For many kids, getting a phone is a rite of passage. With a phone comes independence, responsibility, and a chance to follow their unique interests on their own device.
However, with addictive apps and games, harmful online content, and the risk of cyberbullying, phones are also dangerous.
Luckily, it’s become easier than ever to control your child’s phone from a parent portal on your own. Some phones are built with parental controls as part of the design.
Others work by monitoring and controlling your child’s phone through a third-party parental control app.
In this article, we’ll share the 10 best phones for 13-year-olds.
But before we do, let’s answer some questions we get frequently from the Canopy community.
Frequently Asked | Read This Before Buying Your Kid a Phone
When your kids near the end of elementary school, you may notice they get curious about having a phone.
Their classmates may be bringing phones to school or playdates and the question of why they don’t have one yet could start popping up.
But is the argument that “everyone else has one!” good enough when it comes to getting your child their first phone?
We’ll take you through what the research has to say about buying phones for kids below.
Should a 10-year-old have a phone?
According to Common Sense Media, almost half of kids have a phone by age 10. Whether this should be the case or not is up for debate — but it is the reality of the world we live in.
On the plus side, cell phones allow us to stay in contact with our kids like we’ve never been able to before. It’s easy for them to let us know when their band practice is running late, what time they need to be picked up, and when they’re not feeling well.
Most importantly, phones allow your kids to contact you in the case of an emergency.
It’s not surprising then that, according to this 2022 study of 765 youth, most kids get their first phones out of necessity rather than for entertainment or social reasons.
But there are other reasons why getting a phone at this age can be valuable. Your kids can use them to:
- Learn to handle the responsibility of having a valuable object.
- Improve their digital literacy.
- Access educational apps that can help them develop new skills.
- Stay in contact with friends and family.
- Start to navigate how to self-regulate their phone use.
However, this doesn’t mean everything is sunshine and rainbows when it comes to a kid having a phone.
The negative effects of phones reveal a less-than-pretty picture:
- Screen addiction can lead to mental health challenges and sleep disturbances and can get in the way of social interaction. (Check out this study.)
- Cyberbullying is a very real concern. This 2020 survey of 1034 tweens (between the ages of 9 and 12) found that 15% of them had been cyberbullied.
As this UK study reports, girls are more likely to be on the receiving end of hurtful interactions online.
- Harmful content is everywhere. Take a look at these worrying statistics from Internet Matters:
- 56% of 11-16-year-olds have seen explicit material online.
- 23% of children have been exposed to hate speech online.
But there’s hope! Putting comprehensive parental controls in place can protect our children from the dangers that having their own cell phones can bring. This includes:
- Setting up screen time limits
- Blocking specific apps and websites
- Filtering out inappropriate images from appearing on your kids’ phones
- Preventing sexting and other dangerous activities
- Tracking your kids’ location
A good parental control app will help you put all these in place with ease.
In the next section we’ll guide you through how to pick the best parental control app to install on your kid’s phone.
How do I choose a parental control app for my kid’s device?
In the search for the best phones for 10-year-olds, finding the right parental controls has become as important as choosing the device itself.
Some phones, like Gabb, Troomi, and Pinwheel, are designed with kid safety in mind. You control your child’s phone from a parent portal on your own, allowing you to set screen time limits, monitor their online behavior, and approve or deny access to apps from a pre-vetted kid-friendly list.
You can also opt to get your child a smartphone or a dumbphone and install a third-party parental control app.
The best parental control app will:
- Let you choose which websites, apps, and specific URLs you’d like to block or allow
- Filter out explicit content on all websites in real time before it reaches your kids’ device
- Prevent sexting by alerting you whenever an inappropriate image is taken or received
- Allow you to set Internet downtimes where your kids won’t be able to access the Internet
- Monitor Internet, app, and social media usage
- Track your kid’s location
- Prevent kids from removing the app from their device
- Be compatible with all your devices.
Should I buy a smartphone or a dumb phone?
Parents typically choose between a smartphone or dumb phone as their kid’s first phone. The option you choose for your child will ultimately depend on what features you want them to have.
If you’re new to the term, dumb phones are mobile devices that focus on talk and text. Some include a few simple apps like a calendar, notes, and flashlight, and can access the internet through a basic web browser.
