Yoto Mini Review and tips I wish I knew earlier to save BIG on content and cards!
We’ve been using this little device for a while now, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer for our family. If you’ve been on the fence about getting one for your toddler or older child, here is my honest, detailed review on why we love it (and why I chose the Mini over the original).
Read until the end for money-saving tips and vouchers!
What is a Yoto?
For those who don’t know, Yoto is a screen-free audio player. It works by inserting physical cards—think of them like retro cassette tapes but way more durable and toddler-friendly.
Why we love it:
Independence: It allows children to listen to their own preferred songs, stories, and podcasts completely independently. My little one loves being able to swap cards and change songs by herself without asking for help.
Parental Control: Even though they are in charge of the cards, you can still control everything from the Yoto app on your phone (volume, sleep timers, etc.). You can use it with or without wifi.
Yoto Mini vs. Original Yoto Player: Which to Buy?
Personally, I feel that the Yoto Mini is a better choice than the larger Yoto Player.
I debated getting the bigger, original Yoto Player (3rd Gen), but I am so glad I went with the Mini. The original is quite bulky and needs a charging dock, whereas the Mini is palm-sized, charges via USB-C, and is incredibly travel-friendly. Unless you really need a nightlight or a room thermometer, the Mini does everything you need at a fraction of the size.
The Major "Parent Wins"
1. I finally got my phone back
Before Yoto, my phone was held hostage playing Spotify playlists on repeat. Now? I get to use my phone for me—scrolling, working, or just messaging—without interrupting her music. She has her device, and I have mine. Bliss.
2. The ultimate travel hack
This thing is gold for travelling. Whether we are on a long road trip or stuck on a plane, the Yoto keeps the kids calm and occupied for hours. Because there is no screen, they don't get that "zombie" glaze, and they can listen to audiobooks while looking out the window or drawing.
3. Suitable even for babies
Yoto app comes with lullabies and white noise so even your youngest ones can enjoy the Yoto with their parents' help. The cards and device are very durable, surviving even when things get rough.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Yoto
1. The "Make Your Own" (MYO) Cards
You don’t have to stick to the pre-made cards Yoto sells. Buy a pack of blank "Make Your Own" (MYO) cards. You can load these with any MP3s you have—your child's favorite songs, audit books, stories recorded by grandma, or even podcasts.
Pro Tip: If you want to be fancy, print custom labels for your MYO cards! I use yotolabels.com to design them, print them on sticker paper, and stick them on the cards. It makes them look just like the official ones.
2. Accessories on a Budget
Don't feel pressured to buy the official Yoto accessories, which can be pricey. I got a silicone sleeve and a hard carrying case on Shopee. They are very handy for protecting the device when we go out, and they were way cheaper than the original accessories sold on the Yoto website.
Money Saving Hack: The Yoto Club
If you prefer official cards (the content library is amazing), signing up for Yoto Club is actually a great value-for-money deal.
Depending on your plan, you get 12 or 24 credits a year, which you can swap for cards. These credits alone will more than cover the cost of the subscription. Plus, you get access to a massive amount of exclusive Club content in the app.
The "Secret" Shipping Benefit: Here is the best part for us in Singapore. Yoto Australia ships to Singapore, but usually, the free delivery threshold is high (around AUD 140).
Normal User: Free shipping requires ~AUD 140 spend.
Yoto Club Member: You get 10% off everything (which stacks during sales!), plus free delivery with a minimum spend of just AUD 23. The annual membership made sense to me.
This makes buying just one or two cards totally affordable without getting hit by massive shipping fees.
Final Thoughts & A Discount for You
If you are looking for a gift that grows with your child and reduces screen time, I cannot recommend the Yoto Mini enough. It’s small, powerful, and gives parents a much-needed break.
Want to save money? Use my referral link below to get a whopping $30 off voucher when you purchase a Yoto Mini or Yoto Player device. You can also sign up for Yoto Club first before buying the device to get free shipping for your device! The starter pack for little kids and big kids are also sold at a steep discount when you purchase together with a device.
Offers shown here are applicable to Yoto Australia and may differ for other regions.
They officially ship to the following countries from their Australian warehouse:
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- Hong Kong SAR
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
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