Getting kids up and about isn’t just good for them, it can build a routine that can keep them healthy for life. Easy right? Not quite. As parents, we’ve got our work cut out. Gaming? Phones? Tough to compete with. One thing that can help is grabbing one of the growing range of fitness trackers out there, like the popular FitBit Ace 2 (Available on Amazon).
But what other activity trackers are out there? Today, we’re hunting out the best Fitbit alternative for kids. Which of the competing fitness bands are actually good, or better than the Ace 2?
- Battery Life: 30-day stand-by, 7-day normal use
- Compatible with phones: Android 6.0+ and iOS 9.0+
- Sleep tracking: Included
- Water resistant: 50M/5ATM
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- Compatible with phones: iOS 9.0/Android 6.0 or above
- Sleep tracking: 24/7 monitoring
- Water resistant: IP68
- Battery Life: Up to 18 days
- Compatible with phones: Yes
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistant: 5 ATM
- Battery Life: 1 year
- Compatible with phones: Yes, Smartphone compatible
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistant: Yes, swim-friendly
- Battery Life: 3-5 days
- Compatible with phones: Android 4.4+, IOS 8.0+
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistant: IP68 waterproof
- Battery Life: lasts at least two weeks
- Compatible with phones: compatible with Android and iOS
- Sleep tracking: yes, but inconsistent
- Water resistant: yes, but with issues
- Battery Life: 7-10 days
- Compatible with phones: Android 5 / iOS 9.0 or above
- Sleep tracking: Advanced sleep monitor with awake, light, and deep sleep tracking
- Water resistant: IP68 waterproof
- Battery Life: few days
- Compatible with phones: Android 4.4 & above, IOS 8.0 & above
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistant: IP68
- Battery Life: Up to 4-5 days
- Compatible with phones: Smartphone
- Sleep tracking: Yes, with automatic sleep tracking
- Water resistant: Yes
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days
- Compatible with phones: Smartphones
- Sleep tracking: Yes (with accuracy concerns)
- Water resistant: Yes
Biggerfive Kids Smart Watch
Robust, entertaining, and motivational, perfect for keeping kids engaged in staying active and monitoring their health. A worthy investment for parents.
Prices checked: 17th April, 00:15:42
Diving into the BIGGERFIVE Kids Smart Watch
Ever wrestled with a gadget that just won't play nice? Not the case here. The Biggerfive Kids Smart Watch wraps around little wrists like a ninja—stealthy, comfortable, and totally on their side. It's like the Energizer Bunny of smartwatches, keeping going...and going, thanks to a battery life that just won't quit. Plus, with health tracking in its arsenal, it's turning kiddos into mini wellness warriors! And for the little mermaids and mermen in your life, it's waterproof—so dive in!
The Niggles and Quibbles
But, alas, no hero is without a heel (or a short charger cable?). Yes, charging might have you playing 'find the nearest plug' more often than you'd like. And, shhh, it's a bit of a silent type—no message pings here. The absence of a camera might also have budding photographers a bit miffed. As for games? A modest lineup means your little ones won't be spoilt for choice.
Stacking Up Against the Playground Competition
So, how does it stand in the showdown against its peers? It's like the kid who's great at sports but hasn't quite got the hang of Snapchat. It nails the health and durability challenges but doesn't quite hit the mark when it comes to staying connected and entertained. It's the tortoise in a race of hares—steady and reliable, with a splash of 'could do better'.
The Bottom Line: To Buy or Not to Buy?
On the fence about the BIGGERFIVE Kids Smart Watch? Here's the nitty-gritty: it's a cushy, no-fuss companion for your little ones with stamina that'll outlast even the most sugar-fueled playdates. But, it might leave them hanging when they want to snap pics or gab with pals. In short, it's got the makings of a playground staple, with a few 'ifs' and 'buts' to keep in mind.
- Comfortable: Can be worn for extended periods without discomfort.
- User-friendly interface: Simplifies navigation for kids.
- Long battery life: Minimizes frequent charging interruptions.
- Health monitoring: Includes step counting and heart rate tracking.
- Durability: Well-constructed to withstand kids' active lifestyles.
- Short charging cable: May be inconvenient for charging in some scenarios.
- No message notifications: Limits communication capabilities.
- No camera: Misses out on photo-taking fun for kids.
