1. The list in brief
2. Best for family fun
3. Best for rough and tumble kids
4. Best screen free
5. Best DIY build project
6. Best versatile video camera
7. Best for young kids
8. Best for budding vloggers
9. Best small instant camera
10. How we test
The best cameras for kids come in all shapes and sizes. For young kids look out for a robust and easy to use snapper designed for small hands. However, kids a little older and tweens might need a camera that helps them experiment a little more and help them develop their photography skills or Youtube ambitions.
The Fujifilm Instax Pal is a golf ball-sized bundle of fun that might just become your digital family pet, though you'll need the app to view and print your photos. Insta360's Go 3 is a thumb-sized camera with convenient magnetic mounting that can get you unique point of views and into tight spaces – video fun for all the family. For budding YouTubers, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the most powerful vlogging camera yet. There are another five other great options in this guide covering a range of interests and abilities, and we've listed pros and cons for each one, so you’ll be able to find the perfect camera for your little ones. Let the fun begin!
If you're shopping for an older child or teen, you should also check out our best cheap cameras guide that includes options like beginner mirrorless cameras and DSLRs that can further develop camera skills. You might also want to consider the best cheap smartphones as a good option if you don't mind your child having a phone – kids are so used to phones these days anyway, and the quality of cameras on board will often beat your average point-and-shoot camera.
Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism. Tim has reviewed hundreds of cameras and is a father of three, who knows what cameras will hold their appeal to most kids.
The quick list
If you don’t have time to read our full list of the best cameras for kids, you can read the round-up below for a shortcut to the top options for your needs and budget. If you find one that takes your fancy, use the links to jump to our full write-up.
The best for family fun
With the option to print now or print later using one of Fujifilm’s excellent portable Link printers (available separately), the digital Pal is an all-round smart choice with familiar Instax instant camera quality. Pal might just become your digital family pet.
The best tough camera
The OM System Tough TG-7 is the best rugged all-in-one 'tough' camera that you can take out shooting without the worry of damage from water, dust, dirt, sand, or clumsy drops.
The best screen free
The Camp Snap's strength is what it lacks – a screen – which delivers unadulterated simplicity. Think of it as a digital version of a single-use film camera, complete with retro appeal.
The best DIY build project
We think the Konstucktor F is a fantastic option for those that love to build, see how things work, and enjoy the fruit of their labor with a charming finished product. Alternatives from Lomography include the LomoMod No.1 kit, which is also well worth a look.
The best versatile video camera
This is tiny magnetic camera can fix to metal surfaces, and when docked in its Action Pod doubles up as a GoPro-style action cam with flip touchscreen so you can frame vlogs too.
The best for young kids
If you're thinking about getting a first camera for a little kid, then there are a few ‘toy’ options with built-in games from V-Tech. For a dedicated camera minus the games, myFirst has some cute options too, including the myFirst Camera 3.
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The best for budding vloggers
DJI upped the vlogging game with this fantastic gimbal-mounted camera, equipped with 1-inch sensor, superb 4K video, and quick multi-aspect recording.
The best instant camera for small hands
Instant photography is ideal for little learners and no camera epitomizes point-and-shoot simplicity better than the Polaroid Go. Pretty much the dinkiest instant print camera you can buy, it's cute, compact form is perfect for small hands to get to grips with.
The best cameras for kids in 2024
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Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best cameras for kids in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.
Best for family fun
✅ You want an Instant camera for the whole family
The tiny design is much easier to use for small hands than the (often) clunky Instax alternatives with built-in printing capability.
✅ You want an Instax that you use day to day
The cost of the camera and printer is more than most other analog Instax cameras, but the running cost is much lower.
❌ You want an all-in-one instant camera
If you want to print your Instax Pal shots, you need a compatible Instax Link printer.
❌ You want the best image quality
No Instax camera and printer makes technically excellent photos (they have the lovely Instax color, though).
Coming in at around the size of a golf ball, the Instax Pal is suitable for all ages, and the closest a camera can be to a digital pet: it lights up and emits a happy jingle when powered on, and a sad sound when inactivity sends it to sleep. Tamagotchi, eat your heart out.
