The 10 Best GPS Smartwatches for Kids in 2020

As a parent, worrying is just part of the job description, but these watches for kids with GPS tracking might make your life just a little bit easier.

Think about it, wouldn't you want to know where your child is 24/7? Not to have to worry why they're taking a long time coming home from school or why you can't see them in the supermarket anymore?

With a GPS smartwatch, you can ensure your child's safety – and they come with a bunch of other cool features that your child will love!

Heads up! In this article, we'll be talking exclusively about GPS smartwatches for kids. However, we do know there are loads of other GPS tracking devices also intended for children, and we will have a separate article on that soon, so make sure to check back to our website for more GPS goodies!

Comparison of 10 GPS Smartwatches for Children
	Tick Talk 3	Verizon GizmoWatch 2	TIMEX FamilyConnect	WatchMeGo	Coolpad Dyno	myFirst Fone S2	FindMyKids	LDB Direct Kids Smartwatch	Kids Smart Watch GPS Tracker by Karaforna	Jsbaby Kids Smartwatch	LG - GizmoPal 2 Smartwatch
Price Range	$$$- Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$ - Check Price	$$$ - Check Price	$$$ - Check Price	$$$ - Check Price
Geo-Fencing
SOS Alert
Supported Network Frequency	4G LTE	4G LTE	4G	4G	4G LTE	3G	2G	2G	2G	2G	4G
Two-Way Calling
Camera
Waterproof	IP67 Water-Resistant	IP67 Water-Resistant	IP67 Water-Resistant	IP67 Water-Resistant	IP65 Water-Resistant	IP67 Water-Resistant	Waterproof	IP67 Water-Resistant	IP67 Water Resistant	IP67 Water-Resistant	IPX7 Water-Resistant
Games								(1)	(1)	(1)
Battery Life	Fair	Good	Good - Strong	Good	Good	Fair	Good	Fair - Good	Weak - Fair	Fair - Good	Fair

Our Top Picks

Top Pick: TickTalk 3

Overall, it has some of the best reviews in this list, and the 4G frequency is obviously a major plus. It is pricier than the other options, but we do feel that that extra money is well-spent on your kid's safety.

2nd Best: GizmoWatch 2

The GizmoWatch2 has all the features a parent might want for their child's device. It's fun for them and easy to track for you.

3rd Best: TIMEX FamilyConnect

I like the closed family network on this one because it allows you to keep track of who contacts your child. And we all know how dangerous digital predators can be!

The watches not mentioned in 'Our Picks' aren't necessarily bad items, though, for some reason or another, they didn't make the cut, for us. However, we do hope that our reviews have helped you in picking out the best choice for ensuring your family's safety.

Our Reviews - Which is the Best GPS Smartwatch for My Kid?

All of our reviews are honest and unbiased and seek to help guide you in choosing the best device for you and your family.

1. Best Overall: TickTalk 3

TickTalk is already a well-respected brand name among smartwatch manufacturers. The TickTalk Smartwatch is a phone (it has most if not all qualities of one), which is why it's so appealing to children, and it comes in a wide array of color combos.

The main issue with the Tick Talk Smartwatch seems to be the battery life, with many parents complaining it won't last through an entire school day. To be fair, however, most smartwatches have this issue.

Tick Talk does have the benefit of running on 4G and of being based in the US.

They have better Customer Service and technicians working on the network, issues, models, etc.

TickTalk also offer excellent data protection, since they own their storage back-end and are on-call 24/7 to prevent breaches.

Overall, we're quite impressed with Tick Talk, and although pricey, most reviews suggest it's worth the money, so we are recommending this one as a top buy.

2. Best for Price: Verizon GizmoWatch 2

Verizon, another major U.S. carrier, has also ventured into the realm of children's smart devices. With the GizmoWatch, created in partnership with reputable brand LG, Verizon seems to have created a worthwhile kid phone watch that will satisfy both parents and children.

Verizon also offers the original GizmoWatch (and the Mickey Mouse anniversary edition), which is a bit simpler. It seems the original Gizmo has weaker battery life and smaller screen size, but other than that, but still a great device for your child. This may be suite for younger kids, perhaps.

Should you opt for the GizmoWatch2? If you've got a Verizon plan already, then certainly. It's also a great deal in terms of price, and it has gathered some pretty sweet reviews from parents all over the world.

