Best Kids Tablets for 2014

Tablets are great for both entertainment and education and have become some of the best-selling toys over the last few years. We take a look at the best tablets for kids as we go into 2014.

The world in which we live in has become more and more dependent on technology, meaning is has become increasingly important to introduce children to computers at an early age, to help with the inevitable transition from toys to technology. And there are several tablets that will be fighting for that honour this year, so we take a look at some of the top tablets that will be competing for your attention during the holidays.

The best kids tablets are extremely adept at providing both hours of entertainment as well as serving as an educational tool helping children develop a range of skills such as reading, math and problem solving. It is important for kids to be exposed to a wide variety of toys during childhood, and this should include toys geared towards introducing kids to technology.

Of course giving a 5 year old access to your expensive Apple iPad or Kindle is not exactly a tempting idea for most parents, but with the dramatic development of tablets aimed specifically at children (-that have bridged the once massive performance gap between kid and adult tablets-) these child-friendly tablets make a great alternative at more affordable prices.

So we take a look at 5 market leaders for tablets, the LeapPad 2, LeapPad Ultra, The Fuhu Nabi 2, the VTech Innotab 3S and the Samsung Kids Edition. Read on!

LeapFrog LeapPad 2

The LeapPad 2 from LeapFrog is arguably the most popular non-Android based tablet for kids. The advantages of not being Android based are that LeapFrog produce and have total control over the games and apps that run on their device, and there are plenty of apps to choose from either pre-installed (there is plenty pre-installed software!), to download or to purchase.

Because LeapPad produce their own software you are guaranteed that all of apps,will be of a consistent quality and each will focus on a range of developmental areas to ensure a child’s progress is well balanced.

The LeapPad comes in an attractive, child-friendly, sturdy green or pink casing and includes a 5 inch responsive touchscreen. Integrated into the casing is a front and back camera so kids can take photos of themselves or friends and family with ease. With the camera comes photo editing software that allows the child to get creative with some simple yet powerful and fun tools to manipulate the photos that they take. Storage includes a 4GB hard drive.

The LeapPad 2 is one of the bestselling kid’s tablets and usually a best seller at Christmas. It consistently receives great reviews from parents across the globe for its quality performance and software and is a great way to keep kids entertained for hours at a time, whilst helping their development at the same time, and what’s more it is very affordable.

The LeapPad 2 successfully bridges the gap between tablet and toy, reminiscent of them both making them an ideal gift for children as they become interested in this sort of gadgetry. The only issue some parents may have with the LeapFrog is that older kids (7 years upwards) may find the design too juvenile and get bored with the software with is aimed towards kids from 4 years upwards (In which case read our reviews on the LeapPad Ultra or Nexus further down). So always keep that is mind if you’re purchasing for an older child.

However the LeapPad 2 is certainly on the best-selling tablets of the year and is a great choice for kids from around 4-8 years of age. When it comes to both entertainment and educational value, you will struggle to find a toy that matches a tablet like the LeapPad 2.

LeapPad Ultra

Released in the run up to Christmas 2013, the LeapPad Ultra is the next generation of LeapPad tablets that builds on the progress made by the LeapPad 2 and is aimed at slightly older kids with a more adult design, Internet connectivity and more efficient hardware inside.

The LeapPad Ultra is slimmer, yet larger in size and appears visually similar to that off an adult tablet. The larger 7” screen and improved video capabilities will make this tablet appeal more to children who feel they’ve outgrown the LeapPad 2 but not ready to take on the complexities of an adult tablet like the Kindle or iPad.

Of course just like it’s predecessors the LeapPad Ultra is non-Android based and it is compatible with the extensive range of LeapPad's superior range of games and applications available to purchase or download. Another significant point is the ability to directly access the Internet, albeit a restricted child-friendly version of it that allows kids to enter the “messaging” arena which more mature kids will certainly love.

The LeapPad Ultra boasts an impressive 1024x600px sharp resolution and a more powerful 800Mhz processor means games load and run faster than ever. The Ultra device also packs more older-kid friendly capabilities, such as an inbuilt MP3 player, child-friendly Internet browser and better video capture, so older kids will have plenty to keep themselves occupied with, along with the extensive selection of educational games and apps.

If you feel that your child may outgrow the LeapPad 2 and you don’t feel they’re ready for the adult tablet world then the LeapPad Ultra may be that perfect choice from a market leader in the kids tablet industry.

Fuhu Nabi 2

 

The Nabi 2 from Fuhu is the 2^nd generation Nabi console and arguably one of the most popular Android based children’s tablets on the market this year, and for good reason.

