Gizmo Watch vs Gabb Watch: Which Is Right for Your Child’s First Smartwatch?

The Gizmo Watch stands out with video calling and a built-in camera, while the Gabb Watch skips the camera for a simpler experience focused on calls and texts. If you are weighing Gizmo Watch vs Gabb Watch, the main difference is video calls and photo features versus a device with fewer distractions. Let’s look at these two side by side, where each one fits best, and how other brands like MeWatch offer different strengths.

Why Parents Want a Kids’ Smartwatch

The first time your child wants to walk to a friend’s house alone, the right smartwatch promises peace of mind without the risks of a regular smartphone. Parents want to stay in touch, know where their child is, and set limits that fit their family’s values. Not every watch does these things in the same way.

Gizmo Watch: Video Calling and Camera

Gizmo Watch, available on Verizon only, is built for families who want more than voice calls. It lets your child make video calls with up to 20 trusted contacts. The camera also allows kids to take photos, which is fun for sharing moments with family. Since 2026, Verizon has started moving Gizmo users to its Family app for management.

What it does well:

• Video calling helps when voice isn’t enough.
• Camera adds an extra layer to check in visually.

What it is not for:

• It only works on Verizon, so if you use another carrier, this is not your best option.
• The camera may be a distraction for some kids or not allowed in certain schools.

Gabb Watch: Simplicity, No Camera

Gabb Watch is designed for families who want the essentials. It handles calls and texts with a trusted list of contacts but skips the camera altogether. This makes it a popular choice for parents who want fewer distractions and less risk of unwanted photos being shared.

What it does well:

• No camera means there is less to manage and fewer privacy worries.
• Available with a contract on Verizon, which some families already use.

What it is not for:

• If you want to see your child on a video call, the Gabb Watch cannot do that.
• No camera for fun or sharing.

Where MeWatch Fits: A Middle Path

Some families want a little more than Gabb, but cannot use Verizon or want more control. MeWatch L12 Prime is a kids’ smartwatch with accurate GPS, a selfie camera, and video calls through the parent app. Like the Gabb and Gizmo, it only connects with approved contacts. It comes with a SpeedTalk SIM that runs on T-Mobile’s 4G-LTE network, so you are not locked to one carrier. For families who want video calls and GPS tracking, but do not need an open app store or web browser, the L12 Prime covers the essentials.

What it does well:

• Video calling and camera support without an open internet connection.
• GPS tracking for accurate location updates.
• Works with SpeedTalk on T-Mobile, so more flexibility for families outside Verizon’s coverage.

What it is not for:

• No games or social media. If your child is ready for those, you will need a different kind of device.
• Like all MeWatch models, you must keep it away from water. It will not survive sea, pool, or shower use.

What About TickTalk and Apple Watch?

TickTalk is a strong alternative, especially for families who want HD video calls and a choice between AT&T or T-Mobile coverage. It supports video calling and a camera, but it is not a closed device in the same way as Gabb or Gizmo.

Apple Watch, when set up with Family Setup, is a full-featured smartwatch but requires a parent’s iPhone and is not as locked down as the kids-only options above.

If you want a full side-by-side list including TickTalk and MeWatch alongside Gabb and Gizmo, see our detailed comparison.

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How to Choose: Key Factors

• Video Calling: Go with Gizmo, TickTalk, or MeWatch L12 Prime. Gabb Watch does not support video calls.
• Camera: Gabb skips it. Gizmo, TickTalk, and MeWatch L12 Prime include it.
• Carrier: Gizmo and Gabb are Verizon-only. MeWatch and TickTalk offer wider options.
• App Management: All three allow parent management, but the way you do it will depend on the brand’s app and carrier.
• Extra Features: If you want less, Gabb is simplest. If you want accurate GPS, camera, and video calls, MeWatch L12 Prime is a balanced choice.

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FAQ: Gizmo Watch vs Gabb Watch

Is the Gizmo Watch better than the Gabb Watch for safety?

Both are built for safety, but in slightly different ways. Gizmo includes video calls and a camera, which helps you see your child, but is Verizon-only. Gabb keeps things simple, without a camera, and is also on Verizon. If you want GPS and video calling but use T-Mobile, consider MeWatch L12 Prime.

Can my child use these watches at school?

Most schools allow basic communication watches, but some ban devices with cameras. Gabb Watch is more likely to be allowed since it has no camera. Always check with your school’s rules before sending your child with any device.

What if we do not have Verizon?

Gizmo and Gabb watches both need Verizon. For families who use T-Mobile or want more carrier options, MeWatch L12 Prime or TickTalk are better fits.

Do any of these watches have an open internet or app store?

None of these options (Gabb, Gizmo, MeWatch L12 Prime) have an open internet browser or app store. They are designed to be safe and managed by parents.

Can my child wear a MeWatch in water?

No. MeWatch devices must be kept away from water, including pools, the ocean, and showers. Water damage is not covered by warranty.