The 10 Best Toy Phones
Editor's Notes
November 20, 2020:
Whether you are looking for a realistic replica or a cute child-themed option, there is a toy phone on this list for you. We included such a wide variety of styles to ensure there would be something suitable for every budget, age range, and preference.
When choosing a model for a very young child, say under 18 months of age, it is generally best to stick with items that are easy to hold and don't require a lot of dexterity. The Fisher-Price Classics Retro Chatter and VTech Peek-a-Bear are perfect examples of this. Usually, young children in this age range don't require a lot of high-tech functionality to keep them engaged either, so models like the Infantino Flip and Peek and Fisher-Price Selfie Fun will still provide them with a lot of entertainment, even though they don't have many games or features like some of our other options.
When children get a little older, they need a bit more stimulation to keep them engaged. They may also have a preference for toys that look similar to the devices you use, which is why they will probably love the VTech Call & Chat and Kidz Delight Tech Set Trio. Both of these look similar to smart phones used by adults, and the latter even comes with a key fob and TV remote, allowing children to imitate even more of the things you do on a daily basis.
Though the LeapFrog Chat and Count Scout looks slightly more like a toy than the above two models, we think both parents and children will appreciate it for several reasons. It keeps tots engaged with 25 games and activities that teach conversational skills, numbers and counting, and more. Plus, its volume isn't so loud that it will be an annoyance to parents in close vicinity, and its durable build should ensure it lasts long after you kids tire of it.
October 30, 2019:
You’ll help keep your youngster's juice- and Cheerio-encrusted little fingers off your own cell phone when you give him or her one of these toy phones. Our well-curated list offers a mix of realistic, high-tech replicas, toy flip phones, old-school land lines with push buttons, and even the dreaded rotary (but a fun one in the Fisher-Price Classics Retro Chatter, which many of us also remember playing with as kids).
Joining our list is the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn, a highly affordable choice that speaks phrases and plays songs when you press the buttons – and the large blue slider generates even more fun sounds. It’s small enough in size to fit easily in a backpack or diaper bag, so you might find yourself packing it to entertain your young one every time you’re on the go.
Leaving the list in this update is the Toyk 3D, due to availability concerns. No matter which toy phone you go with, be sure to follow the manufacturer age guidelines – and for safety, always supervise your little ones during play.