Fitness Watch
Sturdy, reliable and packed with features, the Amzhero smartwatch is ideal for kids on the go. Its affordability and robust design make it a worthy investment for parents.
Prices checked: 17th April, 00:15:42
Meet Your New Pocket-Sized Personal Trainer
Ever wished you had a fitness coach tucked away in your watch? Enter the 'Fitness Watch with Bluetooth Call' – it's like a gym guru and a nurse rolled into one sleek wrist companion! Monitoring everything from heart thumps to oxygen levels, it's determined to keep you in the pink of health. Feeling stressed? It's got that covered too. And when the sandman visits, it keeps an eye on your zzz's, making sure you're well-rested for the next day's adventures.
It's Not Just Smart, It's a Smarty-Pants
What tickled our fancy? The round-the-clock health watch, that's what! This nifty gadget throws in continuous updates on your wellbeing, without you lifting a finger. Fancy a chat while jogging? With a built-in mic and crystal-clear speaker, gab away hands-free. And if you worry about digital FOMO, fret not – it keeps you in the loop with all the digital goss from texts to tweets.
Not Just a Pretty Face
Now, let's not beat around the bush – some folks have grumbled about Bluetooth hiccups and a grudge against updates. But let's talk turkey. With its Jack-of-all-trades features and a price that won't have your wallet crying, it's a no-brainer for people on the hunt for a trusty digital sidekick. And when you stack it up against the big dogs in the game, this contender punches well above its weight in the value-for-money ring.
Why Settle for Less When You Can Have It All?
Bottom line: if you're after a gadget that won't break the bank yet spoils you with a smorgasbord of features, then this is your golden ticket. It's comfy, it's clever, and it's committed to your health and happiness. Whether you're a workout warrior or just dipping your toes in the fitness pool, it's the pal you need by your side.
- Durability: IP68 waterproof rating ensures resilience during kids' activities.
- Health Tracking: Continuous health monitoring keeps parents informed about their child's well-being.
- User-Friendly: The watch’s compatibility with popular smartphones makes it accessible for most kids.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 days of battery life minimises frequent charging.
- Affordability: Great value for money with a wealth of features without additional costs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Some users report issues with maintaining a stable connection.
- Software Updates: Occasional challenges with updates can cause inconvenience and limit functionality.
Amazfit Band 7 Activity Fitness Tracker
Sturdy, reliable and packed with essential features, Amazfit Band 7 is designed for active kids and teens seeking a stylish fitness companion. With its competitive price and robust build, it's a smart investment for monitoring health and activity levels.
Check Latest PriceThe Lowdown on the Amazfit Band 7 Activity Fitness Tracker
So, you're on the hunt for a fitness tracker for your pint-sized powerhouse? This activity watch isn't here to play hide and seek – it's front and centre with its 18-day battery life. Trust me, that's longer than most kids' attention spans. No more nightly charging rituals, because let's be real, who remembers that every night?
Features That'll Make You Go 'Wow!'
This nifty gadget isn't just about counting steps. It's got a toothbrush timer, so your kids can polish those pearly whites to the tune of perfect timing, and an alarm clock to nudge them awake for school (good luck with that). Plus, it tracks all the running, jumping, and cartwheeling they do with spot-on accuracy – heart rate, sleep, you name it.
Style and Comfort: Check!
It's sleek, it's chic, it's so lightweight, your kid will forget it's there. And the price? It won't have your wallet running for the hills. But here's the rub – the strap might be a tad too big for tiny wrists. A little tweak here and there, or a strap swap, and you're golden.
But Wait, There's a 'But'
Some naysayers have whispered about step tracking going awry. And the display? It's like that one trick-or-treater who won't wear a costume – no customisation. Want an always-on display? Not in this house. But don't let that scare you off – it's not the bogeyman.
Why It's a Pocket Rocket in the Fitness Tracker Universe
Comparing it to its kin, the activity tracker is like a superhero in a sea of sidekicks. Its battery life could outlast a family road trip, its sports tracking is like having a coach on your wrist, and the price tag is sweeter than a bedtime story.
So, Is It Worth the Pocket Money?
In a nutshell, it's a yes from me. Despite the strap sizing tango and a display that's more vanilla than Neapolitan, it's a solid thumbs-up. For parents seeking a wallet-friendly, feature-stuffed tracker, this could be the 'happily ever after' to your fitness fairytale.
