The best smartphones for children in 2023

The best smartphones for children. Photo: pixabay.com

 

To help you understand this, we present to your attention a rating of smartphones that optimally combine parameters such as cost, device capabilities and its reliability.

Editor’s Choice

Xiaomi Poco M5s 

The smartphone is suitable for children who are interested in photography and video, as the gadget features a bright 6.43-inch AMOLED DotDisplay screen with a peak brightness of 1100 nits and a powerful camera system that allows you to get the clearest pictures at any time of the day or night. Before you start shooting at night, it doesn’t hurt to study in detail the functions of the device for taking photos in the dark. It is also possible to take macro photographs, but their quality leaves much to be desired due to the insufficiently high resolution of the 2 MP macro camera.

For videographers, the advantage of this device will be the ability to record 4K video. The gadget has a fairly large memory for storing data (128 GB) and a slot for installing a MicroSD card (expands the storage capacity up to 1 TB). The system’s performance is ensured by a high-performance eight-core MediaTek Helio G95 processor, and a capacious 5000 mAh battery holds a charge for up to two days during active use of the mobile assistant (watching videos). 

Manufacturers have taken care to reduce the strain on the user’s eyes by equipping the smartphone with anti-flicker technology, a reading mode and an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts the screen brightness.

Thanks to IP53 protection, the gadget is not afraid of dust or splashes of water, and the fingerprint scanner and face unlock prevent you from using information on the device without the owner’s knowledge. The appearance of this model is distinguished by a rich range of colors and an unusual design: the back panel of the case is plastic, but textured like leather, making scratches received during use less noticeable. 

Main characteristics

Screen	6.43″ (2400×1080)
Built-in memory	128 GB
RAM	4 GB
4 cameras	64 MP, 8 MP, 2 MP, 2 MP
Front-camera	13 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	MediaTek Helio G95
Number of processor cores	8
SIM cards	2
operating system	Android 12
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Bluetooth, infrared, (IRDA), Wi-Fi
Degree of protection	IP53
Communication standard	4G LTE, 3G, 2G
Weight	178.8 g

 

Rating of the top 13 best smartphones for children according to KP

DOOGEE N40 Pro

There is no need to complain about the lack of RAM on this smartphone, since it is 6 GB, and the built-in storage capacity of 128 GB can be further expanded up to 256 GB by increasing it using a MicroSD card. With a display resolution (1600×720) and average brightness and contrast (300 nits), the screen cannot be called one of the best, since the image quality is slightly lost under direct sunlight. The gadget does not have protection from dust and splashes, and the resolution of the main camera is only 20 MP, which is not very good for shooting in the dark. But the 16 MP front module allows you to take high-quality selfies. 

One of the main features of the smartphone is a fairly capacious battery (6380 mAh), the battery life of which when reading books on the gadget is 41 hours, and when watching videos – 23 hours. To charge the battery to 70%, it will take only 10 minutes (according to the manufacturer), since the device supports fast charging (24 W). The speed of the device is ensured by the eight-core MediaTek Helio P60 processor. There is information protection using a fingerprint scanner and face unlock.

One of the features of the smartphone’s appearance is the back cover, which imitates leather, the color palette of which consists of black, green, blue and brown.

Main characteristics

Screen	6.52″ (1600×720) IPS
Built-in memory	128 GB
RAM	6 GB
4 cameras	20 MP, 8 MP, 8 MP, 2 MP
Front-camera	16 MP
Battery	6380 mAh
CPU	MediaTek Helio P60
Number of processor cores	8
SIM cards	2 (nano-SIM)
operating system	Android 11
Wireless interfaces	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Communication standard	3G, 4G LTE
Weight	190 g

 

OPPO A55 

Having a fairly low cost, the smartphone has all the functions of expensive models. With 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory, the storage can be expanded up to 256 GB using MicroSD. The gadget’s battery is capacious enough (5000 mAh) so that it can work in talk mode for 34 hours, and in standby mode for 15 days. The MediaTek Helio G35 processor is responsible for the speed of the device, and the fingerprint scanner and face unlock are responsible for protecting information from strangers.

A special feature of this model is the presence of a compass and automatic adjustment of display brightness up to 550 nits depending on the light level. The gadget has a Hall sensor, which allows the smartphone to turn on when the case is open and turn off when the case is closed with a magnetic latch, as well as an accelerometer, which is responsible for automatically rotating the image on the display when the position of the device changes. The main camera block is a bit of an inconvenience, as it sticks out quite a lot, which can lead to damage if you use the device without a case. But the 16 MP front camera is pleasing because it allows you to take high-quality selfies. 

