Whether it’s at a party, a sleepover or just your budding rockstar wanting to sing their heart out, karaoke is a fun and exciting activity many kids (and adults) love to do! If your child loves singing, why not encourage them by getting them a karaoke machine?
We aren’t talking about a big speaker, microphone and bad graphics on a TV either. Karaoke machines these days are different and take many forms, and for kids, there are karaoke machines and microphones for all ages.
So if you are looking for a karaoke machine for your future pop star, we’ve come up with a list of our favorite ones just for kids. And we’ll dive into our choices in just a sec, but here are a few things to think about before you choose one for your child.
What to Look for When Choosing a Karaoke Machine for Kids
If you think karaoke machines are all the same, think again. Did you know there are different types of karaoke machines? And since we are talking karaoke machines for kids, it’s best to get a machine that is age-appropriate. So let’s get into the things you should look for before choosing a karaoke machine.
Types of Karaoke Machines
There are two main types of karaoke machines. The first one is a traditional-looking karaoke machine. It has a speaker with a wireless or corded microphone connected to it. The controls such as volume and voice effects are usually located on the speaker. The other type of karaoke machine is a microphone with volume, effects and a built-in speaker located on the handle of the microphone.
There are pros and cons to each. Microphones with a built-in speaker and controls are typically easy to use and great for kids who want to start singing whenever and wherever. However, the speaker usually lacks volume, whereas a karaoke machine or system has a separate speaker that is much louder and great for parties or larger audiences.
Karaoke machines can come with either wireless or corded microphones. They also tend to be more expensive and not suitable for extra young singers due to the complexity of the unit itself.
Age-appropriate
Like we mentioned above, many karaoke machine systems tend to be slightly larger and too difficult for extra young singers to operate. However, we’ve included plenty of karaoke microphones and karaoke machines that are suitable for kids as young as 3.
When looking for a karaoke machine for extra young singers, make sure the microphone is durable and can be operated easily. The simpler the better. Large colorful buttons (but not too many buttons) are a plus.
Built-in songs are a hit for young kids who are still learning or have just learned nursery rhymes. More complex machines allow kids and teenagers to connect to smart devices in order to get popular songs to sing along too.
Ease of use
Karaoke machines can be simple with minimal controls or it can be more complex with a variety of voice changing and sound effect capabilities. With any machine, we suggest that parents assist or keep an eye out while children are learning how to operate a karaoke machine for the first few times.
Bluetooth enabled
Bluetooth enabled karaoke machines are a great option for kids who are looking to connect to their favorite music app or website to sing along to popular songs. Many of the karaoke machines on this list can be connected to Bluetooth.
However, Bluetooth isn’t the only way to get some of your child’s favorite songs. Many karaoke machines have USB, AUX and even CD players so that you can play a CD, download, or connect to a device for kids to sing along to the latest and greatest hits.
Portability
For most kids, choosing a karaoke machine that is portable is a wise decision. Whether it’s taking it over to a friend’s house or being able to move from room to room easily, wireless microphones with a built-in speaker as well as small karaoke machines with a handle make it easy for kids to not only go where they want to but dance along to their own music!
Benefits of Singing
Singing isn’t only a lot of fun, but it has some surprising mental and physical benefits too!
Singing can help with stress.
Research shows that singing can help calm individuals when they are stressed out by releasing the feel-good hormone, oxytocin.
Singing makes you happy.
Besides releasing oxytocin, singing also releases endorphins which can lift a singer’s spirits. So when you’re sad, sing a little tune and see if it helps!
Singing is good for the body.
Besides, releasing all those feel-good chemicals into your body, singing requires the use of lungs and diaphragm which means the more you sing the stronger your diaphragm gets, and the more oxygen that enters the body.
Singing is good for the brain.
More oxygen to the brain means a more alert mind. And a more alert mind means better memory and concentration.
Singing brings people together.
The social connection of singing is undeniable. Bringing people together with common interests fosters community, bonding, and friendship.
10 Best Karaoke Machine for Kids
You’ll notice that each karaoke machine on our list has the suggested age group it is suitable for and we strongly recommend that you heed the advice. Choose a karaoke machine that is suitable for your child’s age in order to get the maximum amount of enjoyment.
That said we included karaoke machines and microphones for nearly every age group. Some of the brands you’ll recognize, but don’t knock the ones you don’t.
Each karaoke machine is on our list for good reason! They’ve proven to be fun, easy to use for their given age group, and have kids enjoying the benefits of singing right out of the box.
Check out which karaoke machines made the cut!
1. BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
For ages 8 and up
Long gone are the days of karaoke machines with chords connected to the TV or a giant speaker in order to sing. Kids can grab the wireless BONOAK microphone and start singing!
Super easy to use, the BONOAK is as easy as a press of a button. Thanks to its Bluetooth capabilities, kids can connect to a mobile device (both Apple and Android) and use Youtube, Pandora, Spotify and Smule to play songs they can sing along too.