To look at the Fuhu Nabi 2 kind of resembles the classic Etch-a-Sketch but don’t let that fool you into thinking this console is some kind of relic, because it is not. The hardware inside the Nabi 2 includes an impressive 8GB hard drive and speedy quad-core nVidia Tegra processor (yes that means it’s fast) and this makes it ones of the fastest and best performing children’s tablets available.

Display wise the Nabi 2 exceeds expectations with a large 7inch display and satisfactory 1024x600 resolution, making the Nabi great for more memory intensive games. And being an Android tablet you have access to thousands of different software apps including the ability to download from the Amazon app store. That said however, the enthralling pre-loaded software is often sufficient for children to be entertained with for the first few months. The tablet also features a 2MP front facing camera and photo editing software.

As well as many pre-loaded games like the classic Angry Birds, the Nabi 2 is, just like the LeapPad, aimed also at education and includes educational apps aimed at developing a child in the sciences, math, social studies and English, and the software is far superior than that to many other tablets out there.

Overall the Fuhu Nabi 2 is one of the best performing kid’s tablets on the market. A slight disadvantage to the device is the slightly narrow viewing angle as the screen can get dark when viewed from too deep/shallow position, but this can be easily overlooked when you take into account the Nabi 2’s two stronger points – quality software and powerful hardware.
 

VTech Innotab 3S

 

 

One of the latest additions to the market is the Innotab 3S from VTech, released at the end of 2013 just before Christmas.

The target demographic in terms of age is similar to the LeapPad Ultra but it’s going to cost a little less, and that is because of a slightly smaller 5” screen as opposed to the Ultra’s 7” screen, and only 4GB memory when compared to the Ultra’s 8GB.

Once again we’re seeing another kids tablet become available that has access to Wi-Fi which is a great selling point with slightly older kids, and this is achieved through the kid-friendly Kid Connect network which allows children to send messages to other tablets, make friends (that have to be approved by the parent) and download music and pictures (which are pre-approved as child friendly).

And again just like the Ultra the Innotab 3S comes with an inbuilt music player and other pre-loaded applications (17 in fact!) so you can start playing and learning from the moment you unwrap!

The range of games available with the Innotab is extensive, and just like the LeapPad consoles the Innotab 3S is non-Android meaning they produce and control their own range of educational apps and games. Whilst the selection of games is arguably slightly less than those made by LeapFrog, there is still an amazing selection to choose from and you’ll never run out of options!

Other features include a 2MP swivel camera, e-book reading capabilities, inbuilt art studio app and a rechargeable battery pack.

 

 

 

Samsung Galaxy Tab for Kids

 

Lastly we have the Samsung Galaxy Tab, which by trade is an adult tablet, beating the rest of the prospects on this list in terms of hardware and performance.

However given the growing popularity in kids using adult tablets, adult tablet manufacturers are keen to have their products appeal to children as well, thus kid “versions” of their tablets.

In regards to the Samsung Galaxy Tab, the hardware is identical with no changes between the kid and version changes. The software, on the other hand, is totally different. The adult operating system hasn’t been replaced – it is still there – but a kiddie friendly interface has been added over the top that includes games like Fruit Ninja and Toy Story Smash, as well as appealing apps and software that kids will enjoy.

Yes, you can easily switch to the adult operating system if you want to use the tablet yourself or change any of the parental settings.

The software has access to the Google Play store for further downloads, allowing this Android based app to appeal to children through a number of years, and the hardware is good enough to last children into adulthood and beyond.

 

The display is a 7 inch crystal sharp display with a 1024x600 resolution, and a 1.2GHz processor beats out kiddie-specific tablet hands down. 1GB of memory and 8GB hard drive storage are also great.

Because the hardware is designed for adults, the Galaxy is not equipped for drops as much as the other tablets on the list here, so included is an orange bumper case to make the device more robust!

 If you’re looking for a long-term tablet that can develop with a child and can tackle even hardware-demanding apps and games, then the Galaxy may be the choice for you, but being an adult tablet with kiddie extras, the price tag is a little higher.

Check out some of the best kids tablets for 2014 here on topkidstoys.com

The Best of 7-Inch Kids Tablets in 2014

Kid’s tablets have really exploded over the last few years, with many parents considering them a must-have toy for their youngsters. It is important that kids be exposed to a wide, rich variety of toys, of which kids tablets play an important example.

Tablets help kids become accustomed to using digital technologies which will inevitably play an important role in their later lives. Additionally many of the apps run educational software that is capable of developing a child in many key areas such as problem solving, math and language.

