Best Walkie Talkies For Kids

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If you’re in a hurry and just want to find the best walkie talkie for kids, I’d recommend the Retevis Rechargeable Walkie Talkies.

If you have small children, you know the struggle of supporting their growing independence while continuing to keep them safe. The great news is that giving your child walkie talkies can be a good way to do just that, while encouraging them to have fun.

If you’re searching for the best walkie talkies for kids, start by reading our buyer’s guide, then check out the products we’ve selected here.

Here are the walkie talkies I will be reviewing:

Things To Know Before You Start Shopping

Before you start wading through the walkie talkie options out there, you’ll want to answer the following questions:

  • Quantity: The best walkie talkies for kids are generally available in sets. Sometimes, you can add additional sets together to work as a larger group. Knowing how many units you want up front will give you a good idea of which sets to consider.
  • Range: Not all walkie talkies are created equal. Each walkie talkie set will come with a range of distance they’ll work over. Remember, this range is under optimal conditions. If there are buildings or other items interrupting the signal, your range will be less.
  • Power: Your walkie talkies will most likely run on batteries. Are you looking for sets that can be recharged at home with an outlet, or walkie talkies that take disposable batteries? You may pay more upfront for a rechargeable set, but your ongoing maintenance costs will be less.

Keeping Your Child Safe While Using Walkie Talkies

A little bit of independence can go a long way. If you want your child to be safe while using walkie talkies, set up these basic ground rules:

  • Create physical limits: You may understand what you mean when you tell your child not to leave your sight—but they might not. Create hard and fast boundaries instead of using landmarks. Go ahead and identify trees they can’t go beyond or fenced in areas they shouldn’t leave.
  • Refresh your child’s memory on safety rulesRemind your child not to talk to strangers or leave the area without checking with a parent. Talk about appropriate authority figures to seek out if they ever need help.
  • Choose a walkie talkie set with a private channel: For extra security, you can choose a walkie talkie set that has a secure channel. This will prevent others from listening in or participating in dialogue with your child. This feature is quite common on walkie talkie sets geared toward children.

My Top Walkie Talkie Picks For Kids

Let’s get talking! I have scoured the market for walkie talkies, and narrowed things down to my top five. I’ve also picked my favorite.

Retevis Rechargeable Walkie Talkies

If you’ve been searching for a rechargeable walkie talkie option, this Retevis set may be worth looking into. This set comes with both a charging cable and rechargeable batteries. In just one to two hours, your walkie talkies will be fully charged and ready to go. Once charged, you can expect up to four hours of use before you need to recharge.

In optimal conditions, these walkie talkies have a range of around 1.7 miles. In addition to their impressive range, these walkie talkies are packed with extra features. They’re equipped with 10 different call tones and an earpiece connection. A large LCD screen and a built-in flashlight feature help keep the walkie talkie visible even in dim lighting.

These walkie talkies are the perfect size for smaller hands. The face is intuitive and easy to use, with an extra large talk button that’s easy to find. You can also program your favorite settings and your walkie talkie will remember them later—even after being powered down.

They have a privacy-protected channel and a keypad lock. This model is also available in five different colorways to best suit your children’s preferences. The outer casing is exceptionally hardy and designed to withstand unexpected falls and the rough play of children. They’re equipped with belt clips to help keep the walkie talkies close and your kids’ hands free.

The walkie talkies are sold in sets of two. A 90-day warranty covering manufacturer defects is included. A no-questions-asked return policy is good for up to 30 days after purchase.

Pros

  • Rechargeable batteries keep ongoing costs down
  • Great extra features like the built-in flashlight and privacy channels
  • Rugged and durable protective outer casing

Cons

  • They don’t work as well over longer distances
  • The units are quite loud—they might not be a good option for in-home or late-night use

Playco Walkie Talkies

If you’ve been looking for a simple-to-use set that’s suitable for even young children, these Playco walkie talkies can be a great option. These walkie talkies offer only three channels, so your kids will have an easy time keeping track of where they need to be.

The units also offer a channel locking feature which helps keep small children from accidentally switching to other channels. Each unit runs on three AAA batteries which are not included with the set. The walkie talkies are equipped with a belt clip and offer an impressive range of 2 miles.

Though this isn’t a rechargeable walkie talkie set, there is a battery-saving on/off switch. Simply turn the switch to off when not actively using the units to avoid accidental battery drain.

These walkie talkies meet current safety standards and have been fully tested. There isn’t a volume control, which helps keep the interface easy for young children. They do have a flashlight feature, which may come in handy during evening and outdoor playtime.

