* Compare Leapfrog Leapster Explorer vs VTech MobiGo Touch Learning System

The Leapster Explorer and the VTech MobiGo are hand held games consoles with an educational twist, and touch-screen technology. They are built with children in mind: solid and durable, but comfortable for little hands. Both are available in two color-ways, aimed at boys and girls.

Separate accessories are available to buy for both games systems, including chargers and cases, and the games feature favourite children's characters.

As kids don't have much patience for reading through an instruction booklet, you'll be pleased to find out that both systems and pretty intuitive, allowing your child to turn it on and jump straight into gaming. Younger children may require a little assistance at first, so it's probably best if you have a short play on it while the kids are at school.

You'll have to decide which console is best for your child, but here is a few things to consider.

1. The price:

The Leapster Explorer costs around $10 more than the MobiGo to buy, and the games are about $4 more expensive. Parents hoping to save money by reusing old Leapfrog console games will be disappointed to learn that unlike the L-Max and Leapster 2, the Explorer is not compatible with games from other Leapfrog consoles.

2. The built-in features:

The Explorer has a stylus, which the MobiGo does not. Instead, the MobiGo comes equipped with a slide-out QWERTY keyboard. For most parents it is a preference for one of these features which will be the deciding factor when making their purchase.

The Explorer stylus is well-integrated into the games, is a great for developing the pen control needed to write, and will prepare your child for more advanced gaming systems, like the Nintendo DSi.

On the other hand, the slide out keyboard makes the MobiGo a very versatile toy. While it is tucked away, the MobiGo is just a regular hand-held gaming console. But slide it out and your child has their very own mini-laptop. It is also great to get them familiar with a keyboard layout and how to use it. For this generation being able to type will be as important as being able to write.

The Explorer has a built-in camera which is a pretty neat feature.

3. Educational value:

In terms of the educational value provided by each system, there is not much to choose between the two. Be warned that hours sat in front of either console will be no means turn your child into a genius. But realistically, all parents need a quiet hour every now and then to get stuff done, and playing with either the MobiGo or the Explorer will be a welcome change from the TV.

The Leapfrog Explorer has a built-in software system that lets parents hook up the console to their own PC and monitor thier child's progress. But be honest with yourself and consider how likely you are to use that feature.

4. Age ranges:

The MobiGo is aimed at 3-7 year olds. The Leapster Explorer is for 4-9 year olds. These age ranges are a little arbitrary, since so much will depend on your child's stage of development. Either console will fit those ages, and the games offer a range of skill levels to ensure your child can play happily but still enjoy a challenge.

Given the price of the Explorer, if you have a child at the upper end of the age range, you may want to consider buying a Nintendo DS instead.

Before making your decision you may want to take a look at:

• A review of the Fisher Price iXL
• Customer discussion on Amazon about whether the Explorer or Mobigo is best

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Readers in the UK can see the latest prices in £ and buy online from Amazon.co.uk.

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