Top 10 Free Parental Control Apps for Android in 2024

In today’s digital age, the significance of parental control apps cannot be overstated. With children spending more time online, often unsupervised, these apps offer a crucial layer of protection and guidance. Free parental control apps for Android empower parents to manage their children’s screen time, block inappropriate content, and track their online activities, ensuring a safer and healthier online experience. These apps provide parents with peace of mind, knowing that they can safeguard their children from online threats and monitor their digital behavior. As technology advances and children become more tech-savvy, the need for reliable and free parental control apps for Android becomes increasingly important in promoting a balanced and safe digital environment for families.

What Makes the Best Parental Control Apps

The best parental control apps share several key features that set them apart. Here are some of the most important aspects to consider when evaluating parental control apps:

Comprehensive Content Filtering: The ability to block access to inappropriate websites and content categories is essential. Look for apps that offer customizable filters based on age-appropriateness and specific content types.

App and Screen Time Management: Effective apps allow parents to set limits on screen time and individual app usage. Look for features that allow for scheduling screen time and blocking access to apps during certain hours.

Social Media Monitoring: Many parental control apps offer features to monitor social media activity, including tracking posts, messages, and friend lists. This is crucial for keeping tabs on online interactions and identifying potential risks.

Location Tracking: Some apps include GPS tracking to help parents locate their children in real-time. This is especially useful for ensuring their safety when they’re out and about.

Usage Reports and Alerts: The best apps provide detailed reports on a child’s online activity, including websites visited and time spent on each app. They also offer alerts for suspicious or inappropriate behavior.

Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is important, especially for parents who may not be tech-savvy. Look for apps that are easy to set up and navigate.

Cross-Platform Support: Since children use multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, the best parental control apps offer support for a wide range of platforms.

Privacy and Security: Ensure that the app you choose prioritizes privacy and security, with robust encryption and protection against unauthorized access.

By considering these factors, you can select the best parental control app that meets your family’s needs and helps you keep your children safe online.

Why You Need Professional Parental Control Apps: The Limitations of Built-In Features

In today’s digital age, parents face the challenging task of managing their children’s online activities. While many devices come with built-in parental control features, these tools often have limitations that may not meet the needs of every family. Here are some reasons why you might consider using a professional parental control app:

Comprehensive Protection: Built-in parental control features often lack the comprehensive protection offered by professional apps. Professional apps typically offer a wider range of features, such as content filtering, app blocking, and social media monitoring.

Advanced Monitoring: Professional apps provide more advanced monitoring capabilities, allowing parents to track their children’s online activities in real-time. This includes monitoring web browsing history, text messages, and social media interactions.

Customization: Professional apps offer more customization options, allowing parents to tailor the settings to their specific needs. This includes setting time limits, creating schedules, and blocking specific websites or apps.

Cross-Platform Support: Professional apps are often compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, ensuring that parents can monitor their children’s activities across all their devices.

Ease of Use: Professional apps are designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for parents to set up and manage their settings. This is especially important for parents who may not be tech-savvy.

Enhanced Security: Professional apps prioritize the security and privacy of their users, offering robust encryption and protection against unauthorized access.

In conclusion, while built-in parental control features can be helpful, they may not provide the level of protection and customization that many parents desire. Professional parental control apps offer a wide range of features and benefits that can help parents safeguard their children’s online activities.

Top 10 Best Parental Control Apps for Android

Are you looking for ways to monitor and manage your child’s online activities on their Android device? Here are the top 10 parental control apps that can help you ensure your child’s safety and well-being in the digital world. From content filtering to app blocking and screen time management, these apps offer a range of features to meet your specific needs.

Google Family Link – Free

Google Family Link is a free parental control app that focuses on monitoring Android phones. It allows parents to track their child’s daily screen time, lock or unlock their child’s phone remotely, and control app purchases and downloads from the Google Play Store. While it offers limited filtering on the web and only applies to mature sites or YouTube, Google Family Link is a great option for parents of children under 13 using an Android phone.