TCL 20B 

A smartphone from TCL is one of the most balanced in terms of price and quality. It does not have fast charging, but it has a good 4000 mAh battery that can hold a charge for 31 hours of talk time and 28 days of standby time. 

The device’s storage capacity is sufficient for a child to install educational applications or games: to 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory, you can add up to 512 GB using MicroSD. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to put two SIM cards into your smartphone at the same time and increase the memory, since the slot is combined with the SIM. 

The difference between this device is a high-quality 6.52-inch display, made using TCL’s own technology, with a pixel density of 269 ppi and a high level of color rendering that does not lose brightness in sunlight. Smartphone cameras allow you to take pictures in both normal and macro modes. Photos taken at night have good detail, and videos are recorded at 30 frames per second. The MediaTek Helio P22 processor is responsible for the fast operation of the device. 

The manufacturer of the gadget provided protection from dust and splashes, but did not take into account that noticeable fingerprints may remain on the glossy back panel, which somewhat spoils the appearance of the smartphone when used without a case. 

Main characteristics

Screen	6.52″ (1600×720) IPS, HD
Built-in memory	64 GB
RAM	4 GB
2 cameras	50 MP, 2 MP
Front-camera	8 MP
Battery	4000 mAh
CPU	MediaTek Helio P22 (MT6762D)
Number of processor cores	8
SIM cards	2 (nano-SIM)
operating system	Android 11
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Degree of protection	IP52
Communication standard	4G LTE, 3G, 2G
Weight	178 g

 

Infinix HOT 12 PRO

HOT 12 PRO from Infinix is ​​a good option not only for children but also for adults.

The 6.6-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate and 180Hz sampling rate is good for comfortable gaming.

The Unisoc Tiger T616 processor ensures the daily functions of the device, performs well in games, but is unlikely to be able to handle the most sophisticated ones.

The manufacturer claims to have intelligent audio and video processing technology, which makes it possible to get the best experience in games, especially multiplayer ones. Users, however, note that the sound from the stock speakers is quite weak.

The main camera module is represented by a lens with a resolution of 50 MP. The maximum photo resolution is 4208*3120 pixels, but users complain that the photo quality is not the highest with such initial data. The front camera has a resolution of 8 MP – this is enough for young bloggers and fans of communication on social networks and instant messengers.

The phone charges from 1 to 100% in 1.5-2 hours using a standard 18 W adapter. Permanent memory – 128 GB (expandable by a maximum of 512 GB using a memory card). RAM – 8 GB (expandable to 13 GB by using part of the permanent memory).

Main characteristics

Screen	6.6″ IPS90 Hz1612*720
CPU	Unisoc Tiger T616
Main camera	50 MP module and LED flash with 2 diodes
Front-camera	8 MP with LED flash
Video shooting	1080p 30FPS
ROM/RAM	128+8 GB
Battery	5000 mAh
Charger	18 W

 

Itel Vision 3 

The smartphone from Itel has 3 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory, which can be expanded up to 128 GB using MicroSD. Also in the device settings there is a function to add another 1 GB from storage to the RAM, if necessary to improve its performance. 

The smartphone does not provide dust and splash protection, but it does have an eye protection mode and the ability to change the colors and contrast of the screen as desired. The battery capacity of the device is 5000 mAh, which allows it to work in standby mode for 23 days, and in talk mode for 28 hours. Despite the fact that this is a budget smartphone, it supports 18W fast charging, which allows you to charge the battery to 100% in 2 hours 50 minutes (according to the manufacturer).

The camera (8 MP) is equipped with artificial intelligence support, which automatically detects the image and selects optimal shooting parameters (for example, auto scene selection). The Unisonic SC9863A processor performs decently when surfing the Internet, watching video content, using social networks, instant messengers, applications and “light” games.

Main characteristics

Screen	6.6″ (1612×720) IPS, HD
Built-in memory	64 GB
RAM	3 GB
Dual camera	8 MP, 8 MP
Front-camera	8 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	Unisonic SC9863A
Number of processor cores	8
SIM cards	2 (nano-SIM)
operating system	Android 11
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Communication standard	4G LTE, 3G, 2G
Weight	198 g

 

Xiaomi Redmi 9A

A fresh budget smartphone with a surprisingly capacious battery and excellent performance. Xiaomi has long established itself as a high-quality electronics manufacturer at very affordable prices with a reasonable approach to the filling.