Many also have hotspot capabilities which means they can be used as a mobile internet connection for other devices.
Many parents have turned to dumb phones as a way to be in contact with their kids. Without distracting apps and the dangers of social media, they seem to provide a safer phone experience.
Some dumb phones are also robust flip phones designed to withstand harsh work environments, making them ideal for the active lifestyles of young kids.
However, while dumb phones may seem like an attractive option, smartphones for kids also have a lot to recommend them.
As recent research tells us, smartphones have many advantages:
- Video chatting apps can help children communicate with their parents.
- Drawing and storytelling apps nurture creativity.
- Vocabulary apps help children learn new words.
- Science and math apps help children understand new concepts.
Added to this, early access to smartphones teaches kids responsibility and can help them learn to self-regulate their technology use.
To avoid the negative impacts of smartphones, however, it’s vital that comprehensive parental control apps are in place.
Here’s a summary to help you make your choice:
|
Dumb phones |
Smartphones |
|
|
Good for |
Simple communication through talk and text that will keep them digitally disconnected. |
Early adaptation to technology, teaching them responsibility, and giving them access to educational tools. |
|
Dangers |
Foregoing the educational and developmental benefits of modern technology. |
Access to addictive features and harmful online content. |
|
Features |
Basic talk and text services and some basic apps, like a calendar, calculator, and notes app. |
Internet browsers, apps that can be used for communication and education, and tools like cameras and music players. |
|
Cost |
Some dumb phones are available for less than $100 but they can go up to $799 for specialized models. |
According to Statista, the average cost in 2023 was $823. However, cheaper models are available, some for less than $200. You may also be able to get a smartphone for “free” with a phone plan. |
|
Parental controls |
Generally not available but dumb phones have fewer addictive features and less access to dangerous content. |
Either built into the phone or available through a third-party app. |
Canopy, our parental control app, is compatible with Android and iOS smartphones as well as Android-based dumb and flip phones.
What kind of phone plan should I choose?
Choosing the right plan is another important decision to make when getting a phone for your 10-year-old. . You may want to keep all the phones in your household on one plan or opt for a deal where you get a new phone for $0 when you sign up for a contract.
Some phones, including phones built for kids and some purpose-built dumb phones, come with their own plans as part of the deal. There are perks to this as they offer a one-stop shop, allowing you to get the phone and the plan all in one place. The downside is that they don’t give you the option to choose your plan and carrier.
Here are some of top choices for phone plans for kids in 2024:
- Verizon Just Kids Plan: A phone plan designed with kids in mind, with in-built parental controls.
- T-Mobile Essentials Family Plan: A family plan that includes three lines and parental controls as an optional add-on.
- AT&T Family Plan: A family plan with great network coverage and the option to add security features and parental controls.
- Hello Mobile: Affordable phone plans with some parental controls included.
- Mint Mobile: Very affordable plans with flexible data options.
- Google Fi: Offers both unlimited talk, text and data plans, and plans where you only get charged for the data you use.
- Straight Talk Wireless: No contract, affordable plans with flexible data options.
10 Best Mobile Phones for 10-Year-Olds in 2024
Here are the best phones for 10-year-olds we’ll be reviewing, what they’re best for, and their costs.
Let’s dive in.
1. The Light Phone
Use it for: A stylish dumb phone (that somewhat mimics an iPhone) without distracting apps.
Overview:
The Light Phone is a great first-phone option for 10-year-olds. It offers basic functions like calls and texts, but does not come with social media or Internet browsers.
You can choose to add on more “tools” for your kids (depending on what they need) from the Light Phone’s dashboard website. These tools include:
- An alarm
- A timer
- A calculator
- Directions
- A simple music player
- Notes / voice memo
- Calendar
- Podcasts
There’s also a headphone jack, bluetooth, 5G connectivity, and it can be used as a personal hotspot (if needed).
The latest offering, the Light Phone III has some extra features such as a camera and a faster processor. But if you’re looking for a phone with optimal user experience, this may not be it. (It’s made to limit use rather than promote it.)