The Pal is Instax name, but it’s not an instant camera as we know it. It’s a digital-only camera that fits better in the hand, printing via one of Fujifilm’s Instax Link printers (available separately), which come in ‘Mini’, ‘Square’ or ‘Wide’ formats; directly via a Bluetooth connection; or through the new Instax Pal app that gifts you digital rewards for your activity.
This could be the Instax camera your kid actually uses day-to-day if they have a phone, and not stowed away in the cupboard once your film supply has run dry, as is so often our experience with analog Instax cameras.
To me, the Pal feels like the best of both worlds; it’s a camera that’s not weighed down by a built-in a printer, while the shoot-to-print experience – either directly, or through the app – is seamless. You can be selective over what you print via the convenient app, and not waste your expensive film by shooting straight to print. It might have analog soul, but you can be sure to only print the best shots, while the free app and editor should provide plenty of fun for adults and kids alike.
Read our in-depth Fujifilm Instax Pal review
Best for rough and tumble kids
✅ You want an indestructible family camera
The TG-7 is a take-anywhere companion that you can drop in puddles and sand, and submerge in water up to 15m.
✅ You're more into photos than video
Offers a surprising amount of photography features for its price.
❌ You want the best image quality
There's no escaping the 12MP resolution, and the fact that real-life image quality lags behind that of many modern smartphones.
❌ You want exciting apps alongside connectivity
Using Bluetooth, you can connect the Tough TG-7 to your smartphone with the OI.
The OM System Tough TG-7 is our top ranking waterproof camera that can withstand 15m dips underwater (an extra underwater case lets you go deeper), drops from 2.1m, and temperatures down to 14F / -10C. Its rugged credentials means you can take it out shooting without the worry of damage from water, dust, dirt, sand, or clumsy drops.
The Tough TG-7 can easily slip into a pocket and is a proper companion on any family beach day out or camping trip – it even has built-in GPS. Its raised buttons are purpose designed for easy control with wet or gloved hands, while the guided interface are great for beginner and intermediate photographers.
There's a built-in zoom and scene modes getting you set to capture adventures regardless of skill level. It's not the best action camera for photo and video quality, even lagging behind aging camera phones like the iPhone 12 in many situations. However, the TG-7 offers a more tactile experience and can shoot in situations that you wouldn't otherwise risk a phone or regular camera, plus it has a wealth of additional accessories like lenses and lights.
If you'd like a cheaper alternative then check out the Ricoh WG-80.
Read our in-depth OM System Tough TG-7 review
Best screen free
✅ You want time away from a screen
The Camp Snap's selling point is what it lacks. There's no screen, just a great device for taking photos.
✅ You're after a simple and low-cost gift for the kids
Being digital, the running costs are negligible, too, especially compared to film.
❌ You want decent quality pictures
It's simple, the Camp Snap camera is a low-tech product with low-bar image quality.
❌ You want to get creative
As a simple point-and-shoot camera with a fixed focus lens, no color filters and effects or shooting modes, there's no real scope for getting creative with the Camp Snap.
The retro Camp Snap camera is a smart idea; it’s a low-cost, low-tech digital reimagining of the single-use disposable camera. It lacks a screen, and is a refreshing antidote to our screen-led modern culture. No screen, no instant review of your photos – the first time you see your photos is when the Camp Snap camera is connected via its USB-C port to upload them to your computer.
It might look like an attractive disposable camera, but the digital Camp Snap can store around 2,000 digital 8MP photos on an included TF memory card (that’s the same design as a microSD card). In use, the Camp Snap is point-and-shoot, all-auto simplicity for all the family. Kids will have no problems operating the camera, and parents won't be over protective over this rigid plastic camera at all – the makers label it "drop-proof".
You get a viewfinder, which is pleasant enough though somewhat interfered with by the red glare of the LED photo counter. There's also a built-in LED flash that you can turn on or off and which could benefit from being more powerful (I’d use it for any condition except bright sunlight), a thumb groove on the camera’s rear that gives a little hold, plus the USB-C port doubles up to charge the battery. With no power-hungry features, the battery should last several days of moderate use. This was designed for kids going on screen-free camping trips, and I think it appeals to a much wider audience.
