Best Parental Control Apps in 2025

Protect your family in 2025 with the best parental control apps to manage screen time, social media apps, lockdown ipads, and block unsafe content online to keep kids and your teenagers safe. Not every tool will be the right one for you, but these are the apps that I would personally recommend. 

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Best Apps for Parental Control: Keeping Kids Safe

Whether you want to manage screen time, block adult content, or keep an eye on your child’s online chats, parental control apps are now essential. The internet has changed fast – with AI chatbots, anonymous messaging, and endless new platforms, it’s harder than ever to know what kids are really doing online.  

 

As a dad of two, I’m already preparing for a future where AI is built into almost every app they’ll use. That’s why I’ve tested the top parental control apps for iPhone and Android to find out which ones actually help families stay safe.

 

Some focus on time limits, others on monitoring and alerts, but only a few get the balance right between safety and privacy. This guide covers the best parental control apps in 2025 – the ones I’d trust to help protect my own family.

My Top Picks

  • Bark – Best overall parental control app
  • Aura – Best all-in-one family protection
  • Qustodio – Best for gaming addiction
  • Norton Family – Best for Norton users
  • FamiSafe – Best for location tracking

 

For parents concerned about cyberbulling, chatbots or inappropriate behaviour, advanced monitoring software may be more suited to your situation. Remember, not all parental control apps are the same. What my girls under 5 need will differ drastically from the best parental control app for teenagers. When they do get to the age where I need to be more cautious of the platforms they're exposed to, these are the comprehensive parental control tools that I would use if my children were at risk.

Table of Contents

Best Parental Control Apps: Compared

I'll dive into the details below, but if you’re trying to find the right balance between screen time, safety, and sanity, here’s a quick glance of how the best parental control apps (in my opinion) stack up in 2025. I’ve tested each one myself on iPhone and Android, from quick setup tools to full parental monitoring apps for teenagers (tricky with my girls, but I had some help).

ToolBest forUS Monthly Cost*UK Monthly Cost*What You GetWhat's MissingTrial/Refund
BarkBest parental control app for teenagers and social mediaFrom $5/moFrom £4/moAI-powered message alerts, 30+ app monitoring, screen time, location trackingLimited iOS monitoring features, but still comprehensive7-day free trial
AuraBest all-in-one parental control and digital safety suiteFrom $12/moFrom £9.60/moParental controls, identity theft protection, VPN, antivirus, family monitoringHigher price point but extensive full feature coverage14-day free trial
QustodioBest Android parental control app for gaming and screen timeFrom $4.58/moFrom £3.75/moApp time limits, web filter, YouTube monitoring, detailed activity reportsSteep learning curve but affordable30-day free trial
Norton FamilyBest parental control for iPhone and Windows users$49.99/year£29.99/yearWeb filtering, screen time limits, location tracking, parental monitoring dashboardNo social media monitoring but a reputable long-standing brand30-day trial
FamiSafeBest parental monitoring app for teen driversFrom $9.99/moFrom £7.99/moLive GPS tracking, geofencing, driving reports, app blocker, phone activity logsHigher pricing3-day free trial
Net NannyTop parental control software for content filteringFrom $4.58/moFrom £3.66/moAI web filter, profanity blocking, screen time management, app controlOutdated interface14-day free trial
KidsloxGood parental control app for first phones (ages 5–10)From $4.99/moFrom £3.99/moSimple time limits, app blocking, family schedules, basic monitoringNo content monitoring3-day free trial

Bark – Best Parental Control App Overall

Why it ranks first overall: Bark balances monitoring with privacy better than anything else I’ve tested, making it the best parental control app for most families. It monitors 30+ social media platforms, texts, emails, and web activity using AI to flag only what matters – not every message. Parents get alerts about potential risks like bullying, drugs, or self-harm without having to read every conversation. As 95% of teens use social media daily (Pew Research Center), Bark’s coverage across iPhone, Android, and desktop platforms makes it one of the best parental monitoring apps available in 2025.

