InnoTab 3S Review
InnoTab 3S Review
InnoTab 3S Review takes a closer look at VTech’s kid-friendly tablet that made waves on the Top 10 Christmas Toys 2013 list. Produced by VTech Electronics Europe plc, the InnoTab 3S combined educational apps, multimedia capabilities, and parental controls in a durable, child-proof design. It was the perfect stepping stone for kids eager to explore touchscreen technology without the risks of a full-featured adult tablet.
For parents looking to compare with today’s learning tech, our best Christmas toys 2025 roundup includes the latest kid-friendly devices.
What’s in the Box?
- InnoTab 3S Tablet: A robust, lightweight tablet with a 5-inch colour touchscreen.
- Rotating Camera: Front and rear-facing for photos and videos.
- Rechargeable Battery Pack & Adapter: For hours of play without constant battery swaps.
- Pre-Loaded Apps: Educational games, an e-book, and creative tools.
- User Guide: Simple instructions for setup and parental controls.
How It Works
The InnoTab 3S runs on VTech’s custom kid-friendly interface, with large icons, simple navigation, and clear audio prompts. Children can use it to read interactive e-books, play educational games, take and edit photos, watch videos, and even send secure messages to approved contacts via VTech Kid Connect.
Parents could purchase additional apps and games through the Learning Lodge, VTech’s online store, ensuring the device could grow with the child’s interests and abilities. Built-in Wi-Fi (with strong parental controls) was a standout feature for a children’s tablet in 2013, making safe connectivity a big selling point.
Background & Cultural Impact
By 2013, tablets were an everyday sight in homes, but many parents were hesitant to hand over expensive and fragile devices to young children. The InnoTab 3S bridged that gap, offering a safe, age-appropriate alternative that felt “grown-up” while keeping content and functionality firmly in the educational lane.
It arrived in the middle of a boom in edutainment devices, going head-to-head with the LeapPad Ultra in the battle for the Christmas toy crown. With its blend of learning and entertainment, the InnoTab 3S carved out a loyal following among parents who valued screen time with purpose.
Play Benefits and Skill Development
- Early Learning: Supports literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills through games and apps.
- Creativity: Camera and art apps encourage self-expression.
- Digital Confidence: Familiarises kids with touchscreen technology in a safe environment.
- Parental Peace of Mind: Robust controls and content curation keep usage safe.
Festive Play Ideas
- Christmas Photo Booth: Use the camera and frames app to create festive selfies.
- Gift List Creator: Let kids type or draw their Christmas wish list.
- ❄ Snowy Storytime: Download winter-themed e-books for cosy reading sessions.
Advanced Play
- Create a stop-motion holiday video using the camera and photo editor.
- Challenge family members to brain-training games.
- Use Kid Connect to send festive messages to friends and relatives.
What Parents & Kids Are Saying
“It feels like a real tablet but safe enough for my 5-year-old.”
“The rechargeable battery is a lifesaver—no more endless packs of AAs.”
“The educational games keep my son engaged for hours.”
“I love the parental controls—very easy to use.”
“The camera is surprisingly good for a kids’ device.”
About VTech Electronics Europe plc
VTech Electronics Europe plc is a leader in educational technology, producing innovative toys and learning devices for children of all ages. From baby monitors to advanced learning tablets, their products combine fun with skill-building.
Why It Made the 2013 Christmas Charts
Retailing at around £99.99 in 2013, the InnoTab 3S offered a compelling package for parents seeking a tech gift that balanced fun with educational value. Its Wi-Fi capability and growing app library kept it relevant well beyond Boxing Day.
Best For Ages 4-9
- Young learners ready for interactive educational play.
- Kids who enjoy taking and editing photos.
- Children interested in games that teach as they entertain.
Parental Tips & Setup Notes
- Fully charge before gifting to ensure instant play.
- Pre-load a few extra apps from the Learning Lodge for surprise content.
- Set up Wi-Fi and parental controls during initial setup.
Where to Buy in 2025
The InnoTab 3S is now retired but occasionally appears on second-hand marketplaces. Look for models with working chargers, minimal wear, and, ideally, some pre-installed apps to extend the value.
Final Verdict
The InnoTab 3S remains a standout in the world of children’s tablets, offering a thoughtful mix of safety, education, and fun. It gave kids their own “grown-up” tech while giving parents peace of mind—a balance that explains its place on the 2013 festive charts.
For more tech-driven toys, visit our most popular Christmas toys page or head directly to the InnoTab 3S product page.
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