Best Cameras for 3-Year-Olds

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SHOULD YOU BUY YOUR TODDLER A CAMERA?

The first question people often ask is, is my 3-year-old enough for a camera? The answer is yes! That is why we created a list of the best cameras for 3-year-olds.

You can almost guarantee that there is a kid version of every electronic device that we use in our everyday lives, and cameras are no exception.

If your little one is interested in taking photos or making videos, I say go for it. Why not encourage their interest, creativity, and imagination?

Disclosure: “Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Click here for the full disclosure statement.”  “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

This guide will help you find the best camera for your 3-year-old (and even older kids up to 10 years old).

The cameras on our buying guide can be used by toddlers as young as 2.5 years old, but they aren’t just for toddlers.

Plus, unlike the cameras we use, cameras for toddlers are more affordable, usually costing less than $50. So if you are in the market for the perfect gift for a toddler, look no further.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF CAMERAS FOR 3-YEAR-OLDS

Kids, especially toddlers, watch our every move and want to be like their parents or an influential adult in their life. They watch us on our phones, with cameras, and on our computers. All they want is to be like us, the adults they love.

So it’s no surprise that a 3-year-old or toddler of any age would want a camera. Toddlers are curious by nature, and giving them something as valuable as a camera will make them feel like big kids.

Toy (Pretend) Cameras

If you believe your little one is too young for a real camera, we recommend buying a pretend camera. It is just a toy meant to look like a camera that makes your little one feel like a grown-up.

There are different types of toy cameras, with most of them having a kaleidoscope, shutter sound, and flash. Pretend cameras are for young toddlers between the age of 12 months and 2 years old.

Best Toy Camera for 3-Year-Olds: Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Click ‘n Learn Camera

Action Cameras

Action cameras are perfect for toddlers on the go. If you have an active little one that loves to bike, skate, run, or swim, this is the best camera for your toddler.

Action cameras can take a beating, due to the waterproof case that can withstand the roughest toddler.

Best Action Camera for 3-Year-Olds: Ourlife Kids Camera

Instant Cameras

My mom used to say this all the time, “there’s nothing new under the sun,” and I must admit I had no idea what she meant. Well, now that I am an adult, I finally understand what she was saying.

Instant cameras are nothing new. I remember my mom having one growing up. It is a camera that prints pictures instantly, well not in a blink of an eye, but a few minutes after the photo is taken.

The only difference between the camera today and the ones from the 90s and early 2000s is, the camera is cuter, smaller, and the pictures are clear.

Best Instant Camera for 3-Year-Olds: Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera

Digital Cameras

We are all familiar with digital cameras, and the cameras for toddlers are very similar to the ones we use. The only difference is the simplicity, games, filters, and effects.

All of the components of a real camera are in cameras for toddlers. If your little one is interested in photography, a digital camera would be best for your toddler.

Best Video Camera for 3-Year-Olds: WOWGO Kids Digital Camera

Video Cameras

With YouTube being one of the most popular platforms to consume entertainment, it is no mystery that your toddler would like to make videos. Video cameras for toddlers are great because they allow them to be creative.

The video cameras for toddlers are simple to use and have a photo capability, just in case they want to capture the perfect moment.

Best Video Camera for 3-Year-Olds: CamKing Kids Camera

BEST CAMERAS FOR 3-YEAR-OLDS COMPARISON TABLE

If you are looking for a camera for your toddler, we have done the hard work for you and narrowed down the choices.

Our list of best cameras for 3-year-olds is based on budget, functionality, ease of use, and accessories. All of the cameras on our list are affordable for parents and easy to use for kids.

Our Favorite Travel Toys for 3-Year-Olds

Last update on 2024-12-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

All data in the table is based on using a 32 GB Micro SD card with the cameras to maximize functionality.

BEST CAMERAS FOR TODDLERS

VTech Kidizoom Duo Selfie Camera

The VTech Kidizoom Duo Selfie Camera is the perfect camera for a 2-year-old to become familiar with before they turn 3.

This camera is easy for toddlers to figure out in a day or so. This toddler camera has facial detection so your little one doesn’t have to worry about perfect focus.

The larger screen makes it easy for them to see pictures and make cool photo effects. There is a rear camera for capturing selfies. Also, your toddler can have fun with the five interactive games that are included with this camera.

Although this is a solid starter camera there are some downsides. The most common complaint in the reviews is the slight lag in processing.