Why we like it:
We’re a fan of the e-ink screen. Most cell screens are LCD or LED. These kinds of screens emit blue light.
The jury is out on whether blue light is harmful to all of us but research suggests that excess exposure could harm eye health, particularly in “light-sensitive populations” such as young children and older people.
We also like that it’s unlocked, meaning that you can use it with your current carrier or with Light Service, the company’s service plan.
The Light Phone is also very compact and portable and it can fit in your kid’s pocket or lunch bag.
Parental controls:
The Light Phone doesn’t come with any parental control features and you won’t be able to install a third-party app.
Key Features:
- Phone
- Text
- Voice to text
- Alarm
- Calculator
- QWERTY keyboard
- Flashlight
- Personal hotspot
- Bluetooth
- Headphone jack
Pros and Cons:
While the Light Phone is a good option when it comes to simplicity, that perk is also its potential downfall. Its connectivity and useability are unreliable and it can bug out occasionally.
Online reviews also say that the battery life is very short considering its lightness and minimal features. The Light Phone has attempted to improve their battery life in the latest version however.
Users on Reddit also say they felt more present on most occasions and less tethered to their phones—which is what you want for your 10-year-old.
However, the Light Phone is also relatively expensive (starts from $300) for the very limited features it offers.
That being said, if you’re looking for a simple phone that can also be used as a hotspot for other devices, this is a good option.
Pricing:
- Light Phone II: $299
- Light Phone III: $799 (Pre-Order $499)
Warranty: The Light Phone can be returned within a year for manufacturer defects only.
Plans and contracts:
The Light Phone offers various service plans:
- $30 + tax / month (Unlimited calls and messages + 1 GB data)
- $45 + tax / month (Unlimited calls and messages + 5 GB data)
- $70 + tax / month (Unlimited calls, messages and data)
U.S. Light Phones come with a free SIM card. You can keep an existing number or get a new one.
The phone is unlocked so you can also use it with your current carrier.
2. Punkt MP02
Use it for: A minimalist, durable dumb phone with portable Internet connection.
Overview:
The Punkt MP02 is a minimalist phone designed to help your 10-year-old (and you!) reduce screen time and promote healthy digital habits, without completely cutting off communication.
The MP02 only supports basic functions like calls, texts, and a simple notes app—no internet, camera, or apps—making it a great tool for encouraging your child to engage with their surroundings rather than getting lost online.
It features a sleek, nostalgic design reminiscent of old-school phones, with chunky buttons for easy use.
Punk MP02 does come with 46 LTE Internet connection which can be shared with a tablet or laptop. The Internet connection does not work on the phone itself.
The phone’s website says, “This two-device approach means that the Internet is something you dip into, rather than the other way round.”
Why we like it:
We like how Punkt doesn’t completely restrict Internet access, but allows your kids to use it on a nearby computer or tablet. This means if they need to do homework, quickly search up something, or use maps, they can do so.
We also like the privacy feature, Pigeon, which provides extra security for internet-based calls. This adds to the fact that dumb phones are intrinsically safer because you won’t be entering as much sensitive data into them (like bank details and private photos).
Plus, these phones make simplicity look good. Their product designer Jasper Morrison believes that “objects should never shout” — and he’s got that right with the straightforward design of the Punkt MP02.
The phone also promotes deliberate communication with its modified T9 texting, pushing kids to be more thoughtful in their messages.
T9 texting is a predictive text technology that lets kids type messages on a basic phone keypad, where each number key stands for several letters. As you press the keys, the phone predicts the word you’re trying to type, making it quicker and easier to send texts.
Parental controls:
As Punkt MP02 is a dumb phone, you won’t be able to install additional parental control apps.
But you can install Canopy on the computer or tablet your kid will be using.
Key features:
- Voice calling through VoLTE (high-speed data connectivity for voice calling)
- Text (9 numbered keys with predictive text)
- LTE connected Hotspot so that you can go online on other devices
- Bluetooth and USB connectability
- Privacy software (Pigeon)
- Unique ringtones designed by Norwegian sound artist Kjetil Røst Nilsen.
- Transflective LCD screen, which uses less power and is easier to see in bright sunlight.