The phone’s large screen (6.53 inches), excellent memory (32 GB), and main 13-megapixel camera with artificial intelligence will definitely appeal to your child. And the pleasant color palette of the case will give you the right to choose. It is also worth noting the manufacturer’s concern for protecting the eyes from harmful blue radiation.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	77.07×164.9×9 mm
Screen	6.53 inches
Image Size	1600×720
Screen type	color IPS, multi-touch
RAM	2 GB
Memory	32 GB, + memory card slot up to 512 GB
Camera	13 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	MediaTek Helio G25 (8 cores, 2000 MHz)
SIM cards	2 (nano SIM)
operating system	Android 10
Wireless interfaces	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	194 g

 

HUAWEI P40 Lite

A high-quality, beautiful, convenient and fast smartphone with excellent cameras based on artificial intelligence from one of the world’s largest companies.

A capacious battery allows the phone to work all day in active use mode without additional charging, which means that the child will not be left without communication at the most inopportune moment. In addition, in just half an hour the smartphone can be charged up to 70% thanks to a special charging device.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	76.3×159.2×8.7 mm
Screen	6.4 inches
Image Size	2310×1080
Screen type	color, touch, multi-touch
RAM	6 GB
Memory	128 GB, memory card slot up to 256 GB (combined with SIM card)
Camera	48 MP, 8 MP, 2 MP, 2 MP
Battery	4200 mAh
CPU	HiSilicon Kirin 810 (8 cores)
SIM cards	2
operating system	Android 10
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	183 g

 

HTC Wildfire E Lite

The manufacturer positions this smartphone as “light and simple”, while in a convenient and classic case they placed components that stably and reliably provide the young user with the most necessary functionality.

Dual camera with high aperture, bright display. Four cores with a clock frequency of 1.8 Hz with 2GB of RAM and stock operating system settings contribute to smooth and correct operation of the browser, navigation, comfortable viewing of video content, as well as adequate operation of educational programs. In normal modes, such a phone will not heat up and quickly consume battery power.

Nokia 1.4

Nokia has released another well-balanced phone with an excellent price-quality ratio, with a classic and non-slip body with a large contrast display, which is pleasant both for watching videos and reading books. The camera module is equipped with an additional lens for macro photography.

A convenient fingerprint scanner is located on the back. There is a parental control function, which, according to the manufacturer, “reliably protects children from inappropriate content.”

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	75.8x164x8.9 mm
Screen	6.52 inches
Image Size	1600×720
Screen type	color, multi-touch
RAM	3 GB
Memory	64 GB, memory card slot
Camera	8 MP, macro 2 MP, 5 MP
Battery	4000 mAh
CPU	Qualcomm 215 (4 cores, 1330 MHz)
SIM cards	2 (nano SIM)
operating system	Android 10 (Go edition)
Wireless interfaces	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	178 g

 

Samsung Galaxy A12

A smartphone from one of the world’s largest electronics developers. Multi-power rear cameras will help your child unleash his photo-artistic potential.

A capacious battery will allow you to use the phone in active mode throughout the day. An additional bonus is a device with accelerated charging technology included in the package.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	75.8x164x8.9 mm
Screen	6.5 inches
Image Size	1600×720
Screen type	color PLS, 16 million colors, multi-touch
RAM	3 GB
Memory	32 GB, memory card slot up to 1 TB
Camera	48 MP, 5 MP, 2 MP, 2 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	MediaTek Helio P35 (MT6765), 2300 MHz
SIM cards	2
operating system	Android 10
Wireless interfaces	Wi-Fi 802.11n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 5.0, USB, NFC
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	205 g

ZTE Blade V2020 Smart

A large display with rich colors and excellent viewing angles, a powerful speaker will delight any viewer. The camera module with 4 lenses is controlled by artificial intelligence, which fully realizes the potential of 48 MP with an aperture of 1.79.

A high-performance eight-core processor with a clock frequency of 2.1 GHz + 4 GB of RAM will adequately cope with most pressing and not so pressing tasks. Provides fast charging of a high-capacity battery.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	78×173.4×9.2 mm
Screen	6.82 inches
Image Size	1640×720
Screen type	color TFT, 16 million colors, multi-touch
RAM	4 GB
Memory	64 GB, memory card slot up to 1 TB
Camera	16 MP, 8 MP, 2 MP, 2 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	Unisoc SC9863A (8 cores, 2100 MHz)
SIM cards	2 (nano SIM)
operating system	Android 10
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	204 g

 

Motorola Moto G9 Plus

Four lenses with a resolution of 64 MP and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G 2200 MHz processor with 4 GB of RAM are potentially capable of fast focusing with impressive detail in photos, and games at maximum speed will be a pleasure.

