Head-to-head · Apps For Kids
ABCmouse vs Starfall
ABCmouse leads on 0 checks, Starfall on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreABCmouse · 8.8/10
- Free planboth
- Free trialonly ABCmouse
ABCmouse scores higher on our rubric for apps for kids: 8.8 against 8.4 out of 10; our editors rank them #4 and #8.
ABCmouse is the better fit for early learners wanting a broad curriculum. Starfall is the better fit for families seeking structured early literacy practice.
- ABCmouse fits best
Early learners wanting a broad curriculum
- Starfall fits best
Families seeking structured early literacy practice
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Side by side
| Feature | ABCmouse 8.8/10 Visit ↗ | Starfall 8.4/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 8.8 | 8.4 |
| Ranking | #4 in Apps For Kids | #8 in Apps For Kids |
| Best for | Early learners wanting a broad curriculum | Families seeking structured early literacy practice |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | — | $35/yr |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | 30 days | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile | Cloud, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web, iOS, Android |
| Features ABCmouse 0/3 · Starfall 0/3 | ||
| Offline use | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Parent dashboard | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Child profiles | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Age range | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Learning focus | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Supported languages | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | ABCmouse is a digital early-learning program for children ages 2–8, combining guided lessons, games, books, videos, songs, puzzles, and interactive activities. Its curriculum ranges across reading, math, science, social studies, art, and… Read the review → |
Starfall brings early reading practice together with games, books, songs, and creative activities for children from Pre-K through grade 5. Its free Learn-to-Read sequence introduces letter names and sounds, then progresses through phonics… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
ABCmouse — where it wins
- Covers reading, math, science, social studies, art, and music
- Learning paths and progress tools support families and teachers
- Available on web, iOS, and Android, with offline Premium content
Where it doesn't
- Basic access is limited to 10 activities per day
- Premium costs $14.99 per month for unlimited activities
- Personalized Learning Paths cover up to three children
Starfall — where it wins
- Free Learn-to-Read sequence introduces letter sounds and phonics
- Reading activities cover fluency, comprehension, fiction, and nonfiction
- Web and mobile access, with offline content in some apps
Where it doesn't
- Home Membership costs $35 per year for full activity access
- Offline content is not available in the main Starfall App
- School deployment with Mobile Device Management is limited to School Membership
- ABCmouse8.8/10 · Free plan · 30-day trial
A broad early-learning curriculum with family and classroom tools across web and mobile.
Visit ABCmouseFull verdict → - Starfall8.4/10 · Free plan
A free-to-start reading platform with structured phonics and broader learning activities.
Visit StarfallFull verdict →
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All apps for kids comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update