Hands-On Review: The Best Kids' Audio Players for Screen-Free Fun
A WIRED writer tested four popular audio players for children with her family, evaluating how each supports screen-free story time. The devices range from toddler-friendly speakers to a story projector that enhances bedtime reading.
Overview
Over several weeks, a WIRED contributor and her family tested some of the most popular children's audio players on the market. The goal was to find screen-free ways for kids to enjoy music, audiobooks and interactive stories without a tablet. Each device takes a different approach, from independent play to parent-led story time.
Yoto Player: Best for Growing Kids
The third-generation Yoto Player impressed with its simple design. Kids can swap credit-card-sized cards that contain stories and music, while a small pixel display adds a visual touch without turning into a distracting screen. Through the companion app, parents can add cards to a child's library, stream audio directly from a phone, or send content to the player remotely — a handy feature for road trips. The device also offers daily radio, draw-along activities, toothbrush timers, white noise, a wake-up clock and a nightlight that activates when the player is flipped over. The main drawback is keeping track of the small cards; a silicone Adventure Jacket costs $30 extra for protection.
Moonlite: A Magical Bedtime Companion
The Moonlite Storytime Projector is less of an audio player and more of a story projector. It clips onto a phone's flashlight and projects illustrations onto a ceiling or wall. Stories come on reels, and after scanning the QR code in the app, parents can read while advancing the reel manually, like a tiny film projector. The app guides calibration and adds optional sound effects and music. It is not meant for independent use by young kids, but it turns bedtime into a shared, fun ritual.
Toniebox 2: The Most Intuitive Option
The Toniebox 2 is a soft, cube-shaped speaker that responds when a magnetic figurine is placed on top. Even toddlers quickly understand that putting a character like Cookie Monster on the box makes it talk. The app is optional, but it offers battery alerts, listening stats and some free stories. Additional Tonies cost around $15 to $20 each, and parents can record their own voice reading stories. The downsides: figurines are not labeled with their content (for instance, Bullseye and Jessie both come from Toy Story but represent different movies), and the speaker lacks a handle for easy carrying.
Fisher-Price: A Simple Analog Choice
The Rockin' Record Player from Fisher-Price requires no apps or pairing. Kids place chunky plastic records on the turntable, move the needle, and music starts. Each record has two songs per side, covering themes like country, hip hop and wellness, with classic nursery rhymes and original tunes. The record-scratch sound effect before each song may confuse some children, and the toy is somewhat bulky. Still, it is a refreshing option for parents who want a no-fuss music player.
