Tweens are the new teens. And no, they don’t want their MTV. What they want, what they really, really want, are phones — the smart ones.If you’re trying to hold out on that big purchase, or searching for alternatives that won’t invite TikTok takeovers, look no further. We’ve rounded up a mix of phones and watches with a variety of features – think texting, calling, GPS tracking and parental controls.We’ve also highlighted options with standout reviews from parents who have already made the switch. It’s the independence tweens crave with the reassurance you need.AmazonA smartphone made for tweensThe Gabb Phone 4 keeps things simple and focused. There’s no internet or social media, just calling, texting, GPS tracking and parental controls. It even comes loaded with kid-friendly basics like maps, weather and a calendar, so tweens feel connected without distractions. Plans start at $25 per month (after a $30 activation fee) and include unlimited calls and text messages. No contract is required, but you'll save a little more by opting into one. Promising review: “My kid loves this phone and feels special using it. It has parent enabled apps and no internet browsing or social media. The set up was incredibly easy and service is affordable. It’s just what she needs to feel comfortable calling on her own.” — ErinJoyCoGabb... or a smart watch from the same brandThe Gabb Watch 3e doubles as a simple phone. Parents can manage contacts, read messages, set time limits and track location through the MyGabb app. Kids get their own number to call or text approved contacts, along with step counting and a chore tracker that turn everyday tasks into rewards. With wireless charging and a reliable design, the Gabb Watch helps tweens build independence while staying in touch. Monthly service starts at $13 per month, and you can also get a refurbished model of this device for a mere $75.Promising review: “We absolutely love the watch. Being able to track his every move when he is out riding his bike or when he is on the bus is such a relief. The activation is so simple and easy. Highly recommended this to all the parents with elementary kids.” — AliciaAmazonA throwback flip phoneThe Nokia Flip 2780 isn’t explicitly designed for kids like some of the previous options – and therefore lacks some parental control features and location sharing – but the throwback interface and lack of support for apps landed this option on our list. Big buttons and a sturdy design make it easy to handle, while the outer screen shows caller ID so kids know exactly who's reaching out. Calling and texting are front and center, and closing the flip to end a call is fun. With 4G support and access to a few essential apps, it keeps things straightforward for kids who are beginners. Plan information isn't available via Best Buy, but the reviewer below was able to get a basic plan for $8 per month – combined with the budget price of the phone, this is one of the more affordable options on our list. You can get service via popular carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and more. Promising review: “Great first phone for my tween! Combined with an unlimited talk and text plan that us only $8 a month, this is a huge win financially.” – JenniferCAmazonA smart watch from a brand that's been in the kid-friendly device game a comparatively long timeThe TickTalk 5 smartwatch lets kids call, text and video chat from their wrist. (The watch, now in its 5th generation, has been around since 2016.) Parents can oversee contacts, review activity and use location tracking with AI-powered precision through the TickTalk app. Kiddos can send voice recordings, emojis and group messages with end-to-end encryption for privacy. With extras like step goals, reminders and kid-friendly music streaming, plus practical tools such as a calculator and calendar, the TickTalk 5 combines communication, wellness and fun in one watch. Plans start at $10 per month via either AT&T or T-Mobile.Promising review: “This watch is worth every penny! My son is able to easily operate, gives him the freedom to talk to us and the chosen list of contacts with ease. It was very easy to set up and the phone plan is extremely affordable with multiple options to give you flexibility in what you want. The battery life is good and with normal use will go a couple of days on a charge. The tracking functions gives me peace of mind knowing that I can easily know exactly where my child is.” — Kristy Z.AmazonA bespoke operating system installed in a Samsung GalaxyThe Troomi Phone puts parents in control. Apps, contacts, screen time and location can all be managed through a portal, while kids get the basics like calling and texting with only approved numbers. Filters flag concerning messages, and GPS plus an SOS button add protection. With a selection of ad-free apps and flexible options that can grow with your child, Troomi offers a reprieve from the chaos of a traditional smartphone. The brand doesn't require a contract, and the tech is pre-built into a Samsung Galaxy, so you know the operating system is supported by trusted hardware.AmazonA water-resistant smart watch with an extended battery life for active kidsThe Garmin Bounce smartwatch is created for activity and fun. Through the Garmin Jr. app, families can exchange texts and voice messages, and tracking shows where kids are throughout the day. An assistance button lets them send their location right away if they need to. With a vivid touchscreen, water-friendly design and a battery that lasts up to two days, the Bounce combines activity, messaging and location sharing in one device. Data plans – which are required to use many of these features – start at $10 per month. Promising review: “Our daughter asked for one of these for Christmas. She’s 10 and in fourth grade. It’s very cute and was easy to set up. It functions as expected. We are pleased with all of the things it does. We are able to track her live and communicate with her which gave us peace of mind when she went to summer camp this summer. I would say it fits her well and the colors is cute. We do pay a monthly subscription of 12.99 but we feel like that’s not a terrible expense for being able to track her and talk to her without having to have a cell phone. We also coparent so it’s nice to be able to talk to her while she’s away. Would buy again.” — Samantha TAmazonA smartphone that monitors for bullying and other red flagsBark takes security up a notch with monitoring that scans texts, emails and apps for red flags like bullying or inappropriate behavior. Parents stay in control by approving contacts and apps, while tamper-proof settings prevent kids from changing rules or deleting messages. GPS tools