After testing the best kids cameras of 2025, these are the ones worth every penny

User level: Kids (ages 3–9) | Megapixels: 8 MP (front), 2 MP (rear) | Lens: Dual lens (front and rear), focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 320 x 240p | Waterproof: No | Battery: 4 x AAA batteries| Extra features: Music player, Built-in games and activities

With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 6,000 Amazon reviews, the VTech KidiZoom Duo FX stands out as a top contender for a child’s first camera. One of our mum testers found it especially suited for young photographers, thanks to its 8MP sensor delivering sharp photos and videos that kids can personalise with over 80 fun filters and effects. This versatility encourages creativity, letting children experiment with selfies, panoramic shots, and videos featuring playful special effects.

Beyond photography, the Duo FX includes extras like a music player and more than 15 games and activities, keeping little ones entertained beyond just snapping pictures. The camera also offers practical features such as a built-in flash, 4x digital zoom, and expandable storage via a microSD card. Parental controls provide peace of mind, helping you manage what your child accesses.

One of our mum writers, Laura Healy said, “It’s very simple to use. My kids love taking photos and videos, then adding special effects and silly animations, it really keeps them engaged.” Other parents agree, praising how intuitive the controls are and how quickly their children mastered the device. Many reviewers also highlight the solid build quality, describing it as robust and able to withstand drops and rough handling.

One Amazon reviewer shared, “I bought this for my granddaughter’s birthday. She took 90 pictures within the first hour, and all the kids wanted a turn!” Another noted, “My 3-year-old found it super easy to use, and the filters are a big hit.”

Laura pointed out a couple of minor drawbacks, “It’s a bit chunky to carry around, but that hasn’t bothered my girls, and the sturdy design has probably saved it from damage after a few tumbles and even a temper tantrum.” She also mentioned the downside of needing batteries rather than rechargeable power: “We do go through batteries quickly when it’s used a lot, but for family days out or park trips, it’s perfect and loads of fun.”

Overall, the VTech KidiZoom Duo FX offers excellent value for money, combining ease of use, durability, and plenty of creative features to keep kids happily snapping away.

User level: Kids (ages 3-12)| Megapixels: 20 MP| Lens: Focus-free | LCD screen size:  2.0” | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Time lapse, 8x digital zoom, puzzle games 

With a solid 4.6-star rating from over 2,600 Amazon reviews, the Hangrui Kids Camera stands out as the best budget-friendly option on our list. Parents love its simple, durable design and the shockproof silicone case, available in fun Dinosaur and Unicorn styles, which helps it survive the usual drops and bumps from little hands.

Its compact size makes it easy for toddlers and young children to hold and use independently. The camera offers plenty of features to keep kids entertained, including 28 colourful photo frames, 6 filters, 5 mirror effects, 8x digital zoom, self-timer, and time-lapse shooting. While the photo quality doesn’t match that of a smartphone, it’s perfect for little ones just starting to explore photography.

Video recording is another popular feature, and the included memory card provides ample storage for photos and videos. The camera also includes built-in puzzle games like Snake, Tetris, and Sokoban, which are great for keeping children occupied on long car rides.

Parents praise how easy the camera is for kids to use. One shared, “It’s smaller than I expected, which is perfect for her little hands. She’s already dropped it a few times, but the silicone case has kept it safe.”

Battery life and image quality receive mixed reviews, some parents find the battery lasts well, while others wish it lasted longer. Similarly, the picture quality is acceptable for a kids’ camera, though not as sharp as a phone’s camera. One parent highlighted the dual-lens feature, saying, “The front and rear cameras are a game-changer. My three-year-old loved switching between them, and the battery lasted quite a while.”

Overall, the Hangrui Kids Camera offers excellent value for money, with durability, ease of use, and fun features, making it an ideal budget-friendly choice for toddlers eager to start snapping their own photos.

