Quote from Beth Ashton on September 12, 2024, 3:36 pm

For parents looking to encourage screen-free storytelling and audio engagement, both the Toniebox and Yoto offer creative and interactive solutions. Here's how they compare:

Toniebox vs Yoto Player Cost

Toniebox

• Starter Set: Around £79.99. This includes one Tonie character.
• Tonies (figurines): Each Tonie costs between £14.99 and £19.99, with each containing a unique story or song collection. They do regularly offer deals like 3 for £40.

Yoto Player

• Yoto Player: Priced at around £99.99 for the base unit.
• Yoto Cards: Individual cards cost between £6.99 and £9.99, making them more affordable per card compared to Tonies.

The Yoto tends to be pricier upfront, but its cards are cheaper, while the Toniebox has lower initial costs with slightly more expensive content.

Both the Toniebox and the Yoto Player offer subscription services, though they are optional.

• Toniebox: There isn't a monthly subscription fee tied directly to the Toniebox, but you need to purchase individual Tonies (figurines) for new stories and content.
• Yoto Player: Yoto offers a subscription service called Yoto Club for around £9.99/month. This subscription provides monthly audio content, including exclusive story cards, along with access to free daily radio shows and podcasts.

What Reddit Says: Toniebox vs Yoto

Many parents on Reddit have shared their thoughts on the Toniebox and Yoto Player, weighing the pros and cons for different age groups.

• Yoto fans appreciate its flexibility, especially with features like returning to where a story left off, make-your-own cards, and Bluetooth capabilities. It's often praised for long-term use as children grow.
• Toniebox supporters love its simplicity and durability, ideal for younger kids (3+), with collectible figurines adding a tactile element.

Concerns about the safety of Yoto cards for toddlers are common, while the Toniebox is preferred for its sturdier design.

Toniebox overview

Designed for younger children, the Toniebox is a soft, durable cube that plays audio when paired with collectible figurines called “Tonies.” Children can tap a Tonie onto the box to hear stories, music, or even educational content. Its tactile design, simple controls, and pre-recorded content make it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. It’s safe and intuitive, with a focus on imaginative play. The Toniebox doesn’t require Wi-Fi once the content is downloaded.

Pros:

• Simple, toddler-friendly design.
• Figurines add a tactile, fun element.
• No Wi-Fi required after setup.

Cons:

• Limited to the Tonies you purchase.
• More suitable for younger children (ages 3-7).

Yoto Player overview

The Yoto Player, aimed at slightly older kids (ages 5+), offers more flexibility with audio content. Using physical “cards” to load stories, podcasts, or music, it can connect to Wi-Fi to stream new content and even has a built-in radio and clock. Kids can explore a broader range of material, including free podcasts and radio shows, or load their own content. The Yoto also has parental controls, which offer more oversight.

Pros:

• Broader content options with audio cards and streaming.
• Customizable, including personal audio uploads.
• Parental controls and free daily content.

Cons:

• More complex and requires Wi-Fi for most features.
• Best suited for older children.

Final Verdict

The Toniebox shines for younger children, offering a fun, safe, and tactile experience, while the Yoto Player is a great choice for older kids ready for a wider range of content and more independence. Depending on your child’s age and how much control you want over content, either can be a great tool for audio-based learning and entertainment!