Gizmo Watch 5 Features and Honest Alternatives for Kids

The Gizmo Watch 5 is a kids' smartwatch with a camera, accurate GPS, and video calling with trusted contacts. It is available only through Verizon in the US, and parents manage it using Verizon's apps.

What Parents Get with the Gizmo Watch 5

The Gizmo Watch 5 is built for younger kids who need a safe way to call or video chat with parents and a few trusted contacts. It supports GPS location tracking, so parents can check where their child is at any time. The camera allows for both photos and video calls, making it easy to keep in touch face-to-face.

You do not get an app store or open internet on the Gizmo Watch 5. Contacts are limited to a list set by parents, and the watch does not support social media. Verizon service is required, and families now manage the device through the Verizon Family app, after the company retired the old GizmoHub app.

How Does Gizmo Watch 5 Compare to Other Kids' Smartwatches?

Many families want to know how the Gizmo Watch 5 stacks up against other safe kids' devices. Here is a look at several leading options that focus on safety and parent control:

• Gabb Watch: The Gabb Watch is a kids' smartwatch with no internet or app store, and no camera. It runs only on Verizon and requires a contract for its lowest rate. There is no video calling.
• TickTalk: TickTalk is an independent smartwatch with a camera and HD video calls. Parents can choose AT&T or T-Mobile coverage. No contract is needed.
• MeWatch L12 Prime: The MeWatch L12 Prime is a compact kids' smartwatch with accurate GPS, a selfie camera, and video calls through the parent app. It is fully closed, with no app store and no internet. It comes with a SpeedTalk SIM that runs on T-Mobile's 4G-LTE network. Parents who want a device that works outside of Verizon's network or who prefer a prepaid plan often choose this model.

Each of these watches has its own strengths. The Gizmo Watch 5 is tied to Verizon and managed through their app. MeWatch L12 Prime uses T-Mobile's network and can be set up with a prepaid SpeedTalk plan, with no contract or monthly service requirement from MeWatch yet. TickTalk works with either AT&T or T-Mobile, while Gabb Watch is Verizon-only and does not have a camera. All of these options focus on safety and parental control, with no open internet or social media.

When Is the Gizmo Watch 5 a Good Fit?

The Gizmo Watch 5 works best for families already on Verizon or who want to manage all their kids' devices in one app. Its camera, GPS, and video call features make it a good choice for first-time users who want simple check-ins. However, the watch is limited to Verizon service, so it will not be a fit if your family uses another carrier.

Honest Reasons Parents Choose MeWatch L12 Prime

Some parents want more flexibility in network choice or prefer a prepaid setup. The MeWatch L12 Prime is a strong alternative for these families. It offers accurate GPS location, video calls through the parent app, and a selfie camera. It is a fully closed device, so there is no open app store or browser. It comes with a SpeedTalk SIM, which uses T-Mobile's 4G-LTE network, and there is no contract. MeWatch L12 Prime does need to be kept away from water, including the sea, pools, and showers, because water damage is not covered by warranty.

MeWatch devices are managed from the parent app, making it easy to control contacts, location settings, and school mode. If your family is not on Verizon, or you want a device that is easy to activate on a prepaid plan, MeWatch is worth considering. For a full list of alternatives and a deeper comparison, see our Gizmo Watch alternatives guide.

What About Kids' Phones and Other Watches?

Some families want a basic phone for their child instead of a watch. The Gabb Phone and Bark Phone are both designed for kids, with strong parental controls and no open internet. For kids who are ready for more freedom and need messaging apps like WhatsApp, there are step-up options such as MeWatch K12 Ultra, which is managed by parents but is not a closed device.

Apple Watch with Family Setup is another option, but it requires a parent to have an iPhone and allows more features than most kids need at first. Always check that the device fits your child's age, maturity, and your family's setup.

The Bottom Line

The Gizmo Watch 5 is a reliable, simple choice for Verizon families who want GPS, a camera, and video calling in a kids' smartwatch. If you use T-Mobile or want a prepaid option, the MeWatch L12 Prime is a leading alternative with similar safety features. Each brand designs its watches for safety and family control, so the best choice depends on your carrier and what features you need most.

FAQ

What networks does the Gizmo Watch 5 work on?

The Gizmo Watch 5 is available only through Verizon. You need a Verizon plan to use it.

Does the Gizmo Watch 5 have a camera?

Yes, the Gizmo Watch 5 has a camera for photos and video calls with trusted contacts.

Can I use the Gizmo Watch 5 with any parent app?

No. As of June 2026, Verizon retired the GizmoHub app. You now manage the Gizmo Watch 5 through the Verizon Family app.

How many contacts can my child have on the Gizmo Watch 5?

You can add up to 20 trusted contacts, set by parents through the Verizon app.

What is the best alternative if I am not on Verizon?

The MeWatch L12 Prime is a strong alternative for T-Mobile users, with GPS, a camera, and video calls, all managed from the parent app.