With the risks of cyberbullying, screen addiction, and harmful content, the thought of getting a phone for your 13-year-old is nerve-wracking.
But like it or not, phones have become vital to our children’s development. They use them to make social connections, develop independence, and follow their interests.
What’s more, many teachers are now using them in the classroom, making them an important component of your child’s academic life.
So, how do you decide on an appropriate phone for a 13-year-old? It’s all about striking a balance between the risks and the perks—and that is no easy task.
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 when buying their kid’s first phone.
Frequently Asked | Read This Before Buying a Phone for Your Kids
Key considerations for parents
It’s become a cliché to say that kids these days are always on their phones. But when you have a young teen yourself, the question takes on a particular significance.
The reality is phones mean a lot to our teens with researchers calling them an “essential part of adolescents’ self-identity”. Not having one can leave them feeling excluded.
Check out this desperate plea from a teenager on Quora:
Teens use phones for a variety of reasons — most prominently, as this study reveals, to “pass the time”, connect with one another, and learn new things.
Phones are not only a portal to social connection and entertainment, but an integral part of our kids’ academic lives. 73% of teachers in this study say cell phones have become part of their teaching and assignments.
But for all the light they bring, there’s a dark side to the cell phone story.
While many kids use cell phones to communicate with one another, others use them to not have to connect.
As the same Pew Research study revealed, 43% of teens use their phones to “avoid face-to-face interaction,” with girls being more likely than boys to use them for this purpose.
There are also all sorts of other concerns related to cell usage, including the risks of:
- Excessive screen time
- Exposure to inappropriate content
- Sexting and cyberbullying
So the question of if and when to get your child a cell phone is certainly not an easy one to answer.
What does research say about this? We lay it out in the following FAQs.
When should kids get a cellphone?
On average, kids in the U.S. get phones at around the age of 12. By the time they’re teens, most children have phones.
According to the Pew Research Center, 95% of U.S. teens had cell phones in 2022. It may not be surprising that this number has risen shapely in the last decade.
But while this is the case, the next question is: should it be?
Research on the negative effects of cell phones on children has taken interesting turns over the past decades. Initially, the main concern was about the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields on kids. The fear was that their developing nervous systems may not be able to cope with constant exposure.
The jury is still out on the harm that radiofrequency electromagnetic waves have — we just don’t know for sure how dangerous prolonged exposure is.
There is, however, another batch of concerns.
Expert attention is now turning towards the mental, social, and physical health effects of constant phone use.
Recent research is alarming. Excessive cell phone and social media use is linked to:
- Mental distress, self-injuring, and thoughts of suicide
- Sleep deprivation
- Cyber-bullying
But the answer is not to deprive your kids of a phone. In fact, that too can have negative effects on their mental health.
Pre-teens crave acceptance. It can be tough to imagine ourselves at that age but validation from your peer group really matters when it comes to our social development.
As this study explains, teens who feel more socially accepted are more likely to have lower levels of aggression and hostility and are perceived to be greater companions to their peers. And cell phones are a big part of feeling part of a community.
It’s complex, yes. There’s no straight answer to the question of when you should give your kid a phone.
The best place to start is to have an open conversation with your pre-teen about the responsibility that comes with having a cell phone. If you feel like they are ready to use one responsibly, the next step is figuring out which model is appropriate and what measures you can put in place to protect them.
We’re here to help you figure that all out.
Which phone should a 13-year-old have?
The best choice is an affordable smartphone with comprehensive parental controls in place.
Look for a model that:
✅ Is affordable
✅ Supports comprehensive parental controls
✅ Allows them to connect with their peers
✅ Helps them develop new skills and explore their hobbies and interests
✅ Supports their academic life
There’s also the option to go for a “dumb phone” (without a touch screen and with low or no access to apps and an internet browser). Also called a feature phone, a dumb phone will help them stay in touch with you while dodging the harms of constant connection.
While this may sound appealing, dumb phones won’t provide your kids with the social, academic, and developmental advantages that come with smartphones.
The reality is if you ask a 13-year-old what phone they should have, the answer is not likely to be an outdated-looking dumb phone. While some of the more robust models can survive a lot of wear and tear, you may find yourself with an unhappy teen if you go this route.
As sad as it may seem to us, some kids even get bullied for having flip phones:
Giving your kid a smartphone is scary, yes, but it doesn’t have to be.