- Alarm clock
- Calendar
- Notes
Pros and Cons:
Punk MP02 is sturdy and portable, making it a great option if you want something different from the typical smartphone for your child.
The call quality is excellent, even in remote areas, and the built-in Signal app ensures secure messaging, so you can stay connected with your child.
The T9 keyboard slows down texting which can be both a pro and a con. On one hand, it means your kid will be more thoughtful about texting, but on the other, it can be quite frustrating to text with a slow keyboard.
Punk MP02 doesn’t have a navigation app, even though it has GPS, and it can’t record audio notes, which might be a drawback if your child needs those features.
While the battery lasts well with moderate use, it drains faster with heavy 4G, hotspot, or Bluetooth usage.
Pricing: $319.00
Warranty: Guaranteed against manufacturing defaults for two years from date of purchase, and will cover repair or replacement.
Plans and contracts: The Punkt MP02 is unlocked meaning, technically, you should be able to use it with any carrier. However, this hasn’t been the case for all users so it’s worth checking in with your network before you make the purchase.
3. Sunbeam F1 Horizon
Use it for: A dumb phone that doesn’t come with distracting apps but still has basic modern features like navigation, music player, and picture messaging.
Overview:
Sunbeam F1 Horizon is a great option if you’re looking for more features than other dumb phones like Punkt or the Light Phone, but you still want to restrict access to social media apps and games.
It comes in 7 different models and you can choose one that offers as many or as few features as you need:
Why we like it:
We like that you get to choose the features that best suit your family’s lifestyle. Add or subtract features like cameras, picture messaging, and navigation.
You can also choose to have a touch screen which makes it a nice option for kids who are looking for a middle ground between dumb and smart phones.
It’s also relatively bug-free and doesn’t leave you high and dry by freezing or shutting down.
Parental controls:
While they’ve done a good job of keeping things simple, you won’t be able to install additional parental control apps on the Sunbeam.
Key Features:
That all depends on what model you get. I’ll take you through the features of the Bluebird here as it has the most extensive list. You can then choose which ones you’d like to forego:
- SMS
- Voice messaging
- Picture messaging
- Camera
- Music player
- Touch screen with QWERTY keyboard.
- Navigation using either Waze or Here.
- Hotspot
- Sound recorder
- Weather
Pros and Cons:
Users on Reddit say the Sunbeam F1 Horizon is fun to use with its physical buttons and satisfying flip design, making it engaging for children.
The build quality is solid, with a firm hinge, clicky buttons, a bright screen, and a powerful speaker, ensuring durability and ease of use.
It’s also great for helping your child develop a healthier relationship with technology, as it encourages setting the phone down and focusing on real-world activities.
Communication is smooth, with reliable texting that doesn’t require social media or WhatsApp, making it a practical choice for staying in touch with family and friends.
On the downside, it lacks video playback, and there’s an occasional keyboard glitch that can be annoying.
At $250, it’s more affordable than similar minimalist phones and offers good value for its polished performance.
Pricing: The cheapest versions start from $249 (the Bluebird with hotspot capabilities and navigation), and can go up to $329.
Warranty: Return for refund minus a $30 processing fee within 30 days of receiving the phone.
Warranty lasts a year for manufacturing defects only. Phones can be exchanged for items of equal value. See their full policy here.
Plans and contracts: The phones are unlocked, so technically can be used with any network. However, they were designed to work with Verizon.
4. Gabb
Use it for: A touchscreen phone with ONLY kid-friendly apps and features.
Overview:
Gabb is a phone designed specifically to keep kids safe in the digital age. It functions much like the classic Nokia phones many of us grew up with, offering only the basics: talk and text.
There’s no internet access, social media, or apps, which means you don’t have to worry about your child getting lost in online distractions or unsafe content.
It does, however, include GPS tracking, so you can always know where your child is, and there’s an option for kid-safe music streaming without explicit lyrics.
While the standard plan doesn’t support sending images or group texts, that feature can be added for a small fee.
Check out Gabb here:
Why we like it:
Gabb looks and feels like an “adult” phone but works like a kid’s phone.
We particularly like the parental controls on Gabb Messenger. Parents can download Gabb Messenger Parent and be notified if any nudity is detected on a video call, it will immediately end and the parent will be notified.