If you need more than the two units included in a single set, multiple sets can be paired together. They all run on the same frequencies and are designed to work with each other. In fact, these units are capable of working with any standard radio transmitter. They don’t offer a privacy-protected channel, though, so you’ll want to keep that in mind.

These walkie talkies come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. A 1-year replacement warranty is also included.

Pros

  • Simple-to-use interface
  • Can be linked to additional sets for larger groups
  • Works with other standard radio transmitters
  • Offers an extended range

Cons

  • No privacy-protected channel
  • No volume control

Tintec Walkie Talkies

The Tintec walkie talkies come in a set of three and are a great option if you’re looking to outfit a larger group. They’re also a great choice for kids and offer a continuous tone coded squelch system (CTCSS) feature, to help ensure channel privacy.

These units are equipped with 22 different main channels and additional subchannels. The outer casing of the walkie talkies is sturdy, and durable enough to withstand nearly all 4-foot falls.

This model is available in multiple colors and is suitable for children ages 3 and up. It boasts a compact and comfortable shape that’s perfect for smaller hands. The interface is easy to use, with a larger, labeled talk button. Additional features on the units include a built-in flashlight and a beep signal. Volume control allows you and your child to adjust the volume so it suits your location and current needs.

These walkie talkies offer a great range of 2 miles. When using them, you can choose to connect with one other unit or broadcast to multiple walkie talkies at the same time. An included belt clip helps keep the walkie talkie where your child needs it and leaves their hands free while they play.

Each device runs on four AAA batteries that are not included with the initial purchase. You can expect to get four to five hours of continuous use out of each set of batteries. A power button is located on the front of the walkie talkie, to help preserve battery life when not needed.

The Tintec models come with a money-back guarantee. Also included is a 1-year warranty for any product failure or defect.

Pros

  • Larger sets are great for big groups
  • Packed with features like CTCSS and adjustable volume
  • Durable and drop-resistant exterior
  • Risk-free guarantee and product warranty included

Cons

  • Some of the additional features—like keypad sounds—will use up battery life more quickly
  • The battery access panel can be easy to dislodge

Diliss Walkie Talkies

These units, by Diliss, offer 22 different main channels and 121 different privacy codes. This allows for up to 2,662 different channel combinations that help ensure you can always have a private conversation. An included scanning feature can help you track down channels currently in use.

These units are designed to work with standard radio frequencies and equipment, regardless of the brand. If you have existing equipment, these can easily be implemented in your system by syncing to the same channel. The incoming call alert is louder than the communication volume—this is a great feature for those times when you aren’t holding the walkie talkie when a call comes in.

A rugged exterior casing helps protect the devices and keeps them in working order, even when used roughly. An easy-to-read LCD screen helps you keep track of all the information you need at a glance. The unit design is ergonomically-friendly and compact. These models also offer a hands-free communication option.

The  walkie talkies produce clear transmissions and high-quality audio. An auto-squelch feature helps reduce any background noise the unit may otherwise transmit. An adjustable volume control can also help diminish the presence of white noise and ensure a clearer sound.

This walkie talkie model has up to 3 miles worth of range. The included built-in flashlight can be a great feature for nighttime use and camping. An AUX connection is available for earphones if you’re looking for quieter transmissions. These units also feature a belt clip to keep your walkie talkie close and your hands free.

Pros

  • Available in multiple colors
  • Great transmission quality and long-range capability
  • Large number of channels
  • Compatible with other traditional transmission equipment

Cons

  • The talk button sits close to other buttons, which can make navigating tricky
  • Goes through batteries quickly

Vox Box Walkie Talkies

This set is packed with fun features that are great for young children. An auto scan feature helps you find available channels to chat on, while an auto-squelch feature keeps background noise down. These units offer electronic volume adjustment, to give you the precise volume you’re looking for.

These Vox Box units are available in yellow and blue or blue and green. The interface is simple to use, and a power button located on the face helps preserve battery life. The devices run on four AAA batteries, which aren’t included with the set. Rechargeable batteries can be used in the units but will need to be removed to recharge.

With 22 different channels—each with 99 subchannels— and a 2-mile range, these walkie talkies are easy to use in a variety of settings. They offer a compact design, with a modern two-colored look, as well as a built-in flashlight. An LCD screen makes it easy to use, even in dim lighting. Set your walkie talkie with the preferences that suit your needs, and then hit the lock feature to prevent accidental changes.