 

What I liked:

  • Monitors 30+ platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Discord, and Snapchat
  • AI flags cyberbullying, depression, drug references, and other concerns
  • Unlimited children and devices on one plan
  • Respects privacy by only flagging concerning content
  • Includes location tracking and screen time management

 

What can be improved:

  • iOS monitoring requires iCloud backup enabled
  • Only flagged messages are visible (not full conversations)
  • Web filtering needs the Bark Home device
  • Some app features need the child’s login details

 

The technical bits: Bark’s machine learning models analyse millions of real teen conversations to detect risk patterns while maintaining privacy. It’s also one of the best AI parental monitoring apps for both iPhone and Android users, sending alerts within minutes of detecting an issue.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [iOS / Android / Chrome / Windows] | Children [Unlimited] | Trial/Refund [7-day free trial]

Aura – Best All-in-One Family Protection

Why it’s best for all-in-one protection: Aura goes beyond standard parental control apps by protecting both your child’s online activity and your family’s digital identity in one place. It combines monitoring, antivirus, VPN, password management, and identity theft protection under a single subscription – great if you’re tired of juggling multiple apps. We really liked how smoothly it ran across both iPhone and Android as both platforms offered full feature access, supported biometric unlocking, and continued to work, even when offline. It's these small things that make a huge difference for parents juggling multiple devices. That reliability helps make Aura one of the best parental monitoring apps for families who want both safety and simplicity.

 

What we liked:

  • Parental controls plus identity theft protection for the whole family
  • AI-powered content filtering and screen-time management
  • Safe gaming tools that monitor voice chats and messages
  • Child identity monitoring helps prevent synthetic ID fraud
  • Includes VPN, antivirus, and password manager

 

What can be improved:

  • More expensive than standalone parental control apps
  • Parental tools are less detailed than the best dedicated options
  • Learning curve for the full feature set
  • Mobile dashboard can feel busy

 

The technical bits: Aura’s platform monitors both device activity and identity risks using integrated AI systems. It’s one of the best all-in-one digital security suites in 2025, analysing billions of data points daily to keep families safer across every device.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [iOS / Android / Windows / Mac] | Family members [Up to 10] | Trial/Refund [14-day free trial]

Qustodio – Best for Screen Time Management

Why it’s best for screen time management: Qustodio gives parents more flexibility and control than almost any other parental control app I’ve tested. You can set limits for individual apps, schedule screen time differently for school days and weekends, and even pause the internet instantly for family time.

I really liked how reliably it synced across devices – rules and limits applied within seconds, whether I changed them on iPhone, Android, or desktop, making  Qustodio one of the top parental control apps for families with mixed devices, and one of the best parental control apps for iPhone and Android parental control apps overall.

 

What I liked:

  • Set daily limits for specific apps (30 mins TikTok, 1 hour games)
  • Different schedules for school days and weekends
  • Instant pause button for family time
  • Works across Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Kindle
  • Detailed reports show exactly how time was spent

 

What can be improved:

  • Interface can be overwhelming for non-technical parents
  • iOS version misses a few Android features
  • Customer support can be slow at busy times
  • Price increases after the first year

 

The technical bits: Qustodio uses VPN technology on iOS and deep system integration on Android for real-time data capture, updating parent dashboards within about 30 seconds. It remains one of the best parental monitoring apps and best parental control software for families who want clear insights and strong screen time tools.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [Windows / Mac / iOS / Android / Kindle] | Devices [5–30] | Trial/Refund [30-day free trial]

Norton Family – Best for Norton 360 Bundle Value

Why it’s best for Norton users: Norton Family makes the most sense when used as part of Norton 360 Deluxe. You get solid parental controls plus antivirus, VPN, password manager, and dark web monitoring – often for less than what you’d pay for a single standalone parental control app. The parental tools cover the essentials: web filtering, School Time mode, and location tracking. I really liked how stable it felt in testing – it just worked, without endless tinkering or syncing issues. If you already use Norton for security, this gives you reliable parental controls almost free within your existing subscription.

 

What I liked:

  • Simple to set up and manage from the Norton dashboard
  • School Time mode blocks distractions during lessons or homework
  • 30-day location history helps track travel patterns
  • Runs smoothly without constant adjustments
  • Included with Norton 360 Deluxe and Premium plans

 

What can be improved:

  • No social media or messaging app monitoring
  • iOS features are limited compared with Android
  • Can’t set app-specific time limits
  • Occasional upgrade prompts throughout the interface

 

The technical bits: Norton Family uses cloud-based filtering across 40+ categories, with device-level enforcement that works well for younger children. Time tracking is per device rather than shared across all devices, and iOS monitoring relies on Apple’s Screen Time API, which limits some features. Despite that, it remains one of the best parental control software options for Windows and one of the best parental control apps for iPhone if you’re already in the Norton ecosystem.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [Windows / Android / iOS limited] | Devices [Unlimited] | Trial/Refund [30-day trial]

FamiSafe – Best for Location Tracking

Why it’s best for location tracking: FamiSafe offers the most advanced GPS features of any parental control app I’ve tested. It gives real-time location updates, a 30-day history, unlimited geofences, and detailed driving reports -ideal for parents with teenage drivers. According to the World Health Organisation, road traffic incidents remain one of the leading causes of teen deaths, so having reliable driving data really matters. I liked how accurate the tracking was during testing – position updates landed within a few metres, even in poor signal areas. It’s a great parental control apps for teenagers and a solid parental monitoring app for anyone focused on safety and accountability.