The BONOAK microphone is fully charged in two hours and will allow kids to use it for up to 8 hours. Also on the microphone is a micro SD card slot as well as a headphone jack. And did we mention it’s available in tons of fun colors?
Pros
- 3-layer net filtering for noise reduction.
- Bluetooth enabled and can connect with Youtube, Spotify and more.
- Easy to use.
- Loud, clear speaker on the microphone.
- Up to 8 hours of use on one charge.
- Available in multiple colors.
Cons
- Speaker isn’t loud enough for an audience.
2. VTech Kidi Superstar Karaoke System with Mic Stand
For ages 4 to 10 years old.
It’ll be hard for kids not to feel like a rockstar with the VTech Kids Super Star Karaoke System. It comes with 8 built-in songs so kids can get singing ASAP, but it also connects with an MP3 player for kids to sing whatever they want.
This microphone sets the party karaoke mood with its built-in disco light. The built-in recorder lets kids record up to 5 minutes so they can share their latest performance over and over again.
And who says kids have to take themselves seriously when singing? There are 4 funny voice effects kids can choose from to make things extra silly. And if kids grow bored of karaoke, the VTech Kidi Superstar has rhythm and memory games to keep things interesting.
Pros
- The adjustable stand goes up to 4 feet 5 inches.
- Built-in games, songs, and silly voice effects keep kids entertained.
- Connects with an MP3 player for more songs.
- Fun built-in disco light.
Cons
- Speaker could be louder.
3. Singing Machine Tabeoke ISM398 Portable Bluetooth Karaoke System
For ages 4 and older.
The Singing Machine Tabeoke karaoke system is a portable karaoke machine kids will love. And if kids are feeling like a duet, it has an additional microphone jack. However, be aware that an additional microphone will need to be purchased separately as it is not included with the set.
The Singing Machine Tabeoke connects to a smartphone or tablet and has a cradle to display your smart device. The company, Singing Machine, has its own karaoke app you can download on both Apple and Android devices. However, this karaoke system will work with any karaoke app.
This simple, easy to use karaoke machine has surprisingly powerful speakers as well as an echo control feature. The only downside to this karaoke machine is that the sound quality though isn’t as great as some of the others on the list.
Pros
- Portable.
- Easy to use.
- Ability to plug in two microphones.
- It has a loud speaker.
- Compatible with all karaoke apps.
- Built-in cradle for smart devices.
Cons
- Lacking in sound quality.
4. eKids Frozen 2 Bluetooth Portable MP3 Karaoke Machine
For ages 3 and older.
Kids will be singing “Let It Go” til their heart’s content with this eKids Frozen 2 portable karaoke machine. With the capability to store 100s of songs, this karaoke machine will prove to be a hit for parties, sleepovers and just hours of singing fun!
This lightweight karaoke machine connects via Bluetooth to your computer, smartphone or tablet so you can stream songs for kids to sing along too. We love the built-in LED party lights as well as the display that shows you when you’re running out of battery.
To top it off there’s a secret microphone holder that pops out in the back for kids to store it when not being used. And of course, Frozen fans will love the overall icy blue Frozen design.
Pros
- Built-in rechargeable batteries.
- It can store 100s of songs.
- Connects via Bluetooth to smart devices to stream music.
- Colorful LED light show.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Perfect for fans of Frozen.
Cons
- Slight delay in microphone.
5. VTech Zoo Jamz Rock & Roar Karaoke
For ages 2 to 5 years old.
This one is for the little tikes. A colorful, musical karaoke celebration for tots on the go, the Zoo Jamz Rock & Roar by VTech lets even the youngest singer belt out some classic kids songs like “Wheels on the Bus” and “The Alphabet Song.” (And kids won’t realize they’ll be learning too!)
Not only can kids sing along to 30 built-in songs, but they can also play interactive games by using the microphone buttons and blowing into the microphone. And no kids microphone would be complete without sound effects such as robot, high and low pitch and echo. Kids will also love the playful animations on the LCD screen.
Pros
- Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Teaches kids while having fun.
- Programmed with 30 classic kids’ songs.
- 4 voice-changing effects to choose from.
- Interactive games also included.
Cons
- Need to have the microphone really close to your mouth in order to be heard.
6. TECBOSS Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone with LED Lights
For ages 4 and older.
The TECBOSS is another wireless microphone with a built-in speaker that makes karaoke-ing fun on-the-go. Whether you choose to use the Micro SD card slot (card not included), audio cable hookup or Bluetooth connection to get your music is up to you. No matter what method you choose (including acapella) you’ll be sure to enjoy this easy to use karaoke microphone.
The noise-canceling technology in the microphone ensures that the only voice coming over the speaker is yours. We also loved the colorful LED lights that give your kid’s performance a little something extra special. The TECBOSS is available in classic black or for more of a showstopper, a rose gold.
Pros
- Wireless.
- Bluetooth capabilities allow kids to sing along using their favorite music app.
- Will store up to 100 songs.
