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Best Phones for Kids 2026

We evaluate kids' phones on parental controls, durability, price, and long-term software support. These are the models we'd actually recommend to parents.

What we look for in a kids' phone

Parental controls — Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android) to set limits
Durability — Case-worthy build or IP water resistance
Long software support — At least 4 years of updates so it lasts
Affordable price — Under $500, ideally under $400

Apple

iPhone SE (4th generation)

4.0

80/100

The iPhone SE 4 brings the A18 chip — same as the iPhone 16 — in a $499 package. It's the best choice for families buying kids their first iPhone, for anyone upgrading from an older SE, or for iPhone loyalists on a tight budget. Parental controls in iOS are unmatched by any Android at any price.

iOS5GApple A183,279mAh, 20W wired128GB / 256GB

From $379 $499refurbished

From $0/mowith trade-in

Buy Refurbished from $379 Get from Mint Mobile

We may earn a commission. See disclosure.

Motorola

Motorola Moto G Power 5G (2025)

3.5

72/100

At $249, the Moto G Power 5G punches well above its weight. The 5,000mAh battery is nearly indestructible, the 50MP camera handles daylight photos well, and 5G connectivity future-proofs the purchase. Motorola's clean Android skin means snappy performance even at this price.

Android5GMediaTek Dimensity 70255,000mAh, 30W wired256GB

From $179 $249refurbished

Buy Refurbished from $179

We may earn a commission. See disclosure.