Look, after splitting with my ex, I quickly learned that “effective and reliable” means different things depending on your situation.
For me, the big ones are:
Actual reliability - Does it work when you need it? Nothing worse than paying for an app that randomly stops updating or crashes. Read real user reviews, not just the marketing fluff.
What you actually need to see - I mostly care about location and who he’s texting. Some parents want full social media access. Don’t overpay for features you won’t use.
Ease of use - I’m not a tech wizard. If setup requires a PhD in computer science, it’s not for me.
Price vs. custody schedule - If you only have your kid every other weekend, a $100/month plan might be overkill.
The kid’s phone OS - Some apps work better on iPhone vs Android. Make sure it’s compatible before you buy.
Stealth vs. transparency - Personally, my teen knows I can check in. Better relationship that way, but your mileage may vary.
The “best” app is honestly the one you’ll actually use consistently without wanting to throw your phone across the room. What’s your custody situation like?