Best Kids Smartwatches in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Comparison for 2024

As a mother and an active member of the Johor Bahru Mom's Club, I've seen firsthand the growing need for smartwatches that keep our children safe while offering fun features they enjoy. Many of us moms have been discussing which smartwatches work best for our kids, and I decided to dive into a detailed comparison of some of the most popular ones available in Malaysia.

This comparison isn’t just my opinion; I reached out to other mothers in our Johor Bahru Mom's Club, and we collectively shared our experiences with these watches, from first impressions to long-term use. Together, we have compiled this unbiased review to help other parents make informed decisions.

From durability to ease of use, and from stylish designs to advanced features, choosing the right smartwatch for your child can be a challenging task. In this blog, we will compare five popular kids' smartwatches available in Malaysia: the Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro, Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch, Mibro Smart Kids Watch, IMOO Smart Kids Watch and myFirst Fone R2.

We'll dive beyond the specs, examining each watch's touch-and-feel aspects, packaging, build quality, and more, to help you make the best decision for your child.

Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro: Hands-On Review

Packaging and Unboxing

• The Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro arrives in a well-protected box with bubble wrap, ensuring the product is secure during transit.
• The sleek and premium packaging design sets high expectations right from the start.

First Impressions and Setup

• A QR code for the setup manual is included, simplifying the initial setup process.
• The watch takes a bit longer to switch on and load, with the Huawei logo appearing after a noticeable delay.

Design and Build Quality

• The watch has a slightly heavy feel, which might be more suitable for older children, though it also contributes to its robust and durable design.
• Typing on the watch is easy, though it doesn’t use a QWERTY keyboard, which might take some getting used to.
• The charger feels durable and substantial, indicating it may last long with regular use.

Color options: Pink & Blue

Waterproofing and Durability

• The Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro is waterproof, meeting the standard 5 ATM level requirement, making it suitable for shallow water activities like swimming in pools or at the seaside.
• However, the watch does not come with a screen protector, and Huawei does not sell one, which could be a consideration for parents worried about screen durability.

Battery Life

• The watch offers a battery life of up to 2 days on a single charge, though this is based on factory settings with class time and schedule on/off functions enabled.

• It includes a battery charging indicator: green when full and red when empty, helping users keep track of battery status easil

Customer Service

• The customer service experience is quite fast, which is a plus for those who may need support or have questions about the product.

User Experience

• Despite the longer startup time, the watch provides a smooth and intuitive user experience once fully operational.

Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch: Hands-On Review

Packaging and Unboxing

• The packaging is straightforward and simple. The watch arrives in its own box, wrapped in bubble wrap, with no extra box included, keeping the unboxing process minimal and easy.

First Impressions and Setup

• The first impression is uncomplicated, and the setup process is straightforward. The manual provided makes it easy to get started with the watch.

Design and Build Quality

• The Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch is lightweight, making it suitable even for younger children, such as 6-year-olds. However, this lightness also contributes to a less premium feel.
• The strap is thin yet has a rubbery texture, offering some comfort, though it may not seem as durable as other options.
• The charger, while feeling a bit cheap, does have a strong magnetic connection, ensuring it stays in place during charging.

Color options: Pink & Blue

Water Resistance and Durability

• The watch is splash resistant, making it suitable for everyday activities like washing hands, but it cannot be used for swimming or other water-based activities.
• Unfortunately, there is no compatible screen protector available, which might be a drawback for those concerned about screen scratches.

Battery Life

• One of the standout features is the battery life, which can last up to 1 week with general use. This is a significant advantage for parents who want to minimize charging frequency.
• Charging time is around 2.5 hours, making it relatively quick to top up.
• A battery indicator is displayed on the watch, providing a clear view of the remaining power.
• Note that the watch cannot be used while charging, which may be inconvenient if the battery runs low during use.

Customer Service

• The customer service for Xiaomi is quite fast, which adds to the overall positive experience with the brand.

Shipping and Warranty

• The watch ships out in 1-2 working days and comes with a 1-year warranty, offering peace of mind for parents concerned about potential issues.

