When a child enters that blurry stage between preadolescence and adolescence, there’s one request that almost always arrives sooner or later: “I want a phone.” And yes, it makes sense. They see it at home, their friends have one, their cousins, their parents—practically everyone carries one around. So, it’s completely normal for them to ask.
That said, just because it’s common doesn’t mean handing them a smartphone with unrestricted access to the entire internet is a good idea. That’s why, if you’re at the point of deciding what phone to give your teenager, here are some tips to help you protect them while also teaching them to have a healthy relationship with technology.
Features a safe teen phone should have
Choosing your teenager’s first phone isn’t just about cameras or gigabytes. If you really want to protect your child, the phone you pick should allow you to control some key aspects. Here are the most important ones:
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Blocking access to inappropriate websites
Online betting is everywhere, and even if you think your child won’t fall into it, the data doesn’t lie: nearly 1 in 5 teens has gambled before the age of 15. And yes, this can lead to very serious issues like gambling addiction. Ideally, the phone should allow you to restrict access to casino sites, sports betting platforms, and games with real money.
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Filter for adult content and pornography
Sexual curiosity is natural during adolescence, of course. But the problem isn’t that they want to explore—it’s where they end up doing it. Many porn sites show violent scenes, lack of consent, or sexist messages that distort what a healthy relationship means. That’s why having a filter to block this type of content can help ensure that their first encounter with sexuality isn’t filled with toxicity. -
Screen time control: balancing tech and routine
It’s not about banning for the sake of it, but about helping them find balance. A phone can become a constant distraction if there isn’t some order—especially on weekdays, when school, study, and rest should be the priority.
That’s why it’s essential that the phone allows you to set time limits on apps like YouTube, TikTok, or WhatsApp. Because a Wednesday afternoon isn’t the same as a Saturday morning. This helps them stay focused and also understand that there are times when disconnecting is important. -
Real-time location system
It’s not about spying or limiting their freedom, but adding an extra layer of safety. Especially during those first years when they start moving around the city on their own, meeting friends, or coming back from school.
Having a reliable location feature—accessible from the parents’ phone—allows you to react quickly to any unexpected situation: delays, loss of contact, or risky circumstances.
The best phones for teenagers
Now that you know what features a safe phone for a teenager should include, it’s time for the practical part: choosing the right model. And no, you don’t need to spend a fortune or go for the latest high-end phones with specs you won’t even use yourself.
Here’s a list of some of the best phones for teenagers, designed to protect, educate, and support a healthy relationship with technology—without forgetting design, performance, and, of course, your wallet.
Balance Phone
Designed as the perfect first phone for teenagers, the Balance Phone is exactly what its name promises: balance between autonomy and safety.
No dangerous social networks, addictive games, or useless apps. This device comes with its own operating system, so you don’t have to struggle with complicated settings or constantly check what they’re downloading. No hacking risks or back doors.
In practice, it’s a great idea if you’re looking for a smartphone built for calls, WhatsApp, and a few safe apps. It gives them independence without fully exposing them to everything that comes with a traditional smartphone.
Samsung Smartphone with Balance OS
If you already own a Samsung device or find a good deal, you can combine it with Balance OS—the operating system that transforms a regular phone into a 100% safe device for teenagers. Unlike external parental control apps, this system can’t be uninstalled, which guarantees restrictions remain no matter who uses the phone.
With Balance OS you’ll have the same safety and control features as with a Balance Phone, but without buying a new device. A flexible, cost-effective, and highly efficient way to give your child a phone with clear limits and no technical complications.
Pinwheel Plus 5
This smartphone was designed exclusively with young users in mind. Both the hardware and software are created by Pinwheel and come pre-installed natively, meaning they can’t be removed or modified. The result is an ultra-secure environment, ideal for parents who want control without having to configure endless settings.
That said, although the price of the device is reasonable, you need a monthly subscription to unlock its full potential. Without it, it basically works like any other phone. And one important note: for now, it isn’t compatible with all carriers and is mostly targeted at the U.S. market.
Google Pixel 9
If you’re looking for a slightly more flexible option, the Google Pixel 9 could be an interesting alternative. Although it’s a traditional smartphone with full access to Android, it has one big advantage: it integrates seamlessly with Google Family Link, the parental control app developed by Google itself.
This means you’ll have access to more features, better compatibility, and fewer sync errors. However, since it doesn’t come with built-in restrictions or a closed system, everything is editable and removable—by you or by your child. It’s ideal if you’re looking for light supervision, but not the best choice if you want total, tamper-proof control.
Ultimately, choosing your teenager’s first phone isn’t just about the brand or the price, but about guiding them through a key stage in their lives. The right device can be an ally to protect, educate, and encourage responsible use of technology. And remember, beyond the phone itself, what really matters is setting clear rules for mobile use in teenagers. Because in the end, it’s not only about what device they have, but how they learn to interact with it in their daily life.