Features:

Google Family Link offers several features to help parents manage their child’s Android device usage:

1. Screen Time Management: Parents can set daily screen time limits for their child’s device usage. Once the limit is reached, the child can request additional screen time that the parent can approve or deny.
2. App Management: Parents can view the apps their child has installed and approve or block new app downloads from the Google Play Store.
3. Activity Reports: Google Family Link provides weekly or monthly activity reports, showing how much time the child has spent on their device and in which apps.
4. Remote Lock and Unlock: Parents can remotely lock their child’s device to encourage time away from screens, and unlock it when necessary.
5. Content Filtering: While limited, Google Family Link allows parents to block access to mature websites and YouTube content that may not be suitable for children.
6. Location Tracking: Parents can view their child’s location on a map in real-time and receive alerts when they arrive or leave specific places.
7. Safe Search: Google Family Link enables Safe Search on Google Search, YouTube, and other Google services to filter out explicit content.
8. Device Management: Parents can manage multiple child devices from the same app and manage settings such as bedtime and daily limits across all devices.

Pros

• Parents can approve or block app downloads from the Google Play Store, ensuring their child only accesses age-appropriate apps.
• Parents can set daily screen time limits for their child’s device usage, helping to manage and balance screen time.
• Kids need to request a parental access code for further screen time, giving parents control over extending screen time limits.
• Settings allow for blocking of Google’s collection of child’s data and activities, ensuring privacy and security.

Cons

• The app offers limited filtering on the web, focusing mainly on mature sites or YouTube content.
• Google Family Link lacks geofencing features, which can be useful for tracking a child’s location in real-time.
• The app is designed for children under 13, so it may not be suitable for older children or teenagers.
• Google Family Link does not offer comprehensive social media monitoring, which may be a concern for parents wanting to monitor their child’s social media activity.
• Children have to agree to continue using Google Family Link, which may lead to resistance from older children or teenagers.

Norton Family

Norton Family is a comprehensive parental control app designed to help parents monitor and manage their children’s online activities. With features such as screen time management, web filtering, and app supervision, Norton Family offers a range of tools to help parents ensure their children’s safety online. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices, making it easy for parents to monitor their children’s devices regardless of the operating system. Norton Family also provides detailed activity reports, allowing parents to see exactly what their children are doing online and take appropriate action if necessary.

Features of Norton Family:

1. Screen Time Management: Parents can set limits on how much time their children spend on their devices, helping to balance screen time with other activities.
2. Web Supervision: Norton Family can block access to inappropriate websites and allow parents to see which sites their children are visiting.
3. Search Supervision: Parents can see the terms their children are searching for on search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo, and block inappropriate searches.
4. Location Tracking: Norton Family can track the location of a child’s device, helping parents to know where their children are at all times.
5. App Supervision: Parents can see which apps their children are using and block access to specific apps if necessary.
6. Instant Lock: Parents can instantly lock their child’s device if they need to take a break from screens or if it’s time for bed.
7. Usage Reports: Norton Family provides detailed reports on how much time children spend on their devices and what they do with that time.
8. Email Alerts: Parents can receive email alerts when Norton Family blocks a website or when a child tries to access a blocked site.
9. Social Network Monitoring: Norton Family can monitor children’s activities on social networks like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, helping parents to protect their children from cyberbullying and other online threats.
10. Remote Management: Parents can manage Norton Family settings remotely from any web browser, making it easy to stay in control even when they’re not at home.

Pros

• Offers a wide range of features for complete online safety, including screen time management and social network monitoring.
• Easy to set up and use, even for those with limited technical knowledge.
• Available for both Android and iOS devices, ensuring coverage across different operating systems.
• Allows parents to tailor settings to suit their family’s needs, such as setting screen time limits and receiving alerts for specific activities.

Cons

• While Norton Family offers social network monitoring, it may not cover all social media platforms, potentially leaving gaps in monitoring capabilities.
• Some features, such as web filtering, may not work consistently across all browsers, reducing the effectiveness of certain parental controls.
• On iOS devices, Norton Family relies on Apple’s Screen Time features, which may limit its functionality compared to the Android version.
• Norton Family does not offer the ability to monitor text messages, which may be a drawback for parents looking for more comprehensive monitoring.

Parentaler

Parentaler is a comprehensive parental control app designed to help parents monitor and manage their children’s online activities. With features like screen time management, app blocking, and website filtering, Parentaler provides parents with the tools they need to ensure their children’s safety in the digital world. Whether you’re concerned about excessive screen time, inappropriate content, or online predators, Parentaler offers a range of features to help you protect your children online.