We also appreciate its unique features such as Gabb Cloud (storage) and Gabb Guard (a spam blocker).
Parental Controls: Built into the phone.
Key Features:
- Unlimited talk and text
- GPS location services
- Gabb Messenger (unique messaging service)
- Gabb Music
- Camera and gallery
- Preinstalled apps such as a calculator, calendar, and notes.
- List of curated apps to choose from under categories such “education” and “bible study”
Pros and Cons:
While it’s billed as being “built for teens”, you may find that this is more a phone for 10-year-olds and younger.
The reality is that when teens get older, you may find them wanting the freedom of a smartphone and having access to social media that they can use to socialize and workspaces where they can collaborate.
However, users on Reddit say Gabb’s Parent Portal (where you set parental controls) can be clunky and slow. It might be a better option to give your kid a regular smartphone or flip phone and install Canopy on it.
Also, we’re not a fan of how Gabb “locks” you in on their phone plans that you’ll need to pay extra for. It’s not ideal if you’re already paying for your own phone plan and you just want to add your kid onto it.
Pricing:
- Gabb phone 4: $149.00 + Gabb Cellular Plan
- Gabb phone 4 Pro: $199.00 + Gabb Cellular Plan
Warranty: Gabb Warranty (covers damage from drops and spills): $4.99.
Plans and contracts: Plans range from $24.99 to $34.99, depending on the features and add-ons you would like to have access to. Month-to-month contracts are also available.
5. Troomi
Use it for: A touch screen Samsung phone with “professionally-vetted” apps and built-in parental controls.
Overview:
Similar to Gabb, Troomi phones are designed with kids in mind, featuring a simple and intuitive interface that’s easy for them to navigate.
Troomi gives you full control over what your child can access, allowing calling and texting while letting you decide if and when to enable additional features like apps and internet access. This means you can introduce your child to technology gradually and safely.
One of the key benefits of Troomi is its KidSmart® OS, which comes with built-in security features that block harmful content. There’s no social media, no ads, and no in-app purchases, so you don’t have to worry about your child stumbling onto inappropriate material.
With GPS tracking, you can easily keep an eye on your child’s location, and the Safe Listing feature ensures only pre-approved contacts can reach them.
Troomi also offers educational apps that you can choose based on your child’s needs, turning the phone into a learning tool rather than just a communication device.
Why we like it:
Our favorite thing about Troomi is that it has embraced AI monitoring for texts. That means that it is constantly monitoring your kid’s texts to check for inappropriate messaging, keeping them safe from predators and cyberbullies, and helping them make the right choices.
The phone’s battery life is built to last all day, and it operates on a secure, reliable network, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Parental Controls: Built into the phone
Key Features:
- Vetted apps
- Safe internet browser
- GPS tracking
- App screen limits
- AI monitoring
- Safelisted contacts
- Unlimited texting
Pros and Cons:
If your child is getting pressure to get a phone, a kid-friendly digital phone like Troomi could be a good option. It means that they will not be left out but still be kept safe.
That being said, they’re not getting the “true” experience. Many of the apps only work on wifi and the list that is available to them is not that extensive.
This Reddit user, who is a kid currently using a Troomi, also says the phone is vulnerable to workarounds that can potentially allow full internet access. This undermines the whole purpose of Troomi.
Instead, we recommend a simple flip phone or a smartphone with a comprehensive parental control app installed.
Pricing:
- Troomi Phone: $149
- Troomi: $199
Warranty: Standard manufacturer’s warranty, dependent on the specific phone’s manufacturer.
Plans and contracts: Plans range from $13.95 to $29.95 a month.
6. Pinwheel
Use it for: An operating system with built-in parental controls that can be used with a selection of phones and carriers.
Overview:
Pinwheel is an operating system rather than a phone. You choose your phone and carrier, and they turn your smartphone into a safe phone.
With the Pinwheel phone, you have full control over what your child can access. You set up the phone with a parental login, allowing you to manage everything remotely through the Pinwheel Caregiver Portal. This means only you can install apps, all of which are carefully selected from a pre-approved list of over 500 options.
