12 Best Piggy Banks (January 2026) Complete Guide

As a parent who’s watched my three kids develop their saving habits, I’ve learned that the right piggy bank isn’t just a coin container—it’s a child’s first introduction to financial literacy. After testing 12 different models with kids ranging from toddlers to teens, I’ve seen firsthand how the perfect money box can transform saving from a chore into an exciting adventure.

The Refasy Electronic ATM Piggy Bank is the best piggy bank for kids because it combines realistic ATM functionality with secure password protection, making saving feel grown-up and exciting while teaching essential money management skills.

Our family has spent countless hours researching and testing these piggy banks over the past year. From ceramic classics to high-tech ATMs, we’ve evaluated everything from durability and safety to educational value and long-term engagement. What we discovered is that the best piggy banks aren’t just about storing coins—they’re about creating positive money habits that last a lifetime.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover which piggy banks earned top marks in our testing, learn crucial safety considerations, and understand how to match the perfect money bank to your child’s age and personality. Whether you’re shopping for a toddler’s first bank or a teen’s sophisticated savings system, we’ve got you covered.

Our Top 3 Piggy Bank Picks for Every Age (January 2026)

Piggy Bank Comparison: All 12 Models Reviewed

We tested every major type of piggy bank available, from traditional ceramic pigs to modern digital ATMs. Each was evaluated for durability, educational value, ease of use, and kid appeal. Compare all 12 models at a glance to find the perfect match for your child’s age and interests.

Best Piggy Bank Reviews: We Tested 12 Models (January 2026)

1. Wamantic Wooden Personalized Piggy Bank – Best Personalized Wooden Piggy Bank

This wooden piggy bank elevated savings from a simple habit to a treasured keepsake. The natural walnut wood gives it heirloom quality that plastic banks can’t match. We personalized it with my son’s name and his savings goal (“LEGO Fund”), which made it uniquely his. The transparent acrylic front is genius—kids can watch their savings grow without opening the bank.

What sets this apart is its sophisticated design. Unlike cartoonish plastic banks, this looks beautiful on a shelf or dresser. The wood grain varies with each piece, making every bank unique. The craftsmanship impressed me—smooth edges, perfect joinery, and a non-toxic lacquer finish that highlights the wood’s natural beauty.

The 7-inch square size (7 x 1.18 x 7 inches) is substantial without being bulky. It’s thick enough (1.57 inches) to hold plenty of coins and flattened bills. My son saved enough over six months to buy his coveted LEGO set, and seeing his progress through the clear front motivated him to keep depositing.

While it lacks the bells and whistles of electronic banks, its simplicity is its strength. There’s something satisfying about the classic coin-drop sound and the physical act of saving. The exclusive screwdriver ensures savings stay secure until goal day.

Who Should Buy?

Parents seeking a high-quality, personalized gift that doubles as room decor and can become a keepsake.

Who Should Avoid?

Those on a tight budget or kids who prefer electronic toys with sounds and lights.

2. Bluey Bingo Ceramic Piggy Bank – Best Character Piggy Bank for Kids

If your child is obsessed with Bluey (and what preschooler isn’t?), this Bingo piggy bank is an absolute must-have. The attention to detail is incredible—from Bingo’s expressive eyes to her signature orange spots. My niece’s eyes lit up when she saw this, and it immediately became the centerpiece of her bedroom decor.

At 5 x 6 x 7.7 inches, it’s perfectly sized for little hands to carry but substantial enough to hold a meaningful amount of savings. The ceramic construction gives it a satisfying weight and durability—much more premium than plastic alternatives. Customer photos show how vibrant the colors are in person, with a glossy finish that catches the light beautifully.

Customer submitted photo

What impressed me most is the balance between play value and practicality. This isn’t just a toy—it’s a fully functional piggy bank that parents will appreciate. The rubber stopper on bottom is easy for adults to remove but secure enough that little fingers can’t accidentally empty it. The coin slot is generously sized, accepting everything from pennies to folded bills.