Features of Parentaler:

1. Screen Time Management: Set limits on how long your child can use their device each day, helping to promote healthy screen time habits.
2. App Blocking: Block access to specific apps that you deem inappropriate or distracting, giving you control over what your child can access on their device.
3. Website Filtering: Filter out websites that contain inappropriate content, ensuring that your child only has access to safe and age-appropriate websites.
4. Location Tracking: Keep track of your child’s whereabouts with real-time location tracking, giving you peace of mind knowing where they are at all times.
5. Geofencing: Set up virtual boundaries around specific areas and receive alerts when your child enters or leaves those areas, providing an extra layer of safety.
6. Activity Monitoring: Monitor your child’s device activity, including app usage and web browsing history, so you can stay informed about their online behavior.
7. Remote Management: Manage Parentaler settings remotely from your own device, allowing you to make changes and monitor your child’s activity even when you’re not with them.
8. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Parentaler is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, ensuring that you can monitor your child’s activity regardless of the device they use.
9. Easy-to-Use Interface: Parentaler features a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for parents to navigate and access the app’s features.
10. Customizable Settings: Customize Parentaler settings to suit your family’s needs, including setting up different profiles for each child and adjusting settings based on their age and maturity level.

Pros

• Parentaler offers a wide range of features to help parents protect their children online, including screen time management, app blocking, and website filtering.
• The app is easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy for parents to navigate and access the app’s features.
• Parentaler is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing parents to monitor their children’s activity regardless of the device they use.
• Parentaler allows parents to customize settings to suit their family’s needs, including setting up different profiles for each child and adjusting settings based on their age and maturity level.

Cons

• Parentaler may not provide extensive monitoring capabilities for all social media platforms, potentially leaving some online activities unmonitored.
• Some features, such as web filtering, may not work consistently across all browsers, limiting the effectiveness of certain parental controls.
• On iOS devices, Parentaler’s functionality may be restricted compared to its Android version, as it relies on Apple’s Screen Time features.
• Parentaler does not offer text message monitoring, which may be a limitation for parents seeking a more comprehensive monitoring solution.

mSpy

mSpy is a powerful parental control app designed to help parents monitor and manage their children’s digital activities. With a wide range of features, mSpy provides parents with the tools they need to ensure their children’s safety online. Whether you’re concerned about cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or excessive screen time, mSpy offers a comprehensive solution to help you protect your children in the digital age.

Key Features of mSpy:

1. App Usage Monitoring: mSpy tracks and logs all apps used on a child’s phone or tablet, including games, social media, and messaging apps.
2. Browsing History Monitoring: Parents can view their child’s web browsing history to ensure they are not accessing inappropriate websites or content.
3. Location Tracking: mSpy allows parents to track their child’s location in real-time, ensuring their safety and whereabouts.
4. Call and Text Monitoring: Parents can monitor incoming and outgoing calls and texts, including timestamps and contact information.
5. Social Media Monitoring: mSpy can track activity on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat.
6. Geofencing: Parents can set up geofences and receive alerts when their child enters or leaves a designated area.
7. Remote Control: mSpy allows parents to remotely lock or unlock the device, block apps, and even wipe data in case of theft or loss.

Pros

• mSpy offers a wide range of monitoring features, allowing parents to track almost all aspects of their child’s digital activity.
• The app is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple interface that makes it easy for parents to navigate and access the information they need.
• With features like location tracking and geofencing, parents can keep track of their child’s whereabouts in real-time, ensuring their safety.
• mSpy can operate in stealth mode, meaning it can be discreetly installed on a child’s device without them knowing.
• mSpy is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
• mSpy offers customer support to help parents with any issues or questions they may have about the app.

Cons

• The extensive monitoring capabilities of mSpy raise privacy concerns, as it may infringe on the child’s right to privacy.
• While mSpy is compatible with a range of devices, certain features may be limited or unavailable depending on the device’s operating system or version.
• mSpy’s subscription plans can be expensive, especially for parents on a tight budget.
• Some users have reported technical issues with the app, such as bugs, glitches, or difficulty installing and using certain features.

FamiSafe Parental Control

FamiSafe Parental Control is a comprehensive solution designed to help parents monitor and manage their children’s digital activities. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, FamiSafe offers a range of tools to help parents ensure their children’s online safety. It provides app blocking and usage monitoring, web filtering, location tracking, and screen time management features, making it a valuable tool for any parent concerned about their child’s online safety.

