battery of this girls watch is upgraded to 500mA, allows kids to play anywhere, anytime, and is equipped with a USB cable. Let the children enjoy a happy playtime and give them a good childhood!
  • 【Great Gift for Kids】Our kids watches is designed with a durable aluminum frame design and a 1.54 inch IPS HD touch screen, it's easier to operate for kids. This watch introduces a fun function: habit tracking, cultivating children's good habits. Perfect birthday, Christmas, festival, and holiday gifts for boys and girls aged 6~10. We provide friendly customer service.
Bestseller No. 2
Phyulls Smart Watch for Kids, Smart Watch Toys with 39 Games Camera Video Recorder Music Alarm Calculator Calendar Flashlight Stopwatch Pedometer Gift Toys for 3-12 Years Old Boys and Girls (Black)
  • 👍⌚【Muti-Functional Smart Watch for Kids】Kids smart watch with selfie-cam, 39 puzzle games, torch, MP3 player, voice recorder, pedometer, alarm, stopwatch, calculator, theme, screensaver select, backlight time, audiobooks, learn card, habit tracker, silent profile, five country language, ringtone volume etc.
  • 👍⌚【Fun Selfie-Cam & Video】Kids touchscreen smart watch supports such as camera and video perfectly. Children usually use "VCRS + magic cameras" to record every happy moment in their lives. Set your favorite photo as wallpapers. Kids watch is capable of store 10000+ HD photos or 6+ hours video.
  • 👍⌚【Easy to Use】No SIM Card Required. The watch for kids don't have call function, don’t need to download app, all the functions are built-in the kids watch, very easy to operate for kids. We also provide SD memory cards Built-in this kids smart watch, helps your child download MP3 children's songs, pictures and videos.
  • 👍⌚【Longer Lasting Battery】Kids watch built in re-chargeable battery, the working time can be 3-7 days (varies with use and other factors), this kids smart watch has excellent battery life allows for uninterrupted fun throughout the day and night, and USB cable included (About 2 hours charging fully).
  • 👍⌚【Our Forever Guarantee】Smart watch for kids using environmentally friendly silicone material, soft and comfortable, leaving no trace. Please fully charge the kids smart watch before first use. And we provide 90 days money-back, 1 year warranty and life-time friendly customer service. If you have any questions, please contact us in time. We will solve the problem for you as soon as possible.
Bestseller No. 3
4G Kids Smart Watch GPS Tracker, Smartwatches with Video Calling Two Way Call Puzzle Games Voice Chat One Key SOS School Mode Geo-Fence HD Touch Screen Alarm Clock Smartwatches for Boys Girls (Blue)
  • 【4G Smart Watch Phone Function】:The kids smartwatch tracker comes with 2 way video calling, GPS positioning, SOS, 2 way calling, Voice Chat, Pedometer, Alarm Clock, Class mode, Camera, Fast Learning Game, 4G network, Call Whitelist, SMS whitelist, PhoneBook, Photo album, Love Reward, Remote photography, Remote shutdown. It's a better choice than cellphone which postpone kids enter the world of internet so early.
  • 【Video Call & TWO-WAY CALL】: 4G kids smartwatch is able to make and receive calls from pre-saved numbers,The device can receive texts and voice messages and reply with voice messages.After you bind the Watch Phone to smartphones of family members in the App"SeTracker 2", everyone can stay in touch by Family Chat, Voice Call or Video Call. While allowing kids to make friends via using watch each other.
  • 【GPS+LBS Tracker Smartwatches】:Kids smartwatch built-in GPS intelligent positioning, you can know your kids' location on your phone anytime. The GPS Tracker combine the data of GPS and LBS to get the most accurate positioning.
  • 【SOS Emergency Call & GEO Fence】:The gps kids smart watch has a SOS button, if your children are in emergency situation, they can press SOS button for 3 seconds and the GPS kids watch will automatically circularly call 3 SOS numbers you set for help until someone answers it. An option is 【available to setup Safety Zones around key locations such as home and school.
  • 【Class Mode & Stranger Rejection】: Parents can set class mode and stranger rejection for 4G smart watch for kids. Children can concentrate on study at school without unexpected disturbance and danger. With alarm clock functions, kids can better arrange their time.You need to buy a SIM Card (SpeedtalkMobile) separately for the watch.This smartwatch for kids is suitable for standard Nano-SIM card only.The kids smartwatch is only be used in North American and South American countries.
Bestseller No. 4
VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX4, Purple
  • This super-cool smartwatch has two cameras, a large screen, high resolution, a premium metal body, a music player and more; set to English, Spanish or French
  • Get out and play with this splash-proof watch, featuring exciting activities, challenges and reaction games designed to get you moving
  • Explore your creativity with the dual cameras, adding effects to photos and videos or making music with the composer app
  • Includes 50 built-in clock faces, plus more to download to practice telling time, or shake the watch to hear the time out loud
  • Intended for ages 4+ years; rechargeable lithium-ion battery; charge device using included micro-USB cable only and avoid third-party adapters
Bestseller No. 5
Smart Watch for Kids, 1.85" Fitness Tracker with Heart Rate, Sleep Monitor, IP68 Waterproof Smartwatches with Video Music, Pedometer, Game, NO APP/Phone, Gift for Boys Girls. (Classic, Pink)
  • 【Perfect Smart Watch for Kids】The smart watch for kids with sleep monitor, heart rate, blood oxygen, stress,100+ sport modes, DIY dial, voice assistant, SOS, music, sedentary/drink water reminder, alarm clock, Torch, class mode, camera, games, storybook, voice recorder, learn card, calculator, pedometer, multi-languages, bluetooth call and many other functions. This is an excellent gift for boys and girls for birthdays, Easter, Christmas, holidays, and vacations.
