Smartphone vs dumb phone: which is the best mobile phone for kids?

“I want a phone.”

Let’s face it, we’ll all hear those words sooner or later. Whether your child wants to have a phone to communicate with their friends or you want your tween to have one for safety reasons when they first start to venture out on their own, it’s important to pick a phone that suits their needs.

The decision often boils down to two primary options: smartphones and dumb phones. Each type of device comes with its own list of pros and cons and with handsets costing anywhere between £20 to £500-plus, choosing the wrong one can make for a costly mistake.

But never fear, we’re here to help you choose the best phone for kids and answer that burning question - what is a dumb phone anyway?

Want more kids’ tech inspiration? Take a look at our guides to the best kids’ tablets, best cameras for kids, best games consoles and best laptops for kids.

What is a smartphone and what is a dumb phone?

Before we compare the two, it's important to understand what distinguishes smartphones from dumb phones.

Smartphones are advanced mobile devices that offer a wide range of functionalities, including internet access, apps, multimedia capabilities, and high-resolution cameras.  

Dumb phones, on the other hand, are basic mobile phones that primarily focus on calling and texting. They lack advanced features like internet browsing, app downloads, and multimedia functions. These devices are often easier to use and more hardwearing (you may remember the virtually indestructible Nokia 3310 from your youth.)

Read next: What is the right age to get a child a phone? We ask the experts

Benefits of smartphones for kids

• Educational tools: Smartphones can be powerful educational tools. There are countless apps designed to enhance learning in subjects such as maths, science, languages, and more. Educational games and apps can make learning fun and engaging for children.

• Communication and safety: With a smartphone, children can stay in touch with their parents through calls, texts, and even video chats. GPS tracking apps can also help parents keep an eye on their child's location, providing an added layer of security.

• Digital literacy: In an increasingly digital world, early exposure to technology can be beneficial. In the correct environment, learning to navigate a smartphone can help children develop digital literacy skills that will be crucial in their academic and professional futures. If you want more information about how to help your child access technology in a safe and responsible way, the UK Safer Internet Centre has some great resources to help. 

• Entertainment: Smartphones offer a wide range of entertainment options, from games to videos to music. These can be a lifesaver on a looooong car journey, trust us!

• Creativity and self-expression: Many smartphones come equipped with cameras and creative apps that allow children to explore photography, videography, and digital art. These tools can help foster creativity and self-expression.

Read next: Discover the best online tutoring to boost your child's learning from the comfort of your own home.

Disadvantages of smartphones for kids

• Screen time and addiction: One of the most significant concerns with giving children smartphones is the potential for excessive screen time and addiction. Studies have shown that too much screen time can negatively impact a child's sleep, physical health, and social skills. If you are struggling to manage your child’s screen time, you may also want to check out Mumsnet’s guide to screen time for children, with expert input from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH).

• Exposure to inappropriate content: The internet is a vast and unregulated space, and children with smartphones may inadvertently access inappropriate content. While parental controls can mitigate this risk, they aren’t foolproof. If your child does come across inappropriate or upsetting content online, the NSPCC website contains expert advice on what you can do to support them.

• Cyberbullying and online predators: Smartphones can expose children to cyberbullying and online predators. Social media and messaging apps in particular can be breeding grounds for these dangers.

• Cost: Smartphones, especially the latest models, can be expensive. Additionally, data plans and app purchases can add to the overall cost. Before you start searching for phones, make yourself a budget and stick to it. And ask yourself whether your 10-year-old really needs the latest top-of-the-range iPhone for £1,000.

Read next: The best noise-limiting kids' headphones

Benefits of dumb phones for kids

• Limited distractions: Because dumb phones offer limited functionalities, this reduces the risk of distractions from games and social media. This can help children focus more on their schoolwork and other important tasks.

• Safety and security: With a dumb phone, parents can ensure their child stays connected for emergencies without worrying about the risks associated with internet access and social media. This makes dumb phones particularly good for tweens who are just starting to walk into town or to school on their own. 

• Affordability: Dumb phones are generally much cheaper than smartphones. They are also more durable and less likely to require frequent repairs or replacements. And the screens are far less likely to shatter into a thousand pieces when dropped (we’ve all been there).

• Encourages real-life interactions: Without the allure of a smartphone, children are more likely to engage in face-to-face interactions and physical activities, promoting better social and physical health.

Disadvantages of dumb phones for kids

• Limited learning tools: While dumb phones are great for communication, they lack the educational apps and tools available on smartphones. This could limit opportunities for digital learning and enrichment.

• Lack of GPS and tracking: Most dumb phones do not have GPS capabilities, which can be a disadvantage for parents who want to track their child's location for safety reasons.

• Basic communication: Dumb phones are primarily for calling and texting. They lack video calling and multimedia messaging features, which can be limiting in terms of keeping in touch.

• No access to modern conveniences: Many conveniences, such as digital payment apps and bus and train timetable apps, are not accessible via dumb phones. This can be a drawback for older kids who may need these in their day-to-day lives.

How do I choose between and smartphone and dumb phone?

When deciding between a smartphone and a dumb phone for your child, you should consider the following:

• Age and maturity: Younger children might benefit more from the simplicity and safety of a dumb phone, while older, more responsible children might handle a smartphone's complexities better. Mobile phone giant EE recently issued new guidance to parents not to give primary school-aged children their own smartphone in a bid to improve kids’ ‘digital wellbeing’.

• Purpose and needs: Think about what you and your child actually need a mobile phone for. If the primary need is safety and basic communication, a dumb phone might suffice. If educational apps and digital literacy are priorities, a smartphone could be the better choice.

• Parental controls: Smartphones offer more comprehensive parental control options than dumb phones. If you decide on a smartphone, familiarise yourself with the parental controls and be prepared to have an open and honest conversation with your child about their internet and mobile phone usage.

• Cost: Consider your budget. Smartphones are more expensive, and the ongoing costs of data plans and apps can add up. Dumb phones offer a more budget-friendly option (you can currently pick up a new handset for around £20) with fewer recurring costs.

• Screen time management: If screen time and digital addiction are concerns, a dumb phone's limited functionality can help mitigate these risks. However, if you choose a smartphone, set clear rules and use apps to monitor and limit screen time.

• Ultimately, the choice between a smartphone and a dumb phone for your child depends on your family's specific needs and circumstances. Carefully considering your child's age, maturity, and needs, as well as setting clear guidelines and monitoring usage, will help you make the best decision for your family.

Read next: If you need some gift-giving inspiration, don't miss our guides to the best board games and best LEGO sets, as well as our bespoke toy guides: the best toys for four-year-olds, five-year-olds, six-year-olds, seven-year-olds, eight-year-olds and nine-year-olds.

About the author

Laura Cooke is a Content Editor at Mumsnet, with a special focus on toddler play, child play and outdoor play. She is a mum of two and lives in Sussex.

Laura is a freelance journalist and has written for a range of publications including The Daily Mirror, the i, Metro, Stylist and Happiful.