Read our in-depth Camp Snap camera review
Best DIY build project
✅ You want something customizable
The fact that this camera can be constructed and customised is one of its biggest selling points.
✅ You want a reasonably priced camera
The plastic construction makes this one of the most affordable cameras out there for children.
❌ You want something really robust
The build of this camera is quite fiddly and won't last long if dropped.
❌ You want great material quality
This camera is distinctly plastic and would score zero on a premium feel scale.
Lomography is the ruler of 'alternative cameras' and one of its best models is a charming build-your-own camera kit called the Konstruktor F.
Included in the kit is everything you need to build the 35mm SLR film camera, complete with customization sticker sets. This updated ‘F’ version is compatible with flash, although this is one of many optional ‘Konstruktor’ series accessories for this reasonably priced kit. Other accessories include a close-up twin lens kit and film pack bundle.
Our nimble seven-year-old assistant was at his limit with this complex kit, which takes in the region of 1-2 hours to make – it's possibly more suited to teenagers, depending on your kids' skills and patience.
As you build, you truly get to see the internal mechanics of an SLR camera. We think the Konstucktor F is a fantastic option for those that love to build, see how things work, and enjoy the fruit of their labor with a charming finished product. Alternatives from Lomography include the LomoMod No.1 kit, which is also well worth a look.
Best versatile video camera
✅ You want a magnetic camera
The Insta360 Go 3 can be mounted on any magnetic surface making it super versatile.
✅ You need stabilized footage
This camera's built-in stabilization will help to smoothy out any shaky footage you take with it.
❌ You want great photo-quality
The resolution tops out at 6.6MP which is significantly lower than many other cameras at this price point.
❌ You want a no-thrills camera
If simplicity is important to you then a simple no-thrills camera will give you exactly what you need.
The Insta360 Go 3 is the smallest action camera around, equipped with convenient magnetic mounting and accessories that combine for a uniquely versatile video camera. You can fix it to metal surfaces, magnetically to one of the accessories for hands-free shooting, while its tiny body that only weighs 1.34oz / 35.1g can fit into tight spaces for creative video.
You also get the Action Pod which transforms the Go 3 into a GoPro-style action camera, complete with flip touchscreen for easy framing of vlogs and selfies, better battery life, and remote control and viewing. This multi-function is the Go 3's most appealing selling point, helped along by the suite of accessories the camera ships with.
The Insta360 Go 3's recording caps out at 2.7K, a far cry from the GoPro Hero Black line of cameras. It also takes relatively low-resolution photos, capping out at 6.6MP square, or 3.7MP 16:9 images. If you're OK with those resolution limitations, the Go 3 serves up some fantastic stabilization, excellent features, and the ability to reframe your photo or video in the app after you've finished recording. It opens up a realm of creativity for budding filmmakers and content creators.
Read our in-depth Insta360 Go 3 review
Best for young kids
✅ You want photo and video capability
With 12MP photos and 1080p video you've got all bases covered.
✅ You want a selfie screen
Take selfies with ease using the selfie screen on the front.
❌ You have an older child
This camera is firmly targeted towards the younger child and would seem too childish for those older than 5 years old.
❌ You want a robust camera
This small point-and-shoot won't survive too many drops despite its 'shockproof pouch'.
If you're thinking about getting a first camera for a little kid, then there are a few ‘toy’ options with built-in games from V-Tech such as the Kidizoom. But for a dedicated camera minus the games, myFirst has some cute options too, including the myFirst Camera 3.
Our seven-year-old tester declared this tiny point-and-shoot camera as "good for three-year-olds" at first sight. Certainly, its tiny form factor (available in blue or pink) and rubberized body encased in a ’shockproof pouch' will bring a smile. However, ideally, you’ll avoid this plastic camera being thrown around too much.
In use, you have a simple fixed lens 16MP rear camera that features a macro mode, though you’ll need to show a young one how it’s done. There’s also a front-facing camera above the 2 in-screen for selfies. Hold down the shutter button and you get 1080p videos.