  • 【24/7 Health Guardian】Smartly monitors heart rate, blood oxygen, sleep and stress levels around the clock. Analyzes sleep stages (light/deep) using a 2,000+ pediatric health database to generate actionable insights. Triggers vibration alerts for abnormal data, helping parents detect risks like exercise overload or sleep disorders in real time.
  • 【1.85" Interactive Display & Growth Rewards System】Features a vibrant HD touchscreen with 100+ personalized watch faces (regularly updated) and custom photo dials to capture precious moments. Exclusive "​Reward Coins" system: Kids earn virtual coins by completing fitness goals or learning cards or specific tasks, which can be redeemed for games/audiobooks or other rewards - making life fun while cultivating self-discipline.
  • 【Study Focus Mode & SOS】Parents can block distractions during class via app scheduling (minute-level precision). This allows children to concentrate on their tasks at school. In an emergency, kids can press and hold the side button for 3 seconds to activate the SOS alarm to attract the attention of people around them and get help.
  • 【IP68 Waterproof & Durability】This kids watch built with a sturdy stainless steel case(1.5-meter drop tested) and IP68 waterproofing for storms/pool play. Smart Watch for Kids Teens Automatically counts steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes and Supports 100+ sports modes.
Bestseller No. 6
Smart Watch for Kids with 26 Puzzle Games, HD Touch Screen Kids Watch, Camera, Music Player, Alarm Clock, Calculator, Pedometer, Learn Card - 12/24hr Toys for Age 3-12 Year Old, Birthday Gift for Boys
  • 【Muti-Functional Smart Watch for Kids】Kids smart watch features with selfie camera, games, music, alarm clock, calendar, calculator, pedometer, timer, stopwatch, album, recorder, flashlight, theme, wallpapers, volume adjustment etc, which is designed to keep kids entertained while supporting their growth with educational functions
  • 【Games & Music】 kids smart watch has 26 puzzle games, helps kids learn through playing also can effectively exercise children's reaction ability and hand-eye coordination. Meanwhile, parents can set the game time to prevent children from being addicted. In addition, the kids smartwatch has Music player. You can connect to the computer via USB, add your favorite music to the "My Music" folder
  • 【Capture and Explore with Camera】Equipped with a 300,000-pixel camera, pop big head sticker shooting, kids can take photos and videos, capture record every wonderful moment in their lives, enhancing the quality of captured memories, and inspiring a budding interest in photography and creativity. Also can set your favorite photo as wallpapers. Kids watch is capable of store 10000+ HD photos or 6+ hours video
  • 【Educational Toy for Kids】The kids smart watch has 13 alarms clock, helping kids build time management skills. This kids watches also includes 10 audiobooks and 104 learning cards that traditional watches don't have. Designed to spark a love for reading and enhance word and picture recognition, it makes learning fun and engaging for kids. Perfect toy for kids age 4 5 6 7 8 9
  • 【Long Lasting Battery & Easy to Use】Kids watch built in rechargeable battery, the working time can be 3-7 days (varies with use and other factors), this kids smart watch has excellent battery life allows for uninterrupted fun throughout the day and night, and USB cable included (About 2 hours charging fully). No need to connect phones or download APP, all the functions are built-in the kids watch, very easy to operate for kids.
Bestseller No. 7
Garmin Bounce™, Kids Smartwatch, Two-Way Text and Voice Messaging, Location Tracking, Black Camo
  • Kids smartwatch sends messages and tracks their location to help encourage an active lifestyle while offering parents peace of mind (active subscription and LTE connectivity required)
  • Durable, swim-friendly smartwatch features a bright color touchscreen display and up to 2 days of battery life between charges (connected feature usage and LTE network conditions will significantly impact battery life)
  • Easily stay in contact with your child via text and voice messaging from the Garmin Jr. app on your compatible smartphone to the Bounce smartwatch and from Bounce to the Garmin Jr. app (active subscription and LTE connectivity required)
  • Real-time location tracking lets you check in on your child’s whereabouts through the Garmin Jr. app on your compatible smartphone and even receive notifications when your child enters or leaves parent-defined boundaries (active subscription and LTE connectivity required)
  • For added peace of mind, the Assistance feature lets your child quickly trigger a message with their live location to their family contacts (requires setup and your child to be in an area with network coverage where data connectivity is available)
Bestseller No. 8
VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX4, Blue
  • This super-cool smartwatch has two cameras, a large screen, high resolution, a premium metal body, a music player and more; set to English, Spanish or French
  • Get out and play with this splash-proof watch, featuring exciting activities, challenges and reaction games designed to get you moving
  • Explore your creativity with the dual cameras, adding effects to photos and videos or making music with the composer app
  • Includes 50 built-in clock faces, plus more to download to practice telling time, or shake the watch to hear the time out loud
  • Intended for ages 4+ years; rechargeable lithium-ion battery; charge device using included micro-USB cable only and avoid third-party adapters