This wouldn’t be a big deal for an adult, a few seconds means a lot to a toddler. It could be the difference between fun and frustration. Also, it would be nice if the camera had higher megapixels, for clearer pictures.

Something to keep in mind is customer service or technical support if you have a problem with your toddler’s camera. There have been complaints about long wait times and online ticketing issues.

Overall, if you are looking for an inexpensive, fun, and easy-to-use camera for your 3-year-old toddler, then this is the way to go

The VTech Duo Camera has the following features that the VTech Spin & Smile lacks

• Larger screen
• Facial detection
• Photo optimization
• Parental control settings
• Dual cameras

Related Post: 10 Reasons to Travel with Toddlers

MOREXIMI Kids Camera

If you are looking for a real camera for your toddler, then the MOREXIMI Kids Camera is the one for you.

This is the perfect camera for toddlers that love taking pictures or playing with your camera. It looks like a professional SLR camera.

The quality of the photos is better than you’d expect for a toddler’s camera. There is a dual rear and front lens for taking pictures and getting the perfect selfie. 

The automatic smile shooting makes it easy for your little one to get the perfect picture without getting frustrated. Burst shooting makes it easy for your 3-year-old to get the perfect shot. 

Unlike the other cameras on our list, this camera for toddlers has a flash making it easy to take pictures in dim lighting.

This camera doesn’t just take photos; your little one can take 1080p video.

Overall, this is the coolest camera on our list, with fun features that your toddler will love. 

VTech Kidizoom Spin and Smile Camera

I know what you are wondering, what is the difference between the VTech Kidizoom Spin and Smile Camera and the VTech Kidizoom Duo Selfie Camera? 

I have listed all of the features that the duo has above that the spin and smile camera lacks.

This VTech camera takes adequate pictures but is marketed to young toddlers ages 2 and 3 years old. There is a voice recorder that allows them to have a lot of fun recording in five different voices.

Along with funny voices, this camera has animation, photo frames, and interactive games. The thick plastic makes this camera durable for rough toddlers.

One of my favorite features is the auto shut-off after the camera has been inactive for three minutes. The auto shut-off feature will save you money because it preserves the batteries, which aren’t rechargeable.

The major complaint with the camera is the picture quality since the megapixels is so low, but given this camera is designed for toddler, I don’t have a problem with that. 

Kids Camera Cases

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Ourlife Kids Camera

The Ourlife Kids Camera is the most popular action camera for kids. The waterproof case makes it the perfect swimming companion. One of the best features is the reversible lens.

The main complaint about this kids’ action camera is how difficult it is to see on a hot and humid day. The waterproof case can make it difficult to see on a sunny day, to get a nice clear picture. Also, there were a few negative reviews about the longevity of this camera.

Keep in mind these are not expensive cameras meant to last for several years, like adult cameras. Kids are rough on toys, and they will need to be replaced over time, depending on how rough your toddler is.

Related Post: 12 Tips for Traveling with Toddlers

Seckton Kids Selfie Camera

The Seckton Kids Selfie Camera is a popular camera for kids, because of the quality photos and videos. The new design has dual cameras that allow your toddler to take flawless selfies with family and friends.

Autofocus makes taking pictures easier for toddlers and kids that have a hard time staying still.

Like some of the other cameras on our list, a 32 GB SD card is included with the purchase. This saves you a few dollars and lets your little one use their camera to its full potential. 

Many of the negative reviews are due to the size, as this camera is small. Even though this is a camera for toddlers, it is small in their hands, making it easy to break if dropped.

I recommend purchasing this camera for mature 3-year-olds because there is a learning curve.

WOWGO Kids Digital Camera

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Out of all of the cameras on our list for toddlers, the WOWGO Kids Digital Camera is the most realistic digital camera for kids.

This camera has the highest megapixels on our list, allowing clearer pictures and videos for your little one.

You’ll notice from the picture above that this has a large screen for your toddler to see their photos easily.

This camera is perfect for young kids interested in photography because there are no games or additional unneeded features.

A bonus is the 32GB micro SD card that comes with the camera, which gives them more storage space for a lot of videos and photos.

This camera is not as durable as the other cameras on our list, so I recommend this camera for toddlers over 4 years old.

Some reviews complain about the lack of service or support if there is an issue with their camera.

Related Post: The 10 Best Travel Beds for Toddlers

BEST VIDEO CAMERAS FOR 3-YEAR-OLDS COMPARISON TABLE

Similar to our list of the best cameras for 3-year-olds, this comparison table will help you find the best video camera for your toddler.

