Are you a new mom-to-be looking for the best way to keep tabs on your precious bundle? Our guide to the best baby monitors on the market today can help you narrow down your choices.
We’ve spent a lot of time studying all kinds of baby monitors. We’ve experimented with many popular monitors, including audio, video, and smartphone options. We compared their battery life, range, safety features, and extra functions.
We’ll review the pros and cons of the best baby monitors and answer some frequently asked questions to help you choose the right one for your situation.
- Out-of -range alarm
- Changeable camera lenses
- Audio or screen-only options
- 1,000-foot range
- Temperature sensor
- Day and night vision
- Good two-way audio
- Ultra-sensitive microphone
- Lightweight
- Room temperature monitor and alarm
- Five built-in lullabies
- Split-screen viewing
- Five sound levels and vibration alerts
- 1,000-foot outdoor range, 160-feet indoors
- Doubles as a night light
- High-quality video output
- HD night vision
- Accommodates two-way talk
- Monitors micro movements
- Wireless
- Battery-operated system
- Compact and lightweight
- No Wi-Fi connection needed
- Doesn’t transmit white noise
- Good monitor picture
- Affordable price
- Accommodates up to four cameras
- HD video picture
- Can be accessed from anywhere
- Built-in night light
The Best Baby Monitors of 2024
Here are 11 great baby monitors for you to consider.
Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor
Best Baby Monitor for Twins
This baby monitor has one incredible camera. You can zoom, pan, and tilt the lens, all from the handheld video monitor. This allows you to get on with other things while your little ones are asleep.
It doesn’t matter if your twins share a room or have their own space; this monitor will grow with them. You can add a wide-angle lens and up to four cameras. We love that we can watch all our children at once while we do all the “mom stuff” around the house and yard.
It displays a clear, crisp picture on a 3.5-inch screen in a real-time video stream. Making out what your little treasures are up to will be a breeze.
The battery life is excellent, at eight hours while in use and 12 hours on standby. It even comes with a spare, so you will never have to worry about them running out. The sound transmits via a secure wireless transmission, so you don’t have to worry about the neighbors listening in on your babies’ twin talk.
This monitor covers all bases with night vision and a two-way talk feature.
We also love how versatile the Infant Optics monitor is. If you want to watch and listen, turn on the screen and audio. Want to settle down and watch your favorite Netflix series? Use the screen only. The monitor has illuminated LED lights to alert you to your babies’ cries.
Pros
- Out-of-range alarm.
- Nursery temperature display.
- Changeable camera lenses.
- Audio or screen-only options.
Cons
- The cameras aren’t wireless.
- Having other devices operating on the same frequency can sometimes cause interference.
Our Ratings
User Experience
VTech VM3252 Video Baby Monitor
Best Two-Way-Talk Monitor
Do you want to talk to your baby easily when you’re in another area of your house? The VTech VM3252 is the best baby monitor choice to make communication easy between you and your baby, even from 1,000 feet away! There’s no need to keep going back up and down the stairs. Save time and energy with this little gadget. Plus, it’s a good way to transition your baby to sleep in a separate room from you.
We also love that this monitor is super easy to set up. When it arrives, you just have to plug it in, and it’s ready to use.
Use the sound and lullaby function if you have dinner guests but your little one is struggling to get to sleep. There are five calming lullabies and four sets of ambient sounds, including white noise and a trickling stream. These soothing noises can help your baby drift off into a deep slumber.
Pros
- 1,000-foot range.
- Two-way talk system.
- Temperature sensor.
- Day and night vision.
Cons
- You can’t mute sound on the receiver.
- Poor battery life.
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Angelcare Sound and Movement Monitor
Best Audio Baby Monitor
This device not only monitors your baby’s every sound, but it also detects movement. A wireless sensor pad fits under the crib mattress, picking up the gentlest rise and fall of your baby’s chest. This gives you double the peace of mind when you aren’t at your little one’s side.
The digital audio is crystal clear, and the parent unit has a range of up to 750 feet. It also has a two-way talk function, meaning you can soothe your baby from anywhere with the sound of your voice.
