Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Philips Sonicare for Kids Design a Pet Edition
Best for KidsPhilips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100
Best Mid-Range UpgradePrice
$35-$50
$70-$100
Summary
Wirecutter's top pick for children's electric toothbrushes, with a smaller brush head, gentle vibration, and customizable animal stickers that actually get kids excited to brush.
Steps up to 62,000 brush movements per minute and adds a pressure sensor — meaningful upgrades over the 4100 for people who brush aggressively or want more cleaning power.
Pros
- Smaller brush head and gentler vibration designed specifically for kids' mouths
- Customizable animal sticker designs make brushing fun and engaging
- Built-in 2-minute timer teaches proper brushing habits early
- Rechargeable — no constant battery replacement like cheaper kids' brushes
- Up to 62,000 brush movements per minute vs 31,000 on the 4100
- Pressure sensor alerts you when brushing too hard — protects gums and enamel
- Multiple brushing modes for sensitive, clean, and whitening
- Stronger motor delivers noticeably more thorough clean per session
Cons
- More expensive than basic kids' battery-powered toothbrushes
- Smaller handle may be awkward for older kids or parents helping younger ones
- Replacement brush heads for kids' models can be harder to find than adult sizes
- Costs roughly 2x the 4100 for incremental real-world cleaning improvement
- Heavier and bulkier than newer redesigned Sonicare models
- Some users find the extra modes unnecessary and rarely use them
Our take
Getting kids to brush properly is half the battle, and this one wins it. The Design a Pet gimmick sounds silly until your kid is begging to brush their teeth.
If you've already owned a 4100 and want more, the 6100 is the logical next step. The pressure sensor alone is worth the price bump if your dentist keeps telling you to ease up.
Buy