The units also have a voice-activation option for those times you need to keep your hands free. In addition, there’s an earbud jack if you need to keep your conversations quiet. When using multiple sets, you can choose to transmit to only one other unit or to multiple units at once. Lightweight and designed for children ages 3 and up, these units conform to current United State’s safety standards.

Pros

  • Attractive design
  • Great features like voice activation and keypad lock
  • Can be used alongside other traditional transmission equipment by syncing to the same channels

Cons

  • Drains batteries quickly
  • Units may get hot with use

Fayogoo Kids Walkie Talkies

FAYOGOO walkie talkies are solid, in a literal sense—as in, 1.2 meters drop-resistant solid. And that’s just the start of what a great overall option these walkie talkies are.

Coming in a range of colors, including camo for those kids that take their army play seriously, these walkie talkies have a range of up to 1 mile in a residential zone and 3 miles in open space. To make communication clearer, they also have an ‘auto squelch system,’ meaning that it automatically cuts weak transmission and unnecessary noise. 

As a parent, privacy is a huge factor in walkie talkies. I’m not so technologically inclined, but I have the vague idea of outsiders being able to access and listen to transmissions. Although, I don’t entirely understand how it works! With these walkie talkies, the 22 channels are reinforced by 38 CTCSS sub-channels, which cuts down as much as possible on outsiders being able to communicate with your children through this frequency.

These walkie talkies are also pretty small, so are easy for little fingers to handle. And, they also have a simple interface, so very small children won’t struggle to understand how to use them. Older children are likely used to using computers/laptops/tablets etc. and so won’t have this issue either way. For even more ease, these walkie talkies also have voice activation. 

Another convenient feature is the auto shut-off. These walkie talkies run on batteries, and we all know how fast those things can drain, so being able to save those precious batteries is always a benefit. 

Generally, these are great all-rounder walkie talkies—small, private, and sturdy.

Pros

  • 30-day money-back guarantee and one year warranty
  • Eco-friendly materials
  • Generous range of colors, including two camo colors
  • Auto squelch system
  • LED flashlight
  • Minimized likelihood of outside interference

Cons

  • Earpiece connection is possible, but earpieces are sold separately
  • Some reports of the buttons popping out, but appears to be rare

Obuby Walkie Talkies for Kids

Most of the options on our list, and indeed it many of the options on the market, are a set of two walkie talkies. Obuby has decided to give a little extra and sell its walkie talkies as a set of three.

Available in three super bright color combinations, Obuby’s walkie talkies have a range of 3 miles in open space and a range of up to 1 mile in a residential area. 

As for that all-important privacy, the walkies talkies have 22 channels that are protected through 99 CTCSS sub-codes. All of these sub-codes minimize the opportunity for outsiders to get onto the same frequency and speak to your children. This is always a critical feature to look for in your walkie talkies! 

Another important aspect you may—and should—be looking for is how to stay on top of your battery purchases. In this case, the walkie talkies come with an audible alert that lets you know the batteries are low on power. This means you can get a new set before the kids start crying or get agitated. 

For kids who need help in the dark, or might be scared of it, these also come with a built-in flashlight. On top of this, the LCD is clear, and the entire units are waterproof, so don’t worry when they inevitably end up in the rain or dropped in a puddle. 

Another solid all-rounder in the walkie talkie category, I appreciate the extra privacy of these and the low-battery alert. I do wish there were some more subdued colors for older children, but little ones will love them.

Pros

  • Auto-squelch system
  • Set of three
  • Far louder than other options
  • Extra CTCSS sub-codes
  • Voice-activated
  • 10 call tones
  • Keypad lock

Cons

  • If tones aren’t turned off, the beeps can be too loud for some
  • Scan button is too easy to hit

Wes Tayin Walkie Talkies for Kids

WES TAYIN’s walkie talkies stand out in their adorable smiley face design. If your kids are a little older, though, or think of themselves as a little too cool for this, you can get more standard-looking versions in camo or yellow. The smiley face versions are blue or pink.

These walkie talkies have a range of up to 1 mile in a busy residential zone or inside of a building, up to 1.5 miles in more spaced-out residential areas and up to 2 miles in open areas. Some feedback suggests the range is actually further than this, maybe up to 3 or 4 miles, but this isn’t consistent, so take it with a pinch of salt. 

An interesting feature of these walkie talkies that I don’t see very frequently is the fixed, soft sound. This is intended for much smaller children who may get ear damage from loud noise. It keeps the sound at a certain volume, while also making sure it’s clear. This is a big advantage that not many other companies have thought of, as kids sometimes love to turn things up to maximum volume, even if it’s totally unnecessary. 

