Read our full review of the Yoto player here.
Editor’s note: As of Sept. 10, Yoto announced the 4th generation of both the Yoto Mini and Yoto Player, which we will begin testing soon.
There is perhaps no device more universally beloved in my house than the Yoto Mini. The Yoto is a screen-free audio player that puts the power into the hands of kids. Compatible cards slip into a slot to power up everything from chapter books and shorter stories to music and learning-based content and are available to check out at many local libraries. There’s also an ad-free, kid-friendly radio station built in, as well as a daily podcast, plus others that are accessible via the compatible app.
We spent three months testing the Yoto Mini and the full-sized Yoto Player within our home, on daily car rides, away on vacation, and on long road trips. While the older generation Yoto Player is no longer available for purchase on the website, it was the Mini that we all loved the most.
Great for a wide range of kids, my 6-year-old and 3-year-old are particularly smitten. I love to use the radio feature as well — even when the kiddos aren’t around. The recommended age range is 3+, but our 1-year-old loves music and will happily bop along to the player as well.
While this is classified as a screen-free device, there is a static, pixelated icon that displays while content is playing as a way to orient the listener within a book or track list.
Custom cards allow you to create your own content, including mix tapes, books, family messages — whatever you can come up with. It’s great for little hands, will adapt and grow as kids get bigger, and is both rugged and travel-friendly. We love that this is the kind of device that keeps kids engaged and entertained, and will adapt to the whims of our family for years to come.
