Kids tablets: Five touch-screen computers for the nine-and-under set

If Mom and Dad want to use an an iPad, why shouldn't Junior get a tablet computer, too? Many parents appear to be following that line of reasoning, but many child-development experts say it's best for kids not to have too much "screen time" each day.

4. Vinci Tab: ($390)

This is the most expensive of the kids' tablets, and the one most resembling things like the Apple iPad or Samsung Galaxy that an adult might use.

It runs the Android operating software used on many smartphones. But with this tablet aimed at ages one and up, the Vinci Tab comes encased in a kind of protective bumper.

Like the others, it comes with some children's content preloaded and more items on sale online. The hardware includes a camera, and a rechargable battery under the hood.

"The Vinci Tab had the best display and touch-screen interface of the toy tablets, but was otherwise not a standout performer in lab tests and it costs much more than the other tested tablets," Consumer Reports says. It said the cost starts at $390 (for a version with 4 gigabytes of media storage, and some $90 more for an 8GB version.

This tablet has no microphone, nor does it have a stylus for pointing. But again, reviewers said its touch screen is very responsive.

4 of 5
You've read 3 of 3 free articles. Subscribe to continue.
CSM logo

Why is Christian Science in our name?

Our name is about honesty. The Monitor is owned by The Christian Science Church, and we’ve always been transparent about that.

The Church publishes the Monitor because it sees good journalism as vital to progress in the world. Since 1908, we’ve aimed “to injure no man, but to bless all mankind,” as our founder, Mary Baker Eddy, put it.

Here, you’ll find award-winning journalism not driven by commercial influences – a news organization that takes seriously its mission to uplift the world by seeking solutions and finding reasons for credible hope.

Explore values journalism About us