A smartphone has become integral to our daily life. It lets us stay in touch with our loved ones. Using smartphones, help is just one call away in case of emergencies. You can look up any information you want.
But how soon should you be introducing a smartphone to your kids? You would understandably want to track and call your kids whenever they are away from you. This though raises other concerns about letting your kids have early access to the internet, games, and social media.
It will not be easy to control your kid’s smartphone usage. And there is the threat of unwanted users reaching out to your kids. A solution to this concern is a smartwatch designed specifically for kids.
Smartwatches function more or less like a smartphone. They let you text and make voice and video calls. Most watches offer location-tracking services. They have built-in SOS mode for emergencies. Some offer remote monitoring features to check what is happening around your kid.
A simple search of kids’ smartwatches on Amazon returns over 450 results. Instead of surfing through these results, you can refer to our list of the best GPS smartwatches for kids. Let us get started.
Our Top Recommendation For Smart Watch GPS Tracker for Kids!
- Access to the internet, games, and social media
- Provides features like text, voice, and HD video calls
- SOS contacts, 20+ parental controls
5 Best GPS Smartwatches for Kids
As young kids will use the devices, we have paid particular attention to how easy the watches would be to use. Other factors we have considered include design, setup process, features, performance, and cost.
Here are our top five recommendations to help you get started.
- TickTalk 4 Smartwatch – Best in Features
- PTHTECHUS 4G Smartwatch for Kids – Best in Value for Money
- CJC 4G Kids Smartwatch – Best in Budget-Friendly
- JrTrack 2 SE Kids Smartwatch – Best in GPS Capabilities
- DDIOYIUR 4G Kids Smartwatch – Best in Remote Monitoring
1. TickTalk 4 Smartwatch – Best in Features
The TickTalk 4 lets you stay in touch with your kids without giving them access to games, social media, or the internet. It is a much safer tech device you can introduce to young kids.
It is a COPPA Safe Harbor-certified product. Its in-app messaging is end-to-end encrypted. You get features like voice and video calls, SOS, dual cameras, 20+ parental controls, and more.
Here is how the TickTalk 4 smartwatch performs.
Design
The smartwatch dimensions stand at 1.75 x 1.63 x 0.63 inches. It weighs about 2.3 ounces. It has a screen size of 1.54 inches.
The watch has an IP67 water-resistance rating. The device is drop and shock-proof. One drawback, though, is that the watch strap is not replaceable. If the strap breaks, then the watch becomes pretty much useless.
It has a rechargeable battery of 1000 mAh. This is one of the higher battery capacities I have noticed in smartwatches. The battery should last about 2 to 4 days, depending on usage.
Usability
You first activate the SIM card. This can be done through the respective portals like TickTalk Wireless or Red Pocket. You must input details like SIM ICCID number and IMEI of the watch.
Then, you select a SIM plan that works for you. Once the payment goes through, your SIM should activate in an hour.
You must pair the watch with the TickTalk app by scanning the QR code generated by the device.
The TickTalk app has a decent design and is easy to use. It could do with performance improvements as the app lags or crashes.
Features
You can text your kids with the safe in-app messaging option. You can make voice and video calls. The video calls are currently limited to a 3-minute time limit, but you can immediately make another call when the limit is reached.
Using the app, you can add numbers that can contact your kids. You can block all other unwanted calls.
In the case of an emergency, your child can activate the SOS mode, which can alert 911 or other contacts as per your setting.
The watch relies on WiFi, GPS, and cell towers to provide location details. So, the accuracy can vary depending on the technology employed.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.75 x 1.63 x 0.63 inches |
| Weight | 2.3 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion, 1000 mAh |
| Screen Size | 1.54 inches |
| SIM | Nano SIM card(included for US only) |
| Memory | 1 GB / 8 GB |
| Color | Black, Blue, Pink |
| Price | $199 |
| Subscription | $9.99/month for SIM plan |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Pros
- It is a COPPA Safe Harbor-certified product.
- It supports 2-way HD video and voice calling
- It offers free streaming music from the iHeartRadio Family.