User level: 3 years + | Megapixels: Native resolution: 3MP / interpolated up to 40MP | LCD screen size: 2.0″ IPS non-touch | Max video resolution: 1080p | Battery: 750 mAh USB rechargeable| Extra feature: 16 GB of storage space for up to 1,000 photos, photo frames + filters

If you're looking for a genuinely toddler-friendly camera, the Hoppstar Rookie in Pina Colada is my top choice. It’s light, super compact, and honestly feels more like a sturdy toy than something I need to worry about, which is exactly what I want when my little one’s tossing it into a bag or waving it around like a toy car.

I picked this as the best kids' camera for toddlers because it’s so low-stress and practical. The size is perfect for small hands, and it doesn’t feel fragile or overly precious. I’ve thrown it in my coat pocket without thinking twice. Compared to the bulkier Hoppstar Artist (which has instant print), the Rookie is much more grab-and-go, especially for younger kids.

The design is a huge win — the Pina Colada colour is adorable, and you can switch out the silicone sleeves (sold separately) depending on your kid’s vibe. The sleeve also adds grip, which helps little ones hold it more confidently.

It’s really easy to use. There aren’t loads of buttons, so my toddler figured it out fast. He loves the animated filters and taking photos of toys or people mid-movement, and there’s a built-in timer (2, 5, or 10 seconds) that’s great for accidental selfies. Plus, the lens gives off a fun fisheye-style effect that adds a playful twist to his photos; he noticed it straight away and was obsessed.

If I had to choose just one camera for my toddler, this would be it. It’s compact, durable, and seriously cute, perfectly sized for little hands. I also really love the 2-in-1 lanyard; it doubles as a charging cable, which is such a smart, efficient touch. That said, it’s not waterproof, so it’s definitely not one for water play or beach days.

It’s also so lightweight that some might find it feels a bit cheap or less sturdy at first glance — though in our experience, it’s held up really well. One thing to note is that there’s no selfie camera, which might be a downside for slightly older kids who love snapping themselves, but for toddlers, it’s not really a dealbreaker.

User level: Kids (ages 4–9) | Megapixels: 26MP/12MP/8MP/5MP | Lens: Dual lens (front and rear) | LCD screen size: 3.0” IPS colour screen | Max video resolution: 1920x1080 / 30fps | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Wide Viewing Angle

This was my personal favourite of all the kids' cameras we tested. What makes it stand out is the built-in black-and-white printer — the print quality is genuinely impressive, with images that are clear, sharp, and surprisingly comparable to Instax photos, but without the ongoing cost of specialist photo paper.

While the camera is slightly advanced for my toddler, he still managed to take pictures by himself, which speaks to how user-friendly it is. I can really see the appeal for older kids, especially those who like to keep journals or scrapbooks. 

The camera itself is compact and lightweight, designed with kids in mind. Its boxy shape is easy for small hands to grip, and it’s light enough to hang around the neck or tuck into a little backpack. It’s recommended for children aged 4 to 9 and comes with dual lenses, one on the front and one on the back, both of which take bright, detailed photos.

One standout feature is the wide-angle lens, which lets kids fit more into each shot, perfect for group snaps or big outdoor scenes. There's also a cute, animated screen that makes the experience more playful: a sleeping cat appears when the camera is idle, and a cheerful emoji pops up when it’s printing.

Beyond still images, the Insta 2 also records full HD video, and the quality is genuinely good, crisp, clear, and vibrant. The 3-inch colour screen is bright and easy for children to use when viewing photos, recording videos, or navigating menus.

But the real magic is in the printing speed, just 7 seconds from snap to print! The black-and-white prints are crisp and capture lovely details, and because the paper’s inexpensive, it’s a fun and affordable way for kids to print as much as they like.

When I tested this with my toddler, I was impressed by how quickly it responded, even when he was on the move. It handled bright sunlight well and produced well-lit photos outdoors, something I struggled with on the Hoppstar Artist, as photos taken against bright backgrounds tended to look a bit washed out. 

