There are a handful of toys in our household that I know will grab my toddler’s attention no matter her mood. Her Toniebox has earned an honored spot in that rotation. Whether we’re listening to Ms. Rachel or singing along with Elsa, our collection of Tonies has come in clutch when I need her to be totally engrossed in an activity while I check something off my to-do list.
While her newborn brother is (obviously) still too young to join in on the screen-free activity, I know that, in a year from now, we’ll be in a household battle over control of the Toniebox. Luckily, our Toniebox inventory just increased by one. For the past few weeks, I’ve been testing out the brand new Toniebox 2, the latest iteration of the beloved toddler accessory. And with new abilities like Tonieplay and My First Tonies, it’s already become a mega-hit in our household.
Read on to learn more about what the Toniebox 2 offers, how it differs from the original, and whether it’s worth buying if you already have the Toniebox.
Key Takeaways:
- The Toniebox 2 is a screen-free, audio storyteller that includes updated features such as Tonieplay add-ons (interactive games) and bedtime mode
- The new Toniebox 2 is suitable for toddlers ages 1+
- The Tonieplay games are the most unique feature of the new Tonies, but they also feature easily losable small pieces—find a storage option for these before purchasing.
- Starter sets for the Toniebox 2 range from $139.99 to $159.99; Accessories and add-ons mean additional fees, so consider price when browsing.
- You can purchase the new Toniebox 2 online on Amazon, Target, Walmart, FAO Schwarz, and Tonies.
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What is the Toniebox 2?
If you’ve never experienced the Toniebox, the best way to describe it is like a screen-free audio storyteller. The square box plays music and stories connected to your “Tonies,” which are small figurines you can purchase separately, each providing its own unique playlist. It’s easy to tell why the innovative design is such a hit with young kids, providing them independence in selecting what they want to listen to without the need for parental involvement.
The first Toniebox launched in 2014, and the Toniebox 2 is the newest iteration. While there are awesome major differences and upgrades (more on those in a minute), the Toniebox 2 does everything the original Toniebox did. It’s still a screen-free audio companion, but now has plenty of new bells and whistles that will guarantee it’s bound to be a hot commodity this holiday season.
Toniebox vs Toniebox 2: What are the differences?
The new Toniebox 2 offers many of the same features as the original Toniebox. It still provides screen-free entertainment, adaptable with all of the original Tonies you may have collected with your first Toniebox. However, there are some major differences with the new generation.
Tonieplay
Perhaps the biggest difference in the first to second model of the Toniebox is the new addition of Tonieplay. You can now purchase new Tonieplay add-ons, which are interactive games, quizzes, and challenges your child can enjoy.
Expanded age range
While the original Toniebox was intended for ages 3+, the new Toniebox 2 has expanded to 1+. Now, you can purchase the My First Tonies, a line of squeezable Tonies made for kids ages 1, 2, and older, allowing them to learn first words and sounds.
New design and colors
Toniebox 2 has an expanded color range and a sleeker design with rounded edges. Additionally, the dynamic light ring on the top of the Toniebox 2 glows in rainbow colors while Tonies play.
Sleep timer and sunrise alarm
Toniebox 2 now includes a sleep timer and light, bedtime mode, and a sunrise alarm.
Updated Tonies app
The refreshed app lets you check the battery level, manage the Tonies collection, and modify settings from your phone.
More storage and battery life
There’s four times more storage (32 GB vs. 8 GB) and USB-C charging. Plus, a longer-lasting battery.
What is the same about Toniebox 2?
As for what has stayed the same, the Toniebox 2 is still compatible with the pre-existing library of Tonies. You’ll also still have access to the free audio library through the app.
My honest review of the Toniebox 2
If you already have the original Toniebox, the first question that probably springs to mind is obvious: Is it worth buying a brand new one with the Toniebox 2? Like with any product, the short answer is that it depends on you and your family.
If you have a kid who has never really connected with the original Toniebox, then this may not be a purchase worth making. After all, while there are many new additions, the general principle of the device is still the same. Both are screen-free, audio companions that can tell stories, play songs, or (in the case of the Toniebox 2) play screen-free games.
The upgrades are significant
But, if you have a kid who loves their Toniebox, then I can honestly say I feel like there are enough upgrades and new features that you may want to consider the Toniebox 2. My now-3-year-old first started using the original Toniebox at a year and a half, when she was still needing a bit of help understanding that the Tonies weren’t just more of her Little People to play with. Now at age three, she fully interacts and knows how to play with the Toniebox, and has gotten so much use out of the Tonieplay features.
The benefit of Tonieplay
Immediately upon seeing it, she was enthralled with the Paw Patrol: Adventure Bay Rescue Heroes Game. While I took her through the initial setup, she quickly caught on and was able to play independently for over an hour. Similarly, the Winnie the Pooh: Tigger’s Fix-Up Mix-Up Game kept her occupied as she looked through the accompanying book and selected which character held each of the missing items.
While she (and I) have loved the games, I will note that the games each add new, easily losable pieces to our Tonies collection. The Paw Patrol game, especially, has kept me on my toes, with separate cards for each of the pups that I just know are going to get lost within our playroom. While not a dealbreaker, I would recommend purchasing some kind of Tonies storage to keep everything in one place.
