With the skyrocketing developments in technology, one of the best gifts to give your child is a cellphone. In 2017, a study showed that around 45 percent of kids between 10-12 years own a smartphone in the USA. Picking the best phone for kids can be quite challenging because kids are generally careless and could easily misplace pricey gadgets.

Most times, a phone that is perfect for an eight-year-old may not impress a teenager. When selecting the best phones for kids, the age of the child is a crucial factor to consider. You can find elementary devices for children under ten and advanced versions for older kids.

All parents are always concerned regarding the right age for a child to receive a cellphone. However, there is no perfect or imperfect time for buying your kid a phone. As a parent, you use aspects such as the kid's maturity level, the needs of the family, and the child's social awareness to evaluate the perfect time to get your child a phone. Keep reading to learn the intricacies of the best phones for kids.

Editors choice

1. Unihertz Jelly Pro

9.25 / 10
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Unihertz Jelly Pro is the smallest 4G smartphone in the world. The size makes it portable and suitable for kids. Just like other smartphones, the Unihertz Jelly Pro comes equipped with the latest Android OS and updated features.

The jelly Pro is compatible with the latest versions of Android OS starting from Nougat, which is android 7.0. Besides that, this tiny smartphone comes with the ability to upgrade to the newest version of the Android OS. The phone also comes with Google apps such as Maps, Gmail, and Playstore.

Overall the performance is excellent, just like that of any average android smartphone. Backed by a 3GB RAM and 32GB memory, Unihertz Jelly Pro provides enough space for installing kids' games. Therefore, your kid gets a 'console' and a phone under one gadget. Battery life is also excellent, a thing popular with Android smartphones.

The GUI is generally suitable for a smartphone with a 2.5-inch display. However, it takes time for apps to load when opened, but once rendered, scrolling through them is easy. It's important to note that due to a smaller screen resolution, playing high-end games might slow the phone's processor.

Other features like the camera are average and just excellent for a kid.

The only downside with this smartphone is that it only supports the AT&T network. Otherwise, everything else about the phone makes it stand out as an ideal phone for kids.

Key Features
  • 3GB RAM
  • Android 8
  • Upgradable OS
Pros
  • Portable enough to fit in a child’s pocket
  • Comes with 32GB memory, adequate to store games
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Only available in AT&T
Buy This Product
Unihertz Jelly Pro
Premium pick

2. CAT S41

8.50 / 10
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Unlike most smartphones, the Caterpillar S41 guarantees durability. The durability stems from its design, making this device one of the most rugged phones. The phone comes with a thick rubbery case that makes it resistant to cracks and scratches.

According to Caterpillar, the S41 design targets individuals who work in rough environments like the construction industry. As much as kids were not the primary inspiration behind the design, the phone still suits their adventure-filled lifestyle. The rugged make further stretches to the front enclosing the screen a bit. The design also incorporates physical navigation keys that are tactile and responsive to improve ease of access.

The phone has a headphone jack port, charging port, an SD card slot, and a SIM tray. Each port has flaps made of a rubbery case, and these flaps prevent water from getting into the ports. The S41 is IP68 rated, meaning that it's immune to cracking from high falls and is waterproof. The phone can stay in water for 60 minutes, and you can utilize the underwater mode on its control button.

The 5.0-inch display of gorilla glass protects it against cracks. Besides, Bezels encase the screen to increase its durability. For general use, the screen works well, but don't expect much with the color coordination. The performance is quite low due to its under-par Media-Tek processor.

Caterpillar S41 is not the perfect phone for an introverted kid. However, this gadget works ideally for the clumsy kid as the design protects it from rough handling. Additionally, it can work as an excellent first phone for your child.

Key Features
  • Waterproof
  • Gorilla glass to prevent cracks
  • Rubbery back cover to prevent scratches
  • Media-Tek Processor
Pros
  • Physical navigation keys that improve ease of access
  • Damage-proof case for maximum protection
  • IP68 rated meaning it can work underwater for an hour
  • Great display
Cons
  • A weak processor
Buy This Product
Best value

3. Easyfone

9.55 / 10
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If your kid is enamored with flip phones, they will love the Easyfone. The Easyfone has a classic flip phone design and contains features that will make your overall phone experience enjoyable.

The Easyfone has a flip phone design. The flip is more than a design feature because you can use it to answer and end calls. The flip design also makes the phone pocket-friendly.

