How to Afford a Phone or Tablet for Your Child (Without Blowing Your Budget)

Screens are a big part of modern parenting — whether it’s TV, video games, or tablets, the digital age is here to stay. And while no one wants to be the "iPad parent," it can be frustrating when your child always has your phone or tablet. 

If you’re tired of sharing, it might be time to budget so your kids can have a device of their own. 

🔑 Key takeaways: 

• You don’t have to overspend to get your child a reliable phone or tablet — smart budgeting makes a big difference.
• Options like refurbished devices, prepaid plans, and hand-me-downs can save you serious money.
• If the upfront cost is too steep, flexible loan options can help you cover it without derailing your budget. 

Kids and tech: Why is there such a need? 

Today’s kids are drawn to technology from an early age, and it’s easy to see why. Screens offer entertainment, a way to connect with friends, and access to a world of knowledge. 

These days, many schools even provide tablets or laptops to help with classwork and communication. But if your child’s school doesn’t offer that, it may be up to you to decide whether they need their own device. 

While there’s plenty of pressure to give in and buy a phone or tablet for your child, it’s ultimately your decision.

If you feel your child is mature and responsible enough, there are a variety of affordable options that can meet their needs without straining your budget. The key is finding the right balance between function, cost, and your family’s values. 

Setting a budget 

If you’ve ever shopped around for phones and tablets, you know one thing to be true — they’re expensive! In addition to buying the device itself, you can also purchase add-ons like hotspots, unlimited data, add-on apps, and more. 

Setting a budget will help you better assess what you can reasonably afford. According to WhistleOut’s Annual Mobile Overspending Report, the average person spends more than $150 per month on their phone bill and up to $1,500 for the phone itself. 

Here's a breakdown of the extra costs to consider: 

• 🔓 Activation fee: One-time cost to unlock service.
• 📶 Monthly data: Your child’s internet access on the go.
• 🛡️ Parental controls and blockers: Tools to keep your child safe online.
• 🧾 Service fee: Ongoing carrier charges or hidden costs.
• 💳 Payment plan vs. full price: Decide how you’ll pay: all at once or in monthly installments.
• 📱 Phone case and screen protector: Extra protection for a longer-lasting device. 

Phones and tablets for kids can be expensive. But with smart planning and research, you can find an option that fits your budget and meets the needs of your children. 

➢RELATED: 5 Tips to Save on Cell Phone Service

Where to save on devices 

Going to Verizon, T-Mobile, and other major phone retailers is the most convenient way to buy a new phone or tablet. Unfortunately, it’s also the most expensive. 

Here are more affordable options when your kid needs a phone or tablet: 

• 📱 Refurbished phones: Major retailers like Best Buy and Walmart often have an “open box” section where they sell recently returned phones. These options are often cheaper, since they’re considered lightly used.
• 💸 Shop secondhand: Facebook Marketplace and eBay are great places to find high-quality used phones and tablets at an affordable price.
• 🧾 Prepaid plans: Smaller phone companies, such as Mint Mobile and Cricket Wireless, offer lower-cost prepaid plans and a wide selection of affordable phones.
• ♻️ Hand-me downs: Do you or another family member have an old phone that still works? Activate it and let your child use it for free!
• 🕵️ Bargain hunting: If you’re set on buying a new phone or tablet for your child, be patient and shop around for promotions and specials. 

Turn the phone buying process into a teachable moment 

Buying your child a phone is more than a purchase — it’s a chance to teach valuable life skills. Talk with your child about what it takes to budget for big expenses and why a phone should be treated as a privilege, not a guarantee. 

If they’re old enough, ask them to pitch in. There are several benefits to striking a deal: 

• 💰 If they help cover part of the cost, they can have more say in which device they choose.
• 🏦 They’ll learn how to save up for something they really want.
• 📊 It’s a real-world lesson in budgeting, compromise, and smart decision-making. 

These conversations can help your child develop confidence and a stronger sense of financial responsibility, starting with their very first device. 

➢RELATED: Teaching Kids to Save: A Simple Guide for Parents

Financial assistance to get the phone you need 

If you need a phone or tablet for your child, but there’s no room in your budget to pay full price, you might be able to spread out payments over time with an Installment Loan. 

FAQs 

At what age should kids get a phone? 

It’s up to an individual parent as to when their kids should get a phone. According to Social Awakening, a good rule of thumb is to wait until your kid is in the eighth grade. 

Should twelve-year-olds have phones? 

According to Common Sense Media, 71% of kids have cell phones by the time they’re 12. Kids who are more independent from their parents are more likely to need a phone. 

Where can I find the cheapest phone? 

Aside from getting a free hand-me-down from a friend or family member, phones under $50 are available from retailers like: 

• Dollar General
• Walmart
• Target
• Best Buy
• Amazon 

You can also take advantage of carrier promotions, which often include a free device when you sign up for a cellular plan.