One of the biggest decisions when giving your children their first smartphone is making sure it’s safe to use. That’s why, in this Balance Phone article, we’re recommending the 5 best parental control apps for teenagers available on Android.
A perfect way for them to enjoy technology while minimizing the risks to their mental health and education. Want to know which apps made the list? Keep reading—we’ll walk you through them!
What’s the best parental control app on android?
There are several solutions on the market that can, to varying degrees, help ensure safer smartphone use.
In general, there are two types: native tools and installable apps. The first are built into the device itself, so there are no tricks to bypass their limits. The second function like any other app, meaning they can be installed or removed at will. Let’s take a look at the most interesting ones.
Balance Phone
Our smartphones come with an operating system specifically designed to encourage healthy and responsible use. This is Balance OS, an operating system focused on functional use, eliminating exposure to risks such as gambling platforms, compulsive video gaming, or social media.
Our basic smartphone model is designed for kids and teens users and comes with this system pre-installed, but if you already own a Samsung device, you can purchase it through our website and install it easily, as it is fully compatible with the brand.
Google Family Link
Google’s official tool for parental supervision. Family Link lets you set screen time limits, approve apps, and locate the device at any time.
Its greatest advantage is that it’s integrated into Android, making it free, reliable, and very easy for families to set up.
Qustodio
Qustodio is one of the best-known parental control apps. It provides daily usage reports, blocks websites, and manages screen time.
It has a free version, but the more advanced features come with paid plans that are highly valued for their effectiveness.
Pinwheel
Like Balance Phone, Pinwheel is a smartphone designed for teens, featuring a curated catalog of pre-approved apps. This way, teens avoid exposure to harmful content and develop responsible digital habits from the start.
The difference is that Pinwheel runs on a subscription model—in addition to the device, you’ll need to pay a recurring fee to keep the system active.
HMD Fusion 1
Nokia’s HMD Fusion 1 is another device aimed at younger users. It combines Nokia’s well-known durability with built-in parental controls, including time limits, app blocking, and location tracking.
Its main drawback is the same as Pinwheel: the device itself is just the start—you’ll also need to cover a monthly subscription to unlock its features.
Free apps vs. advanced options
Among the free alternatives you can find on app stores or built into common devices, here are a few worth mentioning:
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Google Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls: A native Android option. It provides usage insights, time limits, and downtime scheduling. The downside? It’s easy for kids to disable.
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Kids Place: Creates a restricted environment where only selected apps are available. However, it doesn’t include web filters, location tracking, or detailed reports. Good for younger kids, but less effective as they grow more tech-savvy.
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OurPact: Lets you block apps and set usage schedules, though content filters are limited and syncing with some iOS devices can be unreliable.
That said, keep in mind that free options rarely meet all needs—or do so effectively. Developing reliable solutions takes resources, and “free” often ends up costing more in the long run.
Paid apps or devices usually prevent failures, hacks, or personal data leaks. At Balance Phone, that’s one of our goals: promoting healthy digital habits goes far beyond screen time—it’s also about data security, stable software, and regular updates.
If you’re looking for the best smartphone for your children, we invite you to explore our products—because innovation and mental health don’t have to be opposites. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to help.
