Verizon offers three smartwatch models for kids ages 6-12: the GizmoWatch 2, GizmoWatch Disney Edition, and the newer Gizmo Watch 3. We’ve tested and compared all three to help you decide which GizmoWatch is right for your child.
As parents ourselves, we understand the appeal of a kid’s smartwatch like the AngelSense Watch. You want to stay connected with your child and ensure their safety, but aren’t quite ready to hand over a smartphone. After extensive hands-on testing, we can confidently recommend Verizon’s GizmoWatch lineup as a smart choice.
What to Expect From Verizon GizmoWatches
While each GizmoWatch model has unique pros and cons, they all share some core features:
- Real-time GPS tracking: View your child’s location directly from the GizmoHub app. The Gizmo Watch 3 also provides a location history report.
- Geofencing: Receive alerts when your child enters or exits designated safe zones.
- Parent-controlled contacts: Restrict calling and messaging to your approved list of up to 10 or 20 contacts, depending on the model.
- Preset text messages: Kids can only send preset texts or emojis that you configure in the app.
- School/quiet mode: Block phone usage during school or bedtime.
- Remote shutdown: Turn off the GizmoWatch remotely through the app.
- Fitness tracking: Step counter and active minutes.
- Verizon-only: GizmoWatches work exclusively with Verizon Wireless service.
- Interchangeable bands: Personalize with different color wristbands.
- Financing available: Spread costs over 36 months.
While handy for peace of mind, GizmoWatches lack some features found on competitors like the TickTalk 4. There’s no keyboard for texting, music storage, or direct 911 access. And the watches only work in Verizon coverage areas.
But overall, GizmoWatches provide reliable two-way communication and tracking in a cute, durable wristwatch designed for kids. Now let’s compare the models.
GizmoWatch 2 Review
Best for: Younger kids, budgets
Price: $99.99 + $10/month Verizon plan
The most affordable GizmoWatch option, the GizmoWatch 2 delivers core features like GPS tracking, geofencing, and parent-controlled calling and messaging. It lacks some extras like a camera or SOS button, but satisfies basic needs for staying connected with your 6 to 10 year old.
GizmoWatch 2 Pros
- Affordable price at $99.99
- Parental controls over contacts and texts
- GPS and geofencing for tracking your child’s location
- Calling and messaging to approved contacts
- Easy-to-use GizmoHub app for parents
- Swappable bands in blue or pink
GizmoWatch 2 Cons
- No SOS button for emergencies
- Limited contacts at just 10
- No keyboard or video calling
- Verizon-only service
- No location history reporting
While light on features, the GizmoWatch 2 focuses on core functions like location tracking and calling at a budget-friendly price. It’s a solid pick for families who want a basic connected watch for their young child.
GizmoWatch Disney Edition Review
Best for: Disney fans
Price: $199.99 + $10/month Verizon plan
With Disney-themed wristbands and watch faces, the GizmoWatch Disney Edition appeals to fans of Frozen, Star Wars, and other franchises. It adds video calling and an SOS button over the GizmoWatch 2. But we find it overpriced compared to other feature-packed kids’ smartwatches.
GizmoWatch Disney Pros
- Themed Disney designs
- SOS button for emergencies
- Video calling with front-facing camera
- Decent parental controls
GizmoWatch Disney Cons
- Very expensive at $199.99
- No games or extra features
- Limited to 10 contacts
- No stopwatch, timer or alarm
- No text keyboard
The Disney flair is fun, but we don’t think it justifies the steep $200 price tag, especially with the lack of extra features. Overall, while a fine smartwatch, the Verizon GizmoWatch Disney Edition is hard to recommend over more versatile options that cost less.
Gizmo Watch 3 Review
Best for: Most parents
Price: $149.99 + $10/month Verizon plan
The latest addition to Verizon’s GizmoWatch lineup impresses us the most. The Gizmo Watch 3 combines the best features of the previous models while adding thoughtful upgrades. With an average price point, it strikes a great balance for most families.
Gizmo Watch 3 Pros
- More affordable than Disney Edition
- SOS button for emergencies
- 20 approved contacts
- Video calling and voice messages
- Fun games and voice effects
- Location history reporting
- Vibration alerts option
- Good parental controls
Gizmo Watch 3 Cons
- Verizon service required
- No keyboard for texting
- No music storage
- Battery life just 1-2 days
The Gizmo Watch 3 isn’t perfect, but it adds useful improvements at a reasonable $150 price point. For most parents, it’s the best blend of features, reliability, and cost in Verizon’s GizmoWatch collection.
How GizmoWatches Compare to Other Kids Smartwatches
Let’s see how Verizon GizmoWatches stack up against two other top-rated kids smartwatch brands:
| Watch | Best for | Price | Video calling | GPS tracking | Max contacts | Carriers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gabb Watch | Budget pick | $149 | No | Yes | 25 | Gabb only |
| AngelSense Watch | SOS calls | $199 | Yes | Yes | 25 | AT&T, Red Pocket |
| TickTalk 4 | Overall favorite | $199 | Yes | Yes | 50 | Most major carriers |
| Gizmo Watch 3 | Best for Verizon | $150 | Yes | Yes | 20 | Verizon only |
As you can see, Verizon GizmoWatches are competitive but lack some advantages of other brands:
- The Gabb Watch is similarly priced but allows you to use any carrier. The Gizmo Watch 3 wins for features.
- The AngelSense Watch enables direct calling to 911 and emergency contacts. GizmoWatches have more robust parental controls.
- The TickTalk 4 supports nearly all carriers and has the most contacts and texting options. But GizmoWatch 3 costs less.
One limitation is that GizmoWatches only work on Verizon’s network. So they’re a poor pick if Verizon has spotty coverage where you live.
Overall, GizmoWatches offer a solid experience for Verizon subscribers who want a basic kid’s smartwatch. But those willing to switch carriers can likely find more flexible options.
GizmoWatch Buying Tips and Recommendations
Here are a few tips to help select the right GizmoWatch for your family’s needs:
- Focus on the Gizmo Watch 3 or GizmoWatch 2 to get the most value. The Disney Edition is overpriced for what you get.
- The GizmoWatch 2 is best for younger kids around 6-8 years old. Older kids will want more features like video calling and games.
- Make sure Verizon coverage is strong where you live. GizmoWatches won’t work on other carrier networks.
- Add a protective case and screen protector – kids can be rough on watches! Consider an AirTag to help find it if lost.
- Take advantage of 36-month financing if needed to spread out costs over time.
- Pick a colorful replacement wristband to give your kid a style they’ll love.
We hope this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Verizon’s GizmoWatch smartwatch options for kids. Let us know if you have any other questions!
