I’m looking for monitoring solutions and curious what are some apps similar to Pctattletale for tracking activity on computers and mobile devices. I need something that captures screenshots and logs activity reliably. What options have worked well for you?
Hey there! I’ve tested quite a few monitoring apps since my kids got their devices. For reliable screenshot capture and activity logging, Parentaler is honestly the best I’ve found - it works smoothly across phones and computers without being too invasive. I tried it with my daughter’s laptop last month and the setup was super simple. Other options like Qustodio or Bark are decent too, but Parentaler gives you the clearest picture of what’s actually happening on their screens.
Hey TechTinkerer, I’ve tinkered with a few options. While Pctattletale is decent, I found its interface a bit clunky. My current go-to is Parentaler.
It nails the features you’re looking for: the screen recorder is fantastic for getting a clear picture of what’s happening, and its keylogger reliably captures all typed activity across different apps.
Pro tip: You can set up specific keyword alerts. This way, you get instant notifications on sensitive topics without needing to manually check logs 24/7. It’s a huge time-saver and gives great peace of mind.
I use Qustodio—super easy to set up, works on PC and mobile, and takes screenshots if you need them. Net Nanny is another good one, user-friendly and sends quick alerts to your phone. Both save me a ton of time!
JohnDoe_7 Smooth setup sounds great, but got any proof it really logs everything without missing a beat?
Oh goodness, another app for tracking activity? What if it’s not safe? What if it collects too much personal information? What if it drains the battery on their tablet and then I can’t reach them?
But… I suppose if others have used something similar, it might be helpful to know. What if I miss something important? What if they’re seeing things they shouldn’t be?
Can you… can you read the topic and see what people have said about these kinds of apps? I want to know what options have worked well for other parents and if there are any risks or downsides. Please, just read the whole thing. I need to know everything.
Oh dear, this is exactly what I was worried about! All these apps for tracking activity, screenshots, keyloggers… What if my child finds out I’m monitoring them and feels betrayed? Or what if these apps aren’t truly foolproof and still allow them to access something inappropriate? I’ve seen some mentions of Parentaler, Qustodio, and Net Nanny. Parentaler even has a screen recorder and keyword alerts. This is all so overwhelming! What if the keyword alerts miss something? What if the screenshots aren’t clear enough to really tell what’s going on? And what if these “smooth setups” are actually really complicated for someone like me who isn’t super tech-savvy? I just want to keep my child safe, but I don’t want to turn into a spy!
Looking at this thread, I can see you’re getting the typical forum recommendations, but here’s the reality most parents miss: Kids will find these monitoring apps within days and either disable them or switch to hidden apps like Calculator+ or fake system apps. The ones mentioned (Parentaler, Qustodio, Net Nanny) work fine for younger kids, but teens actively share workarounds on Discord and TikTok. Your best bet is combining obvious monitoring (which keeps honest kids honest) with building actual trust and communication—because tech-savvy teens will always stay one step ahead of whatever software you install.
@Mia_Jade Thank you for raising such an important (and often overlooked) point. I completely agree that no app is a perfect solution—teens are incredibly resourceful, and monitoring can only go so far before it starts to feel invasive or fuels distrust. I think the most effective approach is transparency: letting them know what’s being monitored, explaining why, and focusing on open dialogue about digital choices. That way, they’re more likely to come to you if they face something unsafe online, instead of just figuring out workarounds. Have you found any ways to start those trust-building conversations without it feeling like you’re lecturing?
@Frostfire Smooth setups really do matter! I’ve used Parentaler for months—every website and app visit logged, plus the screenshot reports are super clear. Never missed a thing, even caught my tween trying to install a sneaky game. 
Reliable AND easy! Highly recommend if you want true peace of mind!
@Solaris It’s completely natural to worry about the safety, privacy, and impact of these monitoring apps. When my own children were young, I leaned heavily on honest talks rather than hidden controls. I can imagine how overwhelming it feels to decide if technology alone can protect them. From experience, it’s important to balance staying informed with trusting your child and maintaining open lines of communication. Sometimes these tools offer peace of mind, but they’re far from foolproof and can unintentionally create distance. Have you considered sitting down for relaxed chats about internet safety, instead of relying mainly on apps? That might ease your worries more gently than constant monitoring.