The movement pad sets off an alarm if no movement is picked up for over 20 seconds. While this can sometimes trigger a false alarm if set on high sensitivity, many find it better to err on the side of caution.
The lightweight, rechargeable hand unit is battery operated and has a cradle for charging. Pop it in the cradle on your nightstand to ensure the battery doesn’t run low during the night.
Pros
- Good two-way audio, with the bonus of monitoring movement.
- Ultra-sensitive microphone.
- A favorite with parents of preemies or babies with health issues.
Cons
- The mat sensitivity settings might need some adjusting to prevent false alarms.
- Instructions can be a little confusing, especially if you are a technophobe.
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
VTech VM321 Video Baby Monitor
Best Long-Range Baby Monitor
This VTech video monitor has excellent audio and an impressive range of up to 1,000 feet. It can also cover up to 150 feet inside the home with no outages.
Is your laundry in the basement? You’ll have no worries with this monitor by your side.
DECT technology gives a good audio output, cutting background noise and preventing interference.
Other great features include a talk-back function, automatic built-in night vision, and a powerful zoom. You can watch and listen to your baby day and night, even in a dark nursery.
You can add up to three more cameras, letting you watch up to four kids overnight. You can also set cameras up in the rooms your baby uses most often, so you can keep your eyes on them at all times.
A 2.4 GHz frequency protects your privacy, and your security is protected. An ample 2.8-inch LCD screen provides a living color video screen. An alert will simply tell you when you’re out of range, meaning you can move around with confidence.
Pros
- Split-screen viewing.
- Room temperature monitor and alarm.
- Five built-in lullabies.
Cons
- The battery may not last all night.
- Additional cameras can interfere with sound quality.
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
VTech DM221 Digital Audio Baby Monitor
Best Baby Monitor for Deaf Parents
This VTech model is a top choice for deaf or hard-of-hearing parents. An indicator displays sound levels, making it easy for hard-of-hearing parents to “see” the sound in their baby’s room. There are five levels that may appear, so you can determine how urgent the cries or noises are.
This monitor includes one parent unit and one nursery unit. The parent unit also has a vibration alert. You can use the belt clip, hang it onto your clothing and still feel the vibrations when there’s a notification. You can take this up to 1,000 feet outdoors or 160 feet indoors, allowing you some flexibility while your baby is sleeping.
On the nursery unit, the top loop also functions as a night light. This allows your baby to see in the dark so they’re not scared. It also allows you to keep an eye on them without waking them up when you enter the room.
You can use the talk-back feature to speak to your baby through. Soothe them, sing them a song, or when they’re a bit older, you can have a conversation with them.
Pros
- Five sound levels and vibration alerts.
- 1,000-foot range outdoors, 160 feet indoors.
- Doubles as a night light.
- Talk-back system.
Cons
- Poor battery life; may need to remain plugged in at all times.
- Static sounding feedback.
Our Ratings
User Experience
Kodak Cherish C520 Video Baby Monitor
Best Video Baby Monitor
This video baby monitor from Kodak offers the best of both worlds. It has a 5-inch clear HD-quality screen and the ability to monitor from a smartphone via Wi-Fi. This is great for parents who need to travel for work but still want to keep tabs on their mini human.
You can also record these moments for posterity using the Kodak Smart Home app or an SD card for recording. After all, it’s great to see little ones interacting with their favorite bedtime teddy or discovering their toes. They will never forgive you for sharing these moments with their first boyfriend or girlfriend, though.
Other features include a two-way talk function, temperature alerts, night vision video, and sound and motion notifications. It will also play lullabies or white noise.
Pros
- Good for multi-tasking with split-screen mode.
- High-quality video output of 720p.
- Accommodates two-way talk.
Cons
- No pan or tilt option.
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Babysense 7 Video & Movement Monitor
Best Baby Breathing Monitor
This is a straightforward monitor designed for parents who just want to know that their baby is moving regularly. If you don’t want to be watching a monitor or listening to your baby’s every sound, the Babysense 7 might be best for you.
It has two thin pads you place under the mattress. While small and skinny, they have adequate coverage of the whole crib. Even the baby’s smallest and subtlest movements are detected.
