As a parent, you want to give your child independence, but the idea of handing them a smartphone is daunting. The Gabb Watch 3 aims to be the perfect solution: a device that keeps kids connected without exposing them to the internet, social media, or online dangers. But does it live up to the hype? In this in-depth review, we’ll break down its features, durability, and whether it’s the right choice for your family.
Quick Verdict: Is the Gabb Watch 3 Worth It?
| Aspect | Rating & Details |
|---|---|
| Safety Features | ★★★★★ Excellent GPS tracking, parent-managed contacts, and Safe Zones make it a top choice for peace of mind. |
| Kid-Friendliness | ★★★★☆ Easy-to-use interface, fun fitness tracking, and a durable design. Limited apps may bore older kids. |
| Durability & Battery | ★★★★★ With an IP68 water-resistance rating and Gorilla Glass 3 screen, it’s built to withstand rough play. The battery easily lasts a full day. |
| Value for Money | ★★★★☆ The upfront cost is reasonable, but the required monthly subscription adds to the long-term expense. |
| Best For | Kids aged 5-12 as a first “phone” to build responsible tech habits without the risks of a smartphone. |
Key Features That Give Parents Peace of Mind
The Gabb Watch 3 is designed with safety as its core principle. All controls are managed through the parent’s MyGabb app on their own smartphone.
- Reliable GPS Tracking: See your child’s location in real-time and view their location history. The tracking is accurate and provides updates as frequently as every few minutes.
- Customizable Safe Zones: Set up locations like “Home,” “School,” or “Grandma’s House.” You’ll receive automatic notifications on your phone when your child enters or leaves these predefined areas.
- Locked Contact List: Your child can only call or text contacts you have approved (up to 100). There is no risk of them contacting or being contacted by strangers.
- SOS/Emergency Button: In an emergency, your child can press and hold a button to immediately alert a primary parent contact with their location.
- Focus & Lock Modes: Remotely disable all features except for emergency calls during school hours or at night to eliminate distractions.
How Does It Work for Kids? Communication, Design, and Apps
For a kid to want to wear it, the watch needs to be cool, functional, and durable. Gabb delivers on all three fronts.
Communication Made Simple
Kids can easily stay in touch with their approved contacts through:
- Voice Calling: Clear and simple calling to and from the pre-approved list.
- Text & Voice Messages: A full keyboard (with T9 and grid options), speech-to-text, and customizable preset messages make texting easy for small fingers.
Durable, Kid-Proof Hardware
- Screen: The 1.41-inch touchscreen is protected by ultra-strong Gorilla Glass 3 to resist scratches and cracks.
- Water Resistance: With an IP68 rating, the watch can handle being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. It’s safe for handwashing, rain, and puddles, though not recommended for swimming. Learn more about what water resistance ratings mean.
- Charging: It features convenient wireless charging and a battery that reliably lasts through a full school day and after-school activities.
Safe, Parent-Approved Apps
The Gabb Watch 3 includes only essential, pre-installed apps. There is no internet browser, no social media, and no app store.
- Tools: Calculator, Timer, Stopwatch, and Calendar.
- Gabb Move: A built-in fitness tracker that counts steps and encourages kids to stay active.
Gabb Watch 3 vs. A Smartphone: Why Less is More
The biggest selling point of the Gabb Watch 3 is what it doesn’t have. It provides a “tech in training” wheels experience.
| Feature | Gabb Watch 3 | Typical Smartphone |
|---|---|---|
| Internet Access | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Social Media | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| App Store | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Games | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| GPS Tracking | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Calls & Texts | ✅ To approved contacts only | ✅ To anyone |
| Parental Controls | ✅ Built-in and total | ⚠️ Requires third-party apps |
For parents concerned about screen time, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content, the Gabb Watch 3 offers a controlled environment. It’s a communication tool, not an entertainment device. For more tips on securing devices, see our guide on essential Android privacy settings.
Pricing and Plans Explained
The Gabb Watch 3 requires purchasing the device and a monthly cellular plan to function.
- Device Cost: Typically retails for $149.99, plus a one-time activation fee.
- Monthly Plan: A subscription is required for calls, texts, and GPS. Plans usually start around $12.99/month. Gabb often offers discounts for long-term contracts or multiple devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What age is the Gabb Watch 3 for?
The Gabb Watch 3 is ideally suited for children ages 5 to 12 who are not yet ready for the responsibilities of a smartphone.
Can the Gabb Watch 3 call 911?
Yes, the watch can be configured to call emergency services, in addition to the primary parent contact via the SOS button.
Does the Gabb Watch 3 have games?
No, the Gabb Watch 3 does not have any games, which is a deliberate design choice to minimize distractions and screen time.
Final Verdict: A Smart Choice for Concerned Parents
The Gabb Watch 3 is a phenomenal product that successfully bridges the gap between a child’s desire for connection and a parent’s need for safety. It empowers kids with independence while giving parents total control and peace of mind.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional safety and tracking features | Monthly subscription is mandatory |
| Extremely durable and water-resistant | No games or video calling features |
| No internet, social media, or spam calls | May feel too limited for older kids (12+) |
| Easy for both kids and parents to use | Occasional GPS lag in areas with poor service |
If you’re looking for a safe, reliable, and kid-friendly way to introduce your child to technology, the Gabb Watch 3 is one of the best options on the market today. It’s a fantastic stepping stone before a full smartphone.