Bottom line: The Amazfit Band 7 Activity Fitness Tracker is a serious contender in the kiddie fitness ring. It's like the Mary Poppins of trackers – practically perfect in every way that counts. So, why not make it your little one's next digital bestie?
- Long-lasting battery: With up to a week of regular use, it's ideal for busy kids on the go.
- Versatile apps: Features like a toothbrush timer and alarm clock appeal to kids' routines.
- Comfortable and lightweight: Perfect for all-day wear without discomfort.
- Affordable: Great value with a range of features at a low price point.
- Accurate tracking: Steps, heart rate, and sleep are monitored with precision.
- Strap size limitations: May not fit smaller wrists without adjustments.
- Limited display options: Customization and always-on display may be restricted.
Garmin vivofit Jr.2 Fitness Tracker
Sturdy, reliable, and offering a magical experience, the Garmin vivofit Jr. 2 is perfect for young explorers eager to complete daily activity goals and join in adventures with beloved Disney characters.
Prices checked: 17th April, 00:15:42
Diving into the Fun Factor
Cracking the code to get kids off the couch, the Garmin vivofit Jr.2 Fitness Tracker for Kids comes with a zesty adventure game that turns daily steps into epic quests. Does it work? You betcha! The little tykes are scampering around, chasing dragons or whatever their hearts desire, all to snag those shiny virtual rewards. Built like a tiny tank, this wearable withstands the rough and tumble of playground antics and even joins in for a splash during swim time, no sweat!
But wait, there's a 'but'...
Now, don't get me wrong, it's not all rainbows and butterflies. Got a kiddo with skin as sensitive as their taste in music? The strap might just strike a sour note, leading to potential allergies. And while it's built tough, some users whisper tales of straps and dials that couldn't quite go the distance. Plus, if your mini-me is expecting a screen brighter than their future or a game more complex than their homework, you might hear a tiny sigh of disappointment.
Throwing Down the Gauntlet
When it's in the ring with other pint-sized fitness pals, how does it hold up? It flexes its muscles with an interactive app that's like a digital sticker chart gone wild, promising pool-proof escapades and a battery life that outlasts a child's attention span. But let's not gloss over the fact that it could play a bit rough with delicate skin or have a few hiccups with strap and screen tenacity.
The Bottom Line: Worth the Pocket Money?
Is the activity watch for Kids the golden ticket to active living for your offspring? If you're all about gamifying the grind and can overlook a possible strap scuffle or two, it's a solid "yes". Just be sure to do a skin test, because nobody wants a wearable that wears out its welcome with an itch.
- Encourages activity: In-built adventure game that rewards movement.
- Task management: Task reminders with rewards system to motivate chores completion.
- Durable design: Suitable for a range of activities including swimming.
- No charging needed: Exceptional battery life lasting about a year.
- App integration: User-friendly companion app enhances the experience.
- Skin sensitivity: Some users have reported allergic reactions to the band.
- Wear and tear: Band may deteriorate quickly; screen susceptible to scratches.
- Price concerns: Durability issues make the price seem high.
Kids Smart Watch
Adorned with a vibrant design, this kids' smartwatch is perfect for monitoring health and encouraging physical activity. Its skin-friendly strap and customisable wallpaper make it especially appealing.
Prices checked: 17th April, 00:15:42
Tickled Pink or Time for an Upgrade?
Ever tried strapping a power plant to your kid's wrist? Well, the Kids Smart Watch for Girls might just be the next best thing, with battery life that just keeps on ticking. You won't find any itchy straps here; it's as comfy as a cloud in pyjamas, thanks to its skin-friendly design. And for all the busy bees out there, setting this baby up is as easy as teaching a kangaroo to hop. Plus, your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief – it's quite the bargain!
Does it Pass the Kid Test or Fall at the First Hurdle?
Now, don't get your hopes up to the moon – this little gadget isn't without its niggles. The screen's as pixelated as a 90s video game, which might have the tech-savvy nippers turning up their noses. There's also a bit of a 'cloak and dagger' situation with the app's security – not quite the digital Fort Knox. And for the mini Serena Williams in the family, no tennis? Game, set, and match missed opportunity.
In the Arena of Tiny Tech Titans, How Does It Stack Up?
