Hey there, storytelling seekers! You know how much I love a cosy, screen-free moment – with a dash of magic and a ton of imagination. Today, I’m diving into a side-by-side review of a family favourite, the original Toniebox, and its fresh, feature-rich successor: the Toniebox 2. Let’s see how the new one stacks up – and whether it’s worth the sparkle.
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Toniebox vs. Toniebox 2
We’ve had an original Toniebox for almost 7 years now and it’s been a true love affair from the start. You can find out our thoughts on the original Toniebox story player here. In this post I’m going to tell you what excites me most about the launch of the new Toniebox 2 and compare the original features of the Toniebox to the new story box on the block – Toniebox 2. If you’re looking to compare the Toniebox 2 with Yoto Players then this post comprehensive post will help.
Toniebox 2 At a Glance
First and foremost I’m most thrilled to see the age of the Toniebox 2 is suitable from 1 year +. This is a massive change from the original player that was 3 years + and firmly shows tonies® commitment to the younger audience of audio player listeners. A safety note here that although the new Toniebox 2 player is suitable from 1+ the original Tonie Characters are 3 years plus due to the small parts. You can purchase ‘First Tonies’ that can be used independently but check the age of each purchase to ensure it can be used alone or whether the character needs to be out of reach of little ones.
Secondly, tonies® have thought carefully about how to make their Toniebox 2 player interactive through Tonieplay! To find out more about Tonieplay head to this blog feature.
By the end of this post I’m hoping you will have a clear understanding on the difference between the two Toniebox players and which one may serve your family best.
Where to Buy Tonies and Toniebox discount codes
My Tonies promotion page I update frequently (several times a week) with the latest spotted deals.
Sign up to email newsletter using the link below for 10% off in the US (T&Cs apply)
10% off first purchase with email sign up
US Tonies Offer:
Tonies BF Sale 25% off sitewide + up to $40 off Starter Sets
🔴US Sale – ‘Best Deals’ section on Tonies that are usually being discontinued (if any available)
🔴UK Sale – ‘Favourite Tonies on Sale’ section on Tonies that are usually being discontinued (if any available)
🔴Amazon – bundle deals
Toniebox versus Toniebox 2 Features
Design & Feel: Soft Squish vs. Sleek Upgrade
- Original Toniebox: That familiar, padded cube – soft enough for snuggle time yet tough enough to survive toddler tumbles. The box features squishy ears for convenient volume control, and tap or tilt to move between stories.
- Toniebox 2: A refresh on the classic, now with a refined, sleek look that still invites tiny hands to play. It still appears to have the soft squish factor and I’ll report back as soon as I’ve got my hands on one!
Bottom line: Both are built for little hands – but Toniebox 2 amps up practicality and modern convenience. In my opinion, both boxes still have oodles of visual appeal for a young audience.
Play & Interactivity: Still Magical, Now a Bit Smarter
- Original Toniebox: The charm lies in simplicity – pop a Tonies on top and stories or songs launch. No screens, no fuss. Creative-Tonies let you upload up to 90 minutes of custom content via the app or website.
- Toniebox 2: Keeps the magical Tonies-on-top functionality, but now supports Tonieplay – interactive stories, games, and quizzes straight from the figurine. There also seems to be further integration with the Tonie app more in keeping with the relationship between Yoto Players and the Yoto app.
Bottom line: Original Toniebox brings dependable, screen-free joy. Toniebox 2 adds a fresh twist with interactivity for curious minds. You can still use the Toniebox 2 just like the original player with the ultimate simplicity of popping a character on the box. However, if you want you have the option to upgrade on the interactivity and tech – still in a child intuitive way.
UPDATE: We’re loving the Tonieplay Disney Quiz Kingdom Game. Check out how the new Tonieplay and Tonieplay Controller work in this short video below. This video is part of a full blog post here where you’ll find more of my thoughts on our Toniebox 2.
Tech Upgrades: Charging, Lighting & Timing
- Original: Charging via the dedicated base, plus battery-powered portability that means you can keep the tunes and stories going wherever you are.
- Toniebox 2: A USB-C charging port (the custom charger of the original Toniebox has always been a little source of frustration for customers), an LED ring at the top, plus a built-in light timer and sunrise-style wake-up feature (the light feature is more in line with the Yoto Gen 3 Player).
Bottom line: Toniebox 2 embraces smart-tech touches that parents (and sleepy kids) will truly appreciate. Especially with USB-C charging capability and sleep-friendly lighting.
Headphones
- Original: Has a jack port to be able to connect wired headphones – it does not support Bluetooth like Yoto.
- Toniebox 2: There is no jack port like on the Toniebox 1 but there are wireless headphones launching on the 17th November in the UK and 18-20th November shipping in the US.
Bottom line: Unlike our Yoto Players we’ve never actually used headphones with our original Toniebox – we just never felt the need to. However, if having headphones is an important feature this may be something to consider further now the Toniebox 2 is compatible with Bluetooth headphones.
Familiarity & Durability: Sturdy Storytelling
- Original: Praised for its toddler-tough build – soft, durable, and easy to operate. Not that I’d recommend it, but I can attest to ours surviving a full flight of stairs fall with no ill effects! We’ve always adored the simplicity of this box. It’s particularly great for younger children and can support some people with additional needs.
- Toniebox 2: tonies® state that the Toniebox 2 is ‘robust, squishy and totally tumble-proof’. This sounds like it’s designed like the original to withstand small children!