A few extras worth noting: It comes with a microSD card, so it’s ready to go straight out of the box, it supports photo and video storage and the controls are simple and intuitive for kids to learn on their own.

The only minor drawback we noticed was the print and playback buttons, they’re small and placed quite close together, so we occasionally printed photos by accident when just trying to view them. But honestly, that’s a tiny issue in what was otherwise a really fun and engaging experience.

If you’re after a camera that inspires creativity and gives kids the instant reward of a physical photo, the myFirst Insta 2 is a brilliant pick. It’s fun, functional, and offers something a little more special than your standard kids' camera.

User level: Kids (ages 3-10)| Megapixels: 16 MP | Lens: Focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.0” | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: 6 scene selections, autofocus, self-timer and time-lapse/ burst shot

With over 8,500 reviews and a solid 4-star rating, the YunLone Kids Camera is a popular pick among parents  and it’s easy to see why. It comes wrapped in a colourful, shockproof silicone case that helps it survive the usual knocks and tumbles, making it a great choice for younger children. Its simple controls and lightweight design are ideal for small hands just learning to snap their own photos.

This is our best starter digital camera – ideal if you’re not quite ready to splurge but want to give your little one something fun to experiment with. If your child’s been showing interest in taking photos (usually on your phone!), the YunLone Kids Camera is a low-risk, high-fun way to see if it’s more than just a passing phase. It’s a great way to dip a toe in without breaking the bank.

Parents love the creative features built in, including 30 playful frame styles, seven photo filters, and the ability to record videos. The camera also comes with a 32GB microSD card and fun cartoon stickers, which many see as thoughtful touches for budding little photographers.

One reviewer shared, “This children’s camera has been a hit with my young one. The clarity of both photos and videos is remarkable, igniting a newfound interest in capturing moments. The user-friendly design is perfect for small hands, and the durability is reassuring.”

Another parent wrote, “This was a gift for my 3-year-old’s birthday. They love taking photos on our phones, so having a camera of their own has been brilliant.”

If you’re looking for an affordable, cheerful, and easy-to-use camera that encourages creativity and independence especially for preschoolers just starting out, the YunLone Kids Camera is a great place to start.

User level: Kids 5-12 years | Megapixels: 12 MP | Lens: Dual lens (front and rear)| LCD screen size: 2.0" | Max video resolution: 320 x 240p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Printing resolution: 200 dpi | Extra features: Direct thermal printing, free printing paper rolls 

If you’re on the hunt for the best kids’ camera for 5-year-olds, the Hoppstar Artist Digital Camera is definitely worth a look. Honestly, even toddlers will love it, it’s currently my son’s favourite gadget because it prints his photos instantly. I tested it with my two-year-old for a good couple of months, and while it’s a bit chunky, that actually works in its favour. It’s sturdy, easy to grip, and built for little hands that tend to drop things.

The chunky design, large buttons, and simple controls make it perfect for toddlers. The built-in thermal printer delivers quick black-and-white prints that keep kids excited, though the print quality isn’t quite as sharp as the myFirst Insta 20. The Insta 20 offers sharper images, a colour screen, and more advanced features for older kids, but for toddlers, the Hoppstar’s simplicity and durability really stand out. It also comes with a matching bag, perfect for keeping it safe when you’re taking it on trips.

What I really like is how well it balances ease of use with fun. The big buttons, clear layout, and bright screen mean my toddler could use it independently which made him feel very grown-up. The handy lanyard was a smart addition, so I didn’t have to worry every time he wandered off with it.

The real magic is the thermal printer, no ink needed, and photos print out instantly. My son was hooked from the first snap, and with enough paper for around 225 prints plus fun filters and frames, it keeps the creativity flowing. The dual-lens setup lets kids take selfies as easily as regular photos, and the lack of zoom keeps things simple for little photographers.

