Side by side
Google Family Link vs SafeNest Family
Both stand on parental control apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Family Link brings screen-time, app and Google service controls together at no cost. Check child-device compatibility and the limits on location and purchase approvals before relying on a particular control.
Visit Google Family Link Free plan iPhone
SafeNest Family covers core screen-time management at no cost on iOS. Premium adds reporting, filtering, schedules, and restrictions after a seven-day trial, with monthly and yearly billing options.
Visit SafeNest FamilyThe facts
| Google Family Link | SafeNest Family | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Web | iPhone |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Premium Monthly: $1.99 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Google Family Link | Not published |
| Website | families.google.com | safenestfamily.com |
| On parental control apps | #5 of 109 | #45 of 109 |
Google Family Link: what it does well
- Set daily screen-time limits and schedules.
- Manage individual app limits or block apps.
- Controls cover Chrome, Play, YouTube and Search.
- Location alerts can report arrivals and departures.
- The service is free to use.
What to know first
- Cannot supervise iPhones or iPads.
- Non-Chromebook computers are not supported for supervision.
- Google Workspace for Education accounts cannot be managed.
- Location viewing requires an active, connected device.
SafeNest Family: what it does well
- Free plan has no subscription
- Parent passcode protection included
- Premium adds reports and schedules
- Content filtering and app blocking
- On-device privacy in free plan
What to know first
- Available only on iOS
- Location tracking is not provided
- Advanced tools require Premium
Alternatives to Google Family Link Alternatives to SafeNest Family The whole list