Key Features:

1. App Blocking and Usage: FamiSafe allows parents to block access to certain apps and monitor the time spent on each app.
2. Web Filtering: Parents can set up filters to block inappropriate websites and content, ensuring a safe browsing experience for their children.
3. Location Tracking: FamiSafe enables real-time location tracking, geofencing, and location history tracking to ensure children’s safety.
4. Screen Time Management: Parents can set screen time limits for different devices, helping children develop healthy digital habits.
5. Smart Schedule: FamiSafe allows parents to create a smart schedule for device usage, such as bedtime, study time, and playtime.
6. Activity Report: Parents receive regular activity reports, including app usage, website visits, and location history, to stay informed about their child’s digital activities.

Pros:

• FamiSafe’s interface is easy to use, making it simple for parents to monitor and manage their child’s devices.
• FamiSafe is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, allowing parents to monitor multiple devices with ease.
• FamiSafe offers a wide range of features, from app blocking to location tracking, providing parents with comprehensive control over their child’s digital activities.
• FamiSafe provides reliable customer support to assist parents with any issues or questions they may have.

Cons:

• FamiSafe’s subscription plans can be expensive, especially for families with multiple devices to monitor.
• While FamiSafe offers some social media monitoring features, it may not provide as comprehensive monitoring as some other parental control apps.
• Some users have reported technical issues with FamiSafe, such as app crashes or connectivity problems, which can be frustrating for parents.

Bark Parental Control

Bark is a full-featured parental control app developed by a father of two. Available on most operating systems and devices, Bark grows with kids, offering AI monitoring for dangerous cyber behaviors, as well as multiple scheduling options. The app monitors for issues like bullying, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideations by watching how and what the child is searching or accessing. If there are repeated searches at sites that encourage or focus on common subject words, parents receive an alert. They can then discuss the topics in person. Bark also provides an online blog for parents to guide discussions about difficult topics on or offline.

Bark Parental Controls Features:

1. AI Monitoring: Bark uses AI technology to scan for keywords associated with nudity and violence, alerting parents if any concerning content is detected.
2. Multiple Scheduling Options: Parents can set up three screen-time schedules: school, bedtime, and free time, allowing for flexible control over device usage.
3. Monitoring of Various Activities: Bark scans a child’s activity on their devices, including text messages, Google searches, and popular apps like YouTube and Discord, providing comprehensive monitoring.
4. Automatic Parental Alerts: The app sends automatic alerts to parents when it detects risky behavior or content, enabling quick intervention and discussion with the child.
5. Restrictions on YouTube: Bark keeps restrictions on YouTube regardless of how it’s accessed while connected to the app, ensuring safe viewing.
6. Remote Internet Access Control: Parents can pause internet access remotely, allowing them to manage their child’s online time effectively.

Pros:

• Bark covers a wide range of activities and uses AI to detect potential risks, providing parents with peace of mind.
• The app is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple interface that makes it easy for parents to navigate and understand the alerts and reports.
• Bark monitors various platforms and activities, including text messages, social media, and web searches, offering a comprehensive solution for parents.
• Bark provides an online blog with resources for parents to guide discussions about difficult topics, helping them navigate challenging conversations with their children.

Cons:

• Some users have reported receiving redundant alerts for non-harmful content, which can be frustrating.
• While Bark monitors calls and browsing history, caregivers don’t have access to read calls or texts or get a complete list of sites visited, limiting the insight into a child’s online behavior.
• Setting up Bark on an iPhone can be complicated, requiring a desktop app, connecting the phone to a computer, and configuring home Wi-Fi settings.
• Bark does a good job of monitoring social media, but it can’t fully monitor all social media apps, including Facebook Messenger Kids, Snapchat, and TikTok, which may leave some gaps in monitoring.

Qustodio

Qustodio is a full-featured parental control app that supports a wide range of platforms and devices, including iOS, Android, Amazon Fire tablets, Macs, PCs, and Chromebooks. It offers comprehensive usage restrictions and the ability to set multiple schedules for activity time. Qustodio also provides substantial activity reporting with breakdowns of screen habits, allowing parents to monitor their child’s digital activities effectively.