There’s no internet browser, social media, or app store, so you don’t have to worry about your child stumbling onto inappropriate content or getting sucked into addictive games.
The parental dashboard also lets you monitor text messages, call history, and even set schedules for when apps and contacts are available. This helps you guide your child in developing healthy screen time habits, ensuring that they’re using the phone responsibly.
It also comes with robust parental controls right out of the box. You can manage and limit screen time, control which apps and websites your child can access, and monitor their usage. This means you can ensure they’re using their phone safely and responsibly without constantly hovering over them.
Why we like it:
We love the flexibility that Pinwheel offers. You can stick to your current carrier and preferred brand while still providing a safe phone for your kids.
The Pinwheel app store is only available through your device — your child won’t be able to access it on theirs. As they mature, you can have conversations with them about which apps are appropriate for them.
We also like the user-friendly interface that’s perfect for kids. It’s designed to be straightforward and easy to navigate, so even young users can pick it up quickly.
The large, colorful icons and intuitive layout make it simple for kids to use without getting overwhelmed.
Parental Controls: Built into the device
Key Features:
- Pre-vetted apps
- Screentime management
- Text and call monitoring
- Safelist of contacts
- GPS and location monitoring
- Parental control removal prevention
Pros and Cons:
The Pinwheel phone offers strong parental control with a customizable app list of over 500 options, no internet browser, and no social media, ensuring a safe experience for your child.
It supports basic functions like taking pictures, videos, and music, while allowing you to monitor all texts and block unknown numbers, providing peace of mind.
The phone looks like a regular smartphone, so your child won’t feel embarrassed using it, and it works with most providers, even abroad.
However, its limited functionality might frustrate teenagers, especially those needing certain apps for school.
The phone has limited storage, no iCloud, and lacks privacy for kids, which can lead to conflicts.
There’s also a monthly cost of $14.99 for the parental dashboard, and some technical issues like setup glitches and unreliable location services may arise.
Canopy, in contrast, starts from $9.99/month and it comes with more comprehensive parental controls like real-time content filtering and sexting prevention.
Pricing:
- Genesis 1: $99
- Slim: $199
- Rugged 3: $249
- Plus (5G): $329
- Pixel 8A: $599
Warranty: Standard manufacturer’s warranty, dependent on the specific phone’s manufacturer.
7. CAT S22 Flip
Use it for: A rugged, durable phone that can withstand your kid’s everyday adventures.
Overview:
The Cat S22 is built to be robust. It’s resistant to both dust and water and can survive a few drops. Sound quality is also very good for a basic phone.
It offers dumb phone simplicity with some smartphone perks. It’s got a touch screen — great for improving their digital literacy. It also has an internet browser and access to the Google Play Store.
Why we like it:
We love that this is not a phone that will end in tears. Drops and spills can be well-handled by this durable model.
Parental controls: You can download Canopy from Google Play Store.
Key Features:
- Dust and water-resistant
- Large, easy-to-type buttons
- Touch screen
- Outer display showing the date and time, incoming calls, and message notifications.
- Flashlight
- Front and rear-facing cameras
- Internet browser
- Access to Google Play Store to download apps
Pros and Cons:
This is the cheapest phone on our list and it’s a great option if you have a tight budget.
Durability, durability, durability! It’s also got great sound quality for you to hear those “pick me up from soccer practice” calls loud and clear.
While you can download apps from the Google Play Store, loading too many might slow down the phone.
Pricing: $75.99, depending on outlet
Plans and contracts: Available through T-Mobile. Check compatibility with other carriers.
Warranty: 12-month warranty from date of purchase
8. Kyocera DuraXV Extreme+
Use it for: A waterproof, dust-proof, and drop-proof Verizon flip phone with a few smart features.
Overview:
The Kyocera DuraXV Extreme+ is a dumb phone that’s also built to last in tough working environments. For kids with a very active lifestyle, this can be a major plus point. The phone is waterproof, dustproof, heat-resistant, and drop-proof, so you can throw a lot at it!
It has a very basic internet browser and can be used as a mobile hotspot. With its headphone jack and basic camera, this durable phone will give your child access to some basic fun features.
