Choosing the ideal phone for a child in 2024 presents a challenge, given the wide array of available options. Factors like pricing, performance, apps, and parental controls play a significant role in making decisions. With over three decades of experience reviewing phones, PCMag offers a helpful guide to simplify the process.
This guide narrows the focus to three main aspects when selecting a phone for kids—affordable pricing, strong performance, and safety features. Among the top recommendations is the Google Pixel 8a, which stands out for its excellent camera quality, strong performance, and budget-friendly price, making it ideal for children interested in creative apps. Detailed reviews for other top picks are also available for consideration, each offering unique benefits. For those still uncertain, a helpful guide on selecting an age-appropriate phone is provided at the end.
1. Google Pixel 8a — $499.00
The Google Pixel 8a is an outstanding choice for older kids seeking a reliable, midrange phone. Powered by the Tensor G3 processor, this device offers smooth performance for entertainment purposes, while its excellent camera system allows children to explore their creativity. The phone is available in stylish colors like Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain, ensuring it appeals to kids and their social circles.
Another strong point of the Pixel 8a is its durability. It features Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and an IP67 rating, making it resistant to daily wear and tear. For kids who prefer Android over iOS, the Pixel 8a provides an outstanding balance of performance and affordability.
Google Pixel 8a Specifications
- Operating System: Android 14
- CPU: Google Tensor G3
- Dimensions: 5.99 x 2.86 x 0.35 inches
- Screen Size: 6.1 inches
- Screen Resolution: 2,400 x 1,080 pixels
- Camera Resolution: Rear – 64MP, 13MP; Front-facing – 13MP
- Battery Life: 12 hours, 50 minutes
2. Samsung Galaxy A15 5G — $169.99
The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G is an affordable option that offers impressive features at a reasonable price. Its 2,340 x 1,080-pixel screen delivers clear visuals, and the Mediatek 6835 processor ensures reliable performance for daily activities and entertainment. The 5G modem guarantees faster connectivity, including a microSD slot (supporting up to 1TB) and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which adds convenience for long-term use. Samsung also promises four major Android OS updates, ensuring the device remains up-to-date for years. However, the Galaxy A15 5G lacks waterproofing, which should be considered.
The Galaxy A15 5G provides a solid smartphone experience for responsible older children. Its removable storage and long-term software support make it a smart, future-proof choice.
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Specifications
- Operating System: Android 14
- CPU: Mediatek 6835
- Dimensions: 6.30 x 3.02 x 0.33 inches
- Screen Size: 6.5 inches
- Screen Resolution: 2,340 x 1,080 pixels
- Camera Resolution: Rear – 50MP, 5MP, 2MP; Front – 13MP
- Battery Life: 14 hours, 3 minutes
3. Samsung Galaxy A25 5G — $187.98
The Samsung Galaxy A25 5G is among the top picks due to its impressive battery life, which exceeds 13 hours in testing. It also features a high-quality Samsung Exynos 1280 CPU and a 6.5-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. This combination of processing power and a fast refresh rate makes it suitable for demanding apps and tasks. The phone’s clean software experience, built-in microSD slot (up to 1TB), and 3.5mm headphone jack are other appealing features. However, like other devices in this category, it lacks waterproofing, so it is better suited for responsible older kids.
Samsung Galaxy A25 5G Specifications
- Operating System: Android 14
- CPU: Samsung Exynos 1280
- Dimensions: 6.34 x 3.01 x 0.33 inches
- Screen Size: 6.5 inches
- Screen Resolution: 2,340 x 1,080 pixels
- Camera Resolution: Rear – 50MP, 8MP, 2MP; Front – 13MP
- Battery Life: 13 hours, 10 minutes
4. Bark Phone — $199.00
For parents who are mainly concerned with monitoring their child’s smartphone usage, the Bark Phone is an excellent option. Based on the Samsung Galaxy A13 includes robust parental control software that allows parents to monitor text messages, social media activity, and screen time. The phone comes with a pre-installed case and charging brick, but it requires a Bark Wireless subscription for cellular service. A basic data-free plan costs $49 monthly, while an unlimited data plan costs $89 monthly.
For those willing to invest in the subscription, the Bark Phone offers extensive monitoring tools to ensure the child’s phone usage safety. The phone is also locked down, preventing tampering with the monitoring software.
Bark Phone Specifications
- Operating System: Android 12
- CPU: Exynos 850
- Dimensions: 6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 inches
- Screen Size: 6.6 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1,080 x 2,408 pixels
- Camera Resolution: Rear – 50MP, 5MP, 2MP, 2MP; Front – 2MP
- Battery Life: 7 days
5. TCL Flip 2 — $37.18
If you’re looking for a straightforward phone for calls and texts, the TCL Flip 2 offers a budget-friendly solution. It provides Wi-Fi connectivity and features a slight 1.4-inch color front screen displaying caller information. The phone’s operating system is essential, and the camera quality is subpar, but it provides reliable communication. For parents who want to limit their child’s exposure to social media or the internet, the TCL Flip 2 is an ideal choice.
