The best tablets for kids: Buying guide, models, benefits, and tips for parents

Tablets for children have become an essential resource for both learning and entertainment for children. If outdoor games and traditional toys once dominated childhood, today technology is part of children's daily lives. Choosing the best tablet for children, however, is no easy task: factors such as to maximise security and your enjoyment., the durability, parental control and the quality of the content are crucial for parents to make an informed decision. In this comprehensive article, we take an in-depth look at what to look for in a children's tablet, which models are currently standing out, and delve into everything you need to know before purchasing a tablet tailored for your children, integrating the latest trends, expert advice, and the best recommendations for each age and need.

Why choose a tablet for children?

Children's tablets They are specifically designed to meet the recreational and educational needs of young children, combining entertainment with the development of cognitive, creative, and social skills. They also offer a safer environment than conventional devices, thanks to their parental control systems and resistance to falls and impacts. They offer access to educational apps, interactive books, games, and audiovisual content tailored to each age.

Digital learning today is enhanced by interactive platforms and apps that foster creativity, autonomy, and critical thinking. They are also helpful for parents on long trips or when they need to concentrate, as experts emphasize: A tablet can be a perfect solution to entertain and educate at the same time.

What features should a tablet for children have?

When selecting the best tablet for kids, it's essential to consider technical and functional aspects to ensure a positive and safe experience. We've highlighted the key points:

• Durability and rugged design: Children often handle devices without too much caution, so it is essential that the tablet has a reinforced protective case, preferably silicone, and if possible, guaranteed against damage. The size and weight should also be adapted to facilitate gripping and mobility.
• Advanced Parental Controls: For parents' peace of mind, it's essential to have tools that allow them to set usage limits, filter web content, block or approve apps, and prevent accidental purchases. The most comprehensive systems allow for the creation of separate profiles and tailor the experience to different ages and needs.
• Adapted educational software and content: It's a good idea for a tablet to have educational apps and games, books, drawing apps, and other educational options. Many models include pre-installed content or access to secure stores, such as Google Play Kids or Amazon Kids+.
• Screen and eye health: The size should be appropriate for the child's age: 7-8 inch for the little ones and up 10 inches For seniors, it's advisable to choose screens with a blue light filter and low brightness, which prevent eye fatigue. The resolution should allow for clear viewing of multimedia content.
• Performance and autonomy: A smooth processor, sufficient RAM (2GB or more), and adequate storage (minimum 16GB, preferably 32GB, or expandable with microSD) are important for comfortable use. The battery should ensure several hours of battery life to avoid interruptions during travel or intensive use.
• Price and value for money: The most expensive tablets aren't always the best; look for an option that fits your budget but offers protection, parental controls, and stable performance.

Types of tablets for children: Children's models and general options

There are two main groups of tablets for children on the market: those designed specifically for children and general-purpose tablets, adapted with cases and parental control apps. Let's analyze both alternatives:

Specific children's tablets

• Reinforced design and shockproof cases. Ideal for little ones (ages 3 to 7), they often feature colorful cases, handles, and stands. Many models include stylus pens, adjustable stands, or additional accessories.
• Pre-installed software and content. These tablets typically come with age-appropriate apps, games, and books, as well as safe environments like KIDOZ, Google Kids Space, or Amazon Kids+, which offer restricted web browsing and no access to inappropriate content.
• Very advanced parental controls. They allow you to create different profiles, limit screen time, manage downloads, and, in some cases, even monitor your children's activity.

General tablets adapted for children

• Models from well-known brands such as Samsung, Apple, Lenovo, Xiaomi, and Huawei. If you add a good one Silicone sheath and parental controls are set up (Family Link for Android, Screen Time on iPadOS), they can be an ideal option for children 8 years and older, offering better specifications and a longer lifespan.
• Greater versatility. They allow you to install any app from the store, are suitable for different ages, and can be used by the whole family.
• Frequent system updates and security patches.

Benefits of children's tablets

Beyond entertainment, children's tablets can be a great learning tool, helping in the development of literacy, logical thinking, the creativity and language learning. In addition, they promote autonomy and the effective use of technology, a key skill in today's world.

• They promote independent learning: Educational apps and interactive games stimulate curiosity and problem-solving skills.
• They develop digital skills: They introduce children to the basic operation of electronic devices in a safe environment.
• They facilitate communication and creativity: Many models allow you to draw, record videos, take photos, and share files in a controlled manner.
• They are a resource for family conciliation: They can be very useful on trips, in restaurants, or while waiting, helping to keep children busy and calm.