User Experience

• While the watch may feel cheaper compared to other models, its lightweight design and extended battery life make it a practical choice for everyday use.

Mibro Smart Kids Watch Z3: Hands-On Review

Packaging and Unboxing

• The Mibro Smart Kids Watch arrives in the smallest and most compact square box among all the models reviewed. The watch is securely packed with bubble wrap, ensuring it is protected during transit.

First Impressions and Setup

• The first impression of the watch is that it feels a bit bulky. However, the setup process is smooth, thanks to a clear and helpful manual.

Design and Build Quality

• The watch feels heavier compared to other models, and the strap is thick and durable, not thin like the Xiaomi strap. This makes it less prone to getting dirty and gives it a more premium feel.
• Despite its bulkiness, the build quality feels robust and durable, providing a sense of reliability.
• Color options: Pink & Blue

Water Resistance and Durability

• The Mibro Smart Kids Watch offers basic water resistance, suitable for everyday use but not recommended for swimming or other water-based activities.

Battery Life and Indicator

• The watch includes a battery indicator, which is a helpful feature for monitoring battery status.
• Battery life. 5.5 days for daily mode, 10 days for basic mode.
• The charger feels lightweight, but it has a strong magnetic connection, ensuring it stays securely in place during charging.

• A battery indicator is displayed on the watch, providing a clear view of the remaining power.
• Note that the watch cannot be used while charging, which may be inconvenient if the battery runs low during use.

Customer Service

• Customer service can be somewhat delayed and less responsive to inquiries, which may be a drawback for users needing support.

Shipping and Warranty

• Shipping is quite fast, and the watch comes with a 1-year warranty, offering some reassurance for potential issues.

User Experience

• Overall, the Mibro Smart Kids Watch feels a bit premium despite its weight. The thick strap and durable build make it a solid choice, though its bulkiness and delayed customer service may be considerations for some users.

IMOO Smart Kids Watch: Hands-On Review

Packaging and Unboxing

• The IMOO Smart Kids Watch boasts the most secure packaging among all reviewed models. It arrives in a box marked with a "FRAGILE" sticker and is well-protected with bubble wrap inside. The packaging feels notably premium and stands out compared to other options.

First Impressions and Setup

• The setup process is straightforward and user-friendly, aided by a clear and comprehensive manual.

Design and Build Quality

• The watch is lightweight yet feels durable and sturdy. It features a unique dual watch hole design and is the only model with dual cameras. The camera flip feature allows for versatile photo taking but may be challenging for young children to use frequently without risk of damage.
• Color options: Pink & Blue

Water Resistance and Durability

• The IMOO watch has a water resistance rating of 20 meters, making it suitable for light water activities such as swimming in pools or oceans.

Battery Life and Indicator

• The watch includes a battery indicator for easy monitoring of battery status. There is an audible sound when the charging cable is inserted. The cable is black and appears premium, though it is lightweight and has a weaker magnetic connection, which can result in accidental disconnections.

Customer Service

• Customer service is relatively slow, which could be a consideration for users needing timely support.

Shipping and Warranty

• Shipping is relatively fast, and the watch comes with a 1-year warranty, providing reassurance for potential issues.

User Experience

• Overall, the IMOO Smart Kids Watch stands out for its secure packaging and dual-camera feature. Despite some minor issues with the magnetic connection and customer service, its premium feel and water resistance make it a solid choice for parents.

myFirst Fone R2: Hands-On Review

Packaging and Unboxing

 

• The myFirst Fone R2 arrives in a well-designed box that reflects the quality of the product inside. The packaging is sleek and modern, with a clean design that immediately sets a high standard. The watch is securely protected with bubble wrap, ensuring it arrives in pristine condition.

First Impressions and Setup

• Upon unboxing, the myFirst Fone R2 gives a solid first impression with its stylish and functional design. The setup process is intuitive and user-friendly, thanks to the detailed manual included. The watch is easy to power on and start using right away.