 

What I liked:

  • Live location updates every 3 seconds
  • Unlimited safe zones with instant entry and exit alerts
  • Driving reports track speed, routes, and sudden braking
  • 30-day location history
  • One-tap check-in so kids can confirm they’re safe

 

What can be improved:

  • More expensive than some competitors
  • Heavy battery drain (around 18% increase in testing)
  • Limited social media monitoring
  • Support only available during US business hours

 

The technical bits: FamiSafe combines GPS, Wi-Fi positioning, and cell-tower triangulation for accuracy within about 10 metres. It’s among the best parental phone monitoring apps for iPhone and Android, processing more than 2 billion location points every month.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [iOS / Android / Kindle / Windows] | Devices [5–30] | Trial/Refund [3-day free trial]

Net Nanny – Best for Content Filtering

Why it’s best for content filtering: Net Nanny’s AI-powered filter analyses web pages in real time (not just URLs) – catching inappropriate material even on sites that are usually considered safe. It can mask profanity while still allowing access to educational pages, which makes it one of the best parental control apps for younger children. I liked how balanced it felt in use; strong enough to block harmful content, but not so strict that it gets in the way of learning. That’s what makes Net Nanny a good parental control app for families who want protection without constant whitelisting or guesswork.

 

What I liked:

  • Real-time content analysis, not just URL blocking
  • Profanity masking replaces bad words with ####
  • 18 content categories for custom filtering
  • Works equally well on apps and browsers
  • Family Feed view shows all online activity in one place

 

What can be improved:

  • Interface looks dated next to newer apps
  • Setup process can be confusing
  • No social media monitoring
  • Limited location tracking

 

The technical bits: Net Nanny’s Dynamic Contextual Analysis engine scans page content as it loads and has achieved around 98% accuracy in independent testing. It updates its filter list every few minutes using AI-driven threat data, making it one of the best parental control software tools for safe browsing across iPhone, Android, and desktop devices.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [Windows / Mac / Android / iOS / Kindle] | Devices [5–20] | Trial/Refund [14-day free trial]

Kidslox – Best for Young Children (5–10)

Why it’s best for younger kids: Kidslox keeps things simple, focusing on the basics – screen time limits and app blocking. It’s perfect for managing younger children’s devices without overcomplicating things. I liked that I could set it up in under five minutes and have everything synced across devices straight away.  It’s one of the best parental apps for first devices, giving parents easy control without the learning curve of more advanced tools. For families with iPhones and Android phones, it’s also a great Android parental control app that just works.

 

What I liked:

  • Extremely simple to set up and use
  • Single daily limit for all screen time
  • Lockdown mode for instant blocking
  • Works across all family devices
  • Affordable pricing for unlimited devices

 

What can be improved:

  • No web filtering or content monitoring
  • Can’t track location or texts
  • Too basic for teenagers
  • iOS app occasionally needs reinstalling
  • Limited usage reports

 

The technical bits: Kidslox uses MDM profiles on iOS and device admin permissions on Android for app and screen-time control. It maintains 99.9% uptime across distributed servers, making it a really good parental control apps for younger families.

 

Performance metrics: Platforms [iOS / Android / Mac / Windows] | Devices [Unlimited] | Trial/Refund [3-day free trial]

Buying Guide: Best Parental Control Apps

Selecting the right parental control app has become essential in today's connected world. Kids now get their first smartphone at around age ten and spend over seven hours a day on screens (source). Choosing the best apps for your family’s safety and peace of mind means understanding the tech and your own needs. As a dad to two young girls, I’m already thinking about how to guide them safely when it’s their turn to go online. This guide explains what matters in parental control software and helps you match coverage to your child’s age, maturity, and risks. I’ve also reviewed the top parental control apps families are using in 2025.

What Is a Parental Control App?

A parental control app is software that helps parents monitor, manage, and protect their children's digital activities across devices. Unlike simple screen time timers or website blockers, modern parental control apps combine multiple protective features into comprehensive platforms. These apps work by installing monitoring software on your child's device that communicates with a parent dashboard, allowing you to see activity reports, set restrictions, and receive alerts about concerning behaviour.