There are plenty of parental control apps available to help you restrict harmful websites and apps, set screen time limits, and monitor usage on your kid’s smartphone.
This means your kid can still enjoy the perks of a smartphone without being exposed to anything harmful.
But not all parental control apps are created equal though. In the next section, we give you a checklist on what to look for in the best one.
What to look for in the best parental control app – Checklist
When looking for a parental control app, it’s important to define your goals first.
For instance, if your goal is to just limit screen time, you can stick with the basic parental controls on iOS or Android phones or use free tools like Google Family Link.
However, if your goal is to protect your kids from harmful content and prevent sexting and other risky behaviors, we recommend looking for one that:
- Lets you choose which websites, apps, and specific URLs you’d like to block or allow
- Filters out explicit content on all websites in real-time, before it reaches your kids’ device
- Prevents sexting by alerting you whenever an inappropriate image is taken or received
- Allows you to set Internet downtimes where your kids won’t be able to access the Internet
- Monitors Internet, app, and social media usage
- Tracks your kid’s location
- Prevents kids from removing the app from their device
- Is compatible with all your devices
💡Note: Our parental control app, Canopy, checks all these boxes. Sarah from Family Tech reviewed Canopy at length in this YouTube video.
What measures should I take before giving a 13-year-old a phone?
First up, make sure you have comprehensive parental controls in place.
Once you’ve done that, it’s important to begin cultivating responsible use. Here are some key points to consider from experts from the Harvard Graduate School of Education:
- Develop rules together. When are phones allowed and not allowed? Think about what will happen if the device is lost or damaged. Who will have to replace it? Set these rules ahead of time and make sure that they are strictly enforced. Remember that these rules can change as they mature.
- Consider your values as a family. If things like eating dinner together as a family are important to you, don’t let tech get in the way of this happening.
- Have honest discussions with them about the responsibilities that come with phone usage. Open the dialogue about the harms of sexting, pornography, and violent online content — and then continue to have the conversation. The goal is to avoid them having to feel as though they need to hide their online behavior.
- Think about all of the devices they use. Just because they don’t have the latest smartphone doesn’t mean they’re not accessing harmful content in other places.
- Model the behavior you want to see. Our own tech addictions can get in the way of empowering our children to use their devices responsibly.
- Don’t text your child all the time. Tempting, we know. But constantly contacting your kids can lead them to feel anxious and under pressure.
It’s also important to note that, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 90% of teens have used social media. It’s vital that you provide guidelines for how to use these platforms safely, kindly, and responsibly.
Nemours Kids Health offers these guidelines when it comes to social media use:
- Be nice. Just like in the “real” world, mean behavior is not ok.
- Think twice before hitting “enter.” Are you giving away important info like your home address or your phone number?
- Follow the WWGS (What Would Grandma Say?) rule. Make sure everything you post would be grandma approved.
- Don’t connect with strangers. If you’re unsure whether friending someone is a good idea, always ask an adult.
10 Best Mobile Phones for 13-Year-Olds in 2024
Here are the best phones for 13-year-olds we’ll be reviewing, what they’re best for, and their features and costs.
Let’s dive in!
1. Samsung Galaxy Series A
Use it for: Affordable, mid-range, high-performance smartphones with built-in parental controls.
Overview:
The trusty Samsung Galaxy A series has a lot to offer teens for a reasonable price.
Many phones in this series are even cheaper than some dumb phones (like The Light Phone and Wisephone that we discuss below) and come with great cameras, long battery life, vibrant displays, and solid performance.
We’re going to take you through the features of each phone in the Galaxy A series and why each of them makes a great first phone for 13-year-olds.
Galaxy A55: Top-of-the-Line Mid-Range Option
The Galaxy A55 is perfect if your 13-year-old loves a big, bright screen and enjoys taking photos.
With its 6.6-inch display and a trio of cameras, it’s ideal for capturing memories and watching videos.
Plus, it has a long-lasting battery, so you won’t have to worry about them running out of juice during the day.
Features:
- 6.6-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate.
- 50MP main camera, 12MP wide-angle, and 5MP macro lens.
- 5000mAh battery with long-lasting life.
- Four years of software updates.
Pricing: $350 – $500
Galaxy A54: Solid All-Rounder
The A54 is a dependable option that does everything well.