The battery-operated system has no loose wires to cause you concern, and the unit doesn’t emit any radiation. This means safety for your baby and less worry for you.
An alarm is sent to the control unit if the pads detect your baby has been still for more than 20 seconds. This is particularly helpful for parents of preemie babies or anyone worried about SIDS.
The video monitor provides several handy features, such as room temperature monitoring, a night light, sound-activated LED indicators, an alarm, a timer, and double digital zoom. You can add up to three extra cameras and soothe your baby with white noise sounds and lullabies.
Pros
- Monitors micro-movements and helps monitor for SIDS.
- Baby’s environment is free from wires.
- It’s listed as a medical device in Europe, Australia, and other countries worldwide.
Cons
- Requires four AA batteries, which are not included.
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Philips Avent DECT Baby Monitor
Best Travel Baby Monitor
When you’re away from home, you want a baby monitor that will easily travel with you. This simple one from Philips could be the solution.
You don’t need to worry about Wi-Fi connections. Every sound your baby makes is transferred over a secure DECT connection from the nursery unit to the parent unit.
You can plug in the parent unit or use it with batteries. And the 1,000-f00t range means you can easily sit out on the balcony while your baby sleeps in your hotel room.
If you mute the sound on the parent unit, lights will alert you if your baby wakes up crying. There is also a comforting night light on the nursery unit.
This can be especially soothing when your little one is in an unfamiliar crib in a strange room. It can also light your way if you need to check on your baby at night, saving you from having stubbed toes.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight.
- No Wi-Fi connection needed to operate.
- Works with 220V, making it good for travel.
- Highly sensitive to baby sounds.
- Doesn’t transmit white noise.
Cons
- The nursery unit isn’t cordless.
- You can’t talk to your baby through the unit.
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Babysense Video Baby Monitor
Best Budget Baby Monitor
This video baby monitor from Babysense has a decent coverage range, up to 900 feet outside and 160 feet indoors. This lets you move about freely and still have eyes on your baby.
A wireless digital connection gives privacy and an uninterrupted signal. It also has a built-in alarm, should you move out of range or if the battery is low. You know your little one is covered at all times.
The 2.4-inch screen provides a clear picture, and you can control a pan-and-zoom function on the camera from the handheld parent unit.
Other features include a two-way talk-back function, a temperature sensor, built-in lullabies, and infrared night vision. An LED light display alerts you if your baby cries when the unit is in silent mode.
The battery life is about eight hours, but the unit has a power-saving eco mode. When in use, this detects sound and turns the handheld unit on.
Pros
- Good monitor picture.
- Affordable price.
- Will accommodate up to four cameras.
Cons
- The power cord is a little short.
- The unit frequently beeps as connection is interrupted.
Our Ratings
User Experience
Nanit Smart Baby Monitor and Wall Mount
Best Wi-Fi Baby Monitor
Nanit provides your eye in the sky with a wall-mounted, over-crib camera and monitoring unit. It’s easy to install. Simply pair it with your Apple or Android device, and you’re all set.
The live stream transmits via Wi-Fi, even when your internet is down. You can even watch what your baby is doing in the crib while you’re away from home. This is super helpful for evenings out when a babysitter has your little one. You can see if your baby is sleeping well, allowing you to enjoy one last drink before coming home. (Just be sure to let your sitter know you can view the camera from anywhere.)
If you want to take a closer look, you can zoom in and out.
Soothe your baby back to sleep from the comfort of your bed with the two-way talk function. Or tell an older toddler to lie down and go back to sleep instead of playing with their teddies.
You won’t miss a moment of your baby’s day, or night, with the saved videos. You can also share videos and images with family by granting them access to the monitor. A bonus is you can restrict this whenever you want, so Grandma can watch only when you want her to.
Pros
- Dashboard tracks sleep patterns and gives you a report.
- HD video quality picture.
- It can be accessed from anywhere.
- Built-in night light that can be remotely controlled.
Cons
- Subscription is required for full accessibility after a 30-day free trial.
- It can drain your device’s battery quickly.