- It provides a lifetime warranty on parts and labor.
Cons
- It is a pricier option.
- International customers have to buy a SIM card separately.
2. PTHTECHUS 4G Smartwatch for Kids – Best in Value for Money
The price for the PTHTECHUS smartwatch starts from around $59. In terms of monthly fees, you can choose from a $7 to $10 plan according to your usage.
In return, you get features like 2-way calling, Bluetooth connectivity, music, alarms, and contact control.
Here is how the PTHTECHUS 4G smartwatch performs.
Design
The watch has a rectangular dial. Its dimensions are 2.36 x 1.57 x 0.39 inches, weighing about 1.76 ounces. It has a screen size of 1.54 inches.
The watch strap is made from nylon. You will also get a free replacement strap with your purchase.
You will receive a SpeedTalk SIM. You must install it yourself using the screwdriver and the card pin that comes in the box.
Usability
You must first activate the SIM and insert it into the smartwatch. You can then pair the device with the SeTracker app.
Navigate to the app’s add device section, scan the watch’s QR code, and complete the pairing process.
You can add contacts and music and set safe zones from here on. The SeTracker is one of the more basic apps I have used that needs performance improvements.
Features
You can add up to three contacts for SOS alerts. These contacts will be notified when your child presses the SOS button.
You can chat with your kids or make 2-way voice and video calls. You can add up to three alarms to remind your kids of their schedule. Your kid can listen to music in their free time.
You can put the watch to sleep through the app. You can set the watch to do not disturb mode when you want your child to concentrate in class and limit their smartwatch usage.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.36 x 1.57 x 0.39 inches |
| Weight | 1.76 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion battery |
| Screen Size | 1.54 inches |
| SIM | Speedtalk Nano SIM card |
| Memory | 512 MB |
| Color | Pink, Black and Blue |
| Price | Starts from $59.00 |
| Subscription | Pay for SIM plan - $5 - $10 |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- It is one of the budget smartwatches available.
- You can make 2-way voice and video calls.
- Your child can activate SOS mode for emergencies.
- You get a free replacement strap with the watch.
Cons
- The GPS information provided is inconsistent.
- The charging cable is short in length.
3. CJC 4G Kids Smartwatch – Best in Budget-Friendly
If cost is a priority, consider getting the smartwatch by CJC. It costs around $50 and has low monthly fees in the form of data plans for the SIM.
You still get the whole suite of features like 2-way calling, selfie camera, one-key SOS, alarm clock, do not disturb mode, and more.
Here is how the CJC 4G smartwatch performs.
Design
The watch is manufactured using plastic and silicone. Its dimensions are 1.85 x 1.61 x 0.6 inches. The watch straps are replaceable. You will get a free dinosaur watch band with your purchase.
The 1.3 inches display is an HD touchscreen. The vendor claims the device is waterproof. But be careful, as we have come across reviews wherein the device stopped working, or the screen was cracked.
It has a rechargeable battery of 800 mAh capacity. The battery can last for a day or two, depending on usage. You can preserve the battery with the night power-saving feature. The watch will disconnect from all networks between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Usability
CJC does not provide you with a SIM card. So ensure you get a compatible nano SIM card. The card should be text, call, and data activated.
You must bind the watch to the SeTracker 2 app. You can do this by scanning the QR code on the back of the smartwatch. Once you add the device, you can start setting the language and time zone and inputting numbers into the phonebook.
The two issues I see with the SeTracker 2 app are that it needs significant performance improvements, and the ads can be bothersome. You must pay additionally to remove the ads.
Features
You can text your kids to know what they are up to. Your child, though, can reply via voice messages and pictures. The watch has WeChat, but it will only have the contacts you have saved through the app.
You can make voice and video calls. In emergencies, your child can long press the SOS button to send alerts to up to three contacts.
You can track details like the number of steps, distance, and calories spent and, based on the data, encourage your child to be more active.