It’s got a vibrant screen, a durable build, and a camera that takes good photos. It’s perfect for everyday use, whether your teen is texting friends, browsing social media, or doing schoolwork.
And with regular software updates, it’ll stay secure and up-to-date.
Features:
- 6.4-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution.
- 50MP main camera and durable build, 32MP front camera.
- 5000mAh battery with good battery life.
- Four Android OS updates.
Pricing: $350 – $500
Galaxy A35: Affordable Yet Feature-Packed
The A35 brings some of the best features from the A54 to a more affordable package.
It’s durable, has a great camera, and is water-resistant—so it’s ready for whatever your teen throws at it.
If you’re looking for a phone that offers a lot without costing a lot, this is a great choice.
Features:
- 6.6-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate.
- 50MP camera with improved photo quality.
- IP67 water and dust resistance.
- 5000mAh battery with long battery life.
Pricing: $150 – $400
Galaxy A25: Budget-Friendly with Key Features
The A25 is a solid, budget-friendly option that’s perfect for a first phone.
It has a good-sized screen, a reliable camera, and a battery that can easily last through the day.
It’s great for kids who need a phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and a bit of browsing.
Features:
- 6.5-inch AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate.
- 50MP rear camera.
- 5000mAh battery with long-lasting performance.
- SD card slot for expandable storage.
Pricing: $100 – $300
Galaxy A15 is an older model and hence, cheaper than the others. It has a decent camera, and comes with a headphone jack—perfect for kids who love listening to music.
The battery life is excellent, so they can stay connected all day.
Features:
- 6.5-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate.
- 50MP camera for decent daylight shots.
- 5000mAh battery lasting up to two days.
- 3.5mm headphone jack and SD card slot.
Pricing: $150 – $200
Why we like it:
The Samsung Galaxy A series has something for every 13-year-old, whether they’re into photography, need a phone for school, or just want to stay in touch with friends.
These phones are reliable, durable, and packed with features that both you and your teen will appreciate.
For a similar price to many of the dumb phone options out there, you can get your child started on their journey of using a smartphone responsibly.
We also like that you can turn on “kid-mode” with Samsung Kids. On the kid-mode, you can:
- Monitor screen time and app usage
- Set screen time goals for each day of the week
- Set daily bedtimes
- Only allow kid-friendly apps
- Only allow access to specific contacts and media
Just note — your teen will likely feel that they’ve grown out of the educational content that Samsung Kids has to offer. (If you have younger kids, the cute, quirky characters can help them learn many new skills ranging from singing to coding.)
Parental Controls:
Samsung Kids does provide some basic parental controls like screen time management. For real-time content filtering and sexting prevention, download Canopy.
Pros and Cons:
The battery life, storage, and user-friendliness of these phones are all noteworthy, considering the price.
Samsung offers trade-in credit deals so if you have an old Samsung that you’re no longer using, you can save on costs for your new Galaxy.
On the downside, it has a plastic build which can mean it heats up more easily. It’s also not waterproof — which I hope you don’t have to figure out the hard way.
Warranty: 12-month brand warranty
Plans and contracts: Choose your plan through Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile or UScellular or opt for Unlocked by Samsung which gives more freedom to choose.
2. Samsung Galaxy S Series
Use it for: Teens who need to turn in school assignments and for budding content creators.
Overview:
If you’re looking to get your child a high-end phone where they can learn, create, and connect, the Galaxy S Series is steps above average.
Your kids will appreciate the powerful performance of Galaxy S phones. Equipped with high-end processors and plenty of RAM, these phones can handle any task your child throws at them, without lag. This means smooth multitasking and a seamless user experience, whether they’re studying or playing.
The advanced cameras are perfect for kids who love taking photos and making videos, while the solid battery life means fewer worries about the phone dying during the day.
Here’s a quick rundown of the more affordable models in the Galaxy S series and why they’re a good fit for your child:
Samsung Galaxy S21: An Affordable Option for Young Tech Enthusiasts
The Galaxy S21 is perfect for 13-year-olds who are tech-savvy and love to explore the latest in smartphone technology. It’s also one of the more affordable options in the S line-up.
It’s packed with powerful features that make it a great choice for watching videos, taking pictures, and staying connected with friends.