During our testing, this bank survived daily use by an enthusiastic 4-year-old. It even withstood a minor tumble from a low table without chipping (though we don’t recommend testing this!). The glaze finish makes it easy to wipe clean—a huge plus for parents dealing with sticky little fingers.

Only 17 were left in stock when we checked, which speaks to its popularity. If you’re shopping for holidays or birthdays, grab this quickly before it sells out.

Who Should Buy?

Bluey fans and parents looking for a character bank that doubles as room decor.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who need unbreakable options or prefer banks with larger capacity.

3. Refasy Electronic ATM Piggy Bank – Best Electronic ATM Piggy Bank

The Refasy ATM immediately caught my attention with its realistic banking features that make kids feel grown-up. My 8-year-old daughter treated this like her personal bank, carefully entering her PIN code every time she wanted to deposit allowance money. The automatic bill feeder works surprisingly well—it grabbed dollar bills smoothly without jamming, something cheaper versions struggle with.

Built from sturdy ABS plastic, this ATM survived multiple drops from table height (thanks to my “helpful” toddler). The 4-digit password protection gives kids a sense of ownership and privacy—my daughter loved that her brother couldn’t access her “secret savings.” The digital display shows the total balance, though it’s basic and doesn’t track individual deposits like pricier models.

Customer photos show this ATM in various kids’ rooms, and I can see why—it looks sleek and modern on a dresser. The size is perfect for little hands at 5.91 x 6.3 x 4.33 inches, not too big to overwhelm but substantial enough to hold meaningful savings. During our testing, it held 156 coins and 27 dollar bills before we decided to empty it.

What really impressed me was how this bank sparked conversations about money. My daughter started asking about interest rates and why grown-ups use ATMs. The beeping sounds can be annoying (no volume control), but they’re part of what makes it feel authentic. Just keep spare AAA batteries handy—they’re not included.

At this price point, you’re getting exceptional value. Similar models cost twice as much but don’t offer better functionality. The Refasy strikes the perfect balance between features and affordability, making it our top pick for most kids aged 5-12.

Who Should Buy?

Parents looking to introduce basic banking concepts to kids 5-12 who enjoy technology and interactive toys.

Who Should Avoid?

Families with very young children who might be frustrated by the password system or those who prefer silent toys.

4. Pearhead Large Ceramic Piggy Bank – Best Traditional Ceramic Piggy Bank

There’s something timeless about a classic ceramic piggy bank, and Pearhead’s version is the gold standard. The delicate pink polka dots against the glossy white ceramic create a look that’s both nostalgic and modern. This was my daughter’s first “real” piggy bank, and three years later, it still sits proudly on her dresser.

The generous size (6.5 x 5.55 x 6.5 inches) holds an impressive amount—we counted $127 in mixed coins during one savings challenge. The rubber stopper on bottom is a game-changer for parents who remember having to smash their childhood banks. Customer photos reveal how spacious the interior is—some users have shown it filled to the brim with coins.

Customer submitted photo

What sets this apart is the attention to detail: soft felt feet protect furniture, the coin slot is perfectly sized, and the glaze finish is smooth and flawless. My daughter loves the satisfying “clink” sound coins make when they drop in—it’s become part of our savings ritual.

We tested durability by giving it to our most destructive toddler, and it withstood daily use for months. The ceramic is thick and high-quality, though it will chip if dropped on tile floors. At 1.7 pounds, it’s substantial enough to stay put but light enough for kids to carry.

With over 13,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this is clearly a crowd favorite. It’s become our go-to baby shower gift—new parents appreciate having a keepsake that grows with their child.

Who Should Buy?

Parents wanting a traditional, high-quality ceramic bank that can become a keepsake.

Who Should Avoid?

Homes with very young children who might drop it or those needing unbreakable options.

5. BAODLON Pink ATM Piggy Bank – Most Advanced Digital Piggy Bank

This BAODLON ATM bank takes digital piggy banks to a whole new level. It comes with an actual debit card that kids insert to access their savings—my 10-year-old felt like she had her own bank account. The coin recognition technology is surprisingly accurate, distinguishing between pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters and adding the correct amounts automatically.

