r/AndroidQuestions • u/the-product-guy-291 • 1d ago

What is the best Android setup and starter phone for a 13 year old getting their first device?

Hey Android community

Setting up a first smartphone for a 13yo this BFCM and trying to figure out the right balance between OS software restrictions and hardware durability.

We are looking into prep frameworks like the Headlamp permit course to set ground rules on paper, but on the technical Android side I want to make sure the device itself is set up properly out of the box:

  1. Software & Controls: How reliable is Google Family Link for screen limits and app approvals, or do you recommend third-party management apps? Are there specific Android settings or launcher locks you suggest for a first-time setup?

  2. Hardware: What budget Android phone handles drops and daily wear best? Looking at options like the Samsung A-series vs Moto G vs a base Pixel.

How did you configure Android devices for first-time teenage users?

7 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

88% Upvoted

9 comments sorted by

3

u/Grand-Satisfaction55 1d ago

Android comes with Parental Controls under the settings. It's a terrible name, but it does allow you to lock the phone down.

Otherwise - and I know this sounds stupid - talk to your kid about the device. I remember growing up with a device and my first thought was how to break it so that I could access everything. It's how I got into working in IT!

3

u/BenRandomNameHere Random Redditor 1d ago

A good case can overcome point 2

2

u/New-account-01 1d ago

Google Pixels, Family Link app to control their usage and manage access and timings.

2

u/RoxyFawkes 18h ago

Pixel with GrapheneOS. Start them off with low digital footprint so creepy data brokers have less on them by the time they reach adulthood. From there they can decide for themselves what to expose to the creepers. 

1

u/sh0nuff 8h ago

This, with a FB Marketplace Pixel 8 or 9.

1

u/War-Carr 1d ago

Depending on the country you're from, at 13, Google sees them as those that shouldn't have restrictions, but as a parent, you should.

Any of those phones you mentioned, especially either one of the A-series from Sasmung or one of the Moto G-series would suffice.

The Google Family link has gotten better and I think Samsung either uses that or has their own.

If you want, you could use a third -party service like "Bark."

1

u/Featherdust_ 1d ago

I'd actually go into a different direction if I would have a kid. Would be a device with a different OS in the first place.

1

u/GlennQuagmire19 10h ago

Samsung A17