When duking it out with its pint-sized peers, this watch throws a mean punch in the battery department, and its comfort will have kids forgetting they're even wearing it. Not to mention, it's kind on the purse strings. But let's not gloss over the fact that it could do with a screen boost and a cybersecurity beef-up, which could leave some parents playing helicopter over their child's wrist tech.
So, Worth the Pocket Money or Not?
When it comes to the crunch, the activity watch for Girls has its head held high in the playground of affordable tech. It's like the Energizer Bunny, keeps going, and won't rub your kiddo up the wrong way. Sure, it might not dazzle with its display, and the app might give you a grey hair or two, but it's all about getting the young ones moving and grooving in style. So, is it a hit? For the active ankle-biters out there, it's a resounding 'heck, yes!' – with a tiny side of 'but keep your eyes peeled'.
- Great battery life: Lasts 3-5 days, ideal for children's constant use.
- Skin friendly: Comfortable wear, avoids skin irritation.
- Easy installation: Simple setup, making it user-friendly for kids and parents.
- Good price: Affordable without sacrificing quality or features.
- Encourages physical activity: Packed with 19 sports modes for diverse play and fitness tracking.
- Low screen resolution: Could be sharper for a better visual experience.
- App security concerns: Accompanying app needs improvement in data protection.
- No specific design for kids: Could benefit from more kid-focused features and design elements.
Amazfit Band 5
Sturdy, reliable, and versatile, the Amazfit Band 5 is an excellent choice for kids who need a durable and feature-rich fitness tracker without breaking the bank.
Check Latest PriceExpert Verdict on the Amazfit Band 5 - Fitness Tracker Orange
So, you're on the hunt for a Fitbit alternative for the kids, and you stumble upon the activity watch. Let's cut to the chase – is this the gadget that'll make you the coolest parent on the block? With its easy-peasy setup via the Zepp app and a Bluetooth handshake smoother than a James Bond introduction, it's off to a good start. Fancy customizing the menu and watch faces? Check – it's like having a digital chameleon on your wrist.
Now, who wouldn't want a little genie in their gadget? With Alexa integration, this band is ready to obey your commands – no magic lamp required. And the battery life? We're talking a solid fortnight of juice, so forget the nightly recharge ritual. Diversity in workout options? From making a splash in the pool to perfecting that downward dog, it's got your back (and arms, and legs).
Here's where it gets scientific – SpO2 and heart rate monitoring are like having a mini health lab strapped to your wrist, and with Physical Activity Intelligence (PAI), it's smart enough to give you a nudge when you need it. It's also light as a feather and comfy enough to forget you're wearing it. But, let's be real – it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Syncing up with health apps isn't its strong suit, the font size could do with a growth spurt, and the screen's sunbathing capabilities are, well, not great.
When it comes to bang for your buck, it's like hitting the jackpot. An inexpensive tag with a heavyweight feature list? That's a yes from us. While it might not be perfect, it punches well above its weight class in value.
Is it a Smart Buy for Your Little Ones?
Considering its cornucopia of features and its wallet-friendly charm, the activity tracker is a contender that's hard to ignore. If you're eyeballing an affordable Fitbit alternative for the youngsters, this might just be your winner. It's not just about counting steps; it's about stepping up the game in fitness tracking – without breaking the bank.
- Easy setup: Quick pairing with the Zepp app, offering convenience.
- Customisable interface: Ability to change menu and watch faces to suit preferences.
- Voice commands: Alexa integration simplifies tasks and queries.
- Notifications: Clear and prompt updates for staying connected.
- Battery life: Impressive duration, up to two weeks on a single charge.
- Limited smartwatch features: May not satisfy all user demands for a smartwatch.
- Syncing issues: Can struggle with automatic health app synchronization.
- Screen visibility: Poor readability in direct sunlight can be frustrating.
Fitvii Fitness Tracker
Robust and engaging, FITVII's smartwatch motivates kids with its comprehensive activity tracking and vibrant display. It's a perfect buy for tech-savvy youngsters.
Check Latest PriceDiving into the FITVII Fitness Tracker
Ever wondered how your little ones can stay on top of their game, health-wise, without breaking the piggy bank? Enter the Fitvii Fitness Tracker, a nifty gadget that's both a wallet-friendly and a feature-rich pal for the young ones. It's like having a mini personal trainer wrapped around your kid's wrist! With its knack for counting steps, spying on sleep patterns, keeping an eye on heartbeats, and boasting a smorgasbord of exercise tracking wizardry, it's like the Swiss Army knife of kiddie fitness.