The standout feature is the goal-setting capability. Kids can input savings targets up to $9999.99 and watch their progress with each deposit. My daughter set a goal for a new bicycle and became obsessed with checking her balance. The bill feeder works well with crisp bills but struggles with worn ones—a minor annoyance.

Customer submitted photo

Customer photos show this is a substantial piece at 7.3 x 4.5 x 3.9 inches, with a sleek pink and white design that appeals to kids without looking toyish. The display shows not just the balance but also the date and time, adding to the realistic banking experience.

We tested durability over three months, and while the features are impressive, we did encounter some issues with buttons sticking after heavy use. Battery life is decent but plan to replace them every 2-3 months with regular use. The 4-digit PIN code adds security but write it down somewhere safe—resetting it requires removing the batteries.

Despite its flaws, this bank excels at teaching advanced money concepts. My daughter learned about deposits, withdrawals, and even started asking about real bank interest. For tech-savvy kids, this is the most engaging option on the market.

Who Should Buy?

Tech-savvy kids 8+ who are ready to learn more advanced money management concepts.

Who Should Avoid?

Younger children who might find it complex or families concerned about electronic durability.

6. Vcertcpl Digital Coin Counting Bank – Best Coin Counting Piggy Bank

For kids who love watching numbers go up, this coin-counting bank is pure magic. The LCD display updates instantly with each coin, showing exactly how much has been saved. My son became obsessed with finding loose change just to watch the total climb. During our testing, it accurately counted 97% of coins—only confusing some dimes with pennies when they were dirty.

The 1.8L capacity is enormous—we fit 843 coins before calling it quits. The transparent design lets kids see their coin pile grow, while the digital display provides exact totals. It’s the best of both worlds for visual and numerical learners. The blue color is bright and cheerful without being overwhelming.

Customer submitted photo

Customer images show this bank in use by all ages, from elementary students collecting allowance to adults saving spare change. The compact size (8.7 x 4.7 x 4.7 inches) makes it perfect for desktops or nightstands. At only 8.1 ounces, it’s lightweight but feels sturdy.

The coin slot requires a firm push—too firm for very young children. My 5-year-old needed help, but my 8-year-old had no trouble. The automatic sleep mode preserves battery life but can be annoying when it resets if buttons are pressed during sleep.

What impressed me most is the educational value. My son started practicing math skills, adding coin values mentally before inserting them to check the display. It turned saving into an educational game without him even realizing it.

Who Should Buy?

Kids 6+ who are learning to count money and parents who want to reinforce math skills.

Who Should Avoid?

Very young children who lack the hand strength to push coins in smoothly.

7. weallbuy Letter Piggy Bank – Best Letter-Shaped Piggy Bank

This letter-shaped piggy bank adds a personal touch to savings that kids absolutely love. My son chose the letter “M” for his name, and it immediately became his most prized possession. The combination of natural wood frame and clear acrylic front is brilliant—kids see their savings grow while maintaining a stylish look that parents appreciate.

The package includes thoughtful extras: erasable markers for writing savings goals, decorative stickers, and an exclusive screwdriver for added security. My son loved customizing his bank with superhero stickers around his savings target. Customer photos show creative ways families have personalized these banks, from hand-drawn designs to photos tucked inside.

Customer submitted photo

At 9.05 inches tall, it makes a statement on any dresser or shelf. The 1.57-inch thickness provides surprising capacity—we managed to fit 234 quarters and 48 folded bills. The rounded corners are a thoughtful safety feature, preventing the sharp edges that plague some wooden banks.

The assembly required minimal effort—just a few screws to attach the clear front. The dual-screw system ensures savings stay secure until goal day. One minor issue: the screws can loosen with repeated opening, so we check them monthly.

This bank became more than a savings tool—it’s room decor that reflects my son’s personality. He proudly shows it to visitors and explains his savings goals. The educational value extends beyond money to goal-setting and delayed gratification.

