A baby monitor allows you to monitor your baby when you aren’t in the same room together. It can provide peace of mind for parents or guardians while children are asleep in their bedrooms or playing in an adjacent room. Baby monitors can perform a wide variety of functions beyond just listening for or viewing your little bundle of joy.
We reviewed numerous baby monitors to find the best ones online through Amazon. We considered the various types available – from simple listening devices to the more sophisticated WiFi services that allow you to view your child through your phone. Among the various baby monitors we looked at, we sorted through one and two parent models, wireless video cameras, 2-way audio, and those that allow for multiple cameras.
We chose the Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor with Optical Lens as our favorite overall pick because it offers visual footage of your baby or nursery, and features multiple functions for customizing your monitoring.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Baby Monitors
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Baby Monitor Overall | Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor with Optical Lens | 4.4 |
| Best Video Baby Monitor | Hello Baby Monitor with Remote Camera and Night Vision | 4.5 |
| Best Budget Baby Monitor | Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with One Parent Unit | 4.2 |
| Best WiFi Baby Monitor | Victure FHD Baby Monitor Camera Wireless | 4.5 |
| Best Baby Monitor with 2 Way Audio | Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with Intercom & Night Light | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Baby Monitor Overall: Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor with Optical Lens
The Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor with Optical Lens is an award-winning baby monitor that features a number of ways to view your baby and offers a multitude of other functions to check-up on him. Place the camera wherever your child is located, and keep tabs on him for up to 700 feet. The camera has a 330-degree rotation and 100-degree tilt capability so you can position the camera precisely how you want it. Even better, remotely move the camera to pan around the room from a distance. Included is an interchangeable lens, giving you the option of normal, wide-angle, and zoom viewing.
The Infant Optics baby monitor allows you to add up to four cameras around your home. The unit also features infrared night vision, so when the lights are low or it’s the middle of the night, you can still see your baby in the nursery. This baby monitor doesn’t use the Internet, so there is no fear of someone hacking your unit. The video and audio are transmitted over a secure channel.
The rechargeable battery has up to eight hours of live screen time and 12 hours for audio-only mode. Sound-activated lights allow you to listen for your baby and save on battery life while the screen is off. Talk with your child through the 2-way intercom function, or monitor the temperature of the room remotely. The unit even offers an alarm clock so you can set alerts to be reminded when it’s feeding time.
Infant Optics Video Baby Monitor with Optical Lens Key Features:
- Multiple lenses for panoramic and zoom features
- Add up to three additional cameras
- Transmission is secure
- Sound activated indicator light
- Includes a remote thermometer
- Infrared night vision capability
- Includes intercom for 2-way talking
Best Video Baby Monitor: Hello Baby Monitor with Remote Camera and Night Vision
Our top choice for a video baby monitor is the Hello Baby Monitor with Remote Camera and Night Vision. Monitor your baby up to 1,000 feet away, and remotely position the camera for capturing different angles of the room. The camera features 355 degrees of rotation and 120 degrees of vertical movement so you always have a good view of your baby. It also features the ability to zoom in for a closer look. And when it’s dark, the infrared kicks in to give you clear night vision. Add up to four cameras to the one monitor.
The Hello Baby baby monitor includes a 2-way intercom so you can talk to your child from the other room. Keep an eye on the temperature of the nursery through the thermometer sensor on the camera’s base. The monitor also features the capability of broadcasting up to eight soothing lullabies to help lull him to sleep. When you want to conserve battery life and shut the screen off, switch to audio-only. The unit is sound-activated and features an LED indicator bar to alert you when your baby is making noise.
This baby monitor comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and two power chargers. Also included is a kit to mount the device to your wall.
Hello Baby Monitor with Remote Camera and Night Vision Key Features:
- Room temperature sensor
- Use up to four cameras
- Has eight lullaby options
- Includes night vision capability
- LED sound level indicator
- 2-way intercom
- Range up to 1,000 feet
- Rechargeable battery
- Wall mounting option
Best Budget Baby Monitor: Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with One Parent Unit
When budget is a concern, our favorite pick is the Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with One Parent Unit. This baby monitor provides clear transmission and allows you to hear your child from a distance of up to 1,000 feet. The audio transmission uses an encrypted signal so you are the only one who can hear your child. The unit includes a belt clip so you can monitor your baby as you move about your home. The device takes batteries, which are not included, for on-the-go monitoring, or can be plugged in when you need to use it for an extended period of time.
The Vtech baby monitor features a sound-activated LED indicator bar for when the volume is turned down on your parent unit. The bars give you a visual of the noise coming from the nursery. The unit features a low battery and power indicator light to let you know the status of your device. It also emits alert tones when the battery is low, and when the parent unit and base unit are out of range and not connected. This baby monitor is also available with two parent units.
Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with One Parent Unit Key Features:
- Visual indicator of noise level while the unit is muted
- Includes belt clip for on-the-go movement
- Clear transmission with encrypted signal
- Includes low battery and power indicator light
- System beeps when out of range or battery is low
- Powered by standard wall outlet with battery backup option
Best WiFi Baby Monitor: Victure FHD Baby Monitor Camera Wireless
Your phone is already glued to your hip. How convenient would it be to