Free, built in, hard for kids to remove.
What are the best free parental controls?
The best free parental controls are built into the devices. Apple Screen Time on iPhone and iPad, Google Family Link on Android and Chromebook, and Microsoft Family Safety on Windows and Xbox all set time limits, approve app downloads and filter content, at no cost. Paid apps add little for most families.
Sites last checked 15 Oct 2026. How we test
Our pick
Also good
Qustodio
GoodPaid parental control app across devices.
Good to know
- Set controls up together with your child and explain why. Kids find ways around rules they think are unfair.
- Turn on approval for app purchases so surprise bills cannot happen.