When it comes to calls, the phone has a wide volume range. The availability of a high volume allows phone calls to be clear. Consequently, your child does not have to place the phone directly on their ear to make calls.

Easyfone also has big buttons that are easy to press. The big buttons make navigating the phone a breeze. As such, your child will have an easy time using the phone and controlling it.

The system on Easyfone is easy to use. The system only requires simple commands that are easy to learn and master. Your child will have an easy time grasping these commands.

Easyfone comes with a 2.4-inch HD screen that displays images in color and has big sized fonts and icons. The huge sized texts and icons make viewing items easy.

Kids can use the 2MP camera to experiment-learn some basic photography skills. Additionally, there is an MP3/MP4 player for listening to music. The phone has a few cool games and supports MMS. With these features, your kids will stay entertained throughout.

Key Features
  • Big text and icons
  • 2MP camera
  • Flip phone design
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Colored screen
  • Can enjoy multimedia
  • Cool design
Cons
  • No advanced features
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If you are looking for an elementary and durable phone for your kid, you will love the Nokia 3310. With this phone, kids get access to basic phone functions in a device that is resilient against most mishaps.

The design of the Nokia 3310 offers a modern twist to the original mobile phone design. Your kids get a chance to appreciate the original mobile phone design in a modern way.

The phone comes in cool, eye-catching colors. These colors are warm red, yellow, dark blue, and grey. The red and yellow come with a glossy finish while the grey and dark blue, come with a matte finish. The red and yellow colors are ideal for kids who like bright and shiny things.

The phone has a 2.4-inch polarized and curved screen and pushbuttons. The screen offers a large window for kids to view texts clearly. The pushbuttons offer an easy and straightforward way to control the phone.

This retro-looking phone has internet access. Your kids can use the phone to communicate over the internet. Some of the Internet-enabled applications you kids will love are Facebook and Skype. However, there are some fun applications like Snake which do not require the internet.

There is a 2MP camera on the phone which uses a flash. Kids can use the camera to take pictures. These pictures are stored in the phone's 16MB internal memory. This internal memory can be upgraded with a micro SD card of up to 32GB.

The phone has an FM radio and MP3 player. Your kids can use these two applications to enjoy music.

Key Features
  • 16MB internal memory
  • Internet access
  • Push buttons
  • Comes in either warm red, yellow, dark blue, or grey
Pros
  • Long battery life
  • Attractive design
  • Easy to use
  • Large screen
Cons
  • Limited functions (too basic)
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Nokia 3310

Budget-friendly and equipped with sleek features, the Motorola Moto G8 Plus phone is more than your average Android smartphone. The phone is the eighth edition of the Moto G series of phones. The exterior design is similar to that of Motorola One Macro, which is sleek and comes with a scratch-resistant back cover and a waterproof display.

The resolution of the phone is 1080P full HD with an aspect ratio of 19:9, which, according to Motorolla, is a Max Vision Display. Speaking of the display, the G Plus comes with a 6.3-inch screen that provides adequate space for watching or scrolling. The screen further features Moto Display, which is a display mode that enables you to see missed notifications when on standby.

The G8 Plus runs on Snapdragon 665 SoC with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. Such storage is adequate for large files like games, while the RAM is strong enough to support games with high graphics. The software is the latest Android version and is upgradable to newer versions.

The battery life of the G8 Plus is generally excellent, sitting past a day when averagely used via using the camera, surfing the internet, and playing games. The camera is excellent, providing a 48MP primary camera and a 16MP full angle camera. Such camera features are only available in high-end phones.

The Motorolla Moto G8 Plus provides enough space, good processing speed, and excellent camera specifications. These features make it stand out as a flashy budget phone, making it an ideal choice for kids. Therefore, worth the consideration.

