A GPS smartwatch is a popular first step before a phone. Kids can call and message approved contacts, and parents can see where they are. Here are the best options and what the monthly service really costs.
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Our picks at a glance
| Product | Best for | Price | Ages | Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Bounce | Best overall | $150 | 5–12 | About $10/month |
| myFirst Fone R2 | Best for video calls | $199 | 5–12 | Included |
| TickTalk 4 | Best for photos | $150 | 5–12 | Via partner carrier |
| Verizon GizmoWatch 2 | Best budget pick | $99 | 5–12 | Verizon plan required |
| T-Mobile SyncUp Kids Watch | Best for T-Mobile families | $174 | 5–12 | T-Mobile plan required |
1. Garmin Bounce — Best overall
Simple, durable and great on battery, with strong parental controls.
Specs: Ages: 5–12 · Service: About $10/month · Features: GPS, messaging · List price: $150
Pros:
- Very easy to use
- 2–3 day battery
Cons:
- Uses Garmin’s own LTE plan
2. myFirst Fone R2 — Best for video calls
A feature-rich watch-phone with an SOS button and geofencing.
Specs: Ages: 5–12 · Service: Included · Features: GPS, voice/video calls, camera · List price: $199
Pros:
- One-touch SOS with recording
- Accurate GPS with geofencing
Cons:
- About 2-day battery
3. TickTalk 4 — Best for photos
A fun option for kids who want to snap photos and message family.
Specs: Ages: 5–12 · Service: Via partner carrier · Features: GPS, calls, messaging, 2 cameras · List price: $150
Pros:
- Two cameras
- Full-day battery
Cons:
- No geofencing
4. Verizon GizmoWatch 2 — Best budget pick
An affordable watch for Verizon families.
Specs: Ages: 5–12 · Service: Verizon plan required · Features: GPS, geofencing, calls · List price: $99
Pros:
- Good call quality
- Low price
Cons:
- Verizon only
5. T-Mobile SyncUp Kids Watch — Best for T-Mobile families
A sturdy watch with video calling for T-Mobile customers.
Specs: Ages: 5–12 · Service: T-Mobile plan required · Features: GPS, geofencing, video calls · List price: $174
Pros:
- Reliable video calling
- Durable
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi
How to choose kids smartwatches
Service plan
Most kids watches need a cellular plan, either from a carrier or the watch maker. Add it to the real cost.
Approved contacts
The best watches only allow calls and messages from contacts you approve.
GPS and geofencing
Geofences alert you when your child arrives at or leaves school or home.
Battery and durability
Look for at least a full day of battery and water resistance.
FAQ
What age is a kids smartwatch for?
Most are designed for about ages 5–12.
Can kids browse the internet on them?
Kids-focused watches usually block web browsing and app stores.
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