Qustodio Features:

1. Device Compatibility: Qustodio supports a wide range of platforms and devices, making it suitable for families with multiple devices and operating systems.
2. Screen Time Limits: The app offers customizable time limits and schedules, allowing parents to manage their child’s screen time effectively.
3. Geofencing and Family Locator: Qustodio includes geofencing features that allow parents to set up danger zones and receive real-time alerts when their child moves outside of defined areas.
4. Comprehensive Activity Reporting: Parents can access detailed reports on their child’s activities, including screen time, app usage, and web browsing history, helping them stay informed about their child’s digital habits.
5. SMS and Call Tracking: Qustodio allows parents to monitor all SMS and social media chats, including deleted ones, providing insight into their child’s communication.

Pros:

• Qustodio supports a wide range of devices and operating systems, making it suitable for families with diverse device preferences.
• The app offers geofencing features that allow parents to track their child’s location in real-time, providing peace of mind.
• Qustodio provides detailed reports on screen time, app usage, and web browsing history, allowing parents to monitor their child’s digital activities effectively.
• Parents can monitor all SMS and social media chats, providing insight into their child’s communication and social interactions.

Cons:

• Qustodio offers a range of subscription plans, and the cost can add up for families with multiple devices and children.
• Some users have reported that filters can be bypassed by using a VPN, potentially compromising the effectiveness of the app’s content filtering features.
• Qustodio does not offer the ability to block or set limits for certain apps and games, which may be a limitation for some parents.

Eyezy

Eyezy is a parental control app that utilizes spyware technology to help parents monitor their child’s online activity. It offers features such as dark web monitoring, geofencing, comprehensive telephone call tracking, and access to all SMS and social media chats, including deleted ones. Eyezy provides parents with the ability to set alerts for cyberbullying, sexual content, and more, allowing them to filter content, manage screen time, and track their child’s location effectively.

Eyezy Features:

1. Spyware Technology: Eyezy uses spyware technology to provide parents with full access to their child’s devices and activities, including monitoring online activity and tracking location.
2. Dark Web Monitoring: The app offers dark web monitoring, allowing parents to stay informed about their child’s online interactions and potential exposure to dangerous content.
3. Geofencing: Eyezy includes geofencing features that allow parents to set up danger zones and receive real-time alerts when their child moves outside of defined areas.
4. Comprehensive Telephone Call Tracking: Parents can access all telephone call logs, including incoming and outgoing calls, providing insight into their child’s communication.
5. Access to All SMS and Social Media Chats: Eyezy allows parents to monitor all SMS and social media chats, including deleted ones, providing a comprehensive view of their child’s communication.

Pros:

• Eyezy offers dark web monitoring, providing parents with valuable insights into their child’s online interactions and potential exposure to dangerous content.
• The app includes geofencing features that allow parents to set up danger zones and receive real-time alerts, helping them keep track of their child’s location.
• Parents can access all telephone call logs, including incoming and outgoing calls, providing a complete view of their child’s communication.
• Eyezy allows parents to monitor all SMS and social media chats, including deleted ones, giving them a comprehensive understanding of their child’s communication.

Cons:

• Eyezy requires full access to the child’s device, including access to all communications and activities, which may raise privacy concerns for some users.
• Eyezy’s subscription model can be expensive, especially compared to other parental control apps on the market.
• The use of spyware technology may lead to trust issues between parents and children, as it provides parents with full access to their child’s devices and activities.

Kaspersky Safe Kids

Kaspersky Safe Kids is an all-in-one parental control app designed to keep kids safe online while encouraging offline balance. The app offers features such as screen time limits, app management based on age and category, and real-time requests for additional screen time. Kaspersky Safe Kids also includes geofencing and location tracking, allowing parents to monitor their child’s whereabouts. The app aims to provide a comprehensive solution for digital parenting and family well-being, promoting safe and responsible online behavior.

Kaspersky Safe Kids Features:

1. Unlimited Device Support: Kaspersky Safe Kids supports unlimited devices, including PC, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, allowing parents to monitor multiple devices from a single account.
2. Screen Time Limits: The app offers screen time limits and scheduling features, allowing parents to set boundaries for device usage and encourage offline activities.
3. App Management: Parents can block or allow apps based on the child’s age and category, giving them control over the content their child can access.
4. Geofencing and Location Tracking: Kaspersky Safe Kids includes geofencing features that allow parents to define safe areas for their child and receive alerts when they leave those areas. The app also provides real-time location tracking, helping parents keep track of their child’s whereabouts.
5. Reports and Insights: The app provides detailed reports on the child’s activities, including screen time, app usage, and online interactions, giving parents insights into their child’s digital behavior.