Key Features
  • Snapdragon processor
  • 48MP primary camera quality
  • Waterproof display screen
  • 1080 full HD
Pros
  • Large storage for storing games
  • Scratch-resistant back cover that increases durability
  • Good usability
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Only available in limited network providers
Buy This Product
Motorola Moto G8+

If you are looking for the ideal smartphone to gift your child, iPhone 7 is an amazing choice. This version is among the best iPhones to purchase for your kid due to extra features such as water-resistance technology. iPhone 7 is a serial device with improved features, including sound and camera.

iPhone 7 has a water-resistant chassis that protects the device from water damage. Remember that your kid can accidentally drop a cellphone in water. With this technology, the device can get wet briefly without causing any technical problems. Additionally, iPhone 7 is a hardened device that can withstand harsh conditions like dust and water particles.

iPhone 7 is stylish and sleek because of its slim design. The phone features new colors such as jet black and matte black. The home button is a pressure-sensitive button and not the conventional physical knob. Your child will appreciate and enjoy the new colors and sleek design.

iPhone 7 has an increased storage capacity. Your kid will find the 32GB storage life-saving because it allows them to store recorded videos, photos, and music. The device has an upgraded screen which is brighter, and perfect for outdoor use. With a screen that supports a full-color spectrum, your child will enjoy watching their favorite videos.

iPhone 7 also has an enhanced camera with a high-performance rate. The phone features a broader aperture lens, allowing more light. Your kid will enjoy documenting life memories with this phone because it also allows 1080p video recording.

Key Features
  • Storage capacity 32GB
  • Battery 1960mAh
  • Dual speakers
  • 12MP back camera and 7MP front camera
Pros
  • Enhanced camera for excellent images in low-light
  • Resistant to water and dust particles
  • Large storage space
  • Sleek and stylish design
Cons
  • The headphone jack is absent
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Apple iPhone 7

If you are looking for an elementary way to introduce your kids to smartphones, you will love the iPhone SE. The iPhone SE allows your kids to access the basic functions of a smartphone in a rudimentary way.

The phone comes in a pocket-friendly size, perfect because it can comfortably in your kids' hands. Additionally, the phone is lightweight. This light-weighted-ness allows kids to interact with the device easily.

The iPhone SE is made of aluminum with a satin-like finish. The aluminum gives the phone a refined look. The phone's edges are made of matte. The matte gives the phone a strong grip, making it harder for it to slip from a kid's hand.

The phone has a 4-inch screen. This screen is large enough for kids to view messages clearly but small enough for them not to be overwhelming.

The iPhone SE has a powerful A9 chip. This chip ensures that applications and games run smoothly. You can install engaging applications and games for your kids, and they will run without a hitch.

There is an impressive 12MP camera attached to the phone. This camera captures incredible photos and can be used to take live photos and 4K videos.

Apple iPhone SE has a large storage space of 64GB, which allows you to install as many games and applications as your kid wants.

Key Features
  • 12MP camera
  • 4K videos
  • Aluminum body
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Pocket-size phone
  • Powerful processor
  • Impressive camera
Cons
  • Battery life could be better
Buy This Product
Apple iPhone SE

Taking the plunge to give kids a fully functioning phone can be overwhelming, that's why you need iPhone 6s for their safety. The phone has iOS 9.0.1 operating system which supports GPS tracking ability. You can keep an eye on your kid without their consent whenever they are not around. For instance, when they've gone camping, sleepover, or a school trip. Ideally, it gives you the exact location of your kids.

Well, kids can be a bit jumpy, and on the process, chances of dropping the phone are high. In case it happens, the iPhone 6s front part is covered with glass that is less prone to cracking.

As a responsible digital parent, the power that comes about with smartphones can be risky. Luckily, on iPhone 6s, you limit access to the internet and undesired applications. Alternatively, the device supports a Web Watcher app. As such, you get access to any "risky behavior" at your convenience.

Some of the risky behaviors include cyberbullying, suicide prevention, online predators, and sexting. The 4.7-inch screen gives an impressive gaming performance, which will make them happy. Consider gaming after hitting a particular goal in class or during weekends.

The iPhone 6s has a 12MP rear and 5MP front camera, which is a vital tool to document kids' experiences. The images they capture may help you as a parent, understand the skills mastered, and why they are meaningful to them.

Key Features
  • Storage 16/32/64/128 GB
  • Resolution 750 x 1334
  • Weighs 5.04 oz
  • 2GB RAM
Pros
  • Great design
  • 4G/LTE support
  • High-quality camera
  • Durable
Cons
  • Inferior battery
Buy This Product
Apple iPhone 6s

If you dislike checking your battery life regularly, yet like powerful features, you will love the Samsung Galaxy A50. This phone has amazing features and long battery life.

This Samsung phone has an optimized battery that lasts up to 35 hours on a single charge. With such long battery life, the phone is guaranteed to last the entire day and night. Consequently, your kids can use the phone for extended periods without the need for frequent charging.

