Best Ipads For Kids – Top 5 Picks & Review

Remember the days of clunky textbooks and scattered worksheets? Today, technology often plays a big role in how our kids learn and play. Think about it: your child might be using a tablet for homework, educational games, or even just to connect with family. But when it comes to choosing an iPad for a child, the choices can feel overwhelming, right? You want the best for them, but where do you even start with all the different models, features, and price tags?

It’s a common dilemma for parents. You’re trying to balance giving your child access to amazing learning tools with making a smart purchase that won’t break the bank or be too complicated. You might be wondering: Which iPad is durable enough for little hands? Which one has the best apps for their age? And how much should you really spend?

This post is here to help clear up the confusion. We’ll break down the key things to consider when picking an iPad for your child, making the decision process much easier. You’ll learn about the different iPad models that are great for kids, what features to look for, and how to set them up safely. Get ready to feel confident in your choice and discover how an iPad can be a fantastic tool for your child’s development and entertainment.

Our Top 5 Ipads For Kids Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Ipads For Kids Detailed Reviews

1. Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet (newest model) ages 6-12. Bright 10.1″ HD screen

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet (newest model) ages 6-12. Bright 10.1" HD screen, includes ad-free content, robust parental controls, 13-hr battery and slim case for older kids, 32 GB, Happy Day

Rating: 8.8/10

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet (newest model) is designed for kids ages 6-12. It boasts a bright 10.1″ HD screen and comes with ad-free content. Parents will appreciate the robust parental controls and the convenience of a slim case for older kids. With 32 GB of storage and a “Happy Day” theme, this tablet offers a blend of entertainment and learning.

What We Like:

  • The built-in safeguards protect children’s privacy and prevent malware, creating a secure online experience.
  • Parents Magazine awarded it “Best Parental Controls,” and the Amazon Kids Parent Dashboard app makes managing screen time and content easy from afar.
  • It includes a 1-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, offering a wide variety of ad-free content like videos, games, and books that help kids play, create, and learn.
  • This is a powerful tablet, not just a toy. It features an HD display, ample storage, and over 10 hours of battery life.
  • The included Amazon Kid-Proof Case with a stand/handle, power adapter, and charging cable makes it ready to use right out of the box.
  • Older kids can explore new interests with language-learning apps and STEM content, or dive into reading with popular series.
  • The Fire HD Pro 10 offers the largest display, longest battery life, most storage, and fastest processor in the kids’ tablet lineup.
  • Kids can enjoy popular videos, apps, and games from brands like Disney and Marvel, plus content from popular creators.
  • Interactive games, including exclusive titles like Sketch ‘n Guess, allow parents and kids to play together remotely.
  • It comes with a 2-year worry-free guarantee, giving parents peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved:

  • After the first year, the Amazon Kids+ subscription automatically renews monthly at $5.99 plus tax, which parents need to remember to cancel if they don’t wish to continue.

This tablet provides a fantastic, safe, and engaging digital experience for kids. It’s a powerful tool that encourages learning and fun.

2. Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet (newest model) ages 3-7. Top-selling 7″ kids tablet on Amazon. Includes ad-free and exclusive content

Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet (newest model) ages 3-7. Top-selling 7" kids tablet on Amazon. Includes ad-free and exclusive content, easy parental controls, 10-hr battery, 16 GB, Blue

Rating: 8.9/10

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet (newest model) is a top-selling 7-inch tablet designed for children ages 3-7. It comes packed with ad-free and exclusive content, easy parental controls, a 10-hour battery life, and 16 GB of storage in a vibrant blue color. This isn’t just a toy; it’s a full-featured tablet that offers a safe and engaging digital experience for young learners.

What We Like:

  • Amazing value: You get the tablet, a year of Amazon Kids+, and a durable Kid-Proof Case with a stand, all at a significant savings.
  • Built to last: The included Kid-Proof Case protects the tablet from drops and bumps, and there’s a 2-year worry-free guarantee if it breaks.
  • Endless entertainment and learning: The 1-year Amazon Kids+ subscription offers thousands of ad-free books, games, videos, and apps from trusted brands like Disney and PBS Kids.
  • Peace of mind for parents: Easy-to-use Parent Dashboard lets you filter content, set educational goals, and manage screen time.
  • Long-lasting fun: The up to 10-hour battery means kids can play and learn for extended periods without needing a charger.
  • Room to grow: With 16 GB of storage and expandable microSD storage up to 1TB, there’s plenty of space for favorite content.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Automatic renewal: The Amazon Kids+ subscription automatically renews after the first year, so remember to cancel if you don’t want it.
  • Screen resolution: While good for kids, the screen resolution isn’t as high as some adult tablets.

This Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet offers a fantastic blend of entertainment, education, and durability for young children. It’s a smart investment for parents looking for a safe and engaging tablet experience for their kids.

3. Apple iPad

Apple iPad, 10.2-Inch, Wi-Fi, 32GB, Space Gray (Renewed)

Rating: 9.5/10

Looking for a fantastic tablet experience without breaking the bank? This Apple iPad, 10.2-Inch, Wi-Fi, 32GB, Space Gray (Renewed) offers a great way to enjoy apps, games, and browsing. It’s a reliable choice for schoolwork, entertainment, or staying connected.

What We Like:

  • The Smart Connector is super handy for attaching accessories like keyboards.
  • You still get a 3.5 mm headphone jack, which is great for wired headphones.
  • Stereo speakers provide good sound for watching videos.
  • The Home button with Touch ID sensor makes unlocking and authorizing purchases quick and easy.
  • Dual microphones help your voice sound clear during video calls.
  • It’s a renewed product, so you get Apple quality at a better price.

What Could Be Improved:

  • 32GB of storage might fill up quickly if you download a lot of apps or movies.
  • This is a Wi-Fi only model, so you’ll need a Wi-Fi connection to get online.
  • It’s a renewed device, so there might be minor cosmetic imperfections.

This renewed iPad is a smart buy for anyone seeking a dependable tablet. It delivers the core iPad experience you expect at an attractive price point.

4. Apple iPad (2018 Model) with Wi-Fi only 32GB Apple 9.7in iPad – Space Gray (Renewed)

Apple iPad (2018 Model) with Wi-Fi only 32GB Apple 9.7in iPad - Space Gray (Renewed)

Rating: 8.6/10

Looking for a reliable tablet that won’t break the bank? This renewed Apple iPad (2018 Model) in Space Gray offers a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite apps, games, and browsing without paying full price. It’s a 9.7-inch iPad with Wi-Fi only and 32GB of storage, making it a great choice for everyday use.

What We Like:

  • Looks and works like new: Amazon-qualified suppliers inspect, test, and clean these renewed iPads thoroughly.
  • Powerful performance: The A10 Fusion chip handles tasks smoothly, from streaming videos to playing games.
  • Sharp display: The 2048 x 1536 resolution screen makes everything look clear and vibrant.
  • Runs on iOS: Enjoy a user-friendly operating system with access to millions of apps.
  • Great value: Get a quality iPad at a more affordable price.
  • Peace of mind: Comes with a minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Packaging and accessories might be generic, not the original Apple ones.
  • It’s a Wi-Fi only model, so you’ll need a Wi-Fi connection to get online.

This renewed iPad is a smart buy for anyone wanting a dependable tablet experience. It delivers solid performance and a great display, making it a fun device for learning and entertainment.

5. Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet (newest model)

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet (newest model), ages 6-12. Bright 8" HD screen, includes ad-free content, parental controls, 13-hr battery, slim case for older kids, 32GB, Hello Teal

Rating: 8.9/10

The Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet (newest model) is built for kids aged 6-12. It boasts a bright 8-inch HD screen and comes with a slim, kid-friendly case in a fun “Hello Teal” color. This isn’t just a toy; it’s a full-featured tablet that includes a 6-month Amazon Kids+ subscription, giving your child access to tons of ad-free content. Plus, it comes with a 2-year worry-free guarantee.

What We Like:

  • The 2-year worry-free guarantee is fantastic. If it breaks, Amazon replaces it for free.
  • Amazon Kids+ offers a huge library of ad-free educational games, books, and videos.
  • Parental controls are robust and easy to manage from the Amazon Parent Dashboard.
  • The battery lasts up to 13 hours, perfect for long trips or days out.
  • Kids can safely browse the web with built-in filters and the ability to block specific sites.
  • Staying in touch is easy with voice and video calls to approved contacts.
  • The new model has a faster hexa-core processor and 3GB of RAM, making it 50% more powerful than the previous version.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The Amazon Kids+ subscription automatically renews after 6 months, so remember to cancel if you don’t want to continue.
  • While it has 32GB of storage, you might need to purchase expandable storage for lots of downloaded content.

This tablet offers a great balance of fun and learning for older kids. It’s a solid choice for parents looking for a safe and engaging digital device for their children.

Choosing the Right iPad for Your Child: A Parent’s Guide

Finding the perfect iPad for your child can feel like a big decision. You want something fun and engaging, but also durable and safe. This guide will help you navigate the options so you can make a smart choice.