Pros:

• Kaspersky Safe Kids supports multiple devices and operating systems, allowing parents to monitor their child’s activity across all their devices.
• The app offers a wide range of monitoring features, including screen time limits, app management, and location tracking, providing parents with a comprehensive view of their child’s digital activity.
• Kaspersky Safe Kids has received the AV-TEST Approved Certificate for its ability to protect kids across all devices and operating systems, ensuring that parents can trust the app to keep their child safe online.
• The app promotes family well-being by encouraging offline balance and providing tools for digital parenting, helping parents create a healthy digital environment for their child.

Cons:

• The app’s social media tracking is limited to Facebook and VK, which may not cover all social media platforms that children use.
• The app’s web filters may not work consistently with all browsers, potentially allowing access to inappropriate content.
• Some features, such as advanced monitoring and blocking options, are only available in the premium version, which may require an additional cost.

Net Nanny

Net Nanny is a comprehensive parental control software designed to protect children from online threats and inappropriate content. The software offers a range of features, including web filtering, app blocking, screen time management, and profanity masking, to help parents ensure their child’s safety online. Net Nanny aims to provide a balanced approach to digital parenting, allowing parents to set appropriate boundaries while still allowing their child to explore and learn online.

Net Nanny Features:

1. Web Filtering: Net Nanny offers customizable web filtering based on age-appropriateness, allowing parents to block access to inappropriate websites and content categories.
2. App Blocking: Parents can block access to specific apps or games on their child’s device, ensuring that they only use apps that are safe and suitable.
3. Screen Time Management: Net Nanny includes screen time management features, allowing parents to set limits on the amount of time their child spends on their device each day.
4. Profanity Masking: The software can mask or block profanity in websites and online content, ensuring that children are not exposed to inappropriate language.
5. Remote Management: Net Nanny allows parents to manage and monitor their child’s device remotely, giving them control over their child’s online activities even when they are not physically present.

Pros:

• Net Nanny’s web filtering is highly effective at blocking inappropriate content, ensuring that children are protected from online threats.
• The software is easy to set up and use, with a user-friendly interface that makes it simple for parents to customize settings and monitor their child’s activity.
• Net Nanny supports multiple devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, allowing parents to protect their child’s online activity across all their devices.
• Net Nanny provides detailed reports on the child’s online activity, including websites visited and time spent online, giving parents valuable insights into their child’s digital behavior.

Cons:

• Net Nanny does not offer social media monitoring features, which may be a limitation for parents looking to monitor their child’s social media activity.
• The app management features are limited compared to some other parental control software, which may restrict parents’ ability to control which apps their child can use.
• Net Nanny is available as a subscription-based service, which may be a drawback for parents looking for a one-time purchase option.

Comparison of Top 10 Free Parental Control Apps for Android

Parental Control App	Price	Features	Pros	Cons
Google Family Link	Free	App purchases and downloads control, screen time limits	Free to use, easy to set up and use	Limited web filtering, no social media tracking
Norton Family	Starting at $49.99/year	App and website blocking, screen time limits	Easy to set up and configure, comprehensive reporting	Limited app management, doesn’t work on Mac
Parentaler	Free with in-app purchases	App and web monitoring, location tracking	Easy to use, offers a free version with basic features	Limited features in free version, may require in-app purchases for full functionality
mSpy	Starting at $11.99/month	Call and text monitoring, GPS tracking	Offers comprehensive monitoring features, easy to install and use	Requires physical access to target device for installation, may be seen as invasive
FamiSafe Parental Control	Starting at $4.99/month	App blocking, screen time limits	Affordable pricing, easy to use interface	Limited social media tracking, some features may require premium subscription
Bark	Starting at $5/month	AI monitoring, screen time scheduling	Comprehensive monitoring for dangerous behaviors, offers insights and guidance for parents	Repetitive alerts, limited browsing history access
Qustodio	Starting at $54.95/year	App and web monitoring, geofencing	Supports a wide range of platforms, offers substantial activity reporting	Bypassing filters with VPN, less affordable subscription compared to other options
Eyezy	Starting at $7.99/month	Dark web monitoring, geofencing	Provides comprehensive monitoring, includes dark web monitoring feature	Expensive subscription model, some alerts require manual analysis by parents
Kaspersky Safe Kids	Starting at $20.99/year	Screen time limits, social media tracking	Over 1 million users worldwide, offers additional monitoring and scheduling features	Limited social media monitoring, web filters not consistent with all browsers
Net Nanny	Starting at $39.99/year	Web filtering, app blocking	Effective web filtering, easy to use interface	No social media monitoring, limited app management features, subscription-based pricing

