Compare the main parental control applications and see which one suits 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 see location.
Recommended for those who want a simple solution without subscription. It doesn't show detailed website history, but covers the essentials for children.
Download on Google Play
2. Qustodio
Google Play
One of the most well-known parental control apps. Offers a web dashboard for parents, time limits, website filter, app blocking and daily activity reports.
It has a free version with basic features and paid plans with extra functions, such as location and alerts. Works on Android, iPhone and computers.
Download on Google Play
3. MMGuardian
Google Play
Complete parental control: time limits per app, app blocking, website filter, location and usage reports sent to parents' phones.
Works with one app installed on the child's phone and another on the parents'. It has a free trial and then subscription.
Download on Google Play
4. Norton Family
Google Play
From Norton, focused on browsing reports, searches made and usage time. Allows you to pause internet access and set usage times for each day of the week.
Usually has a free trial period and then works by subscription. It's a good choice for families who want to monitor teenagers' browsing.
Download on Google Play
5. Findmykids
Google Play
Focused on safety: shows the child's phone location, notifies when they arrive 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 you notice excessive WhatsApp use.
Download on Google PlayWhat to compare before choosing
All the applications on this list are from well-known companies and work with the child's knowledge. They differ in the level of detail in reports, free resources and ease of use.
None of them can secretly spy on conversations. The focus is safety: limit time, filter content, block apps and alert parents about risky situations.
- Time limit per day and per application.
- Blocking and approval of new apps.
- Filter for 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 cost: limits, bedtime, app approval and location. For most families with children, it's the starting point.
Qustodio and Norton Family bring detailed dashboards, with usage history, websites visited and alerts. Advanced features are in paid plans.
Kaspersky Safe Kids stands out for its website filter and low battery warning on the child's phone, 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 complete among free options for Android. The others offer limited free versions or trial periods.
Do these apps read WhatsApp messages?
Their focus is on usage time, app blocking, content filtering and location. Check the official website of each one to see what the plan you choose really includes before subscribing.
Can I use more than one app at the same time?
It's not recommended. Two parental controls on the same device can conflict and slow down your phone. Choose one and configure it properly.
Do I need access to my child's phone to install it?
Yes. Installation and permissions must be set up on the child's device, which ensures they know about the supervision.