14 Best Parental Control Apps for Android and iPhone

Keeping your kids safe online is a top priority for any parent, and with the right parental control app, it's easier than ever. These apps offer a range of features, from screen time management and content filtering to location tracking and app blocking. We've compiled a list of the 14 best parental control apps for Android and iPhone, featuring top picks like Google Family Link, AirDroid Parental Control, and Nintendo Switch Parental Controls to help you stay in control of your child's digital experience.

Top app for parental control

1. Google Family Link

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Google Family Link is hands down the best parental control app I've used. It's not just about locking down their phone; it's about finding a balance between safety and independence. The app is incredibly easy to use, even for a tech-challenged parent like me! Family Link has helped me set healthy screen time limits and filter out inappropriate content, while still letting my younger siblings explore apps that are age-appropriate. Plus, it's backed by Google, which gives me peace of mind knowing it's constantly being updated and improved.

Google Family Link - Screen time limits, App approval/blocking, Location tracking

Key Features:

  • Set screen time limits for apps and devices
  • Approve or block apps your child wants to download
  • Track your child's device location

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2. AirDroid Parental Control

Download:

Cost: Free Trial ($0), Monthly Subscription ($9.99)

AirDroid Parental Control is a lifesaver for parents who want to keep their kids safe online and offline. It's the best parental control app because it offers a ton of features, like app blocking, screen time limits, and location tracking, all in one easy-to-use interface. With over 4 million downloads, it's clear that parents trust AirDroid to help them keep their kids safe and accountable. Plus, it's incredibly intuitive and easy to set up, so even tech-challenged parents can use it without any hassle.

AirDroid Parental Control - Real-time location tracking, Remote app control, Harmful content filtering

Key Features:

  • Block inappropriate apps and websites
  • Track location and set safe zones
  • Monitor phone usage and activity

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3. Nintendo Switch Parental Cont…

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The Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app is a decent parental control app for the Nintendo Switch console, allowing you to monitor your child's playtime and set limits. While it's easy to use and helpful for keeping an eye on your kids' gaming habits, it lacks some crucial features like password protection for the system or games, the ability to set specific time limits for individual profiles, and a "wake-up" time restriction. This means you can't set a specific window for play, only a bedtime limit. While it provides some peace of mind, it could be much more robust, especially considering the complexity of the Switch console.. Nintendo Switch Parental Cont…

Nintendo Switch Parental Cont… - Monitor play time, Set play-time limits, Check time limits followed

Key Features:

  • Set daily play time limits
  • Control access to specific games
  • Track online activity and communication

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4. Parental Control

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Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), Premium Plan ($4.99 per month)

Looking for a parental control app that actually works? Parental Control is the top choice for parents who want to keep their kids safe online and maintain a healthy balance with screen time. This app stands out from the crowd thanks to its advanced features like location tracking, app blocking, and website filtering, all backed by a user-friendly interface. Unlike other apps, Parental Control uses cutting-edge AI technology to automatically detect and block harmful content, giving you peace of mind knowing your kids are protected. With Parental Control, you can foster a healthier digital relationship with your kids and build trust in the online world.

Parental Control - Remote app blocking, Screen time scheduling, Location tracking

Key Features:

  • Limit screen time for kids' devices
  • Block inappropriate apps and websites
  • Monitor app usage and web browsing history

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5. Find my kids

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Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), Monthly Subscription ($2.99)

Find My Kids is a parental control app designed to help parents keep track of their children's location and online activity. This app offers a range of features, including GPS tracking, geofencing, and app blocking, all aimed at enhancing child safety and responsible screen time. While Find My Kids boasts over 50 million downloads and positive user reviews, it's crucial to consider potential drawbacks. Some users have reported concerns about battery drain and privacy issues related to data collection. Ultimately, Find My Kids can be a valuable tool for parents seeking a comprehensive solution for monitoring their children's online activity and physical whereabouts, but it's essential to weigh its benefits against its potential limitations.

Find my kids - Family GPS tracker, Location tracking, Kid's safety

Key Features:

  • Track kids' location in real-time
  • Set safe zones and alerts
  • Monitor kids' online activity

Other parental control app

The most important factors when choosing a parental control app

  1. Compatibility with your child's devices: Make sure the app works with the specific phones, tablets, or gaming consoles your child uses.
  2. Features that meet your needs: Consider whether you prioritize screen time management, app blocking, content filtering, location tracking, or a combination of these features.
  3. Ease of use for both parents and children: The app should be simple to set up and manage for you, while still being understandable for your child.
  4. Price and value: Some apps offer free basic features, while others require a subscription for advanced options. Choose an app that provides the features you need at a price that fits your budget.