3. TIMEX FamilyConnect

The TIMEX FamilyConnect is so far the only smartwatch for children supported by T-Mobile. So if you've already got a plan with this carrier, then it might be worth checking into this product.

Overall, the TIMEX FamilyConnect seems to be a great option if you already have a T-Mobile plan. You will also have to pay a one-time $20 activation fee, unless you have 2 active plans with T-Mobile already, in which case adding FamilyConnect is free.

From the reviews I've seen, the TIMEX FamilyConnect seems to have more pros than cons, so it's definitely worth trying. It's fun and appealing, and your child will probably love it. What's more, it will give you peace of mind when they're far from you.

WatchMeGo –Kid Smartwatch by Sprint

Created by Sprint, one of the biggest mobile carriers in the United States, this particular watch is perhaps the ideal smart tool to keep tabs on your child when they are far away from you. At this time, it is the only smartwatch supported by Sprint that is specifically intended for children, with the primary age range being between 4 and 12.

I'd say the WatchMeGo is ideal for your child if you are looking for something that will pair with your already existing Sprint account (at an added $10 a month). It's safe and reliable, and parents seem to be quite satisfied with this product.

It gives you, the parent, enough control over your child's activities (both physical and virtual), and is just tech-y enough to give your child a sense of independence.

4. Coolpad Dyno Smartwatch - Best for Small Kids

The Coolpad Dyno has a really cute and child-friendly design that makes it ideal, at least in appearance, for small children. But does it do all that you'd like it to?

Overall, it's a bit difficult to say whether or not this is a good watch. The price and the many excellent features seem to suggest so, but quite a few reviews are saying otherwise. So I'm in two minds about this one.

4. myFirst Fone S2

myFirst Fone S2 is a more simplistic and a slightly out-dated option, but still a good product. Honestly, I'd recommend getting myFirst Fone if you've got a small child (4-6 years old) who wants a smart device, but you think they're not ready for all the responsibility that entails.

Once again, myFirst Fone S2 would work well for a first-time smart device, but as 3G networks slowly disappear, it doesn't sound like a long term option.

5. FindMyKids

You already know from the name that this watch is focused on tracking your child's location, which is great since that's what most parents want from a child's smart device.

Honestly, tracking is great, but the FindMyKids watch sounds a little too invasive for my taste, so if the above is what you're going for, then FindMyKids can be a suitable option for you.

LDB Direct Kids Smartwatch

At first glance, the LDB Direct Kids smartwatch seems to be an excellent alternative, with a reasonable price and cool features. But is it?

I would've really liked to give this a good review. Unfortunately, there are numerous bad reviews, and given that the watch only supports 2G, I can't recommend it. 2G network coverage is almost extinct in the country and no match for the more modern 4G. And given the many bad reviews… This one's going to be a pass.

7. Kids Smart Watch GPS Tracker by Karaforna

Karaforna's smartwatches come in many different shades (pink, black, blue, green, and even purple, I think). While it does offer a lot of the key safety features in a quality smartwatch, it also comes with a lot of negative reviews.

I think this is the first smartwatch in our review that has about as many cons as it has pros. Given that it's a watch intended for young children, the fact that strangers can call it unsettles me. This should not be possible on a kids' smartwatch, because it exposes them to danger.

I also don't like the poor frequency, the reportedly poor battery life, and all the (many) complaints I've read.

Try as I might, I can't bring myself to like Karaforna's product, so we would not recommend buying.

8.Jsbaby Kids Smartwatch

Jsbaby smartwatch range comes in a variety of bright colors that will appeal to children, but does it rise up to the challenge of accurately tracking your kid?

Apart from the limited frequency (2G), it doesn't seem to have any other significant issues. However, it does seem to be of pretty poor quality, judging by both the packaging, the description quality, and the reported Customer Service experiences.

It sounds like a decent clock. Some praise it for its accuracy and ease of use, as well as the relatively good battery life, so it has some pluses. Many even claim it rivals an Apple Watch in its' functioning, which would be a plus, though I think it depends on personal experience.

Would we recommend it? Sure, if you don't mind the 2G frequency, go for it.

10. LG - GizmoPal 2 Smartwatch

The Verizon Gizmo smartwatch comes highly recommended and is advertised as a very high-tech smartwatch, but is it?

LG is a well-respected, established brand, which is why, when saw their logo on this, I expected a quality product, but this smartwatch doesn't even qualify as decent. The number of negative reviews far outweighs the few good reviews, and I would advise you not to purchase this, also if you do find it for sale somewhere.