If you’re looking for some great seven inch tablets for kids in 2014, perfect for when you're on-the-go because of their smaller size, then take a look at our top selection right here, suitable for every kind of budget.
 

4. Kurio 7

Despite being another tablet that was released in 2012, the Kurio 7 is a great cheap alternative and a perfect “first” tablet for kids just getting into the gadgetry scene.

It has a lower specification when compared to other tablets on this list, but with that comes a cheaper price tag. The robust, antishock casing and basic 800x480 resolution across its 7 inch screen highlights that this budget conscious tablet is squarely aimed at younger kids who have not owned a tablet device before.

If you’re worried about handing an expensive tablet to a kid who is just as likely to throw it down the stairs as he is to play with it, then the robust and incredibly cheap Kurio 7 is possibly best suited.

Despite its relatively basic display and hardware innards, the Kurio 7 is more than capable of playing games that help develop children with many early learning skills, and the Kurio store which can be accessed online has plenty of apps and games to ensure younger kids will keep themselves occupied until they outgrow the tablet.

The Kurio 7 is perfect for introducing kids to technology and tablet devices, with its easy going interface, and with plenty of features including a music player, touch screen and Internet access, kids will enjoy their very first tablet and be ready to progress when the time is ready. 

The cheap price tag means that this tablet can act as a short-term introduction tablet for a year or two, between the ages of 3-5 years would be ideal.

 
 

3. Fuhu Nabi 2

 

Despite being released in 2012 making it one of the oldest tablets on this list, the hardware specifications of the Fuhu Nabi 2 still make it a formidable tablet in terms of performance.

Successor to the original Nabi, the Nabi 2 features a 1.3GHz Quad Tegra processor with 1GB memory and 8GB storage space, providing it with the capability to play and store some of the most demanding apps. Fuhu boast that the Nabi 2 is the world’s first full-featured Android based tablet aimed specifically at kids, and considering the surplus of Android tablets coming out on the market now, it has to be said the Nabi 2 is quite the trendsetter!

The deisgn of the Nabi 2 resembles an etch-a-sketch, with a simplistic red design and robust cover making the Nabi 2 hard-wearing against accidental drops. The software provided is intuitive and kid friendly, with parental controls provided.

Being an Android tablet, you have access to the Google Play store, providing a wide selection of games and apps to choose from – the kids mode in Google Play ensures that children are not exposed to inappropriate content – all apps are vetted!

The display is more than enough, with a 1024x600 pixel display across the 7 inch display.

The Fuhu Nabi 2 is a fantastic, powerful tablet, and with access to the Google Play store there will always be plenty of software to play and download. The interface and design of the console make it more appealing to younger kids, from around 3 upwards to about 6/7 years. If little one is looking for something a little more mature however, other tablets on the list may be more appropriate.
 

2. LeapFrog LeapPad Ultra

The much-anticipated LeapPad Ultra hit the toy stores during 2013 and inevitably became a bestseller during the Holiday season that year.

LeapFrog are one of the leading companies in the troy industry, especially when it comes to anything digital, and given the success of the Ultra’s predecessor the LeapPad 2, it is no wonder that this substantially updated tablet has been selling so well in both 2013 and 2014.

The 7” display is much larger than previous models, and the general design and look & feel of the tablet gives off a much more sleek, mature first impression. The display itself is much better, with a 1024x600 resolution giving the tablet a brilliantly sharp display for that of a kids tablet.

The inside has also been given an overhaul from previous models too, with a brand new 800Mhz processor doing the behind-the-scenes work, as well as 8Gb of storage space, meaning the tablet is going to be responsive and be able to tackle more demanding software. Two cameras allow for photo and video taking fun.

But what really makes a tablet like the LeapPad Ultra worth the money is the kid friendly software that comes with the tablet. A specially designed touch-screen-enabled operating system allows kids to effortlessly find their way around, making their way through the various applications that come pre-included, like an MP3 player, an art studio, games and even to the online App Center.

The quality of the games that are available, either to download or to purchase separately, are perhaps amongst the best for any kids tablet on the market today. Yes, the Ultra is backwards compatible with games for older LeapFrog tablets, and each game or app is produced by LeapFrog themselves to the highest possible standard.

Whilst you cannot run software from third party companies on the LeapFrog, it won’t matter because the number of games is so large, each one aimed at either keeping kids entertained or helping them develop any number of key skills.

Certainly one the leading kids tablets for 2014, the LeapPad Ultra comes highly recommended, and added features such as a music player and Wi-Fi will allow the tablet to appeal to more older children too – a recommended age range of 4-9 years. Available in two colours – green and pink.