It also records video with surprisingly clear sound, great for storytelling or little video projects. Photos and videos can be transferred via USB or memory card, and the rechargeable battery held up well between charges.

It’s worth mentioning that the camera isn’t waterproof or shockproof, and the thermal print quality can’t match dedicated photo printers, but it’s more than good enough for fun, instant keepsakes. Indoor lighting gave the best results, especially when using the 12MP high-density setting.

All in all, this is a brilliant little gadget that encourages creativity and independence, perfect for holidays, rainy days, or just keeping tiny hands busy.

User level: Kids (ages 5–12)| Megapixels: 20 MP rear, 16 MP selfie | Lens: Wide-angle rear lens, 20mm macro lens | LCD screen size:  3.97" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: AI photo editing tools, selfie light with warm modes, Wi-Fi sharing via myFirst Circle app

For those looking to introduce their little ones to social media, the myFirst Camera 50 AI is an excellent choice. With its sleek design and fun purple and blue colour options, it looks and feels like a mini smartphone, lightweight, modern, and easy to use. It’s a fantastic transition gadget for kids moving from toddler tech to something a bit more grown-up. While it was a bit advanced for my toddler, I can easily see children aged 5 to 12 loving it for capturing their everyday adventures.

The camera takes sharp 20MP photos and records in 1080p HD, which is impressive for a device aimed at kids. It includes three zoom levels, allowing little photographers to get closer to the action. Videos can be a bit shaky due to the lack of stabilisation, but the overall quality is still strong. The built-in selfie light, with adjustable warmth settings, is a thoughtful addition, especially helpful for low-light or indoor shots.

The creative features were a big hit in our household. After a bit of exploring, I found them very intuitive, and kids can easily edit directly on the device. They can add music, voice notes, stickers, and apply themed filters like “travel” or “food,” which adds a personal touch to their photos and videos. The option to create mini video diaries is especially lovely, it’s a fun way for kids to tell their own stories and preserve memories.

What really sets this camera apart is its connection to the myFirst Circle app. I tested the app myself and found it straightforward to set up. Once linked, kids can upload their creations to a secure, private space where only approved family and friends can view and interact. Parents maintain full control over who can access and comment, which makes it a safe, child-friendly alternative to traditional social media. The only downside is that family and friends must also download the app in order to view, like, or comment.

There are a few minor drawbacks: startup can be slow, the screen occasionally lags, and loading music onto the device requires a manual transfer from a computer.

For creative, expressive children who enjoy taking photos, filming, or making mini vlogs, the myFirst Camera 50 offers a fun, safe, and confidence-building introduction to digital content creation.

User level: Kids (ages 3-14) | Megapixels: 20MP | Lens: Front and rear dual lenses | LCD screen size:  2.4" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Built-in 6 kinds of colour filters, 20 kinds of cartoon photo frames and characters, timer shooting

For our top pick in best instant kids’ cameras, we recommend the HiMont Kids Camera Instant Print, which boasts a solid 4.4-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews. Parents love the instant printing feature that lets kids create physical keepsakes right away, something little ones can hold onto and cherish. The camera is praised for its user-friendly design, along with good photo and video quality.

That said, some users have raised concerns about print quality and certain functionalities. The camera comes with fun extras like string, pegs, and colourful markers, encouraging kids to decorate their prints and get creative. Beyond photos, it also offers games and video recording, making it a versatile gadget for little photographers. The instant prints are made on skin-friendly paper, with enough included rolls for up to 150 photos, another big plus for parents.

One reviewer said, "This is a great camera for kids! It’s easy to use and takes great photos and videos. The instant print feature is a lot of fun, and the kids love seeing their pictures straight away. The accessories make decorating photos even more enjoyable."

Another happy customer shared, "The instant print is impressively quick, just 3 to 5 seconds after shooting. The prints are black and white, exactly as advertised, and both front and back cameras deliver better image quality than I expected at this price point."