Choosing the Best Smartwatch for Your Child: A Parent’s Guide

Finding the right smartwatch for your kid can be exciting! These gadgets offer fun features and give parents peace of mind. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.

Key Features to Look Out For

Not all kids’ smartwatches are the same. You need to check what important functions they offer. These features make the watch useful and safe.

Safety and Communication Tools

  • GPS Tracking: This is vital. Good GPS lets you see your child’s location on your phone. Look for real-time updates.
  • Two-Way Calling: The watch should allow your child to call pre-approved numbers, like yours. Some watches only let them call you, which is safer.
  • SOS Button: An emergency button is a must-have. When pressed, it quickly alerts you or emergency contacts.

Fun and Educational Features

  • Activity Tracking: Many watches count steps or track playtime. This encourages kids to move more.
  • Camera: A built-in camera lets kids take silly photos. Check the quality—it won’t be perfect, but it adds fun.
  • Games: Simple, educational games keep children entertained during downtime.

Materials Matter: Durability and Comfort

Kids are tough on their belongings. The materials used in the watch heavily affect how long it lasts and how comfortable it feels.

Strap and Casing

The watch strap should be made from skin-friendly material. Silicone or soft TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) are the best choices. They resist sweat and are easy to clean. Hard plastic casings break easily. Look for durable, shock-resistant casing materials that can handle bumps and drops.

Water Resistance

Kids splash water everywhere! Check the IP rating. An IP67 rating usually means the watch can handle handwashing and rain. If your child swims, you need a higher rating, but most kids’ watches are not designed for swimming.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The overall quality depends on a few technical details and user experience factors.

Improving Quality

  • Battery Life: A good watch lasts a full day without needing a charge. Poor battery life means you constantly worry about it dying when you need to track them.
  • Screen Brightness: A bright, clear screen makes it easy for kids to read notifications, even in sunlight.
  • App Reliability: The companion app you use on your phone must be easy to navigate and reliable for tracking.

Reducing Quality (Watch Outs)

  • Poor GPS Accuracy: If the watch often reports your child is blocks away from their real location, the GPS quality is low.
  • Subscription Fees: Some watches require monthly fees for the cellular service needed for calling and tracking. Factor this ongoing cost in.
  • Complex Setup: If setup is difficult, you might struggle to use the safety features when you need them most.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about *when* and *how* your child will use the watch.

For younger children (ages 5-8), the focus should be on simple calling, step counting, and durability. They need features that are easy to operate without many confusing menus. The watch should be light enough for all-day wear.

For older children (ages 9-12), you might look for features like homework reminders or more advanced activity goals. They might appreciate a watch that looks a little more “grown-up” but still offers parental controls.

The best user experience means the child enjoys wearing it, and the parent trusts the safety features.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kids Smartwatches

Q: Do kids’ smartwatches need a separate phone plan?

A: Yes, most watches that offer two-way calling and GPS tracking require a SIM card and a basic cellular plan, just like a small phone.

Q: Are these watches waterproof?

A: Most are water-resistant (like IP67), meaning they handle splashes and rain. They are usually not fully waterproof for swimming.

Q: Can my child use this watch in school?

A: Many watches have a “School Mode” or “Class Mode.” This feature disables games and notifications during class time so your child can focus on learning.

Q: How long does the battery usually last?

A: Good quality watches last about 24 hours on a single charge with regular use. Heavy GPS use drains the battery faster.

Q: What is the main difference between a kids’ smartwatch and a regular smartwatch?

A: Kids’ smartwatches focus heavily on safety features (GPS, SOS) and use rugged, simple designs. Regular adult watches often lack reliable GPS tracking for parents.

Q: What is the recommended age range for these devices?

A: Most manufacturers suggest starting around age 5 or 6, once a child can manage simple technology and understand basic safety rules.

Q: Can I track my child if I have an Android phone and the watch is for iPhone?

A: You must check compatibility. Most major brands offer companion apps for both Android and iOS, but some budget models only work with one type of phone.

Q: Are there hidden subscription costs?

A: Yes. The watch itself is a one-time cost, but the GPS and calling services almost always require a monthly fee paid to a cellular provider.

Q: What if my child loses the watch?

A: If the watch has GPS turned on, you can use the parent app to see its last known location. If it’s turned off, you cannot track it until it powers back on.

Q: How secure is the communication on these watches?

A: Reputable brands use encrypted connections to keep calls and location data private between the watch, the parent’s app, and approved contacts only.