Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids vs. Kids Pro: What's the difference and which should you buy?

Amazon has been making excellent tablets for kids for years now with robust cases, cute colors, and a warranty service that gives you the confidence to let your kid actually use them. Amazon has two 10-inch models for kids with a Pro model adding features that older kids (ages 6-12) want like a web browser with parental controls and a more grown-up, though still tough, case. However, since the hardware inside is identical between the two versions, it can be tough to figure out which might be best for your child when choosing between the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids or Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro — we can help.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids or Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro: What specs work best for your child?

In September 2020, Amazon announced its Freetime and Freetime Unlimited rebranding to Amazon Kids and Kids+. While it was mostly a name change, some adjustments are more evident with the new hardware. With the release of the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro, the new tools and additional content that came with the rebranding to Amazon Kids+ are ready to shine.

As you can see in the table above, these tablets of two different names are identical from a hardware perspective. Each of these devices has the same refreshed hardware from the previous generation, with the overall footprint of the tablet being shrunk down and the bump in RAM from 2GB to 3GB. These changes add up to a better experience overall when using the device.

One of the drawbacks to the previous generation Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet was that, for younger children, it was a bit difficult to hold it comfortably. However, the tablet is much more manageable by making the hardware thinner and lighter, while also doing the same to the bumper case included with the 2021 model. Don't get me wrong, it's still a 10.1-inch screen, which can still be a bit cumbersome for small hands, but it is better than before.

So you may be wondering if both tablets have the same internal hardware, why is one model called Pro and the other isn't? Good question, and the reason is behind the difference in software.

On the outside, the difference when you purchase the Pro model is in the case that it comes with. That case is much slimmer, comes in different colors, and though it will still provide good protection for the tablet, it gives off a more mature feel. It should also slide into a backpack more easily. This impression of the tablet looking and physically feeling more "grown-up" is intentional, because the tablet is targeted at kids between the ages of six to twelve.

The other reason for the Pro moniker is how the tablet's user interface appears, and what the child can access. The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablets have the excellent parental controls that Amazon has provided, along with the two-year worry-free warranty, but the Pro version ships with options that older kids will likely prefer.

With access to a digital store, kids using the Pro edition will be able to find more apps at their fingertips. However, they won't be able to download them without your permission first. This means that while your child has more freedom of choice in the apps they can explore, you will still be able to ensure those apps conform to what you deem appropriate.

Along with the expanded app library, your child will also have access to a web browser to explore their curiosities. The browser, however, won't be able to access the breadth of what the internet has to offer though. There are built-in controls that will filter out inappropriate content, and you can allow or block specific sites of your choosing. Amazon's fantastic Kids+ software big reason why its tablets rank as the best Android tablets for kids.

The new Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablets have dual speakers with Dolby Atmos support for excellent sound when watching age-appropriate content on the 10.1-inch HD screens. Plus, when you prefer your child enjoys their entertainment without disturbing others, there is a 3.5mm headphone jack and Bluetooth to plug in a pair of the best headphones for kids.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids or Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro: Which should you buy?

While it's hard to go wrong with either the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids or Kids Pro, one is likely to be better for your child, depending on their age and when you buy the tablet. If your child is under six years old, you may prefer the standard model. It will have a more durable case and a more age-appropriate visual and content appeal. Plus, aside from the difference in the case, the other changes are software that you'll be able to unlock when you feel your child is ready.

However, if your child is already in the seven to twelve age range, the Kids Pro model will better serve you. It gives your maturing kid a tablet that looks less like it's for a much younger child and allows them to explore more of what technology can do in an environment you can control. It's also worth mentioning that if you're on a budget or you think your child may have trouble holding the large 10.1-inch tablet, the new Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro is a great alternative. Regardless of which device you go with, you will be getting a wonderful tablet for your child to grow with.