Bottom line: Both the original Toniebox and the Toniebox 2 are built to take the knocks and tumbles of everyday family life. If sturdiness and simplicity are top of your list, you really can’t go wrong with either model. If you have a child who can be more rough with their toys then I’ve always suggested that a Toniebox is well worth considering due to the durability and robustness. The Toniebox 2 promises the same bounce-back toughness as the original, so whichever you choose, you’re investing in a storytelling box that’s designed to last – even through those inevitable drops, bumps, and enthusiastic playtimes.
Content Library: tonies® & Creativity
- Original: Loved for its tactile storytelling with over 250+ collectible Tonies, audiobooks and the ability to record custom messages via Creative-Tonies. You can also add content from other sources including some podcasts. You can find more information on free content options here.
- Toniebox 2: Retains compatibility with all existing Tonies, while opening doors to more dynamic Tonieplay experiences. I’m also interested to see what more may come in future with a more direct app link…
Bottom line: Content is where the Toniebox truly shines. The original already offers a treasure trove of stories, songs, and Creative-Tonie recordings – plus the option to add extras like podcast downloads. The Toniebox 2 builds on this solid foundation with exciting interactive Tonieplay features, while still working seamlessly with your existing collection. It feels like the library is only going to grow richer over time.
Price Check: UK & US
UK Toniebox 2
- Original Toniebox: Currently priced at £79.95. A starter set – just the box, charging dock, and one Creative-Tonie is available in charming colours like green, grey, light blue, pink, and purple.
- Toniebox 2: Upgraded, ready-for-preorder with shipping date of the 13th September, priced at £94.99.
So, you’re paying an extra £15 for the smart features, lighting, and age-friendly improvements. However, to get the full benefits of the new Toniebox 2 it’s worth noting that you would need to purchase a Tonieplay Controller at £12.99 (interestingly it’s cheaper from Amazon right now). You then need to purchase specific Tonieplay packs which range from £16.99 to £19.99 to access the interactive part of the Toniebox 2.
US Toniebox 2
- Original Toniebox: Currently priced at $99.99.
- Toniebox 2: Available for preorder with shipping date of the 5th October (US). There’s no price for the Toniebox 2 alone.
Interestingly, if you’re US based then the Toniebox 2 is currently only available as bundles. You can find the available Toniebox 2 bundles that you can purchase via pre-order here. Options include a player and ‘First Tonies Bundle’ but other bundles include the Tonieplay Controller and one or two of the Tonieplay games.
Top Tip
There will be people looking to upgrade to a Toniebox 2. If you’re looking for just the character placed on the top play of a Toniebox then you may find there will be more available to purchase second hand once the new players are shipped – just a thought.
Tonieboxes Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Original Toniebox | Toniebox 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 3+ | 1+ |
| Charging | Proprietary base | USB-C |
| Lighting | None | Sleep light, LED ring, sunrise |
| Interactivity | Tonies-on-top only | Tonies-on-top and Tonieplay support |
| Durability | Toddler-tough plush build | Robust, squishy and totally tumble-proof |
Final Thoughts: Which One’s For You?
- Original Toniebox offers charming simplicity and screen-free fun.
- Toniebox 2 preserves that magic while embracing thoughtful fresh features – especially appealing if you’re looking ahead or want that gentle wake-up glow.
Bottom line: I love that the new design allows children as young as 1 year old to be independent and make their own choices. However, if you’re not interested in the interactive features and Tonieplay then I would stick with the original player if you already have one and not upgrade.
However, if you’re purchasing new then for me I’d pay the additional £15 in the UK to have the latest version even if I had no intention of using the Tonieplay features. There is likely to be more support and further features may be added to the newer Toniebox 2 and I see this unlikely for the original.
Toniebox vs Toniebox 2 – FAQs
A: If you’re happy with the classic “pop a Tonies on top” simplicity, your original still does the job beautifully. But if you like the idea of USB-C charging, a sleep/wake light, and the option for interactive Tonieplay, the Toniebox 2 may be worth the switch.
A: Original Toniebox: Recommended for ages 3+.
Toniebox 2: Suitable from 1+, although some Tonies characters remain 3+ due to small parts. “First Tonies” are designed for younger listeners.
A: Yes! Every existing Tonies will work on the new Toniebox 2. You only need extra purchases (controller and game packs) if you’d like to use the interactive Tonieplay features.
A: UK: £94.99 (vs. £79.95 for the original).
US: Only available as bundles on preorder from October; prices vary by bundle.
A: Not unless you want to use the interactive features. The Toniebox 2 works just like the original without it.
Toniebox vs Toniebox 2 – More FAQs
A: From the tonies® website: ‘This toy produces flashes that may trigger epilepsy in sensitised individuals.’
A: Not unless you want to use the interactive features. The Toniebox 2 works just like the original without it.
A: It doesn’t appear so. I will investigate this further. Although, I’m wondering if the 1+ age may prohibit this feature.
A: Stick with the original if you already own it and don’t need interactive extras.
Choose the Toniebox 2 if you’re buying new – it’s future-proofed, more age-inclusive, and adds handy upgrades for everyday family life.
Where to Buy Tonies and Toniebox discount codes
My Tonies promotion page I update frequently (several times a week) with the latest spotted deals.
Sign up to email newsletter using the link below for 10% off in the US (T&Cs apply)
10% off first purchase with email sign up
US Tonies Offer:
Tonies BF Sale 25% off sitewide + up to $40 off Starter Sets
🔴US Sale – ‘Best Deals’ section on Tonies that are usually being discontinued (if any available)
🔴UK Sale – ‘Favourite Tonies on Sale’ section on Tonies that are usually being discontinued (if any available)
🔴Amazon – bundle deals
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