Compare the top parental control apps and see which one is right for your child's age.
1. Google Family Link
Google Play
Free and official from Google. Allows you to approve downloads, set daily and per-app limits, lock the device at night, and view its location.
Recommended for those who want a simple, subscription-free solution. It doesn't show detailed website history, but it covers the essentials for children.
Download on Google Play
2. Question
Google Play
One of the best-known parental control apps. It offers a web dashboard for parents, time limits, website filtering, app blocking, and daily activity reports.
It has a free version with basic features and a paid plan with extra functions, such as location and alerts. It works on Android, iPhone, and computers.
Download on Google Play
3. MMGuardian
Google Play
Complete parental control: time limits per app, app blocking, website filtering, location tracking, and usage reports sent to parents' mobile phones.
It works with an app installed on the child's phone and another on the parents' phone. There's a free trial followed by a subscription.
Download on Google Play
4. Norton Family
Google Play
From Norton, focused on browsing reports, searches performed, and usage time. Allows you to pause internet access and set usage times for each day of the week.
It usually has a free trial period and then works on a subscription basis. It's a good choice for families who want to monitor their teenagers' browsing.
Download on Google Play
5. Findmykids
Google Play
Focused on safety: it shows the child's cell phone location, notifies them when they arrive at or leave school, and has an alert button.
It also shows which apps the child uses most and how much time they spend on each one, which helps to identify excessive WhatsApp use.
Download on Google PlayWhat to compare before choosing
All the apps on this list are from well-known companies and work with the child's knowledge. They differ in the level of detail in their reports, the free features available, and their ease of use.
None of them are designed to spy on conversations in secret. The focus is on safety: limiting time, filtering content, blocking apps, and alerting parents about risky situations.
- Time limit per day and per app.
- Blocking and approving new apps.
- Filter out inappropriate websites.
- Device location.
- Usage reports sent to parents.
- Price and what the free version includes.
Quick comparison
Google Family Link covers the essentials at no extra cost: limits, bedtime, app approvals, and location services. For most families with children, it's a great starting point.
Qustodio and Norton Family offer detailed dashboards with usage history, visited websites, and alerts. Advanced features are available in paid plans.
Kaspersky Safe Kids stands out for its website filtering and low battery warnings for children's cell phones, which is useful for parents who need to stay in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free parental control app?
Google Family Link is the most comprehensive among the free apps for Android. The others offer a limited free version or a trial period.
Do these apps read WhatsApp messages?
Their focus is on screen time, app blocking, content filtering, and location. Check each plan's official website to see what it actually includes before signing up.
Can I use more than one app at the same time?
Not recommended. Two parental controls on the same device can conflict and slow down the phone. Choose one and configure it properly.
Do I need access to my son's phone to install it?
Yes. The installation and permissions need to be done on the child's device, which ensures that they are aware of the supervision.