The Bright Spots
Why is this pint-sized powerhouse charming the socks off parents? For starters, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Plus, it's tougher than a toddler in a tantrum, has an app that's as easy to use as playdough, and features a watch face that's as clear as a child's conscience. It's practically child's play to use!
The Not-So-Great Bits
But, hold your horses. It's not all sunshine and rainbows. Some folks have furrowed their brows at the blood pressure readings, which seem to be playing a game of 'guess who' rather than giving the real deal. And the exercise tracking? It's like trying to keep a score of hide and seek – a bit hit or miss, especially when it comes to treadmill antics. Then there's the durability debate and a few grumbles about customer service that might leave you with a bit of a sour taste.
Stacking Up Against The Competition
So, how does this kiddie contender weigh in against its peers? It's like comparing hopscotch to double dutch. On the one hand, you've got a full suite of features that'll make any child feel like a fitness pro, all without asking for too much pocket money. But then, it's tripping up on the reliability front, making you wonder if it's more of a fair-weather friend than a trusty sidekick.
Should You Wrap This Tracker Around Your Kid's Wrist?
Alright, the million-dollar question: is the FITVII Fitness Tracker the answer to your kid's health-tracking prayers? Well, it's packing a punch in the features department and it’s as cost-effective as a garage sale steal. But it's wise to approach with a dash of caution – keep those eyes peeled for potential hiccups on the accuracy and durability front.
- Comprehensive tracking: Offers step counting, sleep monitoring, heart rate, and more.
- Affordability: Great value for the features provided.
- Diverse exercise options: Supports 20+ sports modes.
- Customer support: Quick and helpful response regarding any issues.
- Design and usability: Comfortable, with a large screen and user-friendly app.
- Inaccurate blood pressure readings: Blood pressure monitor provides unreliable results.
- Poor customer service from seller: Issues with seller support and product returns.
- Exercise tracking discrepancies: Some inconsistencies in tracking, especially on treadmills.
Tipmant Fitness Trackers
Sturdy, reliable and easy-to-navigate, ideal for kids' everyday adventures. With precise health tracking, it's a worthy investment for mindful parents.
Check Latest PriceThe Lowdown on Tipmant Fitness Trackers for Kids
Alright, let’s dive into the world of kiddie wrist tech without the fluff. activity watch hit the scene with a bit of swagger, boasting a design that wouldn't look amiss in a playground fashion show. It's robust enough to take a tumble in the sandpit and has a battery that lasts longer than a child's attention span – which, let's be honest, is no mean feat. The step and sleep tracking is like a digital diary of your child's energy levels, and with a screen that's clearer than their reasons for not eating broccoli, you won't hear any complaints about not being able to see their stats.
Tickled Pink or Blue with the Features
What’s not to love about a gadget that looks good, sticks around longer than grandma's Sunday visits, and actually gets kids excited about moving? Tipmant doesn't just flirt with functionality; it goes steady with it. The display is as vibrant as a peacock in full flirt mode, and it's so comfy, kids will forget they're wearing it faster than they forget to clean their rooms.
The Niggles and Quibbles
But wait, it's not all sunshine and step counting. Heart rate and blood pressure readings can be more erratic than a toddler off their nap schedule, which isn't ideal when you're trying to keep tabs on junior's ticker. And if you thought the price of kitting out your child in the latest trends was steep, wait until you see the cost to replace a strap on this device. Plus, nobody likes app hiccups, especially when they derail your data diving.
Stacking Up Against the Competition
How does it size up to the rest of the kid-friendly fitness band gang? Tipmant brings the style and the staying power, but when it comes to coughing up the cold, hard health data you crave, it might leave you hanging like a forgotten PE kit. Customization isn’t its strong suit either, which can be a bit of a bummer for the picky pint-sized wearer.
Jury's Out: Yay or Nay?
So, is it worth your hard-earned cash? activity tracker play the long game with battery life and have the basics down, but they can be a bit of a wild card for detailed health insights. If you're after a no-frills fitness buddy for your offspring, it could be a match. But if you're after the full monty of health tracking, you might want to keep looking.
- Attractive design: Sleek build that appeals to kids and parents.
- Long battery life: Few days of use without need for recharging.
- Accurate tracking: Reliable step and sleep monitoring for health insights.
