Best Tablet for Kids: Top Picks for Durability and Learning in 2023
Tablets have become a staple in many homes, providing entertainment, educational content, and a platform for creativity especially for younger users. Not all tablets, however, are suitable for children. Tablets designed specifically for kids often come with robust build quality to withstand accidental drops, intuitive interfaces to encourage learning, and comprehensive parental controls to ensure a safe and appropriate user experience. Choosing the best tablet for young users goes beyond the allure of bright screens and popular brand names; it requires careful consideration of durability, educational content, and appropriate technological boundaries.
When shopping for the best kids’ tablet, it is crucial to consider the device’s age-appropriateness. The content and features should align with a child’s developmental stage and cognitive abilities. For example, preloaded educational apps, a responsive touch screen that makes navigation simple for little fingers, and a screen with a resolution that’s gentle on young eyes are all important. Battery life is another critical aspect – kids don’t often remember to charge their devices, so a tablet with a long-lasting battery ensures uninterrupted learning and play.
Additionally, the after-sale support and warranty should not be overlooked. Children can be unpredictable, and the likelihood of accidental damage is a reality with electronic devices. Opting for a tablet that comes with a robust case or an affordable replacement plan can offer peace of mind. Our extensive review process encompasses trying out several models, looking into user interface designs suitable for children, and evaluating features that contribute to a conducive learning environment.
Our findings have steered us toward the current best tablets on the market tailored for kids, offering a combination of durability, educational value, and ease of parental supervision. Whether your priority is budget-friendly options or feature-rich devices that grow with your child, our recommendations aim to cater to the diverse needs of young users.
Top Kids’ Tablets
We’ve curated a list of the best tablets designed specifically for kids. Our focus is on robust, user-friendly, and educational devices that can withstand the rigors of daily use by young ones. From high-end models boasting extensive features to budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality, our roundup has something for every need.
Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet
If you’re searching for a robust tablet that can keep up with the energetic lifestyle of a 3 to 7-year-old, the Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet is a solid choice.
Pros
- Comes with a durable, kid-friendly case
- Includes a year of Amazon Kids+ with diverse content
- Equipped with extensive parental controls
Cons
- Screen resolution is not the highest on the market
- Limited app availability compared to non-Amazon tablets
- Content may become repetitive after extensive use
Upon unboxing the Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet, the first thing we notice is the bright, chunky case that seems like it can take quite a tumble. We appreciate the convenience of the built-in stand, especially during snack time when little hands are otherwise occupied.
While using the device, the simplicity of the parental controls impresses us. Setting up profiles and curating content for each child is straightforward, ensuring they only see age-appropriate material. Plus, we don’t have to constantly supervise, thanks to these controls.
During playtime, the variety of educational apps, games, and books available through Amazon Kids+ makes learning enjoyable. However, after several weeks, it becomes clear that more variety would be beneficial, as our testers are starting to hunt for fresh apps and videos outside the Amazon ecosystem.
Fire HD 8 Kids Pro
We found this tablet to be an engaging and durable device that appeals to both kids’ fun and parents’ peace of mind.
Pros
- Tailored content and easy parental controls
- Long battery life and quick charging
- Robust case and two-year warranty
Cons
- Limited to Amazon’s ecosystem
- Moderate performance given the 2 GB RAM
- Additional cost for Amazon Kids+ after the first year
When we picked up the Fire HD 8 Kids Pro, it immediately struck us as more than a mere gadget. It became a reliable educational companion for children and a trusty tool for parents to manage screen time effectively. With a wealth of age-appropriate books, games, and videos, it made learning both fun and interactive.
Our experience was further enhanced by the tablet’s impressive battery life. Kids could play, read, or watch for hours without needing to recharge. Even when power eventually ran low, we appreciated the swift charging capability, ensuring the tablet was ready to go again in no time.
Despite the extensive curated content, we did notice the tablet’s performance wasn’t cutting-edge, likely due to the modest RAM. While this didn’t hinder basic tasks and media consumption, it’s something power users should be mindful of. Also, once the initial free year of Amazon Kids+ expires, there will be an ongoing cost to maintain access to the service’s full content library.
AOCWEI Kids Tablet
With firsthand experience, we recommend this AOCWEI Kids Tablet for its child-friendly design and robust parental controls, making it a sound choice for your kid’s first tablet.
Pros
- Robust parental controls to monitor activity
- Durable, kid-proof case with adjustable stand
- Impressive battery life for extended use
Cons
- Screen resolution is adequate but not top-tier
- Heavier case design might be cumbersome for smaller children
- Only suitable for basic tasks and educational apps
Encountering the AOCWEI Kids Tablet, the first thing that strikes us is its substantial build quality. Our test run displayed the tablet’s resilience — thanks to the sturdy, shockproof case, it can withstand the enthusiastic handling typical of young ones.
Handling the tablet is a breeze; it boots up quickly, and the octa-core processor keeps things running smoothly. The 128GB of storage has been ample for all sorts of educational apps and videos, and it’s comforting to see how the robust parental controls safeguard against inappropriate content.