It offers GPS details, but the accuracy is not up to the mark.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.85 x 1.61 x 0.6 inches |
| Weight | NA |
| Battery | Rechargeable battery, 800 mAh |
| Screen Size | 1.3 inches |
| SIM | Not included |
| Memory | 512 MB / 4 GB |
| Color | Blue, Black, Pink, Purple |
| Price | Starts from $49.99 |
| Subscription | Pay for monthly SIM plan |
| Warranty | No information available |
Pros
- It is one of the cheapest smartwatches available.
- You can remotely monitor your child’s surroundings.
- If misplaced, you can locate the watch using the Find Device feature.
- You can set the watch in do not disturb mode when needed.
Cons
- You must buy a SIM card separately.
- Video calls can drain the battery quicker.
- No clear warranty information is available.
4. JrTrack 2 SE Kids Smartwatch – Best in GPS Capabilities
As we have seen with the smartwatches mentioned above, GPS accuracy is a concern. The location details are not always wrong, but the inconsistency makes it difficult to rely on these watches.
If GPS is a priority, consider the JrTrack 2 SE smartwatch. It is one of the better models when it comes to location accuracy.
Here is how the JrTrack 2 SE smartwatch performs.
Design
The JrTrack watches have the dimensions 2.16 x 1.69 x 0.61 inches. It weighs about 1.6 ounces. One of the sound design aspects of the watch is the comfortable watch bands available.
For example, if your kid finds the watch bulky, you can switch to a comfort watch band made from a soft synthetic fabric. And if your kid is more active, you can opt for the premium silicone-made bands.
It has a 1.4 inches screen size. It has an IP67 rating. Minor spills and splashes should be ok, but do not submerge the watch in water. It has a battery capacity of 600 mAh that can last for a day.
Usability
The watch comes preinstalled with a SIM. You must activate the SIM by buying a Cosmo membership plan. You can select from a monthly, 1-year, or 2-year plan.
You will need the Cosmo Mission Control app to set up and manage the smartwatch. You will get an 8-digit code to complete the pairing process between the watch and the app. The data can take up to 24 hours to activate on the watch.
This would have been an ideal watch, if the app didn’t need any improvements.
The design and functionality are good, but the performance could have been better.
Features
Most smartwatches have preset messages. But, with JrTrack 2 SE, you can customize the preset messages. Your child can use the full-texting keyboard to type out replies.
The watch offers GPS location updates and geofencing features. You can receive alerts when the watch enters or leaves the predefined area.
When in SOS mode, the watch provides 30-second frequent updates for up to 15 minutes.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.16 x 1.69 x 0.61 inches |
| Weight | 1.65 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium-ion 600mAh |
| Screen Size | 1.4 inches touchscreen |
| SIM | SIM is included(You must pay for a Cosmo Membership plan) |
| Memory | 512 MB / 2 GB |
| Color | Black, Pink, Blue |
| Price | Starts from $59.99 |
| Subscription | Starts from $9.99/mo to $19.99/mo |
| Warranty | 1-year manufacturer warranty2-year extended warranty available for purchaseDevice Insurance included with membership plan |
Pros
- It offers GPS tracking and custom safe zone features.
- You can receive location updates every 30 seconds for 15 minutes in SOS mode.
- Custom texts are possible with its full texting keyboard.
- It does not provide internet, games, or social media access.
Cons
- The monthly plans can be expensive.
- You cannot make video calls.
5. DDIOYIUR 4G Kids Smartwatch – Best in Remote Monitoring
If you want to keep an eye on your child without disturbing them with texts and calls, consider the smartwatch by DDIOYIUR.
It offers remote monitoring features that let you hear and see what is happening around your child, who they are with, and where they are.
Here is how the DDIOYIUR 4G smartwatch performs.
Design
The watch is designed using materials like ABS plastic and silicone. Its dimensions are 1.57 x 1.77 x 0.59 inches. It weighs about 3.5 ounces, which is comparatively heavier than other watches on the list.
It has a 1.54-inch touchscreen with a 240 x 240 PPi resolution. The watch has two cameras, one on the top of the screen and the other on the top of the watch frame.