- The battery allows for 5 hours of singing time.
- It comes in black and rose gold.
- Built-in multi-color LED lights.
Cons
- Some users had some trouble connecting it to Bluetooth.
7. Little Pretender Kids Karaoke Microphone
For ages 3 and older.
This simple, easy to use microphone is just for toddlers! Not only can kids sing, but they can change their voices and even record and playback a song.
The Little Pretender Karaoke Microphone has 6 built-in songs for kids to sing along to as well as 3 voice changer effects to choose from— high pitch, low pitch and echo. Kids also loved the multi-color LED lights located at the top of the microphone.
Designed with young kids in mind, the Little Pretender Karaoke Microphone fits into little handles. It also is super durable thanks to its break-resistant body.
Pros
- Great for toddlers.
- Durable.
- Easy to use.
- 3 voice changer effects.
- Multi-color LED light show.
- Affordable.
Cons
- The volume for the voice is low.
8. Singing Machine Karaoke System with LED Disco Lights
For ages 8 and older.
If you are going to have a party, the Singing Machine is the karaoke machine for your kids. Complete with LED disco lights, this flashy machine has a built-in CD + graphics player as well as the ability to connect via Bluetooth.
The Singing Machine Karaoke System has two microphone jacks as well as separate volume controls, but unfortunately, the machine only comes with one microphone. (For duets, you’ll need to purchase a second microphone.) The machine also has a USB cable port so kids can even record their performances to share.
Pros
- 54 LED multi-color disco lights are a ton of fun!
- Ability to plug in 2 microphones.
- Connects to smart devices.
- Built-in CD + graphics player.
- Great for parties.
- Echo voice effect option.
- It can connect to a TV to view song lyrics.
Cons
- It does not include a second microphone.
- Included microphone quality is lacking.
9. Kidzlane Kids Karaoke Microphone
For ages 3 and older.
With 10 built-in songs and an included songbook, we think the KidzLane Kids Karaoke Microphone is a great choice for young kids. This microphone will also connect with Bluetooth so kids can sing along with other songs from a smart device. And if they want to share their performance, the record and playback feature is easy for young kids to use.
The Kidzlane Karaoke Microphone has a built-in voice changer and a duet option so kids can sing together. The three different color LED lights aren’t very spectacular compared to others on this list, but the microphone itself is fun and colorful. The multi-colored buttons aid in making this microphone easy for kids to use.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Record and playback capabilities.
- Connects to Bluetooth for more songs.
- 10 built-in nursery rhyme songs included.
- It comes with an illustrated songbook.
- Budget-friendly.
- Durable and made free of toxins.
Cons
- The LED lights are underwhelming.
10. KaraoKing Karaoke Machine
For ages 10 and older.
Look. We know this one is a bit of a splurge, but if you are having a party or have kids who love to do some serious karaoke, this is the ultimate karaoke setup. The KaraoKing Karaoke Machine comes with two wireless microphones and a karaoke speaker with built-in disco light that kids will absolutely love.
Whether you connect via Bluetooth, USB, Aux or even the radio, kids are sure to be able to find a way to play the tunes they love. The speaker part looks like a rolling suitcase, complete with wheels and a retractable handle, allowing kids to move the speaker wherever they need it to be. They also include a table and smartphone holder that connects to the retractable handle.
The control panel on the speaker is a little more complicated to use which makes this karaoke machine not suitable for little kids. Even slightly older kids may need some help getting set up.
Pros
- It comes with two wireless microphones.
- Awesome built-in disco lights make every performance extra entertaining.
- The karaoke speaker is on wheels making it easy to perform wherever!
- It comes with a smart device holder.
- Can connect via Bluetooth, USB or AUX as well as to the radio.
- Great for parties.
Cons
- Expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What age can my child start using a karaoke machine?
A: Karaoke can be done at any age! We’ve included a karaoke microphone suitable for kids as young as 3 which is a great time to get kids singing classic nursery rhymes and even their ABCs. You’ll soon see that karaoke is not only fun for kids but can help them learn too!
Q: Can I hook a karaoke machine to the television?
A: Some karaoke machines can be hooked up to the television so the singer can read scrolling lyrics that come on the screen. However many of the karaoke machines on our list will connect to a computer, tablet or smartphone so kids can karaoke on whatever screen is available.
Bottom Line
You know the benefits. You know what to look for. And now you know which karaoke machines are the best of the best. It’s hard to choose a favorite from this list because it depends on what you and your child are looking for.
The BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is a fantastic way for kids to grab a microphone and start singing to their favorite song without lugging around a bunch of equipment, while the VTech Kidi Superstar Karaoke System is a whole experience for younger sings dreaming of being on American Idol.
But if you do want to splurge and get a serious karaoke set up, check out the KaraoKing Karaoke Machine. You’ll not only get two microphones, a loudspeaker and all the effects kids need to sing a duet (or solo) but the fancy light show thanks to the disco ball LED lights on top of the speaker will leave the crowd cheering for more!