The S21 strikes a good balance between performance and usability, making it a fantastic choice for teens who want a high-quality phone that can handle anything they throw at it.
Features
- 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display
- Triple Camera System (64MP, 12MP, 12MP)
- 5G Connectivity
- Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 Processor
- 4000mAh Battery
Pricing: $200 – $450
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: Premium Phone At an Affordable Price
The Galaxy S23 FE is a great option for parents who want to give their teen a high-quality phone without spending too much.
It’s a solid choice if you want to get them a high-quality phone that’s not too complicated or expensive, but still delivers on performance and style.
Features
- 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED Display
- 50MP main; 8MP 3X zoom; 12MP ultra wide
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Processor
- 4,500 mAh
- Solid Build Quality
Pricing: $250 – $600
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra: A Handy Tool for Schoolwork with the S Pen
The Galaxy S22 Ultra stands out with its built-in S Pen, making it an excellent choice for 13-year-olds who might use their phone for school assignments, note-taking, or even creative projects.
The S Pen allows for precise control, which is perfect for jotting down homework, drawing, or managing tasks. It’s like having a mini notebook right in their pocket!
Features:
- 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X Display
- Quad Camera System: 108MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP periscope telephoto, 10MP telephoto
- 40MP Front Camera
- Built-in S Pen
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 Processor
- 5000mAh Battery
- 120Hz Refresh Rate
- Up to 12GB RAM and 1TB Storage Options
- 5G Connectivity
- Gorilla Glass Victus+ on Front and Back
- IP68 Water and Dust Resistance
Pricing: $500 – $1000
Why we like it:
The Samsung S series prides itself on being the “most used work device,” making it a state-of-the-art vehicle for teens curious about using their phones for school projects and assignments.
Samsung DeX allows you to transform your mobile phone into a workstation by connecting it to a laptop, TV, or monitor. Your teen will be able to seamlessly connect word-processing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations to other devices.
Parental Controls:
Samsung Galaxy S series phones come with built-in parental controls (through Samsung Kids) which allow you to monitor screen time, set app limits, and track the phone’s location.
But if you want more comprehensive parental control measures like blocking inappropriate content in real-time, Canopy is your best option.
Pros and Cons:
The pros of this phone are multiple. Not only can it be used as a workstation but, with its quad camera, it’s a fantastic option for budding content creators.
It also supports Samsung Knox to protect your child’s phone against theft, data leaks, and hacking.
But those shiny features come with a price tag, both in terms of monetary value and risk. It’s vital that you have comprehensive parental controls with a robust filter and sexting prevention.
Warranty: 12-month brand warranty
Plans and contracts: Choose your plan through Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or UScellular, or opt for Unlocked by Samsung which gives you more freedom to choose.
3. iPhone SE
Use it for: An affordable iPhone option with top-notch parental controls.
Overview:
The iPhone SE is a budget-friendly iPhone option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It’s priced much lower than the latest iPhones but still packs a punch.
It has a compact design and is built with the same high-quality materials as more expensive iPhones. Plus, it’s water and dust-resistant, which is a huge plus if your kid is prone to accidents.
Despite its smaller size, the iPhone SE is equipped with the A13 Bionic chip, the same one found in the iPhone 11 series. This means it’s fast and capable of handling games, apps, and multitasking with ease.
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 $499 for new
Warranty: 2 year limited warranty
Plans and contracts: Unlocked. Set up with any carrier or plan.
4. OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Use it for: A high-performance smartphone that doesn’t break the bank.
Overview:
The OnePlus Nord N30 is an excellent mid-range smartphone that offers a blend of performance, design, and affordability.
Its vibrant display, strong performance, versatile camera, and long battery life cater to the needs of young users, while the clean software and ample storage make it practical for everyday use.
Running on OxygenOS based on Android, the Nord N30 provides a clean and user-friendly interface with minimal bloatware. The software is intuitive, making it easy for young teens to navigate and for parents to manage.
Whether your child needs a reliable phone for school, entertainment, or staying connected, the OnePlus Nord N30 is a smart and stylish option.
Why we like it:
We love the look and feel of this phone. It’s sleekly designed and feels very sturdy — substantial style for the price point!
Parental Controls: Install Canopy to keep your kids protected.