- The camera does not turn or rotate.
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Axvue 720P 5-Inches HD Video Baby Monitor
Best Dual Baby Monitor
If you’re visually challenged, you will love the 5-inch screen on this monitor. It includes two cameras for dual-monitoring different angles.
In the real world, doors and walls can interfere with range, but this monitor can operate up to 1,000 feet unobstructed. Its 6x zoom and continuous room-temperature detection will save you many trips to the nursery.
We were pleasantly surprised by the clarity and quality of the camera in night vision mode, which kicks in automatically in low-light situations.
A coded wireless transmission secures your privacy. Other features include sound-activated lights and room temperature display.
Many parents appreciate that this baby monitor does not use Wi-Fi to transmit video for real-time monitoring, as hackers can potentially access Wi-Fi monitors.
Pros
- No Wi-Fi needed.
- Easy to use interface.
- Good vision and split-screen function.
- One click shortcut.
- Can use monitor with multiple cameras.
Cons
- There is no mute button.
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Types of Baby Monitors
There are many variations of baby monitors you can choose from, depending on your needs and budget. Some are simple and straightforward, while others come with all the bells and whistles. Here are some types to consider:
Audio Only Baby Monitors
These monitors have a listening unit in the nursery that pairs with one or more parent units. It transmits your baby’s cries and gurgles, letting you keep an ear on what they are doing. You will be able to hear when they wake after a nap, or cry for milk in the middle of the night.
Audio and Video
This one gives you eyes and ears on your munchkin when they are in their crib or playing in their playpen. Some video units output to a dedicated monitor, while others allow you to use smartphones, tablets, or computers as the receiver. These devices might have multiple cameras, letting you watch more than one child simultaneously.
Motion and Breathing Monitors
These are either placed in your baby’s bed or attached to their diaper or clothing. As you might have noticed, babies are rarely still for long, even if it’s just the gentle rise and fall of their chest. The sensors on these units send a signal that triggers an alarm if your baby hasn’t moved for more than about 20 seconds.
How to Choose a Baby Monitor
When compiling our list of the best baby monitors, these are the top features we review:
Screen Size and Clarity
Usually, the larger the screen, the more details it will reveal, and the easier it will be to see. Checking on your baby will be a breeze with just a glance. However, you might find that a small screen or a smartphone will give a clearer picture. You will be checking their breathing frequently using the screen, so this is a very important feature.
Camera
Some cameras can be controlled from the monitor, letting you zoom, pan, or tilt to the angle you want. This is useful if you have two children sleeping in the same room.
We also check the camera quality: You want a good picture; otherwise, it defeats the purpose of having a video monitor.
Night Vision
It helps to be able to see what your baby is doing when the lights are out or the shades are closed. This means you won’t be turning on lights unnecessarily and waking them up. Many cameras have infrared, allowing you to see in the dark through the monitor.
Range and Signal
Think about the size of your home or how far away you are likely to move from your baby. You might have to wash your laundry in the basement, or you may need to pop into the backyard. You need a monitor that can transmit over the distance you require without losing its signal.
Battery Life
Being tied to a constantly plugged-in monitor will restrict your movements. Some monitors include functions like screen sleeping to help save the battery. Others allow you to change the battery or come with a spare. This will ensure you can keep your baby close, even if only on a screen, at all times.
Durability
Do you have a toddler who likes to pick things up and throw them? Or perhaps you have a fur baby who thinks it’s fun to run off with the TV remote, as mine does. Make sure your monitor can withstand a few bumps and scrapes.
Cost
Having a baby means your purse strings have already been stretched. Despite that, you can’t put a price on peace of mind. Some baby monitors cost $30, while others cost more than $300. Price isn’t always an indicator of quality. Look for the features you desire in a monitor, and stick with well-known brands. Choose the best monitor you can afford; it doesn’t have to be multifunctional, as long as it does the job.
Extras
Monitors can have many additional features. These include visual crying alerts, like lights on a parent unit, buzzing or vibration alerts, and temperature gauges in the nursery unit. Two-way audio, and in the case of some smartphone apps, video, will let you soothe your little one with your voice.