Why we like it:
The combination of durability and usability makes this phone a good choice for a 10-year-old. You may not be able to get away with a bulky flip phone forever, but for now, they may not be too bothered by it.
Parental controls:
You won’t be able to download additional parental controls on this phone. This is an important consideration as they will have access to an internet browser, email, and messaging. This phone can also be used as a hotspot so it’s important to install parental controls on any other devices they might be using.
Key Features:
- Voice calling
- Texting
- Customizable font size
- Basic camera
- Very basic Android tools like a calculator, calendar, alarm clock, and flashlight
- Voice recorder
- Web browser
- Hotspot that can connect to up to 10 other devices
- Headphone jack
Pros and Cons:
For a (mostly) dumb phone, the Kyocera DuraXV Extreme+ is quite pricey. However, its durability may make up for the upfront cost.
The web browser is both a pro and a con. While it will give them access to the internet, the fact that you can’t load third-party parental controls leaves your child vulnerable.
It can also be used as a hotspot. Ensure that you install robust parental controls on all the other devices they use.
Note that it’s a Verizon phone so you may not be able to use it with other carriers.
Pricing: $240 at Verizon
Plans and contracts: Pre-installed Verizon sim for pre-paid use.
Warranty: 2-year manufacturer’s warranty
9. T-Mobile Revvl 6 Pro
Use it for: An affordable Android-operated phone for 10-year-olds in a T-Mobile family.
Overview:
T-Mobile recommends the Revvl 6 as the best phone for kids under the age of 12 for its fast 5G connectivity for seamless internet access, a large 6.5-inch HD+ display perfect for videos and schoolwork, and a long-lasting 5000mAh battery that ensures all-day use.
The phone also comes with a triple camera system that allows kids to take high-quality photos and videos.
Security features like a fingerprint sensor and face unlock also keep the phone secure and you can choose to install parental control apps on the phone.
Running on Android 12 and powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 chip, the Revvl 6 Pro is fast enough for everyday tasks and comes preloaded with Google apps, which your child might need for schoolwork. The inclusion of a headphone jack is a nice bonus, allowing your child to listen to music or audio books with wired headphones.
T-Mobile also offers some great deals on Revvl phones. You can opt to get the phone for $0 when you add a line to a plan that you currently have or trade in an eligible device on a Go5G Plus or Go5G plan. Find out the details here.
Why we like it:
With its 5G connectivity, big, clear display, and Android power, the Revvl 6 offers so much for the price. Many of the dumb phones on the market offer talk, text, and very basic tools for the same cost (if not more).
With a Revvl 6 in their pocket, they will be able to learn their way around a smartphone, collaborate on school projects, and develop new skills through apps on the Google Play store.
Although it’s a T-Mobile phone, you can opt to unlock this phone for use with other carriers.
Parental controls:
You can install Canopy on the REVVL 6 to protect your kids while they are exploring the web.
Key Features:
- Standard features of Android OS
- 5G connectivity
- 6.5 inch HD+ display
- Quad camera
- 33 hours talk time
- Memory can be expanded to 2 TB
- Fingerprint sensor
- Headphone jack
Pros and Cons:
For a very decent price, you can give your child access to all the features they will need to explore the world of cell phones. They can practice taking pictures, develop their skills with educational apps, and watch their favorite shows without interruption.
The Revvl 6 Pro also has long-standing battery life. With a 5,000 mAh battery, it can easily last through the day, even with moderate use, meaning you won’t have to worry about it dying when your child needs it most.
Getting a smartphone for a younger child is always a risk. It’s vital that you put comprehensive parental controls in place so that you can monitor their usage, restrict dangerous apps, and remove elicit and violent content from their web browser. Luckily, Canopy is available through the Google Play Store.
Pricing: $199 or “free” with T-Mobile promotion
Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty — you’re covered for any manufacturer defaults as long as you have your phone.
Plan availability: T-Mobile offers the Metro Flex Plus plan for new and existing customers that includes your 5G phone for “free”. Read the details here. You can also opt to use this phone as part of a family plan.
10. The iPhone SE
If your child wants an iPhone and you’re willing to give them one, the iPhone SE is a great option. It offers all the “perks” of an iPhone without the complexity or high cost of more advanced models.