 
 

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Kids Edition (7-Inch with Orange Bumper Case)

With the rise of kids tablets becoming increasingly popular with families around the world, manufacturers of adult tablets are taking notice, especially Samsung, who have released a child-friendly version of their adult tablet the Samsung Galaxy 7inch.

The hardware inside and design is identical to the adult version of the tablet. This means you’ll be looking at one of the fastest and most responsive tablets on the market in 2014, considering it’s designed for adults. However the operating system has been given a child-friendly interface, including software that comes shipped with the tablet that is suited for kids.

And to boot, providing you get the tablet from the right place, it comes included with a bumper case to provide the tablet protection against bumps and drops.

Inside the Samsung Galaxy 7 is a 1.2GHz processor and 1GB of memory, meaning in terms of hardware performance, the Galaxy 7 is always going to come out on top. Of course on the flip side it does make the tablet the more expensive on the list, above the Ultra by about $50. But of course being an adult tablet inside this was only to be expected.

Also to be expected was an above average display, with a great 1280x800 196ppi screen, making games and videos look great across a modest 7.7 inch screen.

In terms of software, there are plenty of great choices. Whilst losing out slightly to the fantastic supply of games and apps for the LeapPad Ultra, there is still a lot of choice from the Samsung Kids Center that allows children to surf and choose from a wide range of kid-friendly software, adding them to their “wishlist” – from there, parents can decide which apps to purchase.

However there is plenty of pre-installed software, including several games that should keep kids occupied from the moment they turn on the tablet. Two cameras (front and rear) also allow for photos and video, which can be edited in creative software.

Adults will also be pleased with the tablets ability to switch to the adult interface for parental play! This allows the tablet to be the perfect “share” tablet for kids and adults.

The Samsung Galaxy Kids edition is the best performer on the list, albeit with the higher price tag, yet still great value for what you get. There is plenty to do and explore, making the tablet one of the best choices in 2014.

If an adult choice tablet takes your fancy but you’re looking for another option, the Kindle Fire HDX 7”, updated for 2014, makes another great choice for little hands.

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The Top 4 Tablets for Gaming in 2014

You may pretend to be getting that tablet to do your homework, schoolwork, checking your emails and surfing important things on the Internet...

...but we really know at the back of your mind you’re wondering how your shiny little tablet computer is going to handle games!

Now whilst tablet computers are not really going to compete to the same level as a decent Desktop PC, there are a number of tablets available that can play a surprisingly large range of performance-intensive games, at a range of different prices – so here is our top tablets for those gamers in 2014!

4. Kindle Fire HDX

The Kindle, owned by Amazon, have released their HDX Fire tablet at the end of 2013, and the final product is arguably one of the best tablets you can buy in the 7inch range, with decent processing power and outstanding display.

With the other 3 tablets on this list having at least a 9inch display, we wanted at least one in the 7inch range and it was a close call between the Fire HDX and  Google Nexus 7”. Eventually we landed on the Fire HDX, not only because the Google Nexus 10” is next on the list, but because the display on the HDX is possibly the most impressive we’ve seen on a tablet this year, boasting a whopping 1920x1200 resolution across its 7 inch display at an unbelievable 339ppi, giving an ultra-crystal sharp display, with vivid colours, providing an immersive video and gaming experience.

The Kindle line of tablets all branch out from the original e-reading tablet, and display has always been key when it comes to their tablets, but the processing power behind the HDX is pretty good too, with a massive leap forward to a 2.2GHz quad-core processor, allowing the HDX to tackle apps and games where previous models wouldn’t have stood a chance. Okay, the processing power isn’t going to compete with high-end, larger competitors, but for the budget gamer, this is compromise for a lower price tag.

There is no Google Play store here, despite being an Android tablet. The OS is controlled by Amazon, meaning apps and games will come from the Kindle App store, meaning users may find some must-have titles aren’t available which can be frustrating if you’re looking for specific games.

Of course, the Kindle Fire HDX is a “mini” tablet, with a smaller screen than the rest of the tablets here, and if you’re looking for more screen real estate, then read on. In terms of performance, the HDX doesn’t hold up to high-end tablets, but then it was never expected to – the HDX is ultimately a great choice for games within the more affordable end of the price spectrum, and it lives up to that brilliantly.

Surprisingly fast, with one of the best 7” displays out there, means the HDX is a great budget tablet for those wanting to get some gameplay with their tablet.

3. Google Nexus 10”

Googles prized tablet for 2014 is their 10 inch Nexus, a larger and more powerful version of their 7 inch model, and with a brilliant display and above average processor, the Nexus 10” is one of the best Android tablets for 2014.