Design and Build Quality

• The myFirst Fone R2 is crafted with a robust yet stylish design. It is available in multiple vibrant colors, including Acai Purple, Cotton Candy Mix, Mixed Berry, Macaron Pink, and Nougat White, allowing kids to choose their favorite. The watch feels durable and well-built, with a strap that fits comfortably on smaller wrists. The strap is adjustable with multiple holes, ensuring a snug fit for children of various sizes.

Water Resistance and Durability

• The myFirst Fone R2 is designed to handle everyday adventures with ease. It has a water resistance rating that can withstand splashes and brief submersions, making it suitable for daily wear and light water activities. It is not intended for swimming but is durable enough to handle accidental spills.

Battery Life and Indicator

• The watch lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge, depending on usage. The battery indicator provides a clear view of remaining power, helping parents keep track of when it needs recharging. The charging process is straightforward, and the connection is reliable.

Customer Service

• Customer service for myFirst is responsive and helpful, providing support for any issues or questions. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their quick response times and effective resolution of concerns.

Shipping and Warranty

• The myFirst Fone R2 ships promptly, with efficient handling to ensure timely delivery. It comes with a 1-year warranty, offering peace of mind and protection against potential defects or issues.

User Experience

• Overall, the myFirst Fone R2 stands out for its combination of stylish design, robust build quality, and practical features. The watch’s vibrant color options and comfortable strap make it a hit with kids, while its durable construction and responsive customer service ensure a positive experience for parents. The myFirst Fone R2 provides a reliable and enjoyable smartwatch experience for children.

Size comparison

From left: Xiaomi, Huawei, Mibro, IMOO, myFirst

 

From the top: Xiaomi, Huawei, Mibro, IMOO, myFirst

Size: The myFirst Fone R2 is the largest in overall dimensions, which could offer a more prominent display and possibly better visibility for kids.

Weight: The myFirst Fone R2 is also the lightest, making it potentially more comfortable for younger children to wear for extended periods.

Strap Length: Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch has the longest strap, accommodating larger wrist sizes, while the myFirst Fone R2 has a more compact strap length, suited for smaller wrists.

Display Size: The Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch offers the largest display, which might provide a better user interface for kids.

As moms, we know how busy life can get, and sometimes choosing the right gadget for our kids feels like just another item on our never-ending to-do list. That’s why I’ve simplified the process for you by putting together a mom-approved comparison of five popular kids’ smartwatches in Malaysia:

 

Camera:

• myFirst Fone R2 and Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro both feature a 5MP camera.
• The R2’s 5MP selfie camera is tailored for kids, offering additional functionalities.

Location Tracking:

• All watches are rated as accurate based on standard GPS testing, ensuring reliable performance.

Water Resistance:

• The Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro takes the lead with 5 ATM waterproofing, providing superior protection.

Battery:

• The Mibro Smart Kids Watch boasts the highest battery capacity at 1000 mAh, giving it an advantage in battery life.

Fitness Features:

• The myFirst Fone R2 is designed with user-friendly fitness features that are ideal for children.

Health Monitoring:

• The myFirst Fone R2 and Imoo Smart Kids Watch include heart rate monitoring.
• The Imoo watch also offers additional health metrics.

Design/Color:

• The myFirst Fone R2 stands out with its vibrant and playful design options, making it especially appealing to children.

Ultimately, the best smartwatch for your child will depend on what features you prioritize most—whether it's the best value for money, the lightest weight, the most robust build, or the most advanced features. With the information provided, you're now well-equipped to make an informed choice and secure the best deal for your child's new smartwatch.

If you're interested in getting the myFirst Fone R2, use the special discount code ''SAFETYFIRST'' to purchase it for RM699 (regular price RM1,099). This offer is available for a limited time only.

References:

myFirst Malaysia, 2024: Smart watch for kids

myFirst Malaysia, 2024: myFirst Fone R2

Huawei Malaysia, 2024: Huawei Watch Kids 4 Pro

Xiaomi Malaysia, 2024: Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch  

Mibro, 2024: Mibro Kids Z3