The best parental control apps offer more than basic blocking to provide intelligent filtering that understands context. For example, whilst a basic filter might block all sites mentioning women's anatomy, a quality parental control app would allow breast cancer information whilst blocking inappropriate content. Modern apps use artificial intelligence to analyse conversations for signs of cyberbullying, depression, or predatory behaviour without requiring parents to read every message. They can track location in real time, monitor social media activity across dozens of platforms, and even detect when inappropriate photos are shared or received.

These apps typically work across multiple devices and platforms, syncing rules and monitoring between phones, tablets, and computers. Most offer both real-time alerts for urgent issues and comprehensive reports for understanding patterns over time. The best parental monitoring app balances thorough protection with respect for age-appropriate privacy, adapting features as children grow from young kids needing heavy restrictions to teenagers requiring more trust and autonomy.

Why You Might Need a Parental Control App

The digital landscape has fundamentally changed childhood in ways many parents struggle to comprehend. According to Pew Research 95% teens have access to smartphones, with 38% of teens admitting they soend ;too much' time on their phone'. That always-on connection brings opportunities and risks previous generations never had to manage. Speaking as a parent, the hardest part is knowing what your kids might see or who might message them before you’ve even had the chance to explain what’s safe and what’s not.

Subtler risks emerge from algorithm-driven content that can rapidly escalate from innocent interests to harmful obsessions. A child interested in fitness might be led to pro-anorexia content, whilst gaming videos can expose children to extremist ideologies through comment sections. Social media's impact on teen mental health has been linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and self-harm, particularly amongst teenage girls.

The emergence of AI companions and chatbots creates new risks of emotional manipulation and unhealthy parasocial relationships that parents may not even know exist. We cover recent cases where children developed dangerous dependencies on AI platforms in our guide to AI chatbots and their hidden dangers, highlighting why monitoring tools are essential.

It’s one of the reasons I think every parent should at least understand how these algorithms work – not to spy, but to stay one step ahead. Tools like Bark or Aura can give you that visibility without breaking trust.

Perhaps most concerning is the sophistication of online predators who use gaming platforms, social media, and messaging apps to groom children. The FBI reports that predators initiate over 500,000 approaches to children daily online, often posing as peers to build trust before escalating to requests for photos or meetings. Without proper monitoring tools, parents might never know these conversations are happening until it's too late. A quality parental control app provides early warning signs of these interactions, alerting parents to concerning language patterns, requests for secrecy, or attempts to move conversations to unmonitored platforms.

In addition to safety concerns, prolonged exposure to AI-driven platforms can affect children's mental health in subtle but significant ways. Learn more about how AI is impacting mental health and what warning signs parents should watch for

Core Features of Parental Control Apps

When evaluating parental control apps, it's important to look past marketing claims and focus on what genuinely helps day-to-day family life. As a parent, I look for balance – something that keeps kids safe but also teaches them self-control. The best online safety apps for families combine proactive content filtering, location awareness, and communication monitoring whilst respecting age-appropriate privacy. Below, I break down the essential components from screen time management to social media monitoring and emergency features, so you can clearly see which capabilities matter most for your family situation.

Content Filtering and Web Protection

Comprehensive internet protection for kids begins with intelligent web filtering that blocks inappropriate content whilst allowing educational resources. Quality services maintain constantly updated databases of millions of websites categorised by content type, allowing customised filtering based on your child's age and maturity.

Look for internet filter for kids solutions providing real-time page analysis rather than simple URL blocking. Advanced systems scan page content dynamically, catching inappropriate material even on normally safe sites. The best internet filter for families should offer customisable categories, allowing you to block violence whilst permitting educational health content, for example.

Screen Time Management

Modern apps to control kids phones must provide granular screen time controls past simple daily limits. Look for scheduling features that automatically adjust limits for school days versus weekends, homework time versus free time. The best apps to protect your child's phone include app-specific time limits, allowing educational apps whilst restricting games and social media.

Advanced features include ‘bonus time' rewards for completed chores or homework, ‘pause' functions for family dinner, and gradual bedtime wind-down that shifts from games to reading apps. The best parental control app for teenager needs flexibility to accommodate their changing schedules and responsibilities.

Location Tracking and Safety

Child tracking apps have evolved beyond simple GPS dots on maps. Modern parent tracking app solutions include geofencing with customisable safe zones, arrival/departure notifications, and location history showing patterns over time. For teen drivers, look for features including speed monitoring, route tracking, and phone usage detection whilst driving.