- Vivid display: Clear, colourful screen for easy reading.
- Comfortable wear: Lightweight and non-intrusive on children's wrists.
- Inconsistent heart rate data: Heart and blood pressure readings are often inaccurate.
- Expensive accessories: High costs for replacement straps can add up.
- Customisation limits: Few options for personalising watch faces and data storage.
- Application issues: Some users report app glitches and lost workout details.
Polar Unite
Sturdy, reliable, and engaging, designed to track activity levels, sleep, and exercise, making fitness fun for kids.
Check Latest PriceDiving into the Polar Unite - Fitness Watch
Ever embarked on a quest for a kiddo-friendly timepiece that won't break the piggy bank yet doesn’t skimp on the cool gadgets? This activity watch hits the sweet spot with its nifty blend of functionality and wallet-friendliness. This little gem packs a punch with its svelte contour, on-the-dot step, distance, and sweat session tracking, topped off with an app that dishes out the skinny on exercise zeal and calorie combustion. Plus, who can resist a device that goes from zero to ready faster than a tyke on a sugar rush? Not to mention, it's as light as a feather – no wrist-drag for the playground crowd!
A Few Wrinkles in the Fabric
But hold the phone, it's not all skipping ropes and high fives. This activity tracker sometimes drops the ball with its GPS doodling squiggly lines rather than routes, and its heart rate sidekick devices could use a pep talk on better communication. Syncing more often feels like a wild goose chase than a smooth glide, and Bluetooth seems to have a mind of its own. And, the setup? Let's just say it's not exactly child's play.
Throwing it in the Ring With the Contenders
So, how does it measure up to the Joneses of the kiddie fitness watch world? It's punching above its weight class in the value-for-money and accuracy departments, making it a solid contender. But when it comes to GPS tracking and tech harmony, it's like that one kid in dodgeball who's got spirit but can't quite dodge the ball.
So, What's the Final Score?
Here's the scoop: the Polar Unite is like a triple scoop ice cream cone with a couple of unexpected sprinkles – tasty value, precise tracking, and cool features that kids adore. But mind the GPS wanderlust, the occasional tech tantrum, and the setup that might have you calling in a lifeline. It's a bit of a rollercoaster ride – thrilling yet bumpy – so buckle up and consider if it's the right ride for your little adventurer.
- Great training watch: Offers a wealth of features for a comprehensive fitness tracking.
- Quick initial charge: Charges up to 75% in just an hour.
- Rich data collection: Provides detailed insights on performance and progress.
- Slim design: Perfect for all-day wear, not bulky or inconvenient.
- Accurate recording: Tracks steps, distance, and exercise reliably.
- Incomplete GPS routes: GPS tracking sometimes fails to capture the full route.
- Poor feedback on sensor use: Peripheral heart rate devices lack clear feedback.
- Unreliable upload & sync: Syncing workouts can be inconsistent, which may frustrate users.
Mgaolo Kids Smart Watch
Sturdy, vibrant and tailored for young tech enthusiasts, Mgaolo's smartwatch is an ideal entry-level device for children seeking a blend of fun and functionality without the hefty price tag.
Prices checked: 17th April, 00:15:42
Unwrapping the Mgaolo Kids Smart Watch: A Parent's Perspective
Let's dive straight into the deep end, shall we? This activity watch for Boys Girls is like a pint-sized personal trainer, cheerleader, and digital artist all wrapped into one wrist-hugging package. With a swipe and a tap, mini-me's can switch up their watch faces faster than a chameleon in a disco. But it's not all about the looks; this gizmo is as user-friendly as a rubber ducky in a bathtub.
What's the real scoop on getting kids off the couch? This smartwatch might just be the nudge they need. It's like having a fitness coach on their wrist, minus the whistle and the 'no pain, no gain' mantra. With step counting, exercise tracking, and even a heart rate monitor, it's a silent champion for health, pushing kids towards more action and less screen time.
Robustness and Battery Brilliance
Now, let's talk durability because we all know kids are to electronics what Godzilla is to Tokyo. The Mgaolo is a tough cookie, shrugging off splashes and dives like a pro, and its battery life is the stuff of legends. Imagine a whole week without the "Mum, where's the charger?" drama. Bliss, right?