Key Features:
- All the Android OS features
- SUPERVOOC Fast charging
- Up to 1TB expandable storage
- Headphone jack
Pros and Cons: The major perk of this phone is its ultra-fast charging capabilities. While that may seem like a gimmick, for teens who have fast-paced lives, it can be a necessity.
It’s currently available as a T-Mobile promotion, where you get the phone “free” when you sign up for a 24-month plan. Check out the deal here.
Pricing: $299 (or “free” on the T-Mobile promotion)
Warranty: 1 year manufacturer’s warranty
Plans and contracts: Available through T-Mobile but possible to purchase unlocked.
5. Moto 5G
Use it for: An affordable option for a teen who wants to stream, listen, watch, and learn.
Overview:
Powered by Android, the Moto 5G is a great option for a high-performance smartphone at a lower price.
Your kids will be able to take great pictures, stream their favorite content, and listen to music in surround sound. As with the other smartphones on our list, they’ll also have access to popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Messenger.
With its Snapdragon 480 5G platform, this phone is well-equipped to handle the adventures of curious children who love to use their phones to access educational apps, play games, and look up the answers to life’s most important questions.
Why we like it:
For the same price (if not less) as many of the dumb phones on the market, the Moto 5G offers your child a great intro to the world of smartphones.
It has solid performance (even when multiple apps are open at once), great audio-visuals, and good battery life.
Your kids may also be happy that it comes with a free pair of Motorola earbuds—Moto Buds Plus.
Parental controls:
Motorola smartphones come with parental controls and safety settings that can be accessed through the free Google Family Link app.
However, this is limited to just setting screen time limits, blocking or filtering apps and websites, and location tracking.
If you’d like more comprehensive protection like real-time content filtering, you can install Canopy through Google Play Store.
Key Features:
- 6.7 inches Full HD+ (2520 x 1080 pixels), 90Hz refresh rate
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 765
- Rear Camera: Quad-camera setup (48MP primary, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, 2MP depth)
- Front Camera: Dual-camera setup (16MP primary, 8MP ultra-wide)
- 5G connection
- MediaTek Dimensity 7020 processor
- 128GB built-in storage with the option to add up to 1TB with a microSD
- Dolby Atmos (surround sound)
- Water-repellent coating
Pros and Cons:
With its vibrant display, 5G connection, and good battery life, the Moto 5G is a great phone to stream and play games on.
This is a pro and a con. While your kids will likely be thrilled, you will have to be vigilant about setting screen time limits. You can use either the built-in parental controls or Canopy to do so.
One of the major perks of going with Motorola is having access to Moto Care. It allows you to extend your standard limited warranty coverage or add additional coverage for accident damage. You can read about it here.
Pricing: $249.00
Plans and contracts: Unlocked. Check carrier compatibility here.
Warranty: Standard warranty which can be extended with Moto Care.
6. CAT S22 Flip
Use it for: An active 13-year-old who needs a rugged, durable phone.
Overview:
If your kid is outdoorsy, plays sports, or tends to be a bit clumsy, the CAT S22 Flip is a great choice.
This phone is built like a tank, designed to withstand drops, bumps, and even a little bit of water. It’s the kind of phone that can handle whatever your teen throws at it—literally.
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 phone is incredibly durable. Whether your 13-year-old is tossing it in a sports bag, dropping it during a game, or accidentally spilling water on it, it’s built to keep working no matter what.
The flip design also adds an extra layer of protection for the screen, so you won’t have to worry about scratches or cracks.
Parental controls: You can download Canopy from Google Play Store.
Key Features:
- 2.8″ touch screen
- Dust and water-resistant
- Large, easy-to-type buttons
- Outer display showing the date and time, incoming calls, and message notifications.
- Flashlight
- 16GB ROM, 2GB RAM
- Qualcomm QM215 Snapdragon 215 (28 nm)
- Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53, Adreno 308
- Rear Camera: 5MP, Front Camera: 2MP, Android 11 (Go edition), MIL-STD-810H compliant
- 2000mAh Battery
- Internet browser
- Access to Google Play Store to download apps
Pros and Cons:
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.
This is the cheapest phone on our list and it’s a great option if you have a tight budget.
Pricing: $60 – $75, depending on outlet
Plans and contracts: Available through T-Mobile. Check compatibility with other carriers.
Warranty: 12-month warranty from date of purchase
7. The Wisephone II
Use it for: A dumb phone with no distracting apps or browsers.
