The Imoo Z1 is a feature-packed kids’ smartwatch designed for safety, communication, and durability. Aimed at children aged 5–12, this watch strikes a balance between staying connected and limiting distractions—making it a favourite for parents in the UK.
💷 Price: The Imoo Z1 is priced around £99–£129, depending on the retailer (Amazon UK, Imoo official, Very, etc.). It sits in the mid-range bracket of calling-enabled smartwatches for kids.
Currently £109 On Amazon UK: Imoo Z1
✅ Pros & ➖ Cons
Pros:
- ✅ HD video and voice calling over 4G or Wi-Fi
- ✅ Real-time GPS tracking with geofencing
- ✅ Whitelist-only calling and messaging (only approved contacts)
- ✅ Durable and IPX8 water-resistant
- ✅ Distraction-free: No games or internet
- ✅ “Class Mode” disables features during school hours
Cons:
- ➖ Slightly bulky on smaller wrists (~51g)
- ➖ Battery life averages 2–2.5 days under normal use
- ➖ No games or entertainment features
- ➖ May require some setup effort for SIM compatibility
🔄 How It Compares: Imoo Z1 vs Other Calling Smartwatches
| Feature | Imoo Z1 | TickTalk 4 | Xplora XGO3 | VTech Kidicom Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £99–£129 | £179–£199 (not UK native) | £89–£99 | £95–£110 |
| Video Calling | ✅ HD video & audio | ✅ HD video | ❌ Audio only | ❌ Wi-Fi messaging only |
| GPS Tracking | ✅ Yes, real-time | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Waterproof | ✅ IPX8 rated | ✅ IP67 | ✅ IP68 | ❌ Not waterproof |
| Games/Entertainment | ❌ None (distraction-free) | ✅ Music + activity games | ❌ Minimal | ✅ Yes, limited games |
| SIM Support | ✅ Nano SIM (4G LTE) | ✅ Nano SIM (US-focused) | ✅ Nano SIM (UK friendly) | ❌ No SIM – Wi-Fi only |
| Best for… | Safety + focus | Entertainment + calling | Budget GPS + calling | Game-focused Wi-Fi device |
✅ Verdict: The Imoo Z1 offers the best balance of price, call quality, GPS, and safety for UK parents who value focus over flash.
Key Features of the Imoo Z1
🧒 Kid-Safe Design
The Imoo Z1 is lightweight yet durable, built with child-safe materials. It features a colourful polycarbonate shell in either green or pink/red. The 1.3” TFT screen is bright and responsive but lacks automatic brightness.
📞 Communication Made Easy
- 4G voice and HD video calls (to approved contacts only)
- Two-way messaging via the Imoo companion app
- Contact whitelist ensures no unknown callers
📍 Location Tracking & Safety
Parents can track their child in real time using:
- GPS
- Wi-Fi
- Cellular triangulation
Geofencing lets you set safe zones and receive alerts when your child enters or leaves an area.
🏫 Class Mode
During school hours, “Class Mode” disables calling and messaging. Only SOS or emergency functions remain active—keeping learning uninterrupted.
📷 Camera
A 2MP wide-angle camera allows for clear video calls and simple photo snapping.
🔋 Battery & Charging
- 740 mAh battery
- Charging time: ~2 hours
- Usage: 2 to 2.5 days of moderate activity
💧 Durability
- Waterproof (IPX8 rating): Swim-friendly
- Drop resistant: Built for active kids
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age range | 5–12 years |
| Display | 1.3″ TFT (240×240) |
| Camera | 2MP wide-angle |
| Battery | 740 mAh, ~2 days use |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Nano SIM |
| Water Resistance | IPX8 |
| Weight | ~51g |
| Location tracking | GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular |
| Special modes | Class Mode, Safe Zones |
| Control | Parent app (iOS & Android) |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Imoo Z1 good as a first smartwatch for kids?
Yes! It’s simple, safe, and avoids distractions like games and browsing. Perfect for kids just getting started with tech.
What SIM cards are compatible?
The Imoo Z1 uses a nano SIM with 4G data. Compatible UK providers include Tesco Mobile, Vodafone, EE, and Lebara. Plans from £5–£7/month typically work well.
Can it call anyone?
No. The Imoo Z1 only allows calls and messages to approved contacts set by parents. Unknown numbers are blocked automatically.
How accurate is GPS tracking?
The Imoo Z1 combines GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular data to provide accurate location tracking—usually within a few metres.
Can it be used during school hours?
Yes. You can enable “Class Mode” via the parent app to restrict all functions during school time, keeping your child focused.
How long does the battery last?
The battery typically lasts around 2 to 2.5 days on moderate use. Frequent video calling may reduce this slightly.
🛠️ How to Set Up and Use the Imoo Z1 Smartwatch
Setting up the Imoo Z1 is easy with the right SIM card and a smartphone. Follow this step-by-step guide to get started:
🔹 What You’ll Need:
- The Imoo Z1 smartwatch (charged to at least 50%)
- A nano SIM card with 4G data (e.g. Tesco Mobile, Vodafone, EE, Lebara)
- A smartphone (Android or iOS)
- Internet access (mobile data or Wi-Fi)
✅ Step-by-Step Setup Guide
1. Insert the SIM Card
- Turn off the watch.
- Open the SIM slot using the included screwdriver or tool.
- Insert your nano SIM card (must have data enabled and no PIN lock).
- Power on the watch.
2. Download the Imoo App
- On your phone, go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Search for “Imoo App” or scan the QR code in the watch manual.
- Install and open the app.
3. Create a Parent Account
- Register a parent account using your phone number or email.
- Set a secure password.
- Add your child’s profile (name, age, etc.).
4. Pair the Watch
- On the watch, go to the QR code pairing screen (under Settings > Bind Device).
- On the app, tap “+ Add Device” and scan the QR code.
- Once connected, you’ll have full control via the app.
5. Test Features
- Make a voice and video call to the watch.
- Try GPS tracking on the app.
- Add family and approved contacts via the whitelist.
6. Enable Key Safety Features
- Class Mode: Set school hours to disable distractions.
- Safe Zones: Add geofences (e.g. school, home) to get alerts.
- SOS Settings: Assign emergency contacts for quick alerts from the child.
💡 Tips for Smooth Setup
- Use a SIM card that supports VoLTE and tethering (data + calls).
- Disable SIM PIN lock before inserting into the watch.
- Keep mobile data turned ON (Wi-Fi can assist but won’t replace 4G).
👨👩👧 Managing the Watch Day-to-Day
- View your child’s live location via the app
- Call or message the watch at any time
- Set quiet periods with Do Not Disturb or Class Mode
- Receive low-battery alerts and usage logs
- Add or block contacts remotely
- Track steps, routines, and daily usage
Final Verdict
The Imoo Z1 is a great choice for families wanting to stay connected without handing over a smartphone. With its security-first features, water resistance, and minimal distractions, it’s well-suited for both everyday use and school life.
While the lack of games might not excite every child, parents will appreciate the peace of mind and the educational, safety-conscious design.
Looking for something else? See our other smartwatch/tracker reviews