When to use which Android parental control app

• When you need an app that can grow with your family, use Bark.
• When you need a spyware parental control app that sees all and hands it over to you, use mSpy.
• When you need an app backed by anti-virus software, use Kaspersky Kids.
• When you need a great option for families, use Norton Family.
• When you need an app that’s great for Android and Google Chrome, use Google Family.
• When you need an affordable option with great features, use Qustodio.
• When you need an app for Android only, use ESET Parental Control for Android.
• When you need an app that’s already integrated into iOS, use Apple Screen Time.

How Can I See Everything On My Child’s Android Phone Free?

If you’re looking to see everything on your child’s Android phone for free, mSpy is a comprehensive solution. Here’s a guide on how to use it:

1. Download and Install: Purchase a subscription from the mSpy website and follow the instructions to download and install the app on your child’s Android phone. You’ll need physical access to the device for this step.
2. Activate the App: Once installed, activate the app and grant it the necessary permissions to access the phone’s data.
3. Monitor Activity: Log in to your mSpy account from any web browser and access the control panel. From here, you can view a dashboard that shows you a summary of your child’s phone activity, including calls, messages, browsing history, and more.
4. Set Restrictions: mSpy allows you to set restrictions on your child’s phone usage. You can block certain apps, limit screen time, and even track their location.
5. Review Reports: mSpy generates detailed reports of your child’s phone activity, which you can review to ensure they are using their phone safely and responsibly.

Remember, it’s important to use parental control apps like mSpy responsibly and with your child’s knowledge and consent.

Conclusion – What’s the Best Free Parental Control App to Use in 2024?

In conclusion, the best free parental control app to use in 2024 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Google Family Link is a great option for Android users, offering comprehensive parental controls and monitoring features. However, if you’re looking for a more advanced option with additional features, mSpy is a solid choice. Ultimately, the best app for you will depend on your family’s unique requirements and the devices you use.

Free Android Parental Control App FAQs

Why are parental control apps important?

Parental control apps are important because they help parents protect their children from inappropriate content, manage their screen time, and ensure their online safety.

Is there a parental control app for Android?

Yes, there are several parental control apps available for Android devices, including Google Family Link, Norton Family, Qustodio, and mSpy, among others.

Can I monitor my child’s phone from my Android?

Yes, many parental control apps offer companion apps for parents to monitor and manage their child’s device from their own Android device.

Does Android have built-in parental controls?

Yes, Android devices have built-in parental controls through Google Family Link, which allows parents to manage their child’s device usage, set screen time limits, and more.

Is there a better app than Family Link?

The best parental control app depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some popular alternatives to Google Family Link include Norton Family, Qustodio, and mSpy, each offering different features and functionalities.

How can I view what my child is doing on his Android phone?

Parental control apps like mSpy, Norton Family, and Qustodio allow you to view your child’s activity on their Android phone, including the apps they use, websites they visit, and their location.

How do I restrict my kids on Android?

You can restrict your kids on Android using parental control apps or built-in features like Google Family Link. These tools allow you to set screen time limits, block certain apps or websites, and monitor their online activity.

Are parental control apps easy to use?

Most parental control apps are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces that make it easy for parents to monitor and manage their children’s devices.

How do parental control apps protect children from online threats?

Parental control apps use various methods to protect children from online threats, including content filtering, monitoring for cyberbullying, and providing alerts for potentially dangerous activities.

Can parental control apps block specific apps or websites?

Yes, many parental control apps allow parents to block access to specific apps or websites that they deem inappropriate or distracting.

How do parental control apps help manage screen time?

Parental control apps allow parents to set limits on the amount of time their children can spend on devices, helping to promote healthy screen time habits.

Can parental control apps track location?

Some parental control apps offer location tracking features, allowing parents to monitor their children’s whereabouts in real-time.

Do parental control apps work on all devices?

Parental control apps are designed to work on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, but compatibility can vary depending on the app and the device.