If you’re enquiring about whether the tablet holds up to more expensive tablets like the Surface Pro 2, then the answer is no. But don’t let that put you off, because if you’re looking for a premium tablet capable of playing great games then you probably won’t get a better tablet for less than $430.

One of the main selling points for the Nexus 10”, much like the Fire HDX, is the beautiful and engaging display, only this time across a bigger 10” screen. The resolution is an ultra-impressive 2560x1600 resolution breaking the 300ppi threshold, producing an outstandingly sharp display that is perfectly suited for videos and graphics.

There is a decent 1.7Ghz dual processor inside, 2GB of memory and a Mli T-604 GPU, so whilst not quite up to scratch against the latest offerings from Apple or Microsoft, it still holds its own as a tablet that can tackle some pretty graphic intensive games.

Ultimately the inclusion of the Google Nexus 10” in our list boils down to its exceptional value for money. Generally you pay for what you get when buying tablets, but with the Nexus 10” you really get great value for what you pay, and its great performance and exceptional display make it a great gaming machine for someone on a budget.

And lastly, consider the Android operating system and full access to the wide range of apps and games available from the Google Play store. Software is certainly one of the Nexus 10’s strong points, and one it takes full advantage of.

One of the best Android tablets on the market, and perfect for anyone wanting a great value, affordable tablet that is capable of playing a wide range of games.

2. Microsoft Surface Pro

Tablets running the Windows 8 operating system can be a little touch and go depending on what tablet you get, and much of the performance is going to depend on what processor is included.

When it comes to the best performers across the Windows 8 tablet range, the Surface Pro from Microsoft themselves is certainly one of the leaders and looking at the specifications, it’s not hard to see why.

Inside you can see an impressive 1.9GHz i5 4300 processor doing most of the heavy lifting, with Intel HD Graphics 4400 playing the supporting role, giving the Surface Pro 2 the same amount of power you’d expect to find in a high-end notebook!

The storage space goes from 64GB, 128GB, 256GB or 512GB, where we recommend getting the 128GB model (unless you’re planning on wanting storage for lots of videos or dozens of games – 64GB isn’t enough considering you also store the OS) – naturally the price increases the higher you go.

The display is great – a 10.81 inch screen is marginally bigger than competitors and a 1920x1080 208ppi HD resolution is above average.

The Surface Pro truly is a high-end machine with a technical specification that other tablets can only dream of, but with this comes a few concerns, number one being the cost. Being a new release (December 2013 for the updated model) and given the innards, you are likely looking at over a grand for the tablet, so it’s a considerable purchase, but one that is thoroughly worth the money as one thing is for sure – you won’t be disappointed by the experience.

Also note that if you are playing high end games, given the power consumption of the tablet, don’t expect the battery life to be great– it will lose out to other tablets that are incapable of playing such intensive games.

If you’re a fan of Windows and love gaming, and are willing to dig that deep into your wallet, the Surface Pro 2 is likely the best candidate for you, with outstanding performance and a great software experience too.

1. Apple iPad Air

One of the best performing tablets on the market in 2014, this latest model to the famous iPad range is the 5^th generation iPad Air. Having undergone another overhaul in design, the iPad is now an incredibly chic 7.5mm thick. Impressive!

But don’t let the thin design fool you. The Apple iPad Air packs plenty of processing power with a 1.4GHz processor and extremely powerful A7 chip inside, allowing the Air to tackle some of the most graphics intensive games.

But with the iPad Air it’s not just the brute force power that makes it so appealing to those wanting a tablet for gaming, but the graphics, powered by a PowerVR GPU is exceptional, with a 2048x1536 264ppi retina display capable of producing vivid and extraordinary pictures and video. That is a cross an ample 9.7 inch screen, allowing games and videos to be completely immersive.

It’s no secret either that the iPad tablets are amongst the most powerful tablets on the market in any given year, and not only that but they are incredibly well designed too. An aluminium casing gives the tablet a robust, sturdy and even an affluent feel. You know straight away that you’re holding a serious piece of equipment.

Another consideration is on the software side of things – unlike Android/Windows based tablets, the Apple iPad Air has access to the Apple store which is one of the best places to download games, and some of the best titles are available exclusively from the Apple Store only.

Of course given that you’re buying an Apple product, it’s not going to be cheap, but it does have a smaller price tag than the Surface Pro 2, meaning for Apple fans, it really is a no-brainer - you pay for what you get, and what you get is a genuinely fantastic, fast yet lightweight tablet that in terms of sheer power and quality is still light years ahead of the competition.