Singing Machine Lil' Rex vs VTech Kidi Star
The Lil' Rex is a plush T-rex backpack with a built-in speaker and mic, two songs and record and playback, on 3 AA batteries, per Singing Machine. The VTech Kidi Star has eight built-in songs, Music Magic vocal reduction, a phone cable and a disco light, and VTech lists it for ages 5 and up. Check each listing and its packaging for age guidance.
Side by side
| Spec | Singing Machine Sing-Along Crew Lil' Rex (SMK010) | VTech Kidi Star Karaoke Machine (pink/purple) |
|---|---|---|
| Microphones | Built-in mic | 1 microphone |
| Screen | none | none |
| TV connection | No | No |
| Power | 3 AA batteries (not included) | 4 AA, or 6 V adapter (sold separately) |
| Age guidance | Not stated by the maker; check the listing | 5+ (VTech) |
| Source | Singing Machine | VTech press release (PR Newswire, Aug 23 2018) and VTech Kidi Star parent's guide |
| Buy | Check price on Amazon | Check price on Amazon |
From each maker's published specs. "Not stated" means the maker source we used doesn't say.
Songs and where they come from
Singing Machine lists two preloaded songs and two sound effects on the Lil' Rex, and the maker page we used lists no audio input. VTech lists eight built-in songs on the Kidi Star and says it connects to an MP3 player or phone with the included 3.5 mm cable. VTech's Music Magic mode turns down the main vocal track of songs.
Recording
Singing Machine lists record and playback on the Lil' Rex. VTech's parent's guide lists two recording slots of up to four minutes each on the Kidi Star, with voice-changing effects.
Batteries and power
The Lil' Rex takes 3 AA batteries, not included, per Singing Machine. VTech says the Kidi Star runs on 4 AA batteries or a VTech 6 V adapter, sold separately. Fit batteries yourself and keep loose batteries away from small children.
Who each suits
Choose the Lil' Rex for a young child who wants a cuddly singing buddy to carry around. More on the Lil' Rex profile.
Choose the VTech Kidi Star for kids 5 and up who want to sing over their own songs. Check the model name on the listing, since VTech sells other Kidi Star versions. More on the Kidi Star profile, or browse karaoke machines for kids.
FAQ
Which plays songs from a phone, the Lil' Rex or the Kidi Star?
VTech says the Kidi Star connects to a phone or MP3 player with the included cable. The Singing Machine page we used lists two preloaded songs on the Lil' Rex and no audio input.
Can both the Lil' Rex and the Kidi Star record?
Yes. Singing Machine lists record and playback on the Lil' Rex, and VTech's parent's guide lists two recording slots of up to four minutes each on the Kidi Star.
What age are the Lil' Rex and the Kidi Star for?
VTech lists the Kidi Star for ages 5 and up. The Singing Machine page we used gives no age range for the Lil' Rex, so check its listing and packaging.
What batteries do the Lil' Rex and the Kidi Star need?
The Lil' Rex takes 3 AA batteries, not included, per Singing Machine. VTech says the Kidi Star takes 4 AA batteries or a VTech 6 V adapter, sold separately.