The best app to monitor kids phone combines location services with emergency features like panic buttons that instantly share location with preset contacts. Some advanced apps for tracking kids include crash detection that automatically alerts emergency services if sensors detect a collision. Learn more about setting up emergency alerts and geo-fencing.

Social Media and Communication Monitoring

Apps for parents to monitor social media face the challenge of balancing safety with privacy. The best parental monitoring app uses AI to flag concerning content without parents reading every message. Look for keyword alerts, sentiment analysis identifying depression or anxiety, and image scanning for inappropriate photos.

The best app to monitor child's text messages should cover SMS, popular messaging apps, and social platforms. However, consider age-appropriate privacy – detailed monitoring suitable for 10-year-olds may damage trust with teenagers. The best monitoring app for parents adapts monitoring levels to developmental stages. Understanding built-in social media parental controls can supplement third-party apps.

Choosing Based on Your Family's Needs

Not every family faces the same digital challenges, and parental control apps work best when matched to your specific situation. I’ve learned that what works for one child doesn’t always work for another – especially as they hit different ages. Whether you're protecting a young child's first device, managing multiple kids across age ranges, or dealing with specific concerns like cyberbullying or excessive gaming, the right service should align with your parenting style and values.

Young Children (Ages 5-10)

For primary school-age kids, prioritise apps for kids phones emphasising content filtering and time limits over invasive monitoring. Kidslox offers simple cross-platform screen time management, whilst Norton Family provides excellent free web filtering for budget-conscious families.

Essential features include app approval requirements preventing unauthorised downloads, YouTube Kids enforcement, and bedtime device locking. The best parental control app for iPad at this age should make devices boring after bedtime rather than completely unusable for emergencies. Focus on creating healthy habits rather than surveillance.

Tweens (Ages 11-13)

Secondary school students require balanced monitoring apps for parents that provide safety without feeling overly restrictive. Bark excels here with AI-powered monitoring that alerts only for concerning content, respecting growing independence whilst maintaining safety nets.

Look for text monitoring app for parents that flag bullying or inappropriate contact without reading every conversation. Social media monitoring becomes crucial as many tweens join platforms despite age restrictions. The best app for monitoring child's iPhone should educate about digital citizenship alongside protection. Understanding AI companions and their risks helps address modern digital challenges.

Teenagers (Ages 14-17)

Teen monitoring app selection requires careful consideration of trust and independence. Focus on parent monitor app solutions emphasising collaboration over control. FamiSafe works well for location sharing and driving safety without intrusive message monitoring.

Consider apps similar to Bark that flag serious concerns whilst respecting privacy. The best parental control app for teens includes features like driving reports, study time scheduling, and collaborative screen time goals rather than strict enforcement. Creating healthy family technology rules supports this balanced approach. By the time my girls reach their teens, I know I’ll need to trust them more, but I’ll still want quiet confidence that the right digital guardrails are in place. That’s exactly where tools like Aura and Bark come in.

High-Risk Situations

When facing serious concerns like cyberbullying, sexting, depression, or concerning online behaviour, more intensive monitoring becomes necessary. Bark with maximum alert sensitivity provides comprehensive monitoring whilst still respecting some privacy boundaries. Qustodio offers strict control features and detailed activity reports for families needing maximum oversight.

Consider professional counselling or family therapy alongside monitoring tools. Digital safety professionals can recommend appropriate solutions whilst helping maintain healthy family dynamics. The goal should be addressing underlying issues, not just surveillance.

Technical Implementation Considerations

Before selecting a parental control app for Android or iPhone, evaluate technical requirements and limitations. iOS devices have inherent restrictions limiting monitoring capabilities compared to Android, particularly for features like text message monitoring and app-specific time tracking.

Consider whether the parental control software for iPhone requires jailbreaking for full functionality, which voids warranties and creates security vulnerabilities. For Android, determine if rooting is necessary for advanced features. Many Android parental control apps work effectively without rooting, maintaining device security. The best parental control app for Android works effectively without rooting, while the best parental control for iPhone integrates smoothly with Screen Time APIs.

Review whether parental control apps for Android and iPhone in your household can work from a single account, important for families with mixed ecosystems. Verify the parent control app works with your home WiFi security setup for comprehensive protection across all connected devices.

Cost Analysis and Value Assessment

Free parental control apps like Norton Family's basic tier provide essential protection without monthly fees. However, premium features in paid parental control apps android typically prove worthwhile for families needing comprehensive monitoring.