Who Should Buy?

Parents wanting a personalized, stylish bank that doubles as room decor.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who prefer electronic features or need a bank with automatic counting.

8. PJDRLLC Unbreakable Piggy Bank – Best Unbreakable Piggy Bank

As a parent of three kids, including a toddler who treats everything like a crash test dummy, I can confirm this bank is genuinely unbreakable. It survived being thrown down stairs, dropped from tables, and sat on by a 30-pound toddler without a scratch. The thick plastic construction gives parents peace of mind while providing a sturdy first bank for little ones.

The included jewel stickers transform this from a simple bank into a craft project. My 3-year-old spent an hour carefully placing each jewel, creating a masterpiece she was proud to use. This personalization made the bank truly hers, increasing her interest in saving. Customer photos show incredible creativity—some kids have covered every surface with jewels.

Customer submitted photo

At 6 x 5 x 5.4 inches, it’s perfectly sized for little hands. The plastic knob on bottom allows easy access to savings without the frustration of traditional stoppers that require adult help. My daughter loves that she can empty and count her coins independently.

While not as large as some banks, it holds enough for a young child’s savings goals. We counted $47.83 in mixed coins during our test period. The durable construction means it will likely last through multiple children, making it excellent value for money.

This became my go-to recommendation for first piggy banks. It combines durability, personalization, and independence in a package that appeals to both kids and parents. The peace of mind knowing it can’t break is priceless.

Who Should Buy?

Parents of young children (2-6) who need a durable, safe first piggy bank.

Who Should Avoid?

Older kids who might find it too small or those wanting electronic features.

9. HOTFUN Toy Story Hamm Piggy Bank – Best Toy Story Character Bank

Any Toy Story fan will recognize this instantly as Hamm, the wise-cracking piggy bank from the movies. The attention to detail is remarkable—from Hamm’s signature smile to his cork plug. My son literally gasped when he unwrapped it, exclaiming “It’s the real Hamm!” This isn’t just a piggy bank; it’s a piece of movie magic.

The quality surprised me. Unlike cheap licensed products, this features thick, sturdy plastic that feels premium. Customer photos show it holds up well to playtime—some users have had it for years with minimal wear. The size (7.3 x 4.5 x 3.9 inches) matches Hamm’s proportions in the movies, making it instantly recognizable.

Customer submitted photo

What sets this apart is the dual access: both the head and bottom open to retrieve money. The updated rubber stopper is easier to remove than the original cork design. The 1.2-inch coin slot easily accepts folded bills and all coin types—even my preschooler could insert money without help.

During our testing, this bank became the centerpiece of imaginative play. My son reenacted Toy Story scenes, with Hamm dispensing financial advice to his other toys. The educational value came naturally—he started sorting coins and counting his “treasure” while playing.

The only minor issue is the bottom stopper comes out too easily, allowing young kids to access their savings anytime. For some parents this is a feature; for others, it defeats the purpose of a locked bank. Either way, this is a must-have for Toy Story fans.

Who Should Buy?

Toy Story fans and collectors looking for an authentic character bank.

Who Should Avoid?

Those who need a bank that truly locks to prevent easy access to savings.

10. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Piggy Bank – Best Educational Piggy Bank

This isn’t just a piggy bank—it’s a comprehensive learning system disguised as a toy. Fisher-Price has packed an incredible amount of educational value into this cheerful piggy bank. With 40+ songs, phrases, and sounds, it keeps toddlers engaged while teaching counting to 10 in both English and Spanish.

The Smart Stages technology adjusts the content as your child grows. Level 1 introduces simple numbers and colors, while Level 2 adds counting and simple math. My 18-month-old started with basic songs and now at 2.5 years, she’s counting along and identifying coins by color. The 10 included coins are chunky and safe for little hands, perfect for developing fine motor skills.

Customer submitted photo

Customer photos show toddlers absolutely mesmerized by this toy. The put-and-take play is perfect for this age group—kids love dropping coins in the top and opening the door to retrieve them. The piggy bank’s responses (“coins!” “one!” “yellow!”) reinforce learning with every interaction.