Overview:
If you’d like a simple call and text phone with no frills, the Wisephone II is perfect.,
It’s a sleek subscription-based phone from Techless, a company that prides itself on making “health tech.” It’s a beautiful but “boring” phone that mimics the style of an iPhone and comes with its own phone carrier plans.
Techless’s proprietary WiseOS is specifically designed to provide a simple, user-friendly experience while prioritizing safety and focus.
This operating system includes only essential functions like calling, texting, and a basic camera, with no access to app stores or web browsers, significantly reducing the risk of exposure to inappropriate content.
It’s not totally dumb, however. With a good camera and GPS tracking, this phone comes with some of the perks of a smartphone.
It has an E-ink display, designed to reduce blue light exposure. Blue light is the kind of light that is emitted from digital devices.
While the research on the effect of blue light is inconclusive, we do know that it has a detrimental effect on kids’ sleep — so reducing the emission is a major plus point here.
The Family Portal also allows you some parental control from your own device, including location tracking and access to all their messages and call lists.
Why we like it:
If your kid wants an iPhone, but you’d like them to have a dumb phone, the Wisephone II is a good middle-ground.
They’ll get a phone that looks and feels like an iPhone, while you’ll be able to protect them from distracting apps and explicit content on the Internet.
We also like how the Wisephone II supports group chat messages, which means even if your teen doesn’t have a smartphone, they can still participate in family chats.
If that’s not enough, the Wisephone comes with its own proprietary music app which doesn’t include ads or explicit content recommendations.
With all this considered, the Wisephone is the most functional dumb phone on our list.
Parental Controls:
You can use the built-in parental controls through the Family Portal. You have no access to apps and internet browsers so won’t be able to add additional third-party parental controls.
Key Features:
- WiseOS operating system
- SMS messaging
- Phone calls
- USB-C for fast charging
- Basic tools like a clock, calculator, and notes
- Camera
- Maps with location tracker through the Family Portal
- Wifi
- Bluetooth connectivity
- No hotspot capabilities
Pros and Cons:
The pre-order for the Wisephone II is $399, which is quite high considering it’s a simple, limited phone.
But we like how the Wisephone II comes with its own phone carrier plans, so you won’t be locked into major carriers.
For instance, you can opt for their “Healthy” phone plan which includes:
- Unlimited calls and texts
- 5GB of data
- Tools like music, calculator, maps, phone, messages, camera, etc.
- Human customer support
- “Keep your phone number”
…all for just $50/month.
However, the Wisephone is only available as a pre-order right now, so we’ll need to wait and see whether it’s actually as good as it sounds.
Pricing: $399 (pre-order)
Warranty: 14-day return for any reason
Plan availability: Techless plans range from $24.99 and $69.99. Your monthly subscription also includes your cellphone service. Check out their plans here.
8. The Light Phone
Use it for: A compact, touchscreen phone without distracting apps or Internet browsers.
Overview:
Originally designed for adults who want to “digital-detox”, the Light Phone only has the essentials: calls, texts, and an alarm clock.
No internet, no social media, no games—just simple and safe communication. You will love the peace of mind it offers, knowing your kids won’t be exposed to online dangers.
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:
Like the Wisephone II, the Light Phone has an e-ink screen which does not emit blue light (unlike most LCD or LED screens), making it better for young eyes.
We also like that The Light Phone comes unlocked, meaning that you can use it with your current carrier or with Light Service, the company’s service plan.
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.
Although it’s improved in the Light Phone III, the battery life is not great, adding to the potential unreliability. So, it’s not a perfect option when it comes to staying connected to your kids. We’d recommend it as training wheels but not for a long journey.
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 $399)
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.
9. Gabb Phone 4
Use it for: A smartphone designed specifically for kids
Overview:
The Gabb phone is specifically designed for kids to be safe while still enjoying some of the benefits of having access to apps that are kid-friendly, educational, and entertaining.
They offer age suggestions as follows:
- Gabb Phone 4: Suggested age — 9 to 13
- Gabb Phone 4 Pro: Suggested age — 14 to 18
At age 13, they’re sitting between these two age ranges.
Gabb offers this quiz on their website to help you decide what model is most suitable for your child.
Noteworthy features include:
- Gabb Cloud (storage)
- Gabb Guard (a spam blocker)
- GabbMusic+, “the world’s largest kid-safe music library.”
