There is a nice deal on the VTech Innotab 2S right now. This is the one that comes with Wi-Fi and you can get the blue version for $87 with free shipping.
The pink is slightly more at $97 or if you prefer a bundle option, there is a bundle in blue for $99 that includes a case and charger.
There are actually (3) different Innotabs to choose from. This is the higher end model and the features include:
- WiFi secure sync to download apps from VTech?s Learning Lodge Navigator
- 2GB on-board memory
- 5″ brilliant color touch screen
- Video player/recorder, photo viewer, MP3 player, e-reader, art studio, motion games, microphone
- SD card slot for expandable memory
Now we purchased a Leappad last year for the kiddos and this year we received an Innotab 2S to test drive.
One of the major differences is with the rotating self portrait lens on the Innotab 2S. This allows the kiddos to switch from taking photos to taking a photo of themselves. This is actually one of my favorite features on my iPhone 4 and the girls loved this feature on the Innotab.
Once they take a picture, they can use the editing feature to edit photos and even include them in some of the apps! This is a really cool feature and the Innotab 2S also includes a microphone so they can be fully integrated. There is a an MP3 player on this device so you can play songs- my kids were very excited about that.
Some of the things I really liked about this tablet is the pull out tab so the children don’t have to hold it all the time. It stands up by itself and I also liked the sturdy case. The kick stand makes it much easier for my girls to share the Innotab and straight out of the box they were already taking turns using the coloring app.
It has interactive books and this has been very helpful with my 5 year old who is just learning to read.
There are over 200 apps, games and ebooks that you can add to your Innotab- so something for everyone really.
You do need to get batteries or an AC adapter to use the device. We learned with the Leappad that rechargeable batteries are a lifesaver.
And overall I have been happy with this tablet. I am very sorry to say the kiddos didn’t use the Leappad as much as I hoped when we bought it last year. The major issue in our home is that my kiddos love to play with Mommy’s iphone and Mommy’s iPad. Personally I find these devices to be way too expensive to be used as a toy and after a cracked screen last year on my iphone, we have seriously restricted access to these items.
The one major complaint I have about this device is that it is fairly slow. It takes several seconds to load each app and considering this is designed for small children, a few seconds is enough time for them to get bored and want to move on to the next thing. The girls are used to my phone and the ipad which can stream cartoons in just a second so the Innotab does not have that ability. They did really enjoy taking photos and editing the photos. The videos were a huge hit as well.
This tablet is designed for children aged 3-9.
You can see a fact sheet about the Innotab 2s here.
I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for VTech and received a VTech InnoTab 2S to facilitate a review.
Nicole says
I had to laugh when I saw the picture your girls. That is exactly what my kids look like when they are playing with “technology”. 🙂
Michelle says
I really appreciate your input on these. I’m just learning about tablets for kids and I’m so confused on what would be best to get within a reasonable price. Thank you so much! Love your site!!
Charlene says
Michelle,
The Leappad has collected dust in the toy box. Sad but true. The VTech they really like the microphone and the camera the best. Depending on the age of your child, the Kindle might be a good option. My big girl will probably get a Kindle for her birthday. I think the kids just gravitate toward the tablets that don’t look like toys. They love the live streaming of cartoons and I like how many free Kindle books there are.