Verizon seems to have discontinued the production of this Gizmo smartwatch, and so it won't work even if you buy it. A costly product from a reputable brand that does nothing but disappoint.

A Buyer's Guide for GPS Smartwatches for Kids

What should I look for when purchasing a GPS smartwatch for my kid?

1. Geo-fencing

Geo-fencing, as the name suggests, is a geographical parameter that you can set on the smartwatch. It can then be programmed to perform an action (such as to send an alert) if your child steps outside the boundaries you set.

2. LBS (Location-Based Service)

LBS is the less famous brother of GPS. While GPS locates your device through a GPS receptor placed inside it, LBS tracks a device using its' mobile signal. LBS uses GSM cell towers to locate your child's device.

3. Range

You'll want to keep in mind that smartwatches that work through Bluetooth (rather than the cellular network) only have a limited range. While they may provide an accurate location nearby (30-50 feet), they don't do much on more considerable distances.

4. Accuracy

Obviously, it's essential to look for a watch that's as accurate as possible because you don't just want to know the general area where your child is, do you? The more estimation there is, the more room for mistake.

And so, you'll want to look for a GPS device, since GPS is the most accurate locating option. While it also allows for some error, this doesn't usually go to more than 100 ft, whereas the error margin for LBS devices starts at 100 ft and can be much larger. Bluetooth, as mentioned, is only accurate for a limited space range, so GPS would probably be your best option.

5. SOS Alerts

One of the most important aspects to consider, SOS Alerts are crucial both for your child's safety and for your mental well-being. A device with SOS Alerts allows your child to push/press a button if they are in a stressful or dangerous situation, and the device will send you an alert. Not only that, but it can also be programmed to set out alerts to multiple lines and numbers, such as the Emergency line, and it will keep calling until the call is answered. We would recommend getting a device with SOS Alerts on.

6. Frequency

Like phones, smartwatches offer various frequencies, from 2G to 4G (and soon enough, 5G). Your best bet would be purchasing a 4G smartwatch because 2G and 3G frequencies are slowly becoming a thing of the past. As more and more 2G and 3G towers are closed down to make way for 5G ones, such devices also become useless.

If you do decide to go with a 2G or a 3G model, we encourage you also to purchase a SpeedTalk Mobile SIM Card. Your smartwatch will need a SIM card to connect to a network, make calls, etc. SpeedTalk supports 2G, 3G, and 4G so that it would be useful for older models. You can check their coverage here.

7. Battery Life

Obviously, in this case, the bigger, the better. Generally, most smartwatches have a limited battery life, depending on the usage, but you want to look for a device with at least 400-500 mAH. If it's bigger than that, then that's even better.

8. Water-proof

It's essential to pick a device that is waterproof because, as we know, kids get wet. Be it from rain or splashing about in the bathroom sink, chances are their smartwatch will sustain a fair bit of water, and so, you should look for a device that has a rating of IP67 or higher.

Beware, though, IP67 means "water-resistant", meaning it can sustain some water contact though will at some point break. IP68, however, means actually "waterproof", signifying water won't hurt it, regardless of exposure.

9. Ease of Use

Depending on your child's age, it will be vital that you buy a device that is easy to use (e.g., has a big, kid-friendly screen, big, visible buttons, etc.). You'll also want to look for one that doesn't have a too-complicated wrist band that children can use easily.

10. Two-Way Calling

Two-way calling isn't mandatory, a lot of watches don't have such a thing enabled, and this one depends strictly on your preference. If your child is already glued to their smartphone, you might find this a bit redundant, but two-way calling is an available feature for those who want it, and it allows your child to call one among a list of programmed numbers, as well as receive calls from them. It has the added benefit of limiting the number of people who can call the device – keeping your child from interacting with strangers on it.

11. Games

Another non-mandatory feature, but one that might make the watch more fun for your child. On the other hand, games could also distract them from homework or school and drain the battery life sooner, so decide whether or not gaming is a must for your kid.

12. Camera

Children don't need a camera on their smartwatch, but children will most likely enjoy having one.

As you can see, the last three points aren't mandatory but will make the device more appealing to your child (and maybe to you, too).

Meta: GPS Smartwatches for kids are an excellent way to track children's location. Our unbiased reviews offer details and pros and cons to help choose the best smartwatch for your kid.