Tablet for kids: why refurbished is the most sensible choice

A child's tablet has a short but intense career: it is used every day, drops regularly and eventually ends up sticky under the sofa. That is exactly why it is the device where buying new makes the least sense.

What really counts

• Toughness from the outside: it is not the device that decides, it is the case. A thick protective case with a handle or stand is a must, anything else is optimism.
• Storage: videos and games eat space. The smallest storage option gets tight quickly, especially when things are watched offline. More on this in how much storage a device needs.
• Update support: a tablet without security updates is the wrong device for a child. Look for a generation that still has years ahead of it.
• Battery: an aged battery means a permanent cable at the sofa. A checked condition is worth more here than a newer generation.

Why refurbished fits particularly well here

The first dent comes quickly, and it hurts considerably less on a refurbished device. For the price of a new entry level model you get a much better equipped older model with a larger, brighter display and more storage. And if something does happen, a repair is cheaper than replacing a new device. A look at the outlet is especially worthwhile here: scratches bother nobody on a child's tablet, see also outlet devices explained.

Setting it up safely in five steps

1. Create a separate child account instead of handing over the parent account. Both systems offer family features for this.
2. Set screen time and downtime. Fixed time slots are easier to enforce than daily arguments.
3. Activate content restrictions: age ratings for apps, films and web content.
4. Block purchases or tie them to parental approval. That spares you nasty surprises with in-app purchases.
5. Turn on location and device finding, in case the tablet leaves the house.

Accessories that are worth it

A sturdy case, tempered glass and a robust charging cable with strain relief. Why saving money on the cable in particular gets expensive is explained in cheap charging cables. You will find accessories under cases and tempered glass, and tablets under tablets.

Conclusion

Buy a well equipped older model rather than a weak new one, put the difference into a proper case and take twenty minutes for the parental controls. That combination lasts longer than any promise on the packaging.