Motorola engineers have provided a solid power source that should last for a long time, and when it comes time to recharge, proprietary technology will allow you to charge the battery by 50% in less than half an hour.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	78.1×169.98×9.69 mm
Screen	6.8 inches
Image Size	2400×1080
Screen type	color LTPS, multi-touch
RAM	4 GB
Memory	128 GB, memory card slot up to 512 GB
Camera	64 MP, 8 MP, 2 MP, 2 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G, (8 cores, 2200 MHz)
SIM cards	2 nano SIM
operating system	Android 10
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	223 g

 

Xiaomi Redmi 5A

The younger brother of the Xiaomi Redmi 9A smartphone previously presented in our rating. It is slightly smaller in size, making it much easier to carry the phone in your trouser or jacket pocket.

Another significant advantage is the aluminum body of the model, which will be more durable in case of a fall.

Leaders of past years

HONOR 10X Lite

The brand, formerly part of Huawei, has fully focuzed its work on anticipating the needs of young users. This means that this smartphone takes into account absolutely everything that young people may need. This includes a long operating time, a huge amount of memory, a large bright screen, a fast processor and a whole arsenal of cameras.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	76.88×165.65×9.26 mm
Screen	6.67 inches
Image Size	2400×1080
Screen type	color IPS, multi-touch
RAM	4 GB
Memory	128 GB, memory card slot
4 cameras	48 MP, 8 MP, 2 MP, 2 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
CPU	Hisilicon Kirin 710A (4 cores, 2000 MHz)
SIM cards	2 (nano SIM)
operating system	Android 10
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	206 g

 

Apple iPhone 7

Let’s face it: your child probably covets an iPhone. You don’t have to shell out for the latest model to make his dream come true. Treat your child to an iPhone from three or four years ago. The quality of the company’s products, both then and now, is at the proper level, and the functionality is also at its best. Yes, not the latest in coolness, but an excellent screen, long battery life, aluminum body, moisture protection and an excellent camera more than compensate for this.

Main characteristics

Dimensions (WxHxD)	67.1×138.3×7.1 mm
Screen	4.7 inches
Image Size	1334×750
Screen type	color IPS, multi-touch
RAM	2 GB
Memory	32 GB
Camera	12 MP, 7 MP
Battery	1960 mAh
CPU	Apple A10 Fusion (4 cores, 2330 MHz)
SIM cards	1 (nano SIM)
operating system	iOS 10
Wireless interfaces	NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
Internet	4G LTE
Weight	138 g

 

How to choose a smartphone for a child

Before deciding on a smartphone, you should think about what tasks it is intended to solve. It is unlikely that a junior schoolchild will need an expensive gadget with a huge amount of RAM, an arsenal of high-resolution cameras, intelligent frame processing and the fastest processor. 

It will be enough if, with the help of the device, the child will be able to make calls, access the Internet, communicate in instant messengers and be able to play simple games on it. But older guys usually have more requirements for the device. To make it easier for you to choose the right device, let’s look at the parameters you need to pay attention to before purchasing:

CPU

The main element of a smartphone, responsible for its stable performance and performance, is the processor. More precisely, the System on a Chip kit (chipset), which combines such basic components as: a central processor, a graphics accelerator, wireless interfaces, an audio codec, a video decoder and other computing elements necessary for the operation of the gadget. 

Clock frequency (from 1300 MHz), number of cores (from 6), architecture (ARM or Intel) and manufacturing technology (7-8 NM and less) are the main characteristics of the chipset that are worth paying attention to. Modern smartphones mainly use Qualcomm Shapdragon, HiSilicon Kiri, MediaTek, Unisoc and Apple processors.

RAM

The smartphone’s RAM stores the necessary information for fast and stable operation of programs, games and applications. 2-3 GB of RAM is enough for a child to comfortably use the device. If you intend to install “heavy” games or applications, it is better to choose a device with the ability to add GB of RAM from internal storage or with a large volume (4-8 GB) so that the gadget does not slow down and works with good performance. 

Inner memory

An analogue of a hard drive on a computer is the internal memory of a smartphone. It is designed to store videos, photos, text documents and other user files. The operating system and applications are also located there, which by default occupy a certain space and cannot be deleted, so you should understand that when buying a device, for example, with 16 GB of storage, you will be able to use approximately 9 to 11 GB at your discretion. 

Expandable memory

Almost all modern devices increase the size of the internal memory by installing a MicroSD card in a special slot. Its volume depends on the capabilities of the selected smartphone; some of them support expansion of 16 GB or more. Another way to use more information is the OTG function. You can connect a flash drive or other devices with a USB output to gadgets that provide it.

Battery capacity

You should be aware that in practice, the actual battery capacity may differ from the nominal capacity declared by the manufacturer by 10-20%, and decrease over time. If you have decided to buy a smartphone with the simplest functions, a value from 2500 to 3000 mAh will be enough for you. When choosing a more advanced gadget, it is better to take a closer look at models with a more powerful battery (from 4000 mAh).