The phone also has fast charging capabilities. Therefore, in the event that charge is running out, you can quickly recharge it for use.

Galaxy A50 has an impressive camera. The camera allows your kids to experiment seriously with photography at an advanced level.

There are three specialized lenses on the phone. These lenses allow you to have a 123-degree field of vision. The 25MP main camera takes vibrant pictures while the front camera takes flattering selfies.

The phone has an immersive AMOLED, a 6.4-inch screen that displays the true depth of colors. The screen is also an edge to edge, giving the phone a glass chassis look. The largeness of the screen makes playing games and using applications more interactive, and it makes reading easy.

The phone also has a large internal memory of 64GB. This large space can be expanded up to 512GB. You, therefore, have lots of space to install applications and games for your children.

Key Features
  • 25MP back camera
  • AMOLED, 6.4-inch screen
  • 64GB memory
  • 35 hours battery life
Pros
  • Long battery life
  • Large storage space
  • Displays true colors
  • Quality photos
Cons
  • Delicate body
Buy This Product
Samsung Galaxy A50

The LG Stylo line of smartphones is one of the top easy-to-use series of phones. Just like the stylus-equipped LG Stylo 4, LG Stylo 5 comes with excellent features and sleek design. Besides, its performance is reasonably good backed with remarkable battery life.

LG Stylo 5 is large like most android phones with a 6-inch display. Such a screen provides an excellent resolution for playing games; a thing kids love doing with their phones. Still, on the design, the front is entirely glass, with an allowance of attaching a screen protector. The back, on the other hand, is plastic in design, a make that's ideal in reducing the risks of breaking.

The phone is a little heavy due to its battery, and the stylus accommodated by its design. The USB charging port, the headphone jack port, and the stylus port are all at the bottom of the phone. Incorporating these three ports on one side gives this phone an intriguing design.

The 3500mAh battery provides the phone with great battery life. The phone comes with 2-day battery life, enough power to keep your kid busy with games and content. When it comes to games, the phone's Snapdragon processor and a 3GB RAM isn't enough for playing games with high graphics. The camera, on the other hand, is above average, with a rear camera of 12MP.

The stylus helps to hone your child's art skills via doodling on the phone, making this phone the perfect choice for your kid. Overall the phone comes with excellent performance and capabilities enough to meet a child's demands.

Key Features
  • 3GB RAM
  • 12MP camera
  • Stylus ideal for doodling
  • Scratch-resistant cover
Pros
  • Updated Android OS version
  • Good screen size perfect for playing games
  • Good battery life that lasts more than a day
  • Intriguing design
Cons
  • The processor isn’t strong enough to play high-end games
Buy This Product
LG Stylo 5

Most people are adamant when it comes to buying phones for kids. Some parents find phones distracting for children, while others find the devices beneficial to the family. Phones help parents and their children keep in touch throughout.

Sometimes you may realize that you are running late to pick your kid up from school or any other place. If your child has a cellphone, all you need to do is call them and explain the situation.

Furthermore, your child can find a perfect spot to wait for you as long as you keep in touch. Today using a payphone may not be possible because most of them are extinct. However, phones are readily available and easy to use.

Boost Your Child's Social Life

A phone can also help boost your child's social life. Today, kids talk to their friends through cellphones, especially if they live far away from each other. Your kid might have made some friends while the entire family was on holiday, and the only way to get in touch with each other is through cellphones. Phones enable children to stay connected with friends from all corners of the globe instantly.

Phones can safeguard your children by helping you know their whereabouts. Most phones have tracking apps that allow you to track your child's device using GPS. In case of anything, you can always find your kid as long as they are carrying the phone. Additionally, some cellphones have extra safety features, such as emergency alarms.

Helps With Responsibility

Getting a phone for your kid helps with responsibility issues. The child will start learning how to take care of things at an early age. You can even tell your child that if the device breaks or is damaged, you will not buy them another one. Giving your kid a cellphone can also help in building a healthy and trustworthy relationship.

One way to show your kid that you trust them is by gifting them with a phone. A cellphone can also help your child create memories because most devices come with cameras. Operating a phone can help your kid develop cool skills such as video editing. Today, everything is tech-driven, and a phone can encourage your child to learn technology at an early stage.

You can always monitor your child's phone activities. Finding an amazing cellphone for your kid can be frustrating, but this guide will help you make the right decision.