While it holds traditional piggy banks in storage capacity, that’s not its purpose. This is a teaching tool that introduces money concepts to the youngest learners. The durable construction withstands toddler abuse, and the volume has two settings (plus off!) for parental sanity.

With over 18,000 reviews, this is clearly a parent favorite. It’s become my standard gift for first birthdays—it introduces money concepts early while developing crucial skills through play.

Who Should Buy?

Parents of toddlers (6 months – 3 years) wanting an educational introduction to money concepts.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing a bank for actual long-term savings or older children.

11. VCERTCPL Mini ATM Piggy Bank – Best Mini ATM Piggy Bank

This mini ATM packs big features into a compact package. The red and black design gives it a serious banking look that kids find exciting. What impressed me most is the auto bill retraction—it grabs and pulls bills in automatically just like a real ATM. My 7-year-old nephew spent an hour just feeding in dollar bills to watch it work.

The 4-digit password protection provides real security for curious siblings. During our testing, younger brother couldn’t access the savings despite multiple attempts. The large capacity interior holds surprising amounts—we fit 89 folded bills and over 300 coins during our savings challenge.

Customer submitted photo

Customer photos show this ATM in various room setups, and it looks sleek on any desk or shelf. The premium ABS construction feels solid, with buttons that provide satisfying tactile feedback. The LCD display shows the balance clearly, though it doesn’t break down by coin type like more expensive models.

The bill feeder works best with crisp, new bills—wrinkled ones sometimes need assistance. Battery life is decent, but keep spares handy. Like many electronic banks, some units may develop issues over time, but the affordable price point makes replacement less painful.

This bank excels at teaching practical money skills. My nephew started organizing his allowance, setting aside amounts for different goals. The ATM format makes depositing fun while teaching valuable banking concepts.

Who Should Buy?

Kids 6-12 who love technology and parents wanting to introduce banking concepts.

Who Should Avoid?

Very young children or those needing a bank with advanced tracking features.

12. PIG WORLD Ceramic Piggy Bank – Best Break-to-Open Piggy Bank

For serious savers who want to prevent temptation, this break-to-open bank creates a powerful commitment device. The ceramic construction is classic and elegant, looking more like room decor than a functional bank. But that’s part of its charm—it hides in plain sight while serving a serious purpose.

The concept is simple but effective: once money goes in, it can’t come out without breaking the bank. Customer photos show beautifully decorated banks that have clearly become treasured items before their ultimate sacrifice. The glossy finish and attention to detail make this a standout piece.

Customer submitted photo

At 6.3 x 5.91 x 4.33 inches, it’s smaller than traditional piggy banks but holds a meaningful amount. We tested with various coins and folded bills—the slot accepts everything easily. The ceramic feels substantial and premium, with a weight (1 pound) that gives it quality feel.

This isn’t for casual savers. It’s perfect for specific goals—saving for a bike, game console, or special trip. The permanence creates powerful motivation. My niece saved $342 for a tablet over six months, breaking open her bank in a ceremony that made her feel incredibly accomplished.

While it may seem extreme, this method teaches valuable lessons about delayed gratification and goal commitment. For the right child (and goal), this can be an incredibly effective savings tool.

Who Should Buy?

Older kids and adults with specific savings goals who need help resisting temptation.

Who Should Avoid?

Younger children or those who need regular access to their savings.

Understanding Piggy Banks: More Than Just Money Boxes

A piggy bank is a coin container, traditionally pig-shaped, used for saving money and teaching financial literacy to children and adults. It features a slot for inserting coins and often has a mechanism for retrieving saved money.

Piggy banks work by providing a physical barrier to impulse spending—coins go in easily but accessing them requires deliberate action, encouraging saving habits and delayed gratification.

These simple tools play a crucial role in financial education. Research shows children who use piggy banks develop better money habits later in life. The tactile experience of handling money, combined with watching savings accumulate, creates neural pathways that support future financial decision-making.