Limits and Quirks
But wait, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. The silent alarm could have some snoozing past their school alarm – there's no audio wake-up call, just a gentle buzz. And if you're planning on setting alarms or tweaking settings, you'd better be chummy with the companion app; it's the gatekeeper to customisation. Now, on privacy, let's just say the app is a bit nosy, asking for more permissions than a teenager past curfew.
Value for Money? Absolutely.
Compared to other kiddie wearables that cost a small fortune, this one doesn't make your wallet weep. It's a veritable Swiss Army knife of features for the young 'uns, at a price that won't have you eating beans on toast for a month.
The Verdict
Bottom line, if you're in the market for a kid's smartwatch that doesn't break the bank but packs a punch in features, the Mgaolo makes a solid bid. It's a nifty gadget that'll have your kids doing laps around the garden and checking their pulse for fun. Just be mindful of the digital strings attached and the privacy dance you'll have to do with the app.
- Great value: Offers comprehensive smartwatch features at a lower cost.
- Kid-friendly design: Customizable and engaging with fun watch faces.
- Easy to use: Simple interface and navigation tailored for kids.
- Encourages activity: Comes with fitness tracking to motivate physical movement.
- Durable and waterproof: Robust enough for swimming and everyday play.
- Limited sound options: Only vibration alerts, lacking sound for alarms.
- App reliance: Requires a companion app for many features, including alarms.
- Privacy issues: App demands extensive permissions, raising privacy concerns.
Kids activity tracker buyer’s guide
What to look for, what they can do & more!
In this speedy fitness tracker guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get the best fitness tracker for your little one. You don’t need to splash out on the latest Fitbit tracker for your child to get something amazing, that will get them in shape.
Kids fitness trackers are not the same as smart watches
One main difference with fitness trackers is that they have a smaller, more watch-like display. No colour touchscreens here. Some children’s smart watches do have fitness and task timers built in, but it defeats the object of getting them away from screens, if they can do everything a smart phone can do!
Simple one-button controls
One good benefit to this kind of minimal screen is that you don’t need to charge them up each day, as they have regular watch batteries that last up to a year. And another common feature with children’s fitness bands and bracelets is there’s no complex controls. A simple, single button toggles between options.
What kinds of things can actually be tracked?
Your child’s fitness tracker will do a lot more than just track their fitness. While the functions you’ll get from each child’s tracker will differ between bands, here’s some handy time-savers and helpful stuff you can expect:
- Tooth brushing / chore timer – When it comes to brushing teeth, kids tend to start… and done! While you can stand over them, counting down the seconds like some evil overlord, using a smart band can save you the hassle, and also makes it more fun for the little ones.
- Working in conjunction with an app – Most kids fitness watches will have some kind of app integration, where the parent can track progress, how much they’ve done, and also reward the child for following their routine.
- Heart rate (pulse) monitoring – Any good fitness tracker will have a proper heart rate monitor. It’s at the ‘heart’ of everything from checking your child’s calories burned, to monitoring how much quality sleep they’re receiving. There’s plenty of good Fitbit alternatives that do just the same, but cost a lot less.
Quick gotchas to look out for
So what can catch you out when you’re picking out one of these fitness trackers? It’s easy to send stuff back on places like Amazon, but it saves time if you don’t have to. Here’s some quick-fire tips to getting it right first time.
- Battery life – look for a watch that’s either rechargeable via USB, or has a batter life of at least 12 months.
- Water resistant – It’s hard enough to get kids to wash their hands, without getting them to be careful not to get their fitness tracker wet. Look for a watch that’s at least water resistant, and preferably one that’s OK to wear in a swimming pool.
- Bath time blues – Oddly enough, a lot of Fitbit alternatives in the kids activity tracker department are perfectly happy in the swimming pool, but will break if taken a warm bath. Check if your watch can go in the bath before taking the plunge.
Resources and further reading
Related to kids fitness trackers
- The NHS website has some really good info on the levels of physical activity young people should undertake.
- Similarly, the World Health Organization has a handy fact sheet on sports and exercise advice for 5 – 17 year olds.
- If you missed it, there was a really helpful guide in the Telegraph about whether or not you should make your child wear a fitness tracker.
- Kids Health have some excellent information on taking your child’s pulse (something all these Fitbit alternatives do), including what is considered a normal heart rate.
If you’re looking for a fun workout video to put those new fitness trackers through their paces, check out this one on youtube:
