Best Yo-Yos of 2026

Jimmy Roof Avatar
Jimmy Roof
Last Updated: Jan 12, 2026

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Yo-yos are a classic toy that have been enjoyed by generations of children and adults alike. These simple toys consist of a spool attached to a string that can be manipulated to perform a variety of tricks and stunts. Yo-yos come in a wide range of styles and designs, from basic models for beginners to high-end models for advanced players. They are a great way to improve hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and focus, and can provide hours of entertainment for people of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned yo-yo pro or just starting out, there's a yo-yo out there that's perfect for you.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Duncan Toys Limelight LED Light-Up Yo-Yo Cover #TOP 1
Duncan Toys Limelight LED Light-Up Yo-Yo
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo Cover #TOP 2
Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Duncan Toys Imperial Yo-Yo Cover #TOP 3
Duncan Toys Imperial Yo-Yo
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Yo-Yos

#TOP 1

Duncan Toys Limelight LED Light-Up Yo-Yo

3517LL
Mystery Color
Duncan Toys Limelight LED Light-Up Yo-Yo Cover
Duncan Toys Limelight LED Light-Up Yo-Yo, Beginner Level Yo-Yo with LED Lights, Colors May Vary

The Duncan Toys Limelight LED Light-Up Yo-Yo is a beginner level yo-yo that creates a light show on the string with its clear body and special LED light technology. The plastic transaxle design is ideal for looping tricks, while the durable polycarbonate plastic construction makes it long-lasting. This yo-yo is perfect for beginners looking to learn the basics while having fun with its starburst response and modern design.

What We Like
Bright LED lights
Good for beginners
Easy to use
Reasonable price
Fun for kids
What We Don't Like
Limited trick options
String quality could improve
#TOP 2

Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo

3124BU-BL
Blue
2.25 inches
Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo Cover
Duncan Toys Butterfly Yo-Yo, Beginner Yo-Yo with String, Steel Axle and Plastic Body, Blue

The Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo is a durable and beginner-friendly yo-yo designed for learning the basics. Made from high-impact plastic, it can withstand the wear and tear that comes with practice. The flared body shape and wide string gap make it perfect for performing string tricks, while the steel axle ensures smooth performance and fast spins. With its starburst response system, this yo-yo is easy to control and land on the string. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, the Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo is a great choice for hours of yo-yoing fun.

What We Like
Classic Duncan design
Good price and value
Fun for kids and adults
Sturdy and authentic packaging
Easy to fix string issues
What We Don't Like
Color may not match photo
String may need adjustment
#TOP 3

Duncan Toys Imperial Yo-Yo

3124IM-BL
Blue
Duncan Toys Imperial Yo-Yo Cover
Duncan Toys Imperial Yo-Yo, Beginner Yo-Yo with String, Steel Axle and Plastic Body, Blue

The Duncan Imperial Yo-Yo is a classic and timeless favorite, perfect for beginners. Its smart design features a narrow string gap, steel axle, and plastic body, making it ideal for looping tricks and basic string tricks. Made from durable, high-impact plastic, this yo-yo is built to last. The modular design allows for easy unscrewing of the halves for untangling the string or applying lubrication. With its starburst response system, the Duncan Imperial Yo-Yo provides a great learning experience for children and teens. Get ready to embark on your yo-yo journey with this beginner-friendly yo-yo.

What We Like
Classic nostalgic design
Affordable pricing
Fun for all ages
Therapeutic and relaxing
Great as a gift
What We Don't Like
Minor quality issues
Screenprinting wears off quickly

Duncan Toys Reflex Auto Return Yo-Yo

3513AR-GR
Green
Duncan Toys Reflex Auto Return Yo-Yo Cover
Duncan Toys Reflex Auto Return Yo-Yo, Beginner String Trick Yo-Yo, Green

The Duncan Toys Reflex Auto Return Yo-Yo is designed for beginners and has features such as auto return, take-apart design, and a centrifugal clutch. The yo-yo returns without needing to tug the string, and removing knots is easy with the twist-apart design. The centrifugal clutch engages around the axle when the yo-yo loses spin, causing it to snap back automatically. This yo-yo model is perfect for learning the basics of yo-yoing and comes in green with a starburst response system.

What We Like
Auto-return feature
Beginner-friendly design
Durable build quality
Suitable for kids and adults
Lightweight and portable
What We Don't Like
Short sleep time
String durability
#TOP 5

Duncan First Yo! Beginner Yo-Yo

3619XP-BG
Blue/Green
Duncan First Yo! Beginner Yo-Yo Cover
Duncan Toys First Yo! - Best Beginner Yo-Yo for Kids, Responsive Yo Yo, YoYo Toy - Blue/Green

The Duncan First Yo! is a great starter yo-yo designed especially for young kids and beginners. Its soft silicone body makes it safe and comfortable to use, even for toddlers just learning the ropes. You’ll find it easy to use because it’s very responsive, so the yo-yo comes back to your hand quickly, helping you feel successful right away. Plus, the shorter string length gives you better control, making it easier to learn tricks and avoid tangles. Built with trusted Duncan quality, this yo-yo is durable and designed to boost your confidence as you practice and play.

What We Like
Soft silicone body
Highly durable construction
Easy for beginners
Kid-safe design
Responsive up-and-down play
What We Don't Like
String may wear quickly
Limited trick capability
#TOP 6

Yomega Fireball YoYo -HIGH Performance Responsive Transaxle Yoyo, Great for String Tricks for Advance Players to Perform Like Pros + Extra 2 yo yo Strings & 3 Month Warranty (Red/Black)

2155B,2152B
Red/Black
58.4Mm
Yomega Fireball YoYo -HIGH Performance Responsive Transaxle Yoyo, Great for String Tricks for Advance Players to Perform Like Pros + Extra 2 yo yo Strings & 3 Month Warranty (Red/Black) Cover
Yomega Fireball YoYo -HIGH Performance Responsive Transaxle Yoyo, Great for String Tricks for Advance Players to Perform Like Pros + Extra 2 yo yo Strings & 3 Month Warranty (Red/Black)

The Yomega Fireball is a high performance transaxle yoyo that is great for players of all levels. It has a modular design that makes it easy to unscrew and untangle strings or apply lubrication. It also comes with an extra two strings and a three month warranty. Customers have found it to be durable and great for beginners and advanced players alike. However, some customers have found that the yoyo does not respond as well as they would like and that it can be difficult to wind the string properly.

What We Like
Durable build quality
Smooth, long spins
Responsive return
Great for beginners
Nostalgic design
What We Don't Like
Minor string issue
Wide gap for some tricks
#TOP 7

Big Time Toys Automatic Return Yoyo Party Pack

92037
Multicolor
2.25 inches
Big Time Toys Automatic Return Yoyo Party Pack Cover
Big Time Toys Yoyo Ball Automatic Return Yoyo, Party Pack of 5, Assorted Colors and Patterns, Never Needs rewinding, New Twist on Old Fun, Enhances Motor Skills and Hand-Eye Coordination

The Big Time Toys Auto Return Yoyo offers a fresh take on the classic yoyo experience by never requiring rewinding, so you can focus on mastering tricks without interruption. Designed for all ages starting at 3 years old, it’s a fun gift that suits everyone from toddlers to adults. Playing with this yoyo is not only entertaining but also helps improve your motor skills and hand-eye coordination, making it a great tool for skill development. Plus, its versatility means you can enjoy it solo or bring it along to parties, parks, or beaches to impress friends and spark conversations.

What We Like
Durable plastic construction
Fun, colorful patterns
Great value multipack
Entertaining for kids
What We Don't Like
Limited pattern variety
String can be hard to release

Duncan Pulse LED Yo-Yo

3572XP-BL
Blue
57.5 millimeters
Duncan Pulse LED Yo-Yo Cover
Duncan Toys Pulse LED Light-Up Yo-Yo, Intermediate Level Yo-Yo with Ball Bearing Axle and LED Lights, Clear/Blue

The Duncan Pulse Yo-Yo is designed for intermediate players looking to enhance their skills. With its unique LED light-up feature, the yo-yo creates a dazzling display of colors and patterns as it spins, making your tricks even more exciting. The ball-bearing axle ensures long, smooth spins, allowing you to perform advanced looping and wrap-style tricks with ease. Its durable, high-impact polycarbonate construction means it can withstand frequent use, so you can practice without worry. This yo-yo combines fun and functionality, perfect for those looking to impress their friends.

What We Like
LED lights add excitement
Ball bearing for smooth spin
Fun for all ages
Easy for beginners and tricks
Durable build quality
What We Don't Like
String may be too long
Occasional LED light issues
#TOP 9

Flahard 24 Pcs LED Light-Up Yo-Yos Party Favors

Flahard-Y048
Flahard 24 Pcs LED Light-Up Yo-Yos Party Favors Cover
24 Pcs Birthday Party Favors Light up Yo Yo Ball Bulk LED Responsive Ball Auto Return Bearing Balls Yoyo for Beginner Birthday Classroom Bag Fillers Prizes Gifts, 6 Colors

The Flahard LED Yo-Yo Set includes 24 colorful, light-up yo-yos, perfect for birthday parties and group events. With six different designs, you get a variety of stylish options that appeal to both teens and adults. Each yo-yo is made from durable plastic, so it can handle regular play without breaking easily. The built-in LED lights automatically glow when you spin the yo-yo, making it more fun and catching attention. Sized just right for beginners, these yo-yos are easy to hold and use, helping you learn tricks and improve hand-eye coordination while enjoying a bright, glowing toy.