TCL Flip 2 Specifications
- Operating System: AOSP
- CPU: MediaTek 6739-CH
- Dimensions: 4.22 x 2.19 x 0.78 inches
- Screen Size: 2.8 inches
- Screen Resolution: 320 x 240 pixels
- Camera Resolution: Rear – 2MP
- Battery Life: Approximately 14 hours of talk time
6. Apple iPhone SE (2022) — $381.81
The iPhone SE is the most affordable iPhone model, offering an excellent introduction to the world of iOS. Powered by the A15 processor, it is fast enough for most activities that children may want to engage in. Its compact size makes it an excellent option for children with smaller hands. If a parent already uses an iPhone, the iPhone SE is a practical choice for ensuring compatibility with iMessage and other Apple services. It also includes robust parental controls for added security.
iPhone SE Specifications
- Operating System: iOS 15
- CPU: Apple A15
- Dimensions: 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 inches
- Screen Size: 4.7 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1,334 x 750 pixels
- Camera Resolution: Rear – 12MP; Front-facing – 7MP
- Battery Life: 7 hours, 20 minutes
Guide for Choosing the Best Phones for Kids
When selecting a phone for a child, the primary purpose should be communication, especially when the child is out of reach of responsible adults. If the child does not need cellular connectivity, alternatives like a base-model iPad, inexpensive Android phones, or Fire tablets may suffice for entertainment. The Wait Until 8th campaign suggests holding off on smartphones until kids reach the 8th grade, citing concerns about the adverse effects of social media.
However, the campaign often conflates smartphones with social media, which are separate issues. Younger children may only require phones for basic calls and texting. Once the decision is made to get a smartphone, opting for a reasonably priced model is advisable. Kids tend to be careless with expensive items, so a phone in the $200 to $400 range with secure and up-to-date software is ideal. Additionally, a phone with at least some water resistance is beneficial.
Parents have raised concerns about cell phone radiation, but it is important to note that radiation becomes a concern only when a phone is held to the head for extended periods. Radiation exposure is minimal since most children communicate through messaging apps rather than voice calls. Investing in a durable case to protect the device from drops and accidents is also advisable when purchasing a phone.
Tips for Ensuring Your Kid’s Phone Safety
Setting clear expectations with your child when giving them a phone is vital. Make it a rule that, in exchange for phone access, you can check it periodically to ensure their safety.
Both Android and iOS include solid parental controls by default. You can block purchases immediately—this is important, as accidental purchases can happen quickly. Additionally, you can limit app access and monitor usage. iOS provides Screen Time, while Android offers Family Link, which tracks activity and allows you to set daily screen time limits. For even more control, the Bark Phone offers enhanced parental monitoring features.
For simpler phones like flip phones, your control is limited mainly to what the carrier offers. Typically, this means basic network-level restrictions.
When it comes to apps, avoid ones known for promoting cyberbullying or unsafe interactions. These apps evolve quickly as kids find new platforms to communicate. The general rule is to prevent any apps with social features, public posting, or private messaging from strangers. Ensure you can monitor the apps on your kid’s phone and keep track of the messages they receive.
Key Points:
- Set clear rules: Agree that you’ll have access to monitor the phone.
- Use built-in parental controls: Android and iOS offer tools to block purchases, restrict apps, and monitor usage.
- Screen time limits: Both platforms allow you to set daily screen time limits.
- Explore advanced options: Consider the Bark Phone for added parental controls.
- Monitor app usage: Keep apps free from social features and private messaging from strangers.
- Control for basic phones: Flip phones typically offer network-level restrictions.
Conclusion: The Best Phones for Kids in 2024
Choosing the best phone for your child in 2024 requires balancing several essential factors, such as affordability, performance, safety features, and the type of control you want to have. With a wide range of options available, from simple flip phones to more advanced smartphones, it’s crucial to consider your child’s age, maturity, and needs. Phones like the Google Pixel 8a and Samsung Galaxy A15 5G offer outstanding performance and safety features, making them excellent choices for older kids, while the Bark Phone offers robust monitoring options for parents who are particularly concerned about their child’s safety online.
Ultimately, the right phone for your child depends on finding a device that fits within your budget, offers the necessary features, and provides the safety controls you need. Whether opting for a more basic model like the TCL Flip 2 or a more advanced phone with parental control options, ensuring your child’s phone use is safe and responsible is the most critical factor in the decision-making process. By understanding your options and setting clear guidelines for phone usage, you can help your child enjoy the benefits of modern technology without compromising their safety.
