Yoto Player vs Toniebox: Which One Is Better?

There’s no denying that audio players like the Yoto Player and Toniebox are taking playrooms by storm. They offer kids endless hours of stories, songs, and creative adventures—all without screens. But with so many fun features and content choices, how do you pick the perfect one for your family?

Don’t worry. We’re here to help. Read on for a comparison of the Toniebox and Yoto Player, their standout features, and what makes each one special.

The importance of screen-free fun

Carly Tulloch, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, SLP, and co-founder of Wee Talkers, an organization dedicated to supporting early language and communication development in young children, praises both the Toniebox and the Yoto Player as “excellent screen-free choices for parents who want their kids to enjoy songs, stories, and imaginative play without screens.”

She explains, “Audio players are a great way to give kids something fun and stimulating to focus on, without the need for a screen. They tap into a child’s natural love for songs and stories, while also promoting important skills like listening comprehension, story sequencing, independent play, and creativity."

What is a Yoto Player?

Yoto Player is a popular screen-free audio player designed for children ages three to 12. Created by Ben Drury and Filip Denke in 2017, it first reached families in 2018 and has since expanded globally, offering over 1,200 audio cards in multiple languages. With Yoto Player, kids simply insert special cards (which are the size of a credit card) into the top of the device to listen to stories, music, or podcasts-giving them control over what they hear without the distraction of a screen.

Social-emotional learning expert Allie Szczecinski recommends the Yoto Player as a screen-free option for families, praising its simple design, chunky knobs, and pixel display that offers just enough visual feedback without being distracting. “Kids are listening, imagining, and choosing their own stories in a hands-on way. It builds independence without the chaos of tech overload,” she explains.

The Yoto Player also features a night light, sleep sounds, a clock, a room thermometer, Bluetooth, a headphone jack, and parental controls via a companion app. Parents can also set volume limits, manage playback, and control content right from their phones.

For families on the go, the compact Yoto Mini is especially convenient, and colourful silicone adventure jackets are available to help kids carry their Yoto Player safely wherever they go.

What is a Toniebox?

The Toniebox, like the Yoto Player, is a popular screen-free audio player made especially for young children, typically ages three to eight. Invented by Patric Faßbender and Marcus Stahl in 2013, the first Toniebox launched in 2016.

As Szczecinski explains, the Toniebox works by placing special hand-painted figurines—called Tonies—on top of the box. Each Tonie unlocks a new world of stories, songs, or even custom recordings, making it easy and fun for kids to explore audio content.

"Once you place a Tonie character on the box, it starts playing its content: stories, music, learning tracks, or even personal messages," she says. "There are tons of options, from Disney classics and sing-along music to mindfulness tracks and educational adventures."

Unlike the cube-shaped Yoto Player, Szczecinski points out that the Toniebox stands out for its soft, durable, and child-friendly design. “The ‘buttons’ are the Toniebox’s ears. One ear controls volume up, the other volume down. To change tracks or chapters, kids tap the side. It’s intuitive and hands-on, with nothing to break or fiddle with,” she explains.

Other standout features include its portability, long battery life (up to seven hours), and a simple interface that’s easy for little hands to use.

How they work and ease of use

The Yoto Player and Toniebox have a lot in common, but they work differently and vary in how simple they are for kids to use.

Here’s a quick look at what parents can expect from each device-covering how kids interact with them, the controls and setup process, and which age groups will find them easiest to use.

Interaction methods

While both the Yoto Player and Toniebox require something physical to play (audio cards for Yoto and figurines for Tonies), there are some key differences between these two audio players.

• “Yoto uses cards like a mini library, which is great for kids who love organizing and picking what to listen to,” Szczecinski explains. “It’s flat and sleek, focusing on variety and flexibility.
• Tonies, on the other hand, are more like collectible toys. Younger children especially enjoy the fun of placing a little figure on the box and watching it ‘come to life.’”

Both are easy to use. However, Szczecinski notes that Tonies feel more playful and sensory, while Yoto offers more room for growth and variety as your child gets older.

Battery life

Each device also varies in battery life and charging time.

• The Yoto Player takes about three hours to fully charge and has a battery life of up to 24 hours of play per charge.
• In contrast, the Toniebox also requires three hours to charge but can last up to 24 hours on a single charge under optimal conditions.

Set-up

Both the Yoto Player and the Toniebox are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up. To get started, you’ll need to download an app, connect the device to Wi-Fi and complete a quick authentication step.

The main difference is how each device handles this authentication:

• The Toniebox uses an 8-digit ID found on the device.
• The Yoto Player generates a six-letter code that appears on its screen.

After setup, both devices are ready for kids to use independently.

Supporting apps

Szczecinski says that each device comes with its own app, giving parents helpful tools to manage features easily.