What to Look for in a Kid-Friendly iPad

When you’re shopping for an iPad for a child, certain features stand out.

Key Features to Consider
  • Screen Size: Smaller screens (like 7-8 inches) are easier for little hands to hold. Larger screens (9-10 inches and up) offer more space for drawing and games.
  • Storage Space: Kids love downloading apps and games! Aim for at least 64GB of storage. More storage means less worrying about running out of space.
  • Durability: Accidents happen. Look for iPads with strong screens and tough bodies. Some cases add extra protection.
  • Battery Life: A long-lasting battery keeps kids entertained for hours. Most iPads offer good battery life, but it’s still something to check.
  • Parental Controls: This is super important! You need to be able to set limits on screen time, control what apps your child can use, and manage purchases.

Materials That Matter

Most iPads use strong materials.

Important Materials
  • Aluminum Body: The casing is usually made of aluminum. This makes the iPad strong and lightweight. It feels good in your hands.
  • Glass Screen: The screen is made of tough glass. It can handle everyday bumps and scratches. Some iPads have special coatings to resist fingerprints.

What Makes an iPad Great (or Not So Great) for Kids

Several things can make an iPad a hit or a miss for younger users.

Factors Affecting Quality
  • Processor Speed: A faster processor means apps run smoothly. This stops frustrating game lag.
  • Camera Quality: Kids love taking pictures and videos! Good cameras make these activities more fun.
  • Water and Dust Resistance: While not standard on all iPads, some offer better protection against spills and dust. This adds peace of mind.
  • Age of the Model: Newer models often have better features and longer software support. Older models might be cheaper but could become outdated faster.

How Kids Use iPads and What It’s Like

iPads are incredibly versatile for children.

User Experience and Use Cases
  • Learning Apps: From math games to reading stories, educational apps make learning enjoyable.
  • Creative Play: Drawing apps, music creation tools, and simple video editors let kids express their creativity.
  • Gaming: A huge variety of games keeps kids entertained for hours.
  • Watching Videos: Streaming shows and movies is a popular pastime.
  • Communication: Older kids can use messaging apps and video calls to stay in touch with family and friends.

The user experience is generally smooth and intuitive. The touch screen is responsive, and apps are easy to navigate. For younger children, the large icons and simple interface are very accessible. For older kids, the power of the iPad opens up more complex creative and educational possibilities.

When choosing an iPad for your child, think about their age and how they will use it most. Consider a sturdy case to protect your investment. With the right iPad, you can provide a fun, educational, and engaging tool that grows with your child.

Frequently Asked Questions About iPads for Kids

Q: Which iPad model is best for younger children (ages 3-7)?

A: The iPad (standard model) is often a great choice. It’s affordable, has a good screen size for little hands, and supports all the essential apps. Adding a protective case is highly recommended.

Q: Should I buy a new or refurbished iPad for my child?

A: Refurbished iPads can be a good option to save money. Just make sure you buy from a reputable seller with a warranty to ensure it’s in good working condition.

Q: How much storage do kids really need?

A: For kids, at least 64GB is a good starting point. If they plan to download lots of games, videos, or creative apps, 128GB or more would be better.

Q: What are the best accessories for a child’s iPad?

A: A durable, kid-friendly case is a must. A screen protector adds extra defense. Some kids might also enjoy a stylus for drawing or a kid-safe keyboard.

Q: Can I set time limits on an iPad for my child?

A: Yes! Apple’s Screen Time feature lets you set daily time limits for specific apps or the entire device. You can also schedule downtime.

Q: Is it safe for kids to use an iPad unsupervised?

A: With proper parental controls and content restrictions set up, it can be. However, always supervise younger children. You can also create separate “child” accounts for more control.

Q: Which iPad is good for drawing and art?

A: The iPad Air and iPad Pro models are excellent for drawing because they have better screens and work seamlessly with the Apple Pencil. The standard iPad is also capable for casual drawing.

Q: How do I protect the iPad from damage?

A: Invest in a high-quality, rugged case designed for children. A screen protector is also a smart addition. Teach your child to handle the iPad with care.

Q: Can my child use the iPad for schoolwork?

A: Absolutely! Many educational apps and tools are available. Older kids can use it for research, writing papers, and accessing online learning platforms.

Q: How long do iPads typically last?

A: With good care, an iPad can last for many years. Apple usually provides software updates for at least five to six years after a model is released, keeping it functional and secure.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Leave a Comment