User level: Kids (ages 3-12) | Megapixels: 3 MP native (interpolated up to 20-40 MP, focus-free) | LCD screen: 2.0” IPS (non-touch) | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No |Battery: USB rechargeable (~1000 mAh) | Extra features: Face recognition, photo filters and frames

Among the cameras listed, the Hoppstar Expert stands out as the best kids’ camera for design. Its DSLR-inspired design makes it a fun option for parents who want to twin with their little ones. Beyond looks, I love the built-in anti-shake feature that helps stabilise videos, and the face recognition makes framing easier for kids.

The Hoppstar Expert Digital Camera in Citron is packed with kid-friendly features, including a selfie camera, 16GB storage (around 1,000 photos), and easy-to-use menus. Like the Rookie, it comes with interchangeable silicone sleeves for protection, though it’s not waterproof like the myFirst Camera 2.

While the myFirst Camera 2 offers sturdier build quality and waterproofing, the Hoppstar Expert takes the lead in style and design, it genuinely looks like a pro camera made just for kids. My son loves the car filter, similar to the Rookie, and the fun fish-eye lens adds creative flair. Plus, it includes colourful photo frames and filters to keep photography exciting.

User level: Kids (ages 5-10) | Megapixels: 8MP | Lens: Front and rear dual lenses | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: AR filters, 4X digital zoom

For those looking for an action camera for kids aged 5 and up, the VTech KidiZoom Studio is definitely worth checking out. With a 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews, it’s a favourite among parents seeking a fun and interactive camera for their kids. Designed for children 5+, it offers cool features like video recording, a green screen effect, and 20 imaginative backgrounds from beach scenes to outer space that inspire creativity and imaginative play.

The camera includes a mini tripod/handle and a wrist strap, making it easy for little hands to capture action-packed moments. Parents also appreciate the three built-in games that help boost hand-eye coordination and keep kids entertained. 

Durability is a standout feature, with many reviewers impressed by how well it withstands rough handling. One happy buyer said, “I bought this for my grandson’s 5th birthday. He’s delighted with it! It’s easy to use and keeps him entertained for hours.” Another parent added, “It’s really sturdy and easy to navigate. My toddler throws it around the house, and it still works perfectly.”

Some parents note that the memory card capacity could be larger since they often have to delete photos, and the battery life might need improvement. Despite these minor issues, most agree the VTech KidiZoom Studio is a fantastic choice for creative kids, providing hours of fun, learning, and entertainment.

User level: Kids (ages 3-10)| Megapixels: 8 MP| Lens: Single/ Fixed focus | LCD screen size: 2.0" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: Yes (IPX8-rated; up to 3 meters for 180 minutes) | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Built-in filters, frames, microSD, free waterproof case  

Very much like an action camera but designed for toddlers, the myFirst Camera 2 Waterproof Mini Camera keeps things simple unlike the VTech KidiZoom Studio, which comes loaded with extras like a mini tripod/handle, wrist strap, and green screen effects. This camera is easy to use and built to go underwater.

It’s perfect for beach holidays or any trip where your little one might get wet or messy, almost like their own mini GoPro. My toddler tested it during bath time, and thanks to the waterproof case, it stayed completely protected. The shockproof cover also held up well during some wild throwing sessions, so those waterproof and shockproof features really deliver.

We even took it to Edinburgh’s sandy beaches, where the waterproof case did a fantastic job keeping out the sand. I’m really looking forward to bringing it on our upcoming Italy beach trip, where I plan to let my son try it out while snorkeling.

Compact and travel-friendly, this camera is ideal for kids who love water play. Its waterproof and shockproof case means it’s splash-proof and can be submerged up to 3 meters for 3 hours. The LEGO-inspired design is super cute, and it’s small and light enough for little hands to manage easily. Plus, the included lanyard makes it easy for kids to carry without worrying about drops.