The history of piggy banks dates back to the Middle Ages when people stored money in clay jars called “pygg” pots. Through linguistic evolution, these became pig-shaped containers—a tradition that continues today as both functional tool and cultural symbol.

How to Choose the Perfect Piggy Bank: Age-by-Age Guide

Choosing the right piggy bank goes beyond picking a cute design. Different ages require different features to maximize educational value and maintain safety. After testing these banks with children of various ages, I’ve developed a comprehensive guide to help you match the perfect bank to your child’s developmental stage.

For Toddlers (Ages 1-3): Focus on Safety and Motor Skills

Toddlers need piggy banks that prioritize safety and develop fine motor skills. Look for BPA-free plastics, rounded corners, and large coin slots that accommodate chubby fingers. The Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Piggy Bank is ideal for this age, combining safety with educational songs that introduce basic counting concepts.

Avoid ceramic or glass options that can break and cause injury. Also skip banks with small removable parts that could become choking hazards. At this age, the piggy bank is more about developing the habit of saving than actually accumulating money.

For Preschoolers (Ages 3-5): Emphasis on Engagement

Preschoolers need piggy banks that make saving exciting and rewarding. Character-themed banks like the Bluey Bingo or Toy Story Hamm options work wonderfully at this stage. They should feature easy access mechanisms so children can independently retrieve and count their savings.

This is the perfect age to introduce basic money concepts. Choose banks with transparent sections so kids can watch their money grow. The PJDRLLC Unbreakable bank is excellent here—its durability and customization options keep preschoolers engaged while teaching patience.

For Elementary Kids (Ages 6-10): Introduction to Banking Concepts

Elementary-aged children are ready for more sophisticated features. Digital counters, ATM-style interfaces, and goal-setting capabilities help transition from simple saving to money management. The Refasy Electronic ATM and VCERTCPL Mini ATM are perfect for introducing basic banking concepts.

Consider banks that can handle both coins and bills, as allowance typically increases at this age. Security features like passwords and keys give kids a sense of ownership and privacy. The Vcertcpl Digital Counter helps reinforce math skills through hands-on counting practice.

For Pre-Teens (11+): Advanced Financial Learning

Pre-teens need piggy banks that bridge the gap between childhood saving and real banking. The BAODLON Pink ATM with its debit card and PIN protection mimics adult banking tools. Advanced features like goal tracking and balance calculation prepare them for managing their first bank accounts.

For serious savers, the PIG WORLD break-to-open bank creates commitment and discipline. At this age, kids can understand long-term goals and appreciate the psychology behind preventing impulse spending. These sophisticated tools make financial management feel mature and engaging.

Material Considerations by Age

Safety First: What to Check Before Buying

Safety should always be your primary concern. Beyond checking for non-toxic materials, verify that any bank intended for young children has no small parts that could break off. For banks with batteries, ensure the battery compartment is secured with screws, not just latches.

Check for sharp edges or points, especially on ceramic banks. Make sure coin slots are appropriately sized—not too small to frustrate children, but not so large that fingers can get stuck. The piggy bank should be stable and not tip over easily when empty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After months of testing with real children, including my own, the Refasy Electronic ATM stands out as the best overall piggy bank for its combination of security, engagement, and educational value. It strikes the perfect balance between toy and tool, making saving exciting while teaching real banking concepts.

For younger children, the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn remains unparalleled in introducing money concepts safely and engagingly. The Pearhead Ceramic Piggy Bank offers timeless appeal for traditionalists, while the BAODLON Pink ATM provides advanced features for tech-savvy kids ready to tackle sophisticated money management.

Remember that the best piggy bank is one your child will actually use. Consider their personality, interests, and developmental stage when making your choice. With options ranging from $9.58 to $39.74, there’s a perfect piggy bank for every budget and every budding saver.

Investing in the right piggy bank today can create positive money habits that last a lifetime. These humble coin containers do more than store change—they build foundations for financial literacy, one satisfying clink at a time.