When should a child get a tablet? Recommended age and family advice

The decision about when to give a child a tablet depends on many factors, such as maturity, educational needs, and access to family devices. There's no exact age, but experts agree that personalization and parental support are key. For children under 5, it's advisable to limit use and prioritize physical and social play. For children 6 or 7 years old and older, tablets can be an educational tool when used in controlled settings and for limited periods of time.

Some practical tips include:

• Establish clear rules on daily and weekly usage, as well as limiting screen time.
• Supervise always content and encourage sharing, especially in the early years.
• Teach children the value of quality content and network security.
• Prioritize access to age-appropriate devices with parental controls and educational content.

How to set up a tablet for kids: security and customization

Properly setting up your tablet is essential to ensure your children's safety and adapt the device to their needs. The main operating systems (Android, FireOS, iPadOS) allow you to create child accounts and activate parental control options:

• Create child profiles or separate accounts: This way, children only have access to previously authorized applications, games, and content.
• Set time limits and schedules: Set daily usage times, break times, and periods when the tablet will be unavailable.
• Content filtering: Block inappropriate websites, activate YouTube's safe mode, and limit in-app purchases.
• Install only age-appropriate apps.
• Update your device regularly to ensure security patches.

Best tablets for kids: analysis and comparison of featured models

In the following section, we review The most recommended tablet models for children by experts and families, bringing together both specific children's options and general-purpose tablets that stand out for their durability, parental controls, and performance. All models have been selected for their excellent value, durability, and customization options. Check out the full list of the best tablets for kids in 2023..

BQ Aquaris M10

• Ideal for active children: It's not exclusively a children's tablet, but its shock and scratch resistance and large 10,1" display make it an excellent family option for gaming and learning. It offers a long-lasting battery, perfect for travel.
• Advantages: Long battery life, good overall performance, the ability to install parental controls at the software level, and a compatible protective case.
• Disadvantages: It doesn't include advanced parental controls as standard or pre-installed apps specifically for children.

Clan MotionPro

• Tablet designed in conjunction with Spanish Television. It has a Wii-type controller for interactive games, 35 pre-installed apps (many of them featuring cartoon characters) and Kurio Genius as a parental filter, efficiently blocking access to inappropriate websites.
• Perfect for children ages 3-8 who want to enjoy safe and personalized content.
• Advantages: Advanced parental controls, case and remote included, safe and easy-to-use environment for little ones.
• Disadvantages: More limited performance for demanding apps and games, less frequent system updates.

Sony Xperia Z3 Compact

• Ultra-resistant tablet, resistant to water, dust, shocks and scratches. It's ideal for children who already have some experience and are looking for a durable device for learning, playing, and consuming multimedia, especially in the summer, at the beach, or by the pool.
• Advantages: Submersible, robust, compatible with educational apps and family entertainment.
• Disadvantages: Higher price, somewhat compact size for those looking for larger dimensions.

Currently recommended children's tablet models

• Blackview Tab 8 Kids: 10,1 inches, durable and lightweight silicone case, HD+ display, 4GB RAM, 128GB internal memory (expandable), 6580 mAh battery, powerful processor and Android 12. Includes advanced parental control and stereo speakers.
• SaveFamily Kids 7: 7 inches, Android 10, 1GB RAM, 16GB storage, dual camera, dual parental controls, IPS display, WiFi and Bluetooth.
• Amazon Fire 7 Kids: 7-inch, Fire OS 8, 16GB of storage (expandable), rugged case, and access to Amazon Kids +, which includes thousands of books, videos, and educational games. Very simple and effective parental controls.
• Lenovo Tab M10 HD (3rd Gen): 10,1 inches, stylus-compatible option, child profiles, parental controls, dual Dolby Atmos speakers, long-lasting battery.
• Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite: 8,7 inches, pre-installed Samsung Kids (safe environment and flexible parental controls), expandable storage, and good overall performance.
• Alcatel 1T 7 Kids: Compact, with a silicone case as standard, 7 hours of battery life, built-in Kids mode, and simple parental controls. Ideal for those looking for a very basic and affordable model.