Another feature added for safety is the screw-closed battery compartment. While this isn’t as convenient as just being able to pop it open, it also means very small children can’t open it and put the batteries in their mouths. 

The display is clear and bright, with a green LED indicator that flashes as the channels are changed. There are only three channels, though, which means cross-frequency with other walkie talkie users is likely.

I would recommend these walkie talkies for your little ones—of toddler age—as the smiley faces, soft sound, and lower range all seem to be designed with this age in mind.

Pros

  • Decent range in both color and design
  • 1.5-year warranty and 30-day no-reason return
  • Built-in hanger for easy portability
  • Hands-free capability
  • Calling function with phone-like ringing
  • Durable
  • Fixed, soft sound

Cons

  • Shorter range than other options
  • Battery drainers
  • Low amount of channels

Yetion Kids Walkie Talkies

If you have a large family, or just like having spares around, YETION has you covered with the option of buying a set of four. If you don’t, you can still get the standard two. As of writing, the sets come in three colors—blue, pink and yellow.

This set has a pretty impressive range—up to 1.9 miles in more crowded areas and a max of 3.1 miles in open areas. The sound quality is smooth regardless of area, and the auto-squelch system means that, even in crowded areas, background noise is muted. There’s also an adjustable volume level to save your eardrums.

The walkie talkies have a 22-channel PMR system as well as an auto-scan function to detect any open channels available. There’s also a backlit LCD backlit and battery status indicator for extra functionality.

There are a couple of battery issues I should point out with these walkie talkies. They seem to drain batteries quite fast, and although there are other models that also have this issue, these require a whopping four batteries per toy. If your children aren’t using them super often, it may not be too much of a problem, but heavy use means a lot of buying batteries. 

These are great walkie talkies, but I would recommend them primarily for older children due to the interface being tricky to use. There are a lot of buttons compared to other models, and although the instructions are straightforward, a small child might struggle to get their head around it.

Pros

  • Sets of two or four
  • Auto-squelch function
  • Longer range than other options
  • Battery status indicator
  • One-year warranty
  • Good connection, even in areas with poor signal.
  • Auto-channel scan

Cons

  • A bit tricky for kids to learn
  • Can drain batteries quite fast
  • Four batteries required per walkie talkie

GoTalkie Long-Range Walkie Talkies

The GoTalkie walkie talkies are interesting for two reasons. Firstly, these easily have the longest range we’ve seen—a general range of 2 miles and can go up to 3.7 miles in open areas. They don’t sacrifice sound quality to do it, either, so this is a huge bonus for kids who love to explore far and wide.

Secondly, changeable plates. Rather than having walkie talkies of different designs, these come with different colored plates that you can switch out on the front of the toy. The different colors represent distinct jobs: 

  • Blue for police.
  • Black for spy. 
  • Camo for soldier.
  • Red for firefighter. 

How creative is that? It can really help your kids’ roleplaying feel more legitimate.

Another nifty feature we don’t see often is the option of regular batteries or rechargeable ones. This is a huge bonus as some of these toys can suck the juice out of batteries, and having the option to recharge could potentially save you a lot of money. 

In terms of battery life, you’re looking at 3.5 hours when they’re being played with and a pretty robust 9 hours when on standby. 

These are also smaller than a lot of other walkie talkies, so smaller children won’t have any issues with holding them or working the buttons. 

A downside of these toys is that they’re not as tough as some of our other options. They’re not as likely to survive a high drop and may generally take damage harder. For this reason, I’d recommend them for slightly older children or children who are just naturally more careful—if such a thing exists.

Pros

  • Impressive range
  • Changeable plates allow
  • Regular or rechargeable batteries
  • Battery meter
  • Nine hours of use on standby
  • Batteries last longer than other models

Cons

  • Not as durable as other options
  • A handful of reports of defective models being sent out

Bringing Home The Best Walkie Talkies For Kids

Walkie talkies can be a great toy to introduce to your kids. They’re a fun and practical addition to outdoor fun and family vacations—and a great way to keep tabs on kids while they explore their world.

If I had to choose only one set from our picks of the best walkie talkies for kids, it would be the Retevis Rechargeable Walkie Talkies. I love that they are rechargeable and everything you need is included in the purchase price—even the batteries.

Ryan is a co-founder of Smart Parent Advice. When he isn't spending time with his wife, Cristin, or his two children, he can often be found running around on the tennis court.