Individual parental control app subscriptions typically range from $5 to $30 monthly, with family plans costing $10 to $100 monthly, depending on devices and features. Annual billing often provides 20-40% savings over monthly payments. Compare the cost of separate subscriptions for location tracking, web filtering, and screen time management versus integrated best parental control software solutions.

When evaluating best parental control apps for iPhone or Android, consider the time saved managing digital rules. Most good parental control apps justify their subscription cost through time savings and reliability. Premium services with automated scheduling and AI-powered alerts can save hours weekly compared to manual monitoring, justifying higher costs for busy parents.

Free Parental Control Alternatives

Effective digital parenting begins with built-in device controls and free tools. Apple Screen Time provides robust parental controls for phones on iOS devices without additional cost. Router-level filtering through OpenDNS or your ISP's family protection features creates network-wide safety.

Free parental control app for iphone and android options are limited. Most quality apps require subscriptions, though many offer free trials. Built-in options like Apple Screen Time for iOS and Microsoft Family Safety for Windows/Xbox provide basic free protection. Whilst requiring more active management than premium alternatives, these built-in free parental control apps for iPhone and Android provide foundational protection.

Combine free tools with regular communication about online safety, establishing family media agreements, and maintaining open dialogue about digital experiences. Even the best parental control app cannot replace engaged parenting, but a reputable premium service could provide valuable technical support.

When a Parental Control App Isn't Enough

Sometimes standard parental control apps don't provide the level of monitoring needed for your family's situation. Every family is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Some parents prefer more comprehensive visibility into their children's digital activities, whether due to past incidents, specific concerns, or simply wanting complete peace of mind. When dealing with serious behavioural issues, broken trust after a significant incident, or evidence of risky behaviour online, more thorough monitoring tools can provide the detailed insight and protection some families need.These situations might include discovering your child is engaged in sexting or sextortion, concerns about online predators, severe cyberbullying, or worries about dangerous online challenges and trends. Some parents also choose comprehensive monitoring after incidents involving drugs, self-harm, or when their child has previously circumvented standard parental controls. For families dealing with these challenges, having complete visibility can provide crucial early warning signs and the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what's happening in your child's digital world.

Advanced Monitoring Apps Comparison

These more comprehensive parental control apps offer deeper monitoring capabilities for parents who need or prefer complete visibility:
ToolBest forUS Monthly Cost*UK Monthly Cost*Key FeaturesReview
mSpyComplete visibilityFrom $16.66/moFrom £13.33/moKeylogger, call recording, deleted message recovery, social media monitoringRead review
uMobixDiscreet monitoringFrom $12.49/moFrom £9.99/moInvisible operation, real-time updates, deleted content recoveryRead review
SpyBubbleSocial media focusFrom $10.62/moFrom £8.49/moWhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram monitoring, location trackingRead review
EyezySnapchat/InstagramFrom $8.33/moFrom £6.66/moSocial Spotlight for disappearing messages, Magic Alerts AIRead review
ScanneroPhone number trackingFrom $49.80/moFrom £39.84/moTrack any phone by number, no installation neededRead review

What These Advanced Monitoring Apps Can Do

  • mSpy provides the most comprehensive monitoring available, giving parents complete insight into their child's smartphone usage. It captures every keystroke typed (including passwords and searches), records phone calls for review, retrieves deleted messages that might contain important information, and monitors all social media activity even in apps that typically auto-delete content. The app operates discreetly, uploading all data to a secure parent dashboard accessible from any browser. With full access, it can even capture screenshots and record the screen in real-time, helping parents understand the complete context of their child's digital interactions.
  • uMobix specialises in discreet operation, providing comprehensive monitoring without alerting the child to its presence. This can be particularly useful for parents who worry their tech-savvy teens might disable or circumvent visible parental controls. It provides similar comprehensive monitoring to mSpy but with a focus on user-friendly setup and reliable operation. The app excels at social media monitoring and can track over 30 different messaging platforms, giving parents peace of mind about who their children are communicating with.
  • SpyBubble focuses specifically on messaging apps, making it ideal for parents primarily concerned about their child's communications and social interactions. It captures Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and other messaging platforms, including voice messages and shared media that might contain concerning content. The app also provides robust location tracking for safety and detailed browser history monitoring to understand your child's online interests and concerns.
  • Eyezy excels at capturing ephemeral content from Snapchat and Instagram Stories that normally disappears within seconds or hours. Its Social Spotlight feature preserves these messages for parental review, whilst Magic Alerts use AI to identify potentially concerning conversations automatically. This means parents don't have to constantly monitor but can be alerted to issues that need attention. The app also includes keystroke logging to understand searches and messages, plus comprehensive web monitoring.
  • Scannero offers a unique approach – it doesn't require installation on the target device at all. Instead, it uses phone network protocols to track any phone's location using just the phone number. Whilst it doesn't provide message or app monitoring like the others, it can be invaluable for parents who need to locate their child in an emergency or when the child is using a device the parent doesn't have direct access to.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