What We Like
Variety of designs
Durable plastic build
Automatic LED lights
Beginner-friendly size
#TOP 10

Bioristar LED Light Up Yo-Yo

4 Pack LED Light Up Yoyo
Bioristar LED Light Up Yo-Yo Cover
Bioristar LED Light Up Yo Yo Yoyo for Kids Beginner Yo Yo 4 Pack (4 Pack LED Light Up Yo Yo)

The Bioristar LED Yo-Yo is an ideal toy for kids aged 5 and up, providing hours of entertainment and skill-building. This responsive yo-yo is easy to use, making it perfect for beginners. As you practice, you'll enhance your hand-eye coordination and motor skills, which are essential for overall development. The durable plastic construction ensures longevity, while the automatic return feature boosts your confidence as you learn new tricks. Plus, the vibrant LED lights add excitement, making it a great choice for parties and gatherings.

What We Like
Light-up feature
Fun for all ages
Good for learning basics
Variety of colors
What We Don't Like
Somewhat fragile build
Lights may stop working quickly
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Yo-Yos

Material

The material of the yo-yo plays a significant role in its performance and durability. Look for yo-yos made from high-quality materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, or durable plastic. These materials ensure a smooth spin, good weight distribution, and resistance to wear and tear.

Responsiveness

Consider whether you want a responsive or unresponsive yo-yo. Responsive yo-yos are ideal for beginners as they automatically return to your hand when you tug the string. Unresponsive yo-yos are designed for more advanced players and require a binding technique to return. Choose the type that matches your skill level and preference.

Weight and Balance

The weight and balance of a yo-yo affect its stability and ease of control. Lighter yo-yos are generally better for faster tricks, while heavier ones provide more stability and longer spin times. Consider your skill level and the type of tricks you want to perform when choosing the weight and balance that suit you.

Bearing Type

The bearing in a yo-yo determines its spin time and responsiveness. Yo-yos can have different bearing types, such as flat bearings, center trac bearings, or ball bearings. Each type offers different characteristics, so choose the bearing type that matches your playing style and desired performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 2 types of yoyos?

There are two main types of yoyos: imperial® shaped, which have a rounded shape, and butterfly-shaped yoyos. These two shapes represent different styles of yoyos and offer different play experiences.

2. Do kids still play with yoyos?

Yes, kids still play with yoyos, although the design and features have evolved over time. Modern yoyos now have bearings that allow them to spin longer, making them more enjoyable and forgiving to play with. Kids can have fun learning tricks and performing with these upgraded yoyos.

3. Why do people play with yoyos?

Playing with yoyos offers several benefits. It helps children develop eye-hand coordination, boosts their confidence as they learn new tricks, and enhances their socialization skills as they perform these tricks for others. Yoyoing also encourages kids to engage in active play and reduces their reliance on television and video games.

Editor's Notes

During our yo-yo research, we found 24 yo-yo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 181,437 customer reviews through our big data system to write the yo-yos list. We found that most customers choose yo-yos with an average price of $14.19.

The yo-yos are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of yo-yos, including Duncan, Yomega, Big Time Toys, Flahard, Bioristar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jimmy Roof Avatar

Jimmy Roof is a toy designer who lives in Chicago with his family. He works in a big toy firm, so he is surrounded by toys every day. Throughout his career, he has developed expertise in children's toys, baby products and preschool education. Jimmy Roof often publishes articles related to toys on key websites.

Yo-Yos Comparison Table

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Brand Duncan Duncan Duncan Duncan Duncan Yomega Big Time Toys Duncan Flahard Bioristar
Item Weight 1.92 ounces 1.72 ounces 0.004 ounces 2.02 ounces 0.05 Kilograms 52 Grams 1.12 pounds 0.12 Pounds 1 pounds 0.33 Pounds
Manufacturer recommended age 24 months - 6 years 6 - 6 years 6 years and up 6 - 17 years 5 years and up 8 years and up 3 years and up 6 - 6 years 3 years and up 3 years and up
Skill Level Beginner Beginner All Beginner Beginner Intermediate All Intermediate - Beginner
Age Range (Description) Adult Kid Kid Kid Kid 8+ 36 months to 180 months Kid - Kid
Manufacturer Maximum Age 72.0 72.0 480.0 200.0 1000.0 1188.00 1200 72.0 - 840.00
Manufacturer Minimum Age (MONTHS) 24.0 72.0 72.0 72.0 60.0 96.00 36.0 72.0 - 36.00
Release date October 20, 2020 December 18, 2020 December 18, 2020 October 12, 2020 June 15, 2022 November 1, 2019 November 28, 2018 October 12, 2020 - -
Global Trade Identification Number 00071617009007, 00885913407470 00071617840853 00071617840785 00071617840914 00071617107345 - 00703086920377 00071617841003 - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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