An expanded age range
Another plus to the new Toniebox 2 is the expanded age range. Like I said before, our daughter had a bit of trouble understanding the Toniebox at one, which is why I can completely understand the 3+ age recommendation for the original. The My First Tonies are larger, softer, and more squeezable than the typical Tonies, which will make them perfect when our son turns one and can more easily use the Toniebox 2 (though they are also compatible with the original Toniebox).
But consider the cost
Now, when it comes to the question of cost, there’s no denying that the endless amount of components and accessories means the price of the Toniebox 2 can get expensive.
- Starter sets for the Toniebox 2 start at $139.99, with bundles available from $159.99. And that’s just for a few starting components.
- The cost of Tonieplay games ranges from $19.99 to $24.99, on top of the required controller, which costs $14.99.
- Most Tonies start at $19.99 each, meaning if you just buy one controller, one Tonieplay, and one Tonies, you are already out nearly $60 on top of the cost for the Toniebox 2.
Just like with the original Toniebox, I think the key is to not go overboard with the amount of accessories. We currently have two Tonieplay games, and I don’t foresee us getting many more in the immediate future. Instead, we’ve found that new accessories are great birthday or holiday gifts, so we’re not overloading with too many (and putting out way too much money).
Where to buy the new Toniebox 2 and accessories
Toniebox 2
Toniebox 2 Bundles
Along with the Toniebox 2, you can purchase new Tonieplay games and My First Tonies. There are several starter bundles available, like these:
The Build Your Own Bundle allows you to create a starter kit with a Toniebox audio player and your own selection of Tonie characters—and you’ll save a ton!
The Ms. Rachel bundle includes songs from a widely loved internet personality.
The Winnie the Pooh bundle comes with multiple figurines—from Tigger to Eeyore—and comes in three different colors.
This Toniebox 2 bundle includes Elsa, an “adventure” Tonies with well-known songs from Frozen, storytelling, and missions.
Including a Disney quiz game and a Moana figurine, this cloud-pink tonie will be well-loved in your household.
For the kiddo who watches Paw Patrol on repeat, this tonie comes with a figurine and songs and games pulled from the show.
Toniebox 2 sleeves
Customize their Toniebox 2 with a themed sleeve featuring their favorite characters like Paw Patrol, princess, and more! Nine unique Toniebox 2 sleeves are available.
With a rainbow sleeve, you can customize your Toniebox 2 to match your kiddo’s style.
Does your kiddo love Disney princesses? This sleeve will be perfect for their new Toniebox 2.
To match their Paw Patrol bundle, this Paw Patrol sleeve can further personalize their new tonie.
An ode to a classic Disney tale—the Lion King sleeve is the perfect accessory for your new tonie.
Tonieplay games
For the Toniebox 2, you also have the option to purchase new Tonieplay games. To use any of the games, you’ll need to purchase the Tonieplay Controller (sold separately outside of many bundles), and you can select from a variety of interactive games, quizzes, and adventures.
These Tonieplay games turn story time into a hands-on, interactive adventure—from animal quizzes to Disney games.
My First Tonies
For 1-year-olds and up, you can also purchase the new My First Tonies characters. These Tonies are different from the regular collection of Tonies in that they are soft and squeezable, perfect for the younger demographic. My First Tonies figurines can be bought individually or purchased in three-pack bundles, each one including age-appropriate songs and audio.
Soft and squeezable, these farm animal figurines will help little ones learn about the animals around them.
For the kiddo fascinated by cars, trains, and planes, these Tonies figurines will help them learn all about the world of transportation!
Toniebox 2 FAQs
How much does the Toniebox 2 cost?
The Toniebox 2 starts at $139.99 for starter sets, with bundles available from $159.99.
Are Toniebox 2 bundles available?
A variety of different Toniebox 2 bundles are available, where you can add on Tonieplay games and Tonies. While pre-selected bundles are available to purchase, you can also build your own bundle here.
Can I use older Tonies with the Toniebox 2?
Yes, all Tonies are compatible with the new Toniebox 2.
What ages is the Toniebox 2 for?
According to the Tonies company, the Toniebox 2 is designed for children aged 1 to 9 years old and above.
How much are Tonieplay games?
Each Tonieplay game costs between $19.99 and $24.99 when purchased separately. However, to use the Tonieplay games, you’ll need to purchase the Tonieplay controller, which costs $14.99. Alternatively, you can purchase Tonieplay Sets, which include the Tonieplay Controller, starting at $34.99
Can I use Tonieplay games with the original Toniebox?
No, you can only use Tonieplay games with the new Toniebox 2.
How much are My First Tonies?
When purchased separately, My First Tonies start at $14.99 each. You can also buy 3-pack sets for $39.99.
Do My First Tonies work with the original Toniebox?
The My First Tonies can be used with both the Toniebox and Toniebox 2.
Will the Toniebox 2 fit into my original Toniebox carrying case?
Yes, the Toniebox 2 can be used with the previous Tonies Carrying Case and the Tonies Listen & Play Bag.
Where can you try the Toniebox 2 in person?
Yes, there are many Toniebox 2 retailers that have demo stations. You can find out more on the Tonies website.
Morgan Flaherty, Contributing Writer
Morgan is full-time writer, editor, and mom. She lives in Florida with her husband, daughter, and one very sassy cat. Along with her work as a contributing writer for The Everymom, her writing has appeared in Well + Good, InStyle, Scary Mommy, Byrdie, and Baby Chick.
Product images featured in graphics from Tonies.com