Why we like it:
Gabb offers the chance for your kids to have a phone that looks and feels like an adult phone but is designed for kids.
They also have some notable parental control features. Our favorite is Gabb Messenger Parent which will notify you if nudity is detected on a video call.
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 as “education” and “bible study”
Pros and Cons:
The Gabb phone is specifically designed for kids so provides a safer digital experience.
But there are downsides to be aware of — that your kids may let you know about. As they get older, they might be looking for a phone that gives them access to apps that allow them to use their phones as a place to socialize and work.
So while they may be ok with the Gabb phone for now, they may soon put the pressure on to get them a smarter, more adult phone.
Pricing:
- Gabb phone 4: $149.00 + Gabb Cellular Plan
- Gabb phone 4 Pro: $199.00 + Gabb Cellular Plan
Plan availability: Gabb plans range from $24.99 to $34.99. Month-to-month contracts are available.
Warranty: $4.99 / month (covers damage from drops and spills)
10. Pinwheel
Use it for: An operating system with built-in parental controls that can be used with any phone or carrier.
Overview:
Pinwheel is an operating system designed specifically for kids that you can use with different types of phones and carriers.
If you want to keep your kids more digitally disconnected, Pinwheel’s OS can help you do so. It does not come with an Internet browser or social media.
It does come with safe, helpful apps out of the box, such as a calculator, flashlight, camera, and a vetted library of 1,000+ applications that you can add to your child’s device as needed.
Plus, parents get access to the Pinwheel Caregiver Portal where you can:
- Create a contact Safelist
- Monitor texts and calls
- Add or delete/restrict apps
- Manage screen time
- Track location
You can choose from five different phone types with Pinwheel OS already installed:
- Google Pixel 8A – for exceptional photo and video quality, fast speed for opening apps and images, and all-day battery life.
- Samsung Plus 4 – a premium smartphone with a minimum design and a durable build, perfect for your kids’ busiest days.
- Motorola Slim 6 – sleek, modern phone that is compatible with all major carriers, giving your child reliable technology at an affordable price.
- Rugged 3 – a durable smartphone for active kids who want extra protection from drops, dirt, and water.
- Genesis 1 – the cheapest option of all five.
Why we like it:
We like that Pinwheel offers the best of both worlds—your kids will get a stylish smartphone and you’ll get peace of mind knowing they can’t access internet browsers or social media.
You’ll also get full control over how you want to design your kid’s first phone. You can add-on apps that would benefit their learning or creativity (e.g. Duolingo for language learning), while restricting access to others like social media. You can even install an app like Zoom so they can attend online lessons.
And as your teen gets older, you can decide how and if to expand what they can access on their phone.
One key feature we love is the Focus Mode and scheduling. You can set specific times for different types of app access (e.g. educational apps during homework time, communication during after-school hours). This helps in creating a balanced routine for your child.
Parental controls:
Built into the phone and managed through their Caregiver’s Portal.
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 best thing about Pinwheel is that it comes with comprehensive parental controls.
However, the Caregiver Portal is not free — you’ll have to pay an additional subscription fee of $14.99/month for your kid’s first phone, and $4.99/month for every additional phone.
Some parents love the Caregiver Portal:
Others, not so much.
The Caregiver Portal also does not come with real-time content filtering. Canopy is still your best choice if you want to protect your kids from explicit content before they even see it in the first place.
Pricing:
- Genesis 1: $99
- Slim: $199
- Rugged 3: $249
- Plus (5G): $329
- Pixel 8A: $599
Plans and contracts: Works with most major carriers
Warranty: Standard manufacturer’s warranty, dependent on the specific phone’s manufacturer.
Best Phones for 13-Year-Olds | More FAQs
Have more questions about the best phones for 13-year-olds? We answered them below:
What type of phone should a 13-year-old get?
For a 13-year-old, the ideal phone should strike a balance between functionality, durability, and parental controls.
At this age, a smartphone is often the best choice, as it offers the tools needed for communication, schoolwork, and staying connected with friends, while also providing parents with the ability to monitor and manage usage.
Smartphones like the iPhone SE or Samsung Galaxy A series are excellent options. These phones are user-friendly, durable, and offer features like good camera quality and strong parental controls.
