GPS Watches for Kids With Room for Bigger Wrists
The Xplora XGO3 suits most families with its adjustable band, GPS tracking and calling features in one device. Parents of older kids or tweens with bigger wrists should choose the Gabb Watch 3 instead for its longer band range, while anyone wanting face-to-face check-ins should pick the TickTalk 4 for video calling.
The Xplora XGO3 leads this list because its multi-notch adjustable silicone band extends further than many competing kids GPS watches, while still packing in calling, SOS alerts and location tracking. Its main limitation is a required data plan, adding an ongoing monthly cost beyond the purchase price.
We compared listed band adjustability, GPS tracking method, calling and messaging features, and carrier requirements across each watch, along with owner feedback on fit for bigger wrists, rather than fitting each device on an actual child ourselves.
What to look for
What to look for in a kids GPS watch for a larger wrist Band adjustability matters most for this specific need, since the number and spacing of notches determines how far the band extends beyond a standard child-size fit. Some brands, like TickTalk, also sell replacement bands separately for an even larger fit if the included band falls short. Checking owner feedback on fit range before buying avoids ordering a watch that still feels tight on a bigger wrist.
Best for extended band range Xplora’s XGO3 and Gabb’s Watch 3 both stand out for longer adjustable band ranges suited to older kids or tweens with bigger wrists. Gabb pairs this with a simpler, distraction-free interface, while Xplora adds more location accuracy through combined GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular positioning. Families should decide whether the simplicity of Gabb or the added features of Xplora matters more once band fit is settled.
Best for added features beyond tracking TickTalk’s video calling and SmartyPal’s built-in learning games both add value beyond plain location tracking, suited to families who want more than a basic safety device. Garmin’s Bounce leans toward fitness tracking instead, appealing to active kids already interested in step counts. None of these three should be chosen for band fit alone without checking their adjustable range first.
Balancing carrier requirements and plan flexibility Verizon’s GizmoWatch 3 suits families already on that network, simplifying billing but offering less flexibility for everyone else. Cosmo’s JrTrack 3 takes the opposite approach with no-contract, flexible monthly billing that does not require a specific carrier. Checking what service plan a watch requires before buying avoids a surprise ongoing cost on top of the device price.
The shortlist, ranked
Xplora XGO3
A silicone band with multiple adjustment notches extends to fit a wider range of wrist sizes than watches with fewer band holes, which matters for older kids or those with larger wrists. GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular network positioning combine to improve location accuracy compared to GPS-only tracking. Built-in calling and messaging let parents reach the child directly instead of relying on an app notification alone.
Pros
- Multi-notch band extends further for bigger wrists
- Combined positioning methods improve location accuracy
- Direct calling works even without a smartphone app open
Cons
- Requires an ongoing data plan or SIM subscription
- Setup process is more involved than simpler calling-only watches
Garmin Bounce
An adjustable band accommodates a range of wrist sizes while also tracking steps and activity, adding a fitness element that pure GPS trackers skip. LTE connectivity enables two-way calling and messaging for parent check-ins throughout the day. A geofencing feature sends alerts when the child arrives at or leaves set locations like school or home.
Pros
- Combines activity tracking with real-time location features
- Geofencing alerts notify parents of arrivals and departures
- LTE connectivity supports direct two-way communication
Cons
- Requires a compatible cellular plan to function fully
- Band range is adjustable but less extended than Xplora’s design
TickTalk 4
A built-in camera supports video calling, letting parents see their child during a check-in rather than relying on voice alone. An adjustable band fits a range of wrist sizes, with replacement bands available separately for an even larger fit if needed. GPS tracking combines with a companion app that shows real-time location history throughout the day.
Pros
- Video calling adds a visual check-in option voice calls lack
- Replacement bands are available for an even larger fit
- Location history in the app shows movement throughout the day
Cons
- Camera use drains battery faster than voice-only calling
- Video quality depends on network signal strength
SmartyPal 3
Built-in learning games and a camera add an educational and creative layer on top of standard GPS tracking, which most pure tracking watches skip. An adjustable silicone band fits a range of wrist sizes, though it runs on the narrower side compared to Xplora’s extended notch design. GPS and calling features function similarly to other SIM-based kids watches on this list.
Pros
- Learning games add value beyond pure location tracking
- Built-in camera supports creative use alongside GPS
- Standard calling and tracking features work reliably
Cons
- Band range is narrower than Xplora’s or TickTalk’s options
- Fewer geofencing features than fitness-focused alternatives
Gabb Watch 3
A longer adjustable band range suits older kids and tweens whose wrists have outgrown watches designed for younger children. The device skips internet browsing, social media and app downloads entirely, focusing on calling, texting and GPS location rather than entertainment features. A simpler interface appeals to parents who want location tracking without screen-time concerns.
