The Best (Indestructible) Phones for Kids

by Jeremy Cleland

The Best (Indestructible) Phones for Kids

If you’ve ever had to replace a tablet screen after your toddler threw a fit, then you can imagine what might happen when your tween or teen starts to have a smartphone attached at the hip.

If only these phones could talk.

You’d hear stories about phones slipping out of pockets and tumbling down flights of stairs, being tossed to friends and crashing to the ground instead, and, yes, their expensive device taking an accidental swim in the bathroom.

So how can you select a mobile phone that will stand the test of time with your child? Sure, a standard flip phone eliminates the risk of breaking the screen, but most kids want a phone that enables Web browsing, easy texting and snapping photos — i.e. a smartphone.

To make the most of your investment — and not have to tap into the college fund to keep replacing destroyed smartphones — here are some models that can take a beating, or even a plunge, and keep on texting:

These smartphones are known for their durability and can withstand the rough handling of kids. They come with features that are suitable for kids, such as easy texting, web browsing, and photo-taking capabilities.

iPhone SE

Apple's iPhone SE is a budget-friendly option that offers the same durability as the more expensive iPhone models. It features a glass and aluminum design with water and dust resistance. You can also add a durable case for extra protection.

Samsung Galaxy A14 5G

The Galaxy A14 5G is designed to be rugged and is MIL-STD-810G certified, meaning it can withstand drops, shocks, and extreme temperatures. It's a durable Android option for kids.

Key durability feature

Kids are sure to think the fingerprint scanner access to unlock the phone is really cool.

Advice to give your kids

Use the integrated S Health Log to track your heart rate and fitness goals.

Google Pixel

If your kid is all about Google apps, the Google Pixel offers the latest Android updates and apps like Gmail, Chrome, Calendar and Hangout work together across your desktop and mobile devices. Its HD display provides great clarity for movies or games.

Key durability feature

The screen is made of Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which resists scratches and is tough to smash.

Advice to give your kids: Take care of the screen with waterproof spray treatment to keep oil and smudges at bay.

CAT Phones (Caterpillar Phones)

Caterpillar, known for its heavy machinery, also produces rugged smartphones. Models like the CAT S61 and CAT S48c are built to withstand tough conditions and are a good choice for active kids.

Kyocera DuraForce

Kyocera's DuraForce is a rugged Android phone with a shatterproof Sapphire Shield display. It's waterproof, dustproof, and drop-resistant, making it suitable for kids who are prone to accidents.

If it’s good enough for the military, it should be good enough for a kid. Encased with tough rubber and plastic — with a long-lasting battery life, and a range of Android apps — it also can handle rugged environments from snow to rain, dust, extreme temperatures and shock. Plus, it’s waterproof versus just water-resistant.

Key durability feature

With all its ports closed, the DuraForce has certified dust-tight protection and can withstand water immersion in up to 6 feet for 30 minutes.

Advice to give your kids

Make sure the ports are closed before you head to the pool.

Motorola Moto G Power 5G

The Moto G is a budget-friendly Android phone with a durable design. It may not have all the rugged certifications of some other phones, but it's built to withstand everyday wear and tear.

Key durability feature

A water-repellent nano-coating helps protects the phone from moisture, though it’s not completely waterproof.

Advice to give your kids

The long battery life means you can’t claim you didn’t call mom back because your phone was dead.

Unihertz Atom

The Unihertz Atom is a compact and rugged smartphone with a durable build. It's designed to withstand rough handling and outdoor adventures, making it a good fit for active kids.

Nokia 800 Tough

Nokia's 800 Tough is a feature phone with a rugged design. While it doesn't have all the capabilities of smartphones, it's extremely durable and can handle harsh conditions.

No phone is completely indestructible, so it's a good idea to invest in a protective case to provide extra shock absorption and protection. Additionally, consider setting up parental controls and monitoring software to ensure your child's safety while using their phone.

To ensure maximum protection, it is recommended to get a rugged case and make sure the ports are closed before exposing the phone to water or other potential hazards.

When considering indestructible phones for kids, it's important to prioritize durability and safety. Children can be rough on their devices, so having a phone that can withstand drops and accidents is crucial. Here are some durable and kid-friendly phone options:

Mobile Technology & Smartphones: "The Best (Indestructible) Phones for Kids"