Even if you are not familiar with technology, this table will help you determine what features are right for your little one. Like always, the video cameras on our list are affordable and easy for kids from ages 2 to 7 to understand.

Last update on 2024-12-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

All data in the table is based on using a 32 GB Micro SD card with the cameras to maximize functionality.

BEST VIDEO CAMERAS FOR TODDLERS

Hyleton Video Camera for Kids

The Hyleton Video Camera for Kids is the cutest video camera for toddlers trying to look like a grown-up. The design looks exactly like a camera that parents use, so they’ll enjoy making videos. It’s perfect for little hands to hold and record.

The specs are decent with 5 megapixels for video and 1080p video quality. There are photo frames, filters, games, and scene selections. The battery lasts up to 3 hours with a rechargeable battery.

Based on the reviews a small handle would be nice to make it easier for toddlers to hold.

A common issue with kid cameras is the lack of volume when you playback the videos. You have to plug the camera into the camera to hear the sound of the videos. 

CamKing Kids Camera

I will just come out and say it. I love the CamKing Kids Camera is my favorite video camera for toddlers.

It has the perfect combination of functionality, durability, affordability, and fun. This video camera has everything your 3-year-old will need to start making videos and taking pictures.

The design makes it easy for little hands to hold. There are games, photo frames, and different effects for them to choose from.

This camera shuts off automatically after 3 minutes of inactivity to preserve the battery.

If I could make one recommendation, it would be to make the screen larger because it is on the small side. Other than that, I can’t think of anything else wrong with this camera. It is the perfect video camera for young toddlers.

PROGRACE Kids Waterproof Video Camera

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The PROGRACE Kids Waterproof Video Camera is one of the best-selling action cameras for toddlers.

Your little one can have fun in the pool for hours with 1080p video quality, 40 photo frames, 4x digital zoom, and 7 video modes. 

This action camera has a durable waterproof camera case that can outlast your tough toddler. The battery lasts for up to 1.5 hours for continuous recording. 

One of the best features of this toddler action camera is the high-resolution face recognition that automatically detects faces, that doesn’t require focus.

You will need to purchase a 32 GB micro SD card to get full use of the camera.

VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam

If your toddler is the next YouTube star, then the VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam is the perfect camera for you. Your little content creator can hit the ground running with this camera that comes with a tripod/selfie stick. 

What makes this the perfect camera for kids wanting to record is the over 20 animated backgrounds and greenscreen fabric that comes included.

You can turn the background into anything you want to set your toddler’s imagination running wild. The flip-up lens makes it easy to take selfies and self-recordings.

This camera is better for toddlers over 4 years old since there are features that will be too difficult for young toddlers to use. 

VTech Kidizoom Action Cam

The VTech Kidizoom Action Cam is one of our favorite cameras for 3-year-olds. It has everything you need for an active toddler that wants to record their moves.

This is one of the best action cameras for little ones on the move. There are fun games, effects, and features that your kids will love. VTech is known as the go-to brand for toddler technology.

Although it isn’t as good as a GoPro, this action camera is easy to use, has parental control, includes accessories, and takes good pictures.

This GoPro alternative can be taken up to six feet underwater so your kids can take video in the pool or at the beach.

Related Post: Our Favorite Beach Gear for Toddlers

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING THE BEST CAMERA FOR YOUR 3-YEAR-OLD

When looking for the best camera for a 3-year-old or toddler in general, there are a few things that you need to consider.

We talk about the different factors that should need to be considered before purchasing a camera for your toddler.

Budget

If you are familiar with our blog, you already know we are all about affordability. We do not believe it is necessary to spend hundreds of dollars if you can get the same quality for less.

Most of the cameras for kids are affordable, with most of them being under $75. The cameras on our list for toddlers are all less than $60 at the time of publishing.

Usability

We all know what comes when your toddler gets frustrated, which usually involves tears, screaming, or kicking, depending on your little one. Since our little guy isn’t talking, he can’t express his frustrations, so we are in the tantrum phase of the toddler years.

When looking for a camera for kids, choosing something easy to use is essential.

If your toddler is over 4 years old, they can take their time to learn how to use a more complicated camera. Otherwise, I recommend one of the cameras on our list that have easy to use in the pros section.

Related Post: The 25 Best Travel Toys for 2-Year-Olds

Durability

All kids’ toys need to be durable because they break, drop, throw, and accidentally misplace things all the time. If you have a rough and tumble toddler (like us), we recommend a more durable toddler camera.