make location sharing simple with maps, alerts and check-ins. The most basic plan – at $29 per month – comes with calling and texting only, a bare-bones interface that some parents may appreciate. Promising review: “The Bark phone is a must for parents exploring a first phone for kids. It’s been so beneficial for our tween. It gives him independence going to friend’s houses and to practice without the added stress of navigating social media apps and unrestricted internet access. The alert system is a little overly zealous, but honestly I’d rather it send alerts for things that don’t matter than to miss the important ones. Definitely recommend if you’re just getting into tech with your kids.” — KimAmazon... or the more affordable Bark smart watchThe Bark Watch gives kids a smartwatch with calling and texting, all managed by adult-approved contacts. Through Bark’s monitoring, families receive alerts for concerning messages or photos, with tamper-proof settings. GPS make it simple to see a child’s location, set alerts or request check-ins. With a button for emergencies and regular software updates that add new features, the Bark Watch combines connection and oversight in a wearable. Plans here start at $15 per month, making this a slightly more affordable option than the phone.Promising review: “I really didn't want to get my 10 year old any phone or watch yet but because her Dad and I are divorced I wanted a way to be able to reach her when she is not with me. Her Dad loves having access to her as well. I researched a lot of these type of watches and this one by far seemed like the safest option. We've been super impressed and happy with it so far after having used it for a few weeks now. I would have liked to wait longer but definitely feel better knowing this is also keeping her safe while she's using it.” — southern_mamaAmazonA device with a generous warranty to avoid constant upgradesTeracube Thrive gives kids a smartphone experience with balance in mind. Caregivers can manage screen time, social media access and online activity through the Thrive app, making setup simple and stress-free. Built-in tools block spam calls, restrict contacts to approved numbers and create a secure browsing experience. With GPS tracking, a sturdy case and a screen protector included, Thrive keeps children engaged while encouraging healthy tech habits.Teracube offers a plan that starts at $35 per month, or you can get service through your own provider. Many of the brand’s model also come with a generous warranty that’s designed to allow you to use the phone for longer periods, saving money and reducing the harmful environmental impact of constantly upgrading your phone.Promising review: “These guys have a great product. This has become a game changer in parenting and parental control options. A special thank you to Joy who helped me over email and phone calls get the new phone set up. My kids are happy with their phones and I know they aren't being shown anything they shouldn't. I'm able to set contacts that are allowed and not worry anymore. I can set and adjust daily limits on anything I wish. It's the best phone for this! I've tried them all.” — Mick forlinesAmazonA FitBit designed exclusively for kids with cool, “creative” games, according to reviewsThe Fitbit Ace LTE blends fitness tracking with smartwatch features made just for kids. With GPS, parents can see location while kids stay linked through calls and messages with up to 20 approved contacts. A full day of battery life plus fast charging keeps it ready for action, while school time mode limits games during class hours. With movement challenges in the Fitbit Arcade and activity rings that celebrate progress, the Ace LTE makes staying active as fun as screen time. One standout: Reviewers appreciate this device’s unique games that “encourage movement and creative play.” Service through FitBit’s proprietary Ace Pass data plan starts at $10 per month. Promising review: “I'm so impressed and pleased with this watch. It is exactly what I needed for my ten year old child. It has the features that we need as parents (GPS tracking and direct messaging) and this enhanced safety aspect is so very important in today's world. My child loves the movement goals, alarms and fun buttons and independently takes care of charging it. It's nice for me not to have another electronic to have to take care of. The app to use the watch is very easy to use and only a parent with a gmail account is able to text / monitor the child. 5 Stars!! A wonderful pre-pre-tween watch for that child that is not ready for full fledged smart watch.” — The Well Styled ScoutPinwheelA dual camera smartphoneThe Pinwheel Genesis 4 blends kid management tools with the look and feel of a sleek smartphone. Parents can log into the Pinwheel portal to add contacts, view messages, set schedules and even decide which apps are available. Location tracking and call history give families more insight, while kids get features like dual cameras and a smooth Octa-Core processor. Plans start at $18 per month through a major carrier like AT&T or T-Mobile or $30 monthly with service through Pinwheel. (The Genesis 4 isn't compatible with Verizon, but other models in the brand's lineup are.)Promising review: “We have had Pinwheel phones for our two girls (ages 9 and 12) for 3 years now. They have been such a wonderful way for them to learn how to use a smart phone, while allowing us the peace of mind and control that they are not accessing inappropriate apps or content. As a psychologist and parent, I have been so impressed with the apps availability, I love that they can't get on social media apps, and I have found Pinwheel customer service to be highly responsive and easy to work with when problems arise. Strongly recommend these phones for kids and teens of all ages!!!” — Katie ZilmVerizonA Verizon-powered smart watch that's specifically designed for kidsThe Verizon Gizmo Watch 3 brings kids into wireless tech with features designed for families. Parents decide who can call or text, and the watch stays offline with no internet browsing. Through the GizmoHub app, you can see your child’s location on a map and receive SOS alerts when needed. With voice and video calling, text messaging and a touchscreen keyboard, kids can communicate more clearly, all from a colorful watch on their wrist. Note that this device doesn't have a camera. Promising review: “Gizmo watches have been the best addition for our boys. Now they can ride their bikes in our whole neighborhood, not just our street. I can see where they are at all times, and they can call me if there are any problems. It's also awesome that I can just call them when it's time for dinner!” – Mary