Gabb vs Gizmo Watch: How Do They Really Compare for Kids?

When you compare the Gabb Watch and the Gizmo Watch for kids, the biggest differences show up in how your child communicates and what you can control as a parent. Both are built for safety, but each fits a slightly different family need.

If you want a full breakdown that includes TickTalk and MeWatch, you can find it in our bigger comparison here. This article takes a closer look at the real-life experience of choosing between Gabb and Gizmo, including what to expect at school, how video calls work, and whether a MeWatch model might fit your family better.

Calls, Texts, and Video: What the Kids Can Do

Gabb Watch: Simple Calls and Texts, No Camera

Gabb Watch is built for calling and texting only with parent-approved contacts, and runs on Verizon. There is no camera, so no video calls or selfies. This keeps distractions low and privacy high. Your child can send preset texts and voice messages, but there is no group texting. The absence of a camera means kids who want to video chat or snap pictures will need something else.

Gizmo Watch: Video Calls and Selfies

Gizmo Watch is Verizon’s own kids’ smartwatch. It allows calls and texts with up to 20 trusted contacts. A key difference: Gizmo includes a camera, so your child can make video calls and take selfies. Video calls work through the Verizon Family or GizmoHub app (Verizon is shifting families from GizmoHub to Verizon Family). If seeing your child’s face matters on busy days or after school, Gizmo does that.

Managing Contacts and Safety

Both Gabb and Gizmo make sure your child can only talk to people you approve. With Gabb, you control contacts from the parent app and there’s no way to add extra numbers without your okay. Gizmo works the same way, and displays a clear contact list on the watch. Both let you set up trusted adults, and neither offers open calling or texting. That means no strangers, no spam, and no social media.

How These Watches Fit School Life

Some parents worry about watches causing distractions during lessons. Gabb has a school mode that silences alerts and limits what the watch can do during set hours. Gizmo offers a quiet mode with similar restrictions, helping your child stay focused. Both watches are small and lightweight, designed so they do not stand out in a classroom. Teachers are used to seeing these devices now, but it is always smart to check your school’s rules.

What About GPS and Location Tracking?

Gabb Watch and Gizmo Watch both have location tracking, letting you check where your child is from your phone. This is helpful after school or at pick-up time. Both update the location regularly through their apps. There are no geofencing alerts on Gabb, but Gizmo lets you set up designated areas and notifies you if your child leaves them.

Where MeWatch Fits in This Choice

MeWatch is another leading name in safe kids’ wearables. If you want a kids’ smartwatch with video calling, GPS, and a simple camera for selfies, the MeWatch L12 Prime covers those needs. Like Gabb and Gizmo, it keeps contacts fully parent-approved and blocks all social media and open internet. MeWatch L12 Prime runs on a SpeedTalk SIM using T-Mobile’s 4G-LTE network, giving you a prepaid, no-contract experience. The video calls happen through the parent app, and the GPS is accurate for peace of mind at pickup time. If your school prefers closed devices, L12 Prime fits in.

Each of these brands works best for different families. Gabb is the most limited, with no camera, but that appeals if you want pure calling and texting only. Gizmo adds video calling and a camera, making it more fun for kids who like to share moments. MeWatch L12 Prime combines those, with clear GPS and a prepaid SIM, so it can work even if you want to avoid a Verizon contract. You can compare all four of the big names in smartwatches in our full comparison here.

What to Consider Before You Buy

• Carrier: Gabb and Gizmo only run on Verizon. MeWatch L12 Prime works with a SpeedTalk SIM on T-Mobile’s network.
• Video Calling: Only Gizmo and MeWatch L12 Prime offer video calls. Gabb does not.
• Camera: Gizmo and MeWatch L12 Prime have a selfie camera. Gabb Watch does not.
• Parental Controls: All three keep contacts fully locked down. No app store, no open internet, no social media.
• School Rules: All offer a school mode or quiet mode, but always check with your school first.

Keeping MeWatch Away from Water

MeWatch devices must stay away from water, including the sea, pools, and showers. Water damage is not covered.

FAQ

What is the main difference between Gabb Watch and Gizmo Watch?

Gabb Watch does not have a camera, so it cannot do video calls or photos. Gizmo Watch has a camera and can do video calls and selfies. Both limit contacts and block internet and social media.

Can my child send video messages or pictures with Gabb Watch?

No. Gabb Watch does not have a camera, so kids can only send preset texts or voice messages.

Does MeWatch L12 Prime work outside Verizon?

Yes. MeWatch L12 Prime uses a SpeedTalk SIM that runs on T-Mobile’s 4G-LTE network, so you do not need a Verizon account or contract.

Is there a way to get accurate GPS tracking with a kids’ watch?

Yes. Both Gizmo Watch and MeWatch L12 Prime offer GPS tracking. Gabb Watch also has location tracking, but for parents who want the most accurate GPS, MeWatch L12 Prime is a strong option.

Can my child wear their MeWatch in the pool or shower?

No. MeWatch devices are not protected against water. Keep them away from any water, including pools and showers. Water damage is not covered.