Testing it with my son was a blast. The colour filters and photo frames were an instant hit. The 8MP image quality is decent for its size, though I did wish it had a selfie lens. It doesn’t have extra bells and whistles like games, but that simplicity keeps it focused on being a reliable camera for outdoor and underwater adventures. It also comes with preloaded photo templates, stickers, and a 16GB microSD card for storing photos and videos.

The real highlight is how well it works underwater when the waterproof case is properly sealed, perfect for swimming or pool days. One quick tip for parents: always double-check the seal before letting kids dive in; better safe than sorry! This camera is great for kids aged 3 and up and makes a fantastic first camera for capturing holiday memories or everyday fun.

User level: Kids (ages 5-10) | Megapixels: 2 MP (5 MP interpolated) | Lens: Rotating (180°), focus-free | LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 640 x 480p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Flip-up lens to capture the perfect selfie video

If you’re searching for a fun and creative camera for a 7-year-old, the VTech KidiZoom PrintCam is definitely worth considering. With a strong 4.6-star rating from over 2,600 Amazon reviewers, it’s clear that many parents and kids appreciate what this camera offers. One of its standout features is the built-in thermal printer, which lets kids print their photos instantly in black and white making photography more interactive and exciting.

Parents often praise its sturdy design, ease of use, and creative features like special effects, stamps, and borders that encourage imaginative play. The flip-up lens makes selfies easy and fun, while features like turning photos into line drawings for colouring, or creating custom cards and pretend money, add extra layers of creativity. It functions as a standard digital camera too, allowing kids to take photos and videos that can be saved and transferred via USB, with expandable memory through a microSD card.

Our mum writer Laura tested the camera with her daughter and said, “My seven-year-old enjoys using this camera, especially because she can print her pictures. She loves the comic strip maker and the line drawing effect. It took her a little time to learn the features, but with some practice, she was able to use it independently. It’s a fun camera for taking digital photos and printing them.”

While photo quality and battery life receive mixed reviews, most agree that the camera’s durability and combination of instant printing, photo editing, and game features make it a great choice for kids ready to explore photography and creativity.

Overall, the VTech KidiZoom PrintCam offers a fun, engaging experience that helps kids develop independence and have hours of entertainment.

User level: Kids (ages 4-15) | Megapixels: 16MP | Lens: Selfie and Macro Lens| LCD screen size: 2.4" | Max video resolution: 1080p | Waterproof: No | Battery: USB charging | Extra features: Built-in fun filters, timer mode, comes with shock-proof silicone case 

If you’re looking for the best kids’ camera for close-up shots, the myFirst Camera 3 is a fantastic choice. Designed specifically for little hands, it combines child-friendly simplicity with the performance of a standard digital camera. What really sets it apart is its macro lens, perfect for capturing detailed close-ups of bugs, flowers, or any tiny wonders your child spots. It also features a selfie lens, so kids can have fun snapping self-portraits.

Durability is key with this camera, it comes with a shockproof pouch made from high-tensile strength polymers, built to handle drops, bumps, and everyday rough play. Plus, it supports microSD cards up to 32GB, so your child can take plenty of photos and videos without worrying about running out of space.

Mum writer, Laura tested the camera with her kids and shared, “My four-year-old loves this camera! It’s the perfect size for her small hands and incredibly lightweight. She enjoys going out into the garden to photograph bugs, and despite its simplicity, the picture quality is really impressive. She’s taken some great shots, and we’ve all been caught on camera without warning! Adding fun effects or switching to Macro mode takes a bit of help at first, but she’s learning quickly, and my seven-year-old can already use it independently and even helps her out. The battery life is solid, and though we’ve been careful, the camera feels sturdy enough to survive a few bumps. It’s a great camera for little ones, I definitely recommend it.”

Overall, the myFirst Camera 3 strikes the perfect balance between ease of use, durability, and photo quality. Its lightweight design, fun features, and reliable battery life make it an excellent pick for young kids eager to explore photography in detail.