She explains:

• With the Yoto app, parents can set volume limits, schedule bedtime cutoffs, link cards, preview content, and manage the audio library remotely.
• The Tonie app, on the other hand, lets parents register Tonies, upload custom audio to Creative Tonies, and organize their library.

Offline use

Both the Yoto Player and the Toniebox offer online and offline listening options. Once audio content (whether a Yoto Card or a Tonie figure) has been fully downloaded to the device, it can be played without a Wi-Fi connection.

The Toniebox, however, features a more explicit offline mode, while the Yoto Player relies on the download status of each card for offline playback.

Content library and variety

The Toniebox and Yoto Player each offer a unique content library to their users.

Below is an overview comparing the size and variety of their collections and libraries, branded and original content options, as well as the availability of new releases and pricing.

Library size

Both the Yoto Player and Toniebox offer a wide range of audio content for kids.

• The Yoto Player features a larger library, with over a thousand cards and collections available.
• Tonies offers several hundred figurines and bundles.

Storage

• For storage, the Yoto Player (3rd Generation) has 32 GB of space—enough for about 700 hours of audio. The device automatically manages storage by replacing older content when needed.
• The Toniebox stores content from up to 200 Tonies at a time. When full, it removes the oldest content, which can be reloaded by placing the Tonie figure back on the box.

Popular characters and brands available

The Yoto Player and Toniebox are both top picks for sharing children’s stories and favourite characters, but they each have their own style.

• The Yoto Player stands out with content from big names like Harry Potter, Paw Patrol and more, offering lots of variety for growing kids. It also offers music from Elton John, The Spice Girls and movie soundtracks, like Frozen (among others).
• On the other hand, the Toniebox makes storytime fun with over 250 collectible character figurines, featuring beloved brands like Disney, Marvel, Peppa Pig and National Geographic.

Customized options

• The Toniebox offers 'Creative-Tonies' figurines that children can play with and use to store up to 90 minutes of custom audio. You can record messages or stories yourself or upload audio through the Tonies app.
• The Yoto Player takes a different approach with its "Make Your Own" (MYO) cards. These blank cards can hold almost any type of audio, such as personal recordings, MP3s, playlists or podcasts. Each MYO card can store up to 100 tracks and a total of 500 MB, which means you can fit several hours of audio on a single card.

Durability, design and portability

Each audio player stands out when it comes to durability, design, and portability.  Here's a closer look at how they compare in these key areas.

Durability

• The Yoto Player is made from tough, hard plastic, so it’s built to handle bumps and drops.
• In contrast, the Toniebox is designed specifically for kids, featuring a soft, padded fabric exterior that’s 'soft, huggable, and tumble-proof.'

Design

• When it comes to design, the Yoto Player keeps things simple and modern with its minimalist, cube-like shape. It’s straightforward and functional, though a bit heavier than the Toniebox.
• The Toniebox, on the other hand, is bright, colourful, and plush, with rounded corners and no hard edges. Its playful, tactile design encourages hands-on interaction and feels inviting for smaller children.

Portability

Both players are easy to take on the go, but they approach portability differently.

• The Yoto Player is easy to hold and can be fitted with optional adventure jackets for extra grip and protection.
• The Toniebox is lightweight and squishy, making it comfortable for small hands to carry.

Screen display

There’s also a difference when it comes to screen features.

• The Yoto Player includes a simple screen that can double as a night light and clock.
• The Toniebox doesn’t have a screen, so it can’t be used for those extra functions.

Costs and ongoing expenses

When comparing the Yoto Player and the Toniebox, there are some key differences in cost, content subscriptions, and ongoing expenses. Here’s what you need to know.

Device costs

Both the Yoto Player and the Toniebox are priced similarly, at around $99.99 USD each. However, if you want extra protection for your Yoto Player, you might need to buy an 'adventure jacket,' which is sold separately.

New content costs

To access new audio content, you can buy Yoto cards or Tonie figurines.

• Yoto cards typically cost between $9.99 and $12.99 each, depending on the title.
• Tonie figurines generally range from $12.99 to $29.99, with most priced at $17.99, regardless of the length of the story (which usually runs between 16 and 50 minutes).

Content subscriptions

Both Yoto and Toniebox offer subscription services for ongoing content.

• The Yoto Club offers several tiers, giving you perks like exclusive content, free credits, and special bundles (like starter packs).
• The Tonies Subscription lets you receive two to three Tonie figurines per shipment at a 10 to 20 percent discount with free shipping. You can also customize how often you receive shipments (monthly, every two or three months) and choose figures based on age or interests. Starter bundles are available too, with options for three, five or seven figures.

Age appropriateness and target audience

With so many features and types of content, both the Yoto Player and Toniebox shine—but in different ways, and for different age groups.