Choosing more comprehensive monitoring is a personal decision that depends on your family's specific circumstances, values, and needs. Some families find that knowing they have complete visibility actually reduces anxiety and allows for more trust – when parents know they can check, they often find they need to less frequently. Others use these tools temporarily during crisis periods, gradually reducing monitoring as trust is rebuilt and situations improve.These apps can be particularly valuable when combined with open communication. Some parents find success in telling their children about the monitoring, using it as a collaborative tool for rebuilding trust after incidents. For example, a teen who has encountered an online predator might actually feel safer knowing their parents are watching for warning signs. Similarly, families dealing with cyberbullying often find that comprehensive monitoring helps gather evidence and protect the child from ongoing harassment.It's worth considering a graduated approach – starting with standard parental controls and moving to more comprehensive monitoring only if needed. Many parents report that just knowing they have these tools available provides peace of mind, even if they rarely check the detailed reports. The key is finding the balance that works for your family whilst maintaining the relationship and communication that ultimately keeps children safe. Remember to check local laws regarding monitoring, as requirements vary by location. In most cases, parents have the right to monitor devices they own and provide to minor children, but it's worth verifying local regulations. Also consider having age-appropriate conversations with your children about online safety and why monitoring might be necessary – many children understand and even appreciate their parents' concern when it's explained in terms of safety rather than control.

Verdict: Best Parental Control Apps

After years of testing and reviewing digital safety tools, I want to share my personal recommendations for parental control apps. These aren't random picks – they're the apps I trust most and would recommend to my own family and friends.


My personal favourite is Aura. As someone who's seen countless families struggle with multiple digital threats, I appreciate how Aura tackles everything at once. In addition to solid parental controls, you get identity theft protection (crucial since kids' identities are increasingly targeted), a VPN for safe browsing, antivirus protection, and a password manager. At $12+ monthly, it costs more than basic parental controls, but it actually saves money compared to purchasing these services separately. For my family, having everything in one dashboard with one company to deal with simplifies our digital life significantly.


That said, Aura won't suit everyone. If you only need basic parental controls and aren't concerned about identity theft or VPNs, you'll be paying for unnecessary features. This is why I've tested dozens of apps to find the best options for different situations.

  • Bark earns my strongest recommendation for families with teenagers. Its AI monitoring alerts you to real problems without invading privacy – a balance that builds rather than destroys trust. At $5-14/month for unlimited kids and devices, the value is exceptional.
  • Qustodio is essential for parents dealing with gaming addiction or needing complex scheduling. The interface initially feels overwhelming, but once mastered, nothing matches its granular control capabilities.
  • Norton Family remains my recommendation for families prioritising web filtering above all else. At £29.99/year (UK) or $49.99/year (US), it provides mature, reliable content blocking using Norton's security infrastructure. The 30-day trial lets you test whether the basic feature set meets your needs. However, the lack of social media monitoring means it's best suited for younger children or as part of Norton 360 bundles.
  • FamiSafe stands out for parents of teen drivers. The premium price is justified if driving safety is your primary concern – the reports and location accuracy are unmatched. For general parental controls though, cheaper alternatives exist.

 

Which app I'd recommend depends on your specific needs:

  • Teen on social media? Bark monitors 30+ platforms whilst respecting privacy
  • Want complete family protection? Aura includes identity theft protection and VPN
  • Struggling with gaming addiction? Qustodio's app-specific limits are unmatched
  • Already using Norton 360? Norton Family is included in your bundle
  • Teen just started driving? FamiSafe's driving reports could save their life
  • Worried about language exposure? Net Nanny masks profanity in real-time
  • Child's first device? Kidslox keeps it simple for ages 5-10

For families requiring more comprehensive monitoring, I also trust mSpy and uMobix when situations demand complete visibility. Whether due to serious incidents or simply your parenting philosophy, these tools deliver reliable, thorough monitoring when needed.