Top brands and most popular alternatives

In addition to the tablets mentioned above, there are other interesting options depending on the child's age and intended use:

• Fisher-Price My First Tablet: Recommended for children 1 year and older, with educational games divided into developmental stages and a song player.
• WOZIFAN: Android 11, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, parental controls, dual camera, IPS HD display, and 3600mAh battery.
• Okaysea: Android 10, 1280x800 IPS display, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, one-year warranty, kid-friendly interface.
• AMIAMO: Android 11, 10-inch IPS display, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, 6000mAh battery, excellent value for money.
• Yestel: Android 11, 16GB expandable storage, designed for low blue light emission, and a large number of pre-installed learning apps.
• VTech Storio Max XL 2.0: Designed for the little ones, it has a 7″ screen, rotating camera, a wide variety of games and drawing, support for photos and videos, messaging, and downloading additional games.
• Keenlove: 8 inches, parental controls, custom profiles, FamilyGroup app for parent-child support, 4000 mAh battery, reduced blue light display.

Comparison of technical specifications and quick data sheet

Tablets for children according to age and use

Age and maturity determine the most appropriate type of tablet and how its use and access to content should be configured:

• From 1 to 5 years: Children's-specific tablets with reinforced cases, simple apps, complete parental controls, and very limited usage time.
• From 6 to 8 years: Children's tablets with more advanced educational apps, restricted internet access, and the ability to install drawing, reading, and creativity apps.
• From 9 to 12 years: General-purpose mid-range tablets with flexible parental controls, personalized profiles, and supervised access to app stores. Explore apps to expand your educational options.
• Over 12 years: Conventional tablets with parental controls, screen time, and download controls; priority is given to screen quality and storage capacity for schoolwork and multimedia.

Advantages and disadvantages of children's tablets

• Advantages: Security, ease of use, access to educational and entertainment content, customization options, and advanced parental controls. Discover how to motivate your creativity with games and activities.
• Disadvantages: Some children's tablets lack technical specifications, have closed systems, and a shorter lifespan compared to mainstream models. Some budget models may have limited updates or support.

Things to consider when buying a tablet for children

Before making a final decision, review the following criteria, recommended by experts and families: .

• Value for money: Evaluate cost against specifications and features.
• Warranty and after-sales service: It is important that you have technical support and the possibility of repair or replacement.
• Accessory Compatibility: There are cases, stylus pens, and stands ideal for protecting and expanding your device's capabilities.
• Update and support: Check if the manufacturer provides regular security and software updates.
• Access to secure app stores: The environment must be adapted to prevent downloads of inappropriate or unsafe content.

Tablet, laptop, or mobile phone? Which device is best for children?

Tablets stand out for their portability, ease of use, and versatility. As a rule, they are the first choice for interactive learning, play, and creativity among children and preteens. Laptops are especially suitable for teens with typing needs or more advanced software (schoolwork, coding, presentations). Mobile phones, on the other hand, are usually reserved for teens with specific communication and mobility needs.

• If you're looking for a device to play, learn, and enjoy multimedia content, a tablet is the best option. It is more intuitive and secure, especially at early ages.
• The laptop is recommended for more complex schoolwork or secondary education.
• Mobile phones should be used under strict supervision, preferably starting in adolescence.

Tips for healthy use of children's tablets

• Clear limits of use: Avoid prolonged use and take frequent active breaks.
• Digital education: Teach your child good practices for safe browsing and responsible use.
• Family participation: Participate in the selection of apps and games, and share activities with them.
• Periodic revision: Update parental controls and review usage history to ensure usage stays within established limits.

Frequently asked questions about children's tablets

• Is it better to have a children's tablet or a general-purpose one? It depends on the age and use. For younger children, a specific children's tablet is usually the most recommended. For older children or families looking for a versatile device, opting for a general-purpose model with a durable case and parental controls can provide greater longevity and versatility.
• Do all tablets include parental controls? No. It's essential to check the features or install third-party apps if they don't come standard.
• Can I find safe and cheap tablets? Yes. There are affordable options that meet basic safety requirements, although they generally offer less power or lower screen and sound quality.
• Which brands are recommended? In addition to those specializing in children's products, brands such as Amazon, Samsung, Lenovo, Xiaomi, and Apple are benchmarks for their durability and software quality.
• Can I expand the tablet's memory? In most models yes, using microSD cards.

The world of children's tablets has evolved considerably, offering safe, durable options tailored to all ages, needs, and budgets. By analyzing the key features, your child's needs, and the advantages of each model, you can choose the best tablet to support their growth, learning, and fun. Always remember to supervise, set limits, and participate in their digital experience to ensure a positive, safe, and nurturing environment.

Related article:

The Ultimate Guide to Kids' Tablets: Recommended Models, Tips, and a Complete Comparison