It has an IP67 rating, but I recommend you be careful with its handling as the device is not the best when it comes to durability.
Usability
You must buy a SIM card separately, as DDIOYIUR does not provide one. You will need a nano SIM card with a call and data plan.
You must insert the activated SIM card into the panel on the watch’s right-hand side. Next, pair the watch with the SeTracker app.
If the device continues to show offline, you can contact the customer support team to set the APN.
The watch in itself is easy to understand and use by kids. However, using the SeTracker app can be quite a hassle due to its performance issues.
Features
You can text and call your kids. You can share pictures and videos over chat. Your kid can listen to music or play simple math games.
If you want to limit the time your kid can access the watch, you can set the do not disturb mode. This will turn off calls, games, and music functions while keeping the SOS mode accessible.
You can set a safe range of around 200 to 2000 m. If the watch goes beyond the range, you will be alerted. It is a useful feature to have in crowded places.
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.57 x 1.77 x 0.59 inches |
| Weight | 3.53 ounces |
| Battery | Rechargeable 800 mAh |
| Screen Size | 1.54 inches |
| SIM | Nano SIM cardBuy separately |
| Memory | 1 GB / 8 GB |
| Color | Black, Blue, Pink |
| Price | $89.99 |
| Subscription | Pay for monthly SIM plan |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- You can remotely listen to sounds around your child.
- You can remotely see your child’s surroundings.
- It supports 2-way voice and video calls.
- It has an SOS button for emergencies.
Cons
- You have to buy a SIM card.
- The GPS location details are not accurate.
How We Picked Smart GPS Tracker and Tested the Products?
Our product recommendation lists start with thorough online research. We looked at different smartwatches, their features, performance, cost, and customer reviews.
Once we shortlisted the smartwatches, they were individually tested for at least one day.
Key-Decision Making Factors
Here are some factors we considered when compiling the list of best GPS smartwatches for kids.
Design
We looked at the watch’s shape, dimensions, and weight. And if the straps are comfortable to wear all day around.
Usability
This includes the child using the smartwatch and the parents managing the watch through the app. These smartwatches are typically designed for kids aged 4 to 12, so ease of use is a major consideration factor.
Features
If you look at the watches listed above, they are equipped with essential communication features like text and call. They have an SOS button for emergencies, and most support remote monitoring.
Cost
The watches range from $50 to $200. The monthly fees are also comparatively on the lower end.
FAQ’s
It depends on the model. Most smartwatches these days are equipped with GPS capabilities. But ensure you check for GPS accuracy and features like geofencing and safety radius. For example, the JrTrack 2 SE is one of the better models for GPS.
It depends on the model. Smartwatches like JrTrack 2 SE charge a fee for the SIM, app, and services. On the other hand, with TickTalk 4 or CJC, you have to pay only for the SIM plan, and the app is free. The prices can significantly vary, but GPS smartwatches do come with some monthly fee.
When getting a smartwatch, consider a COPPA-certified product that does not offer access to the internet or social media. Some watches provide complete control over who can contact your kid and vice versa. So, yes, you can get your 5-year-old a smartwatch, but do your research on security and performance.
Summary
When looking for the best GPS smartwatches for kids, consider factors like design, ease of setup and use, features, performance, cost, and warranty.
The recommended smartwatches offer functionalities like texting, voice, and video calling. The SOS mode is capable of alerting multiple trusted contacts or concerned authorities. You can remotely listen in or see what your kid is up to.
These devices can offer GPS details, but they often rely on WiFi and nearby cell towers to do so. This is why accuracy becomes a concern.
If you have used any smartwatches mentioned above or have better options, let us know in the comments.
Carson Harris is a highly qualified author and expert in GPS tracking technology. With a background in electrical engineering and machine learning, he has established himself as a trusted source of information. Carson’s work experience at Garmin and Panasonic has further enhanced his expertise. He possesses creative skills in website design and AI applications. Known for his clear and concise communication, Carson’s articles on Trax Family’s website provide valuable insights on GPS trackers.