These cameras can withstand the unintentional beating your toddler may dish out.

Features

Unless your toddler is serious about taking videos/pictures, we recommend a camera that offers more than just photography.

Many of the cameras on our list have games, special effects, and stickers. An important feature of cameras for 3-year-olds is the “extras” that come with the camera.

The most common features are:

• Burst photos
• Selfie Timer
• Games
• Video Editor
• Voice Recorder
• Filters
• Photo Frames
• Auto-Focus

Size

Most of the cameras for toddlers are lightweight, except for the more durable cameras from VTech. They are slightly heavier than the other cameras on our list, but nothing your toddler can’t handle. The kids’ cameras are perfect for the hands of a 3-year-old.

Specs

There are a lot of “technical” terms thrown out when you are looking for a camera.

Honesty, you don’t need to worry about it when you are looking for a kids’ camera. The only thing that you need to look at is megapixels, and since your toddler is so young, it doesn’t matter that much.

In simple terms, megapixels mean the overall quality of a photo. For kids as young as 2 or 3 years old, I would say 5 megapixels is sufficient.

If you plan to blow up and print the photos, I recommend looking for a camera with higher megapixels, maybe 12 or 15.

Keep in mind, the images will not be pristine, like on your phone, but that should be fine.

Retrieving Photos

You can retrieve all of the photos and videos from the cameras on our list via USB or using the micro SD card. Be careful not to format and delete the photos when trying to retrieve them.

Keep in mind, if you are using a Mac, some of the pictures and videos may not be as clear.

Accessories

Accessories are nice to have, to avoid making additional purchases. Although accessories aren’t a requirement, they are nice to have for convenience.

Some of the cameras on our list come with cases, SD cards, bike mounts, wrist bands, and lanyards. I say if you can get extra for the same price as not getting them, why not?

Rechargeable or Batteries?

Should you get a rechargeable camera, or are batteries better? The answer to this question will vary depending on your little one.

I think if your toddler is younger than 4 years old, you should consider using batteries. Getting a camera with batteries takes the pressure off of you to remember to charge it.

On the other hand, if your little one is 5 years old or older, I recommend getting the rechargeable camera and making them responsible for making sure it is charged.

This will help teach your little one about responsibility. If they want to take pictures, they’ll make sure their camera is charged.

OUR FAVORITE BRANDS FOR TODDLER CAMERAS

VTech

VTech is one of our favorite brands for kids’ electronics. They know how to make our everyday technology fun and kid-friendly.

Their cameras can suit little ones from the ages of 2 to 7 years old, with their different features, usability, and capabilities.

I may be biased, but I think this is one of the best brands when it comes to anything kid related.

Our Favorite VTech Cameras for 3-Year-Olds

VTech KidiZoom Camera Pix

VTech Kidizoom Twist Connect Camera

VTech Kidizoom Duo 5.0 Deluxe Digital Selfie Camera with MP3 Player

JoyTrip

If you haven’t heard of this brand, you are not alone. JoyTrip is a brand that makes cameras for children.

Their cameras take great pictures due to their high megapixels, easy usability, durability, and are affordable.

The cameras they have are cute with different character designs that your toddler will love.

This up-and-coming brand is starting to make a name for itself in the camera market for kids. If you have an older toddler, I recommend looking into one of their cameras.

Our Favorite JoyTrip Cameras for 3-Year-Olds

Joytrip Kids Mini Digital Camera

Joytrip Kids Cartoon Camcorder

Joytrip Digital Kids Camera

Fisher-Price

If you aren’t familiar with Fisher-Price, I don’t know where you have been for the last 70 years. Fisher-Price is one of the most well-known toy brands in the world.

Their toys help young toddlers and kids learn through play. The cameras that this brand focuses on play and learning, as opposed to taking pictures.

Our Favorite Fisher-Price Cameras for 3-Year-Olds

Fisher Price Pocket Camera

Fisher-Price Changeable Picture Disk Camera

Fisher-Price GMX42 Laugh & Learn Instant Camera

PROGRACE

PROGRACE specializes in making smart toys for toddlers. They have started to establish themselves as one of the best action cameras for kids. Their action camera is one of the top-selling items on Amazon.

Our Favorite PROGRACE Cameras for 3-Year-Olds

PROGRACE Kids Dual Selfie Camera

PROGRACE Kids Digital Video Camera

PROGRACE Kids Digital Camera