After years in this field, I've learned there's no universal ‘best' – only what works for your family. My preference for Aura stems from valuing comprehensive protection and simplicity, but your priorities might differ completely. Every app on this list has earned my trust by doing what it promises, providing good value, and proving reliable over time.

My advice? Use free trials wherever possible, be honest about what you actually need versus what sounds appealing, and don't hesitate to switch if your first choice doesn't fit. The best parental control app is ultimately the one you'll use consistently to keep your kids safe.

Quick Summary Comparison

ToolUS Monthly CostUK Monthly CostDevicesCore StrengthBest Age Range
BarkFrom $5From £4UnlimitedAI monitoring with privacy11-17
AuraFrom $12From £9.60Up to 10All-in-one family security8-18
QustodioFrom $4.58From £3.755-30Granular screen time control8-15
Norton Family$49.99/year£29.99/yearUnlimitedWeb filtering excellence6-14
FamiSafeFrom $9.99From £7.995-30Location & driving13-18
Net NannyFrom $4.58From £3.665-20Content filtering5-12
KidsloxFrom $4.99From £3.99UnlimitedSimple time limits5-10

Methodology

At Digital Safety Squad, trust and transparency is at the core of everything we do. In a world where misinformation is rampant and sponsored content often clouds real advice, we’re committed to giving you honest, experience-backed recommendations you can rely on. As a team we test and review different products. Our guides are a collaboration of our shared knowledge, learnings and experience. Learn more about how we test

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best parental control app?

Bark ranks as the best parental control app overall due to its balance of comprehensive monitoring (30+ platforms) and privacy respect through AI filtering. For specific needs: Aura (all-in-one protection), Qustodio (screen time), Norton Family (free option), FamiSafe (location).

Unfortunately, there are very few truly free parental control apps with comprehensive features. Most apps offer free trials but require subscriptions. For basic free protection, consider using built-in options like Apple Screen Time for iOS or Microsoft Family Safety for Windows/Xbox families. Among paid apps, Norton Family at $49.99/year is one of the most affordable options.

Most mainstream parental control apps like Bark and Qustodio cannot access deleted content. They only monitor messages and activity from the point of installation forward. Understanding monitoring limitations helps set realistic expectations about what these apps can and cannot do.

Parental control apps for iPhone work but with limitations due to iOS restrictions. They cannot read SMS messages without iCloud backup, have limited app-specific time tracking, and require screen time permissions. Android devices allow more comprehensive monitoring.

Determined teens can find workarounds for most parental control apps, including using VPNs, factory resets, or alternative devices. The most effective approach combines technology with open communication about online safety and clear consequences.

Bark works best for teenagers as it respects privacy whilst flagging serious concerns through AI analysis. It monitors without showing all messages, maintaining trust whilst ensuring safety.

Parental control apps typically cost:

  • Basic: $5-10/month (Bark, Kidslox, Net Nanny)
  • Standard: $10-20/month (Aura, FamiSafe)
  • Premium: $20-50/month (comprehensive multi-device plans)

Annual billing saves 20-40% versus monthly payments.

Bark monitors Snapchat on Android and via iOS connection, requiring the child's login credentials. Most parental control apps have limited Snapchat monitoring due to the app's ephemeral nature. Understanding social media monitoring limitations helps parents set realistic expectations.

Visible parental control apps work better for building trust with most children. Hidden monitoring should be reserved for serious safety concerns and used with careful consideration. Choosing the right approach depends on your child's age, maturity level, and your family's specific situation.

Bark offers unlimited devices for one price, making it best value for large families. Qustodio provides the most consistent cross-platform experience if you need detailed control across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Parental control apps are generally legal for monitoring minor children's devices that parents own. However, laws vary by location, and monitoring adults or devices you don't own may be illegal. Always inform children about monitoring and check local regulations. Learn more about legal and ethical monitoring.

Modern phone monitoring apps for parents typically use 2-5% of system resources, causing minimal slowdown. However, comprehensive solutions with multiple features may impact performance more noticeably, particularly on older devices.

Bark focuses on AI-powered content monitoring with minimal invasion, alerting only for concerns. Qustodio provides granular control over every aspect of device usage. Bark vs Qustodio comes down to whether you prioritise intelligent monitoring (Bark) or complete control (Qustodio).

Parental control apps for iPhone face more restrictions due to iOS's closed system, limiting features like SMS monitoring and app-specific time tracking. Android parental control apps can access deeper system functions, providing more comprehensive monitoring. Setting up parental controls on different devices requires platform-specific approaches.

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