InnoTab
© 2011 VTech Electronics North America
11/24/2014 see the InnoTab Max. See the Innotab 2 and 2S. Originally called the InnoPad, InnoTab is designed for children aged 4 to 9 years-of-age, whose parents are wary of giving them a smart phone. The InnoTab touch screen is significantly more responsive than the LeapPad Explorer, which is based on older Didj technology. As tablets go, InnoTab is massive in size. When layed over an iPad you realize that it is the same height and width (but much fatter). Despite the bulk, the screen is relatively small; just 5 inches diagonally, which is slightly larger than an iPhone. Inside, are accelerometers for tilt and motion sensing, a microphone, headphone jack, SD card slot and a USB connection to a computer for downloading additional content. There's also a game card slot. The screen is touch sensitive, like the Nintendo DS. Included software includes a music player, games, an Art Studio with painting and drawing applications and a Photo Viewer/Editor that goes well with a stand that pops out of the back, in case you want to use it as a photo viewer, say, running jpgs from an SD card. Other included apps: an MP3 player for both videos or songs, a Calculator, Calendar, Notepad, Clock with personalized voice alarm and Friends Address Book. There are nine cartridges at launch sold for $25 each that feature licensed characters. In addition, you can download "apps" from www.vtechkids.com/download, providing you connect your computer to the InnoTab with the included USB cord. So how does InnoTab compare with the LeapPad Explorer? All things considered, it has some significant advantages. It is faster, cheaper, can be expanded with content and the games are more responsive. But it doesn't have a camera.
$80, Smart Toy
Teaches: early learning, reading, all school subjects
CTR Rating: 86%