Pros
- Extended band range fits older kids with bigger wrists
- No internet or app access limits screen-time concerns
- Simple interface reduces distraction compared to feature-heavy watches
Cons
- Lacks camera and game features found on other kids watches
- Requires a compatible monthly service plan
Cosmo JrTrack 3
A flexible, no-contract service plan lets parents pay monthly without committing to a long-term carrier agreement, differing from some competing kids GPS watches. An adjustable silicone band fits a moderate range of wrist sizes, with notches spaced for growing kids. GPS tracking pairs with a parent app showing live location and movement alerts.
Pros
- No-contract plan avoids long-term carrier commitments
- Adjustable band notches accommodate a growing wrist
- Parent app provides live location and movement alerts
Cons
- Band range is smaller than Xplora’s or Gabb’s extended options
- Fewer entertainment features than camera or game-focused watches
Verizon GizmoWatch 3
Direct integration with a Verizon family plan simplifies setup and billing for families already on that network, rather than managing a separate carrier account. An adjustable band fits a range of wrist sizes, and a companion app lets parents set safe zones and approved contacts. Step tracking adds a basic activity element alongside core GPS and calling features.
Pros
- Simplified billing for families already on Verizon
- Safe zone and approved contact features add parental control
- Step tracking adds a light activity element
Cons
- Best suited to families already using Verizon service
- Band range is adjustable but not as extended as Gabb’s or Xplora’s
How they stack up
| # | Model | Band | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Xplora XGO3 | Adjustable silicone, multiple notches | Best Overall | 8.9 | Check price |
| 2 | Garmin Bounce | Adjustable silicone | Best for Combining Fitness Tracking With GPS | 8.6 | Check price |
| 3 | TickTalk 4 | Built-in for video calling | Best for Video Calling | 8.5 | Check price |
| 4 | SmartyPal 3 | Built-in for photos | Best for Camera and Learning Games Alongside GPS | 8.3 | Check price |
| 5 | Gabb Watch 3 | Extended adjustable range for larger wrists | Best for Older Kids and Larger Wrists | 8.4 | Check price |
| 6 | Cosmo JrTrack 3 | No-contract, flexible monthly billing | Best for No-Contract Flexibility | 8.2 | Check price |
| 7 | Verizon GizmoWatch 3 | Verizon network integration | Best for Verizon Family Plan Integration | 8.3 | Check price |
Common questions
Which kids GPS watch has the longest adjustable band?
The Xplora XGO3 and Gabb Watch 3 both offer extended band ranges designed to fit older kids and tweens with larger wrists better than standard child-size bands.
Can I buy a separate larger band for a kids GPS watch?
Some brands, like TickTalk, sell replacement bands separately, which can help if the included band still feels tight on a bigger wrist.
Do all kids GPS watches require a monthly data plan?
Most, including Xplora, Garmin Bounce, TickTalk and SmartyPal, require a compatible SIM or data plan, though Cosmo’s JrTrack offers more flexible no-contract billing.
What is the difference between Gabb Watch 3 and other kids GPS watches?
Gabb intentionally skips internet browsing, social media and games, focusing only on calling, texting and GPS tracking, while most competitors add entertainment features.
Is video calling available on kids GPS watches?
Yes, the TickTalk 4 includes a built-in camera that supports video calling in addition to standard voice calls.
Does the Verizon GizmoWatch 3 work with other carriers?
It is built to integrate with a Verizon family plan, so it works best for families already using Verizon rather than other network carriers.
What kids GPS watch also tracks fitness activity?
Garmin’s Bounce combines step and activity tracking with GPS location features, appealing to families who want both in one device.
How accurate is GPS tracking on kids smartwatches?
Accuracy improves when a watch combines multiple positioning methods, like the Xplora XGO3’s use of GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular signals together rather than GPS alone.
Are kids GPS watches a good option for older kids who need a bigger band?
Yes, watches like the Gabb Watch 3 and Xplora XGO3 are specifically designed with longer band ranges to accommodate older kids and tweens.
Final word
The Xplora XGO3 is the strongest overall pick thanks to its extended adjustable band and combined GPS, Wi-Fi and cellular location accuracy. Parents of older kids or tweens who want a simpler, distraction-free device with a long band range should choose the Gabb Watch 3 instead. Families who want face-to-face check-ins rather than just voice or text should consider the TickTalk 4 over either, provided its band or an optional replacement fits comfortably.
Priya Nathan
Priya spent years in apparel buying and merchandising for a multi-brand retailer before moving into editorial work. She focuses on fit, fabric and construction quality across everyday wear, activewear and accessories, reading past marketing copy to the details that affect how a garment actually wears and holds up.