One of the key benefits of the iPhone SE is its manageable size. With a 4.7-inch Retina display, it’s easy for small hands to hold and use, but still large enough for comfortable viewing of apps, videos, and educational content.
The phone’s sturdy build, including water and dust resistance, makes sure it can withstand the occasional drop or spill, which is great for younger users.
As a parent, you’ll appreciate the strong parental controls. With Apple’s Family Sharing and Screen Time features, you can keep an eye on how much time your child spends on the phone, what apps they use, and even set limits if needed. Touch ID also adds a layer of security that’s simple for kids to use.
The iPhone SE is also compatible with all the apps available in the App Store, including educational tools and games, so you can customize the phone to fit your child’s needs.
Plus, with regular software updates, the phone will stay up-to-date with new features and security patches, making it a reliable option for years to come.
Why we like it:
If you’re finding your teen is putting on the pressure for you to get them into the Apple family, the iPhone SE is a good inroad.
It’s also great as an “upgrade” phone from a dumb phone or a cheaper smartphone as your kid grows up.
Parental Controls:
The iPhone SE comes with excellent built-in parental controls like screen time, app limits, content and privacy restrictions, downtimes, and more.
But if you want more comprehensive parental control measures like blocking inappropriate content in real-time, Canopy is your best option.
Key Features:
- 4.7-inch Retina HD display
- A13 Bionic chip
- 12MP rear camera with Portrait mode, 4K video recording
- Water and dust resistant (IP67 rating)
- Fingerprint unlocking
- iOS 14
- Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB models
Pros and Cons:
The iPhone SE is the best value deal if your kid wants an iPhone – it combines top-notch performance, excellent built-in parental control, strong battery life, and durability for an affordable price (especially if you get the refurbished ones from Amazon).
But the camera quality is low compared to more expensive iPhone models and Android phones of the same price.
Pricing: from $200 for refurbished, from $429 for new
Warranty: 2 year limited warranty
Plans and contracts: Unlocked. Set up with any 4G carrier or plan.
Best Phones for 10-Year-Olds – FAQs
Have more questions about choosing the best phones for 10-year-olds? WE answered them below:
What is the safest phone for a child?
When it comes to safety, the best phone for your child is one that offers strong parental controls, limits access to inappropriate content, and has features that keep them safe while still allowing them to stay connected.
Phones like the Gabb Phone or the Pinwheel Phone are designed specifically with child safety in mind. These devices don’t have internet browsers, social media apps, or app stores, which means your child won’t be exposed to harmful content or distractions.
Additionally, both phones come with GPS tracking, so you can always know where your child is, and you have full control over who they can contact.
If you prefer a more traditional smartphone, the iPhone SE is a great option because it includes robust parental controls through Apple’s Family Sharing and Screen Time features, allowing you to monitor and manage your child’s phone usage.
What iPhone should a 10-year-old have?
For a 10-year-old, consider choosing a basic and affordable iPhone like the iPhone SE. It provides the essentials your child needs without overwhelming them with unnecessary features.
The iPhone SE is durable, has a manageable size, and offers robust parental controls through Apple’s ecosystem. This allows you to monitor and manage your child’s usage effectively, ensuring they have a safe and controlled smartphone experience.
What features should I look for in a phone for a 10-year-old?
When choosing a phone for your 10-year-old, focus on features that ensure safety, durability, and ease of use.
Parental controls are crucial; they allow you to monitor and manage your child’s phone usage, limit screen time, and restrict access to inappropriate content.
Durability is also important, so look for a phone with a sturdy build, water resistance, and a good-quality case.
Battery life is another key feature—your child’s phone should be able to last through the day without needing a recharge.
A phone with GPS tracking can give you peace of mind by allowing you to know your child’s location at all times.
Finally, consider the camera quality if your child enjoys taking photos or videos, and make sure the phone supports essential apps for education and communication.
What is the average cost of a good phone for a 10-year-old?
The average cost of a good phone for a 10-year-old typically ranges between $200 to $400.
There are two outliers though. The cheapest phone on our list, the CAT S22 Flip is only $75, while the most expensive one, the iPhone SE starts from $429.