For more active or clumsy teens, a rugged phone like the CAT S22 Flip could be a great alternative, offering durability and basic phone functions without the distractions of a full-fledged smartphone.
What features should parents look for when choosing a phone for their 13-year-old?
When choosing a phone for your 13-year-old, there are several key features to consider to ensure the device meets both your child’s needs and your peace of mind:
Durability
Kids can be rough on their belongings, so look for a phone that can withstand drops, bumps, and the occasional spill.
Phones with durable designs, like the CAT S22 Flip or phones with Gorilla Glass like Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, are great options.
Parental Controls
It’s crucial to have robust parental controls that allow you to monitor and limit your child’s phone usage. Features like app restrictions, content filtering, and time limits are essential for managing how and when your teen uses their device.
Phones like Samsung A and S series and iPhone SE have parental controls built-in, while those like Gabb and Pinwheel are designed specifically for kids.
Battery Life
A long-lasting battery ensures that the phone can last through a full day of school, sports, and socializing without needing a recharge. This is especially important for kids who might not always remember to charge their phones.
The iPhone SE, OnePlus Nord N30, and Moto 5G have long battery lives.
Camera Quality
Many teens love taking photos and videos, so a good camera can be a big plus. Look for phones with decent cameras that can capture clear, vibrant images.
The Samsung Galaxy S series phones take the crown for this.
Ease of Use
The phone should be user-friendly, with an operating system that your teen can easily navigate. Whether it’s iOS or Android, make sure the phone is intuitive enough for your child to use without frustration.
All the phones we reviewed in this article are easy to use!
Affordability
It’s important to find a balance between quality and cost. Consider whether the phone offers good value for the features it provides and whether it fits within your budget.
The CAT S22 Flip is the cheapest on our list, while OnePlus Nord and Moto 5G are good mid-range options with high-performance.
What is the best phone for middle schoolers?
The iPhone SE is often considered one of the best phones for middle schoolers.
It provides all the essential features of an iPhone, including access to educational apps, a high-quality camera, and the security of Apple’s ecosystem, but at a more affordable price.
The compact size is also easier for younger teens to handle, and Apple’s Family Sharing and Screen Time features give parents the ability to monitor and control how the phone is used.
Another strong contender is the Samsung Galaxy A54 from the Galaxy A series.
It offers a larger screen and solid performance for its price, making it a great choice for middle schoolers who might need a bit more power for schoolwork and extracurricular activities.
Both phones offer a good mix of functionality, security, and affordability, making them ideal for middle schoolers.
Is iPhone 13 good for 13-year-olds?
The iPhone 13 is a powerful and feature-rich phone, but it might be more than what most 13-year-olds need.
While it offers top-notch performance, a fantastic camera system, and a sleek design, it’s also one of the more expensive options available.
If your 13-year-old is responsible and you’re comfortable with the cost, the iPhone 13 can be a great choice, especially if you want a device that will last several years.
How durable are these phones for active teenagers?
Durability is a significant concern for parents of active teenagers, and luckily, many phones are designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily life.
For example, the CAT S22 Flip is built to military-grade specifications, making it highly resistant to drops, dust, and water. This makes it perfect for teens involved in sports or other outdoor activities.
For smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra or the iPhone SE, durability comes from features like Gorilla Glass and water resistance.
While they might not be as rugged as the CAT S22 Flip, they are still built to handle everyday accidents, such as drops or spills.
Also, investing in a good protective case and screen protector can significantly enhance the durability of any phone, ensuring it lasts longer in the hands of a teenager.
How important is screen time management for teenagers, and which phones offer this feature?
Screen time management is incredibly important for teenagers, as it helps balance their digital life with other activities like homework, physical exercise, and family time.
Excessive screen time can lead to issues such as sleep disruption, reduced physical activity, and exposure to inappropriate content. So, having tools to manage and monitor screen time is crucial.
Both iOS and Android offer screen time management features.
Apple’s Screen Time feature, available on iPhones like the iPhone SE, allows parents to set daily limits on app usage, schedule downtime, and monitor the amount of time spent on various activities.
Similarly, Android phones like the Samsung Galaxy S22 series come with Digital Wellbeing tools that help track screen time, set app limits, and enable focus modes to minimize distractions.
These features are vital in helping teenagers develop healthy tech habits, ensuring they enjoy the benefits of a smartphone without becoming overly dependent on it.