There’s a host of digital templates that can be added to photos that provides much entertainment, though hopefully, your child won’t tire of scrolling through all of those options. This camera is best suited for kids under the age of five.
An alternative and more affordable option is the myFirst Insta 2.
Best for budding vloggers
✅ You shoot a lot of slow-mo
The Pocket 3 delivers 4K footage at 120fps. It's also possible to record 1080p at 240fps, which is a great option to have.
✅ You want to capture audio on the go
The mic transmitter delivers great sound quality.
❌ You shoot a lot of action photos
The resolution of the camera is far from ideal for capturing high-resolution action photos.
❌ You are on a budget
This camera has amazing specs which makes it by far one of the least affordable options for a camera for kids.
The Osmo Pocket 3 has a 1-inch sensor that delivers great image quality across both photo and video, with higher-resolution video capabilities in the slow-mo mode and greatly improved low-light capabilities. Put simply, it's image quality especially in low light is better than most other pocket cameras, plus it has class-leading stabilization thanks to a built-in gimbal.
We love the carefully crafted design, especially the 2-inch screen that can be flipped to record in vertical or horizontal formats. It's perfect for viewing a live feed of the camera, as well as picking focus points, although it lacks the necessary size to be enjoyable when navigating around settings and menus.
A notable addition to this third model in the Pocket series is the multi-aspect sensor with portrait video recording. It's possible to record directly in this orientation all the way up to 3K, something that will be a dream for budding content creators – you're teenager might be a Youtuber just yet.
All this tech makes a pricy Osmo Pocket 3. You can snap up the Pocket 2 or even Pocket 1 for a great gimbal camera but at a fraction of the price.
Read our in-depth DJI Osmo Pocket 3 review
Best small instant camera
✅ You want a small polaroid camera
Nothing can match it for size, so while creative photographers might find it a little basic, it's the ideal party snapper.
✅ You want an easy to use camera
Simple controls with just a smattering of buttons on the retro-inspired shell, plus a digital shot counter.
❌ You want a macro mode
Other rivals include this functionality but not at this size of camera body.
❌ You want zero on-going costs
The film is not particularly cheaper so you'll need to factor this into your decision making.
Instant photography is ideal for little learners and no camera epitomizes point-and-shoot simplicity better than the Polaroid Go. Pretty much the dinkiest instant print camera you can buy, its cute, compact form is perfect for small hands to get to grips with.
Controls are simple, too, with just a smattering of buttons on the retro-inspired shell, plus a neat digital shot counter for keeping track of snaps. Fixed focus and lack of a macro mode do place some limits on creativity, but also make shooting with the Go a straightforward and accessible experience for kids of all ages.
As they get more adventurous with their photography, youngsters can override the Go’s automatic flash and experiment with double exposures. Credit card-sized prints aren’t the biggest, but they do deliver those dreamy pastel tones and dark contrasting shadows so evocative of instant photography.
Film refill packs do cost more than the average pocket-money budget, but the Polaroid Go is still an entertaining, easy-to-use, and portable way for children to get in on the photographic fun.
Read our in-depth Polaroid Go review
How we test cameras for kids
We've looked at a number of factors when picking a camera for kids. There’s how it operates, how tough it is (and therefore suitable for the accident prone), how expensive it is, and the type of pictures it’s capable of taking.
Some of the best cameras for kids have been specifically designed with your youngster's users in mind. That means they often feature bright, tactile physical features which allow kids to get hands-on. Models such as the myFirst Camera 3 are ideal for users like this. On the other hand, cameras such as the Olympus TG-6 are both waterproof and tough, making them well-suited for youngsters who want to take a camera with them on all their adventures, and live to tell the tale!
All the cameras that have made it into our list of best cameras for kids have been included because they offer a great experience for younger users. We’ve got a diverse list of options here, including a DIY camera that kids can build themselves to more advanced options for aspiring vloggers and travel photographers. We’ve generally kept away from ‘toy’ cameras which tend to be more of a gimmick than anything else.