Szczecinski breaks down which ages and audiences are best suited for each player, making it easier to decide which one fits your family’s needs.

Recommended age groups

The Toniebox is designed with soft edges, no small parts, and simple controls that are perfect for little hands. Szczecinski suggests it’s best for toddlers and young children ages two to five. "The tactile, character-based play is especially appealing for this age group," she explains.

On the other hand, the Yoto Player is a great fit for kids ages three to ten and up. "Preschoolers can enjoy it with help, and as kids grow, they’ll gain more independence in choosing, organizing, and even curating their own content," Szczecinski says. "The Yoto’s broader content library means it can grow with your child."

How kids interact

Both devices are interactive, but in different ways.

• "The Toniebox is ideal for younger kids who thrive on sensory, hands-on play. The simplicity of just 'put the figure on' is perfect for toddlers," says Szczecinski.
• The Yoto, by contrast, uses cards—so it feels more like 'choosing from a library,' which older children often love. Plus, the daily content and wider variety appeal to children who enjoy routines and exploring new things."

Controls and navigation

When it comes to controls, Szczecinski says that the Toniebox is as simple as it gets: no screen, no menus, just tactile buttons and figures.

In contrast, the Yoto Player is slightly more advanced but still very child-friendly, with two knobs that control everything. "Parents can manage deeper settings through the app," adds Szczecinski.

Content libraries

The content available on each device also matches their target ages.

• "The Toniebox library leans into imaginative play and storytime favourites. Think Disney tales, lullabies, simple mindfulness, and character-led learning. It’s all curated to support early language development, emotional regulation, and short attention spans," explains Szczecinski.
• "The Yoto library spans a wider developmental range. You’ll find beginner phonics and sing-alongs, but also podcasts, chapter books, mindfulness tools, and educational content for older kids."

How to determine which audio player is right for your family

Both the Yoto Player and the Toniebox have their pros and cons. Choosing the right audio player for your family comes down to a few key factors.

Tulloch suggests thinking about your budget, your child’s personality, the types of content each device offers, and how you’ll use it in your daily routine.

Factor in pricing

Tulloch notes that both audio players encourage creativity, independent play, and a love of stories. However, she emphasizes the importance of considering your budget before deciding which one to buy.

“Neither the Yoto Player nor the Toniebox is a cheap purchase upfront, and the cost of new cards or figures can add up over time,” she explains. “But there are ways to make it more affordable. Many parents wait for sales, ask for new cards or figures as gifts for birthdays or holidays, or look for secondhand options on Facebook Marketplace or in local parent groups.”

Consider temperament

Every child interacts with audio content in their unique way. That’s why, as Tulloch points out, temperament and personal preferences are important factors when choosing an audio player.

“Some kids love variety and have the self-control to listen to a full story from start to finish before moving on to something new. They might thrive with a more open-ended experience,” she explains. “Others do best with more structure and routine. For example, some children may benefit from picking one Tonie figure or Yoto card at bedtime, getting help to start it, and then sticking with that choice as part of their wind-down routine.”

Review the content library

Tulloch suggests taking a few minutes to browse each audio player’s content library before making a decision. This can help you choose the one your child is most likely to connect with right from the start.

She explains, “If your child loves a particular character, movie, or book series, it’s worth checking which audio player offers that content. For example, Toniebox features a wide selection of character-based stories, like Paw Patrol, Frozen, and Toy Story, which are especially popular with younger kids.

On the other hand, Yoto offers a broader library that includes familiar titles as well as open-ended content like music, educational stories, and original podcasts, options that might appeal more as your child grows.”

Consider how you'll use it

Before choosing an audio player, think about how and where you’ll use it most.

As Tulloch points out, “If you plan to travel with your audio player often, it’s good to know that the Toniebox uses physical figurines, which can be a bit bulkier to pack. On the other hand, the Yoto Player uses compact cards, which might feel more portable, especially if you’ll be using it mostly on the go."

Making the best choice for screen-free listening

Both the Yoto Player and Toniebox are excellent screen-free audio players that support early literacy skills. According to Tulloch, the best choice depends on your child’s developmental stage and how your family plans to use the device.

Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference. “It’s funny, when we ask our community if they’re Team Yoto or Team Toniebox, people have some STRONG opinions both ways,” she says. “But in the end, most families are happy with their choice—there’s really no wrong answer. You’ll know which audio player best fits your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle. In our opinion, both are great investments.”

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Experts

• Allie Szczecinski is a social-emotional learning (SEL) coach and behaviour coach.
• Carly Tulloch is a pediatric speech-language pathologist, SLP, and co-founder of Wee Talkers, an organization dedicated to supporting early language and communication development in young children.