Baby Monitor Safety
Your baby’s safety is paramount, so with this in mind, here are some tips for setting up a baby monitor in the nursery (1):
- Don’t place a monitor directly on or in a crib: The nursery monitor should be kept well out of your baby’s reach. Even a cordless device should not be situated in or on a crib. For breathing and motion devices, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s directions for positioning.
- Secure cords away from the crib: Wires must be located at least 3 feet away from the reach of tiny hands. Babies grow quickly and learn to explore their surroundings. Make sure you reassess the positioning of wires and monitors regularly.
- Security and privacy: Analog monitors can allow other nearby devices to listen in. Digital monitors encrypt transmitted information, making them more secure. If you are using a Wi-Fi connection with a smartphone, make sure you have good security and encryption to prevent hackers from tuning in (2).
Baby Monitor FAQs
How Do I Set Up a Baby Monitor?
This is usually a pretty straightforward process. I’m not technically minded, but I followed the manufacturer’s instructions and set up my system in minutes. Each monitor is different, so make sure you follow the directions carefully. Most companies will even post video tutorials online. If you’re struggling to understand the written instructions, check YouTube for a video.
Are Baby Monitor Temperatures Accurate?
The insights given by users vary greatly concerning temperature accuracy for baby monitors. Some seem to read warmer or colder, while others are precise. If you are unsure how accurate yours is, check it against a separate room thermometer you can rely on.
Can a Baby Monitor Be Hacked?
If passwords are not secure or the app or device you’re using does not have sufficient security certificates or encryption, yes, your baby monitor can be hacked. Research the product well and make sure you set up secure passwords and change them regularly.
Can Baby Monitors Prevent SIDS?
SIDS, or sudden infant death syndrome, is quite rare, but it’s still a worry for many parents, especially if you have a preemie. Some monitors detect breathing and movement, but they cannot prevent SIDS. There is no link between short periods of apnea (not breathing) and SIDS (3).
Experts recommend you place your baby to sleep on their back and have a firm mattress. Parents often hate how firm their baby’s mattress is, but there is a safety reason for that (4).
When Should I Stop Using a Baby Monitor?
A baby monitor is a way to keep your baby close and also have your own space. When their babies get a little older, many parents decide to keep their monitor volume low because babies are LOUD sleepers. Some parents keep using their baby monitor until their baby becomes a child, while others feel like they can hear their little one down the hall without it.
Each individual set of circumstances is different. If you have a large house, you might still want to use a monitor into your child’s early years. They can also still be useful for daytime naps.
In the infant safe sleeping recommendations, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests room sharing with your newborn for at least 6 months to a year.
Where Should I Put My Baby Monitor in the Nursery?
You will want a clear view of your baby in their bed, but make sure the monitor is at least 3 feet away. There should be no wires within reach of curious little hands.
Do Doctors Recommend Baby Monitors?
Doctors don’t universally recommend baby monitors, but they can acknowledge their usefulness in monitoring your baby, especially in cases where the baby has health issues or is sleeping in a separate room.
However, they often emphasize that monitors should not replace direct supervision and safe sleep practices.
Should You Have a Baby Monitor On All Night?
Keeping a baby monitor on all night can provide peace of mind, allowing you to hear or see if your baby needs attention. It’s especially helpful in the early months when babies often wake up several times during the night.
What Is the Difference Between a Baby Monitor and a Smart Camera?
A baby monitor is specifically designed for monitoring babies, often featuring two-way audio, temperature sensors, lullabies, and other baby-centric functions. A smart camera, while it can be used to monitor babies, is more general-purpose and might lack baby-specific features.
What Are the Best Brands of Baby Monitors?
Some of the best brands of baby monitors include Philips Avent, VTech, Infant Optics, and Nanit. These brands are well-regarded for their reliability, quality of video and audio, and additional features catering to babies’ and parents’ needs.
What Is the Number 1 Best Baby Monitor?
No “number 1 best” baby monitor exists because “the best” can vary based on individual needs and preferences. But the VTech Video Baby Monitor is highly rated as one of the best all-around baby monitors with two-way features and a screen.