The battery longevity is exceptional. We spent hours streaming and browsing without a hitch, which is ideal during long commutes or trips. Though the display isn’t as striking as more expensive models, it’s still crisp enough for your kids to enjoy their favorite shows and games.
In bringing this tablet along on various outings, its heavy-duty case was both a blessing and a slight inconvenience. The protective nature granted peace of mind, yet smaller children might find the bulkiness a bit much. Nevertheless, it’s a compromise worth making for the added security.
For parents seeking a balance of performance, protection, and oversight at a reasonable price point, the AOCWEI Kids Tablet stands out as an excellent choice. It’s clear that it’s been crafted with kids in mind, offering a tailored experience that can stimulate learning and fun in a controlled digital environment.
YINOCHE Kids Tablet
We find the YINOCHE Kids Tablet to be an excellent choice for young learners with its kid-friendly features and robust parental controls.
Pros
- Tailored content for kids with comprehensive parental controls
- Solid performance with 32GB storage and dual cameras
- Pre-loaded with educational apps and games
Cons
- Screen resolution is basic compared to premium models
- Might be slower than higher-end kid tablets
- Battery life could be insufficient for heavy use
We’ve just spent some time with the YINOCHE Kids Tablet and it’s certainly a strong contender for keeping kids engaged. Its colorful, protective design makes it an ideal choice for little hands. The user interface is intuitive, allowing children to navigate educational content with ease. The pre-installed iWawa app provides a variety of learning applications and games, which we found to be a hit with kids aged 3 to 7.
What stands out for us is the robust parental control. The ability to manage screen time and content ensures kids are exploring the digital world safely, a feature we believe to be invaluable for any kid’s tablet. The tablet’s dual cameras also offer an added dimension of fun, letting kids capture photos and videos of their surroundings or video chat with family.
Although the device is impressive for its purpose, we took note of its basic screen resolution; it’s sufficient for learning apps but might not impress those used to sharper displays. Additionally, while the tablet performs well for its price point, it doesn’t have the speed of more expensive models, something to consider if your child is transitioning from a faster device.
Overall, our experience with the YINOCHE Kids Tablet leaves us confident in its ability to provide both fun and education for children, all while allowing parents to guide their digital learning journey. It’s a solid, budget-friendly tablet that offers a safe and engaging environment for younger users.
HiGrace Kids Tablet
If you’re seeking a durable, child-friendly tablet with ample parental controls, this device should be at the top of your list.
Pros
- Sturdy build with a kid-proof case
- Parental control features on Android 12
- Generous storage space with expansion option
Cons
- Battery life could be limiting for heavy users
- May experience lag with intensive applications
- Front camera quality is basic
Discovering the HiGrace Kids Tablet was a pleasant surprise. Its robust design meant we didn’t have to worry about the usual bumps and drops during usage. The adjustable stand was a handy feature for maintaining stability during various activities, be it studying or video watching.
One feature we clearly appreciated was the parental control options. Offering a safe browsing environment for kids, it supports the peace of mind. We found setting restrictions and monitoring usage straightforward, ensuring the children could only access appropriate content.
For the kids who are always on the go with their curious minds, having a tablet like this, which supports educational and entertainment needs, aligns well with the our balance between learning and play. Especially for young learners within the 3-12 age bracket, it served as the right stepping stone into the digital world.
In conclusion, the HiGrace Kids Tablet serves its purpose impressively. With its user-friendly interface and educational features, it stands out as an excellent choice for children entering the digital space. Its sturdiness and parental controls add the necessary elements of security and safety for responsible use.
Buying Guide
When considering the best tablets for kids, we assess various factors to ensure a balance between entertainment, education, and safety. Our examination includes durability, parental controls, and appropriate content for children.
Durability
Kids’ tablets must withstand drops and spills. Look for robust construction, shock-absorbing cases, and water resistance.
- Materials: Preferably silicone or rubber cases.
- Design: Rounded corners and grip-friendly shapes.
Parental Controls
We prioritize tablets that offer comprehensive parental controls, allowing parents to manage usage and access.
- Screen Time Limits: Hourly/Daily caps.
- Content Filters: Age-appropriate browsing.
- Multiple Profiles: Separate spaces for each child.
Performance
A seamless experience relies on adequate performance capabilities, avoiding lag during educational apps or videos.
| Specification | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Processor | Quad-Core or better |
| RAM | Minimum 2GB |
| Storage | 32GB with expansion |
Display & Sound
A good screen and clear audio enrich the learning and entertainment experience.
- Screen Size: 7-inch or larger for comfortable viewing.
- Resolution: At least 1024 x 600 pixels for clarity.
- Audio: Stereo speakers preferred for sound quality.
Battery Life
We look for long-lasting batteries to support uninterrupted use during travels or study sessions.
- Minimum: 7 hours of active use.
Educational Content
Education-focused tablets tend to offer a selection of apps and features aimed at learning and creativity. Ensure the tablet offers access to a wide variety of educational materials.
- Apps & Games: Educational and age-appropriate.
- E-books & Videos: Diverse and enriching content.
Our approach helps parents and guardians identify the best tablet that aligns with their child’s needs without leaning towards specific brands. By concentrating on these features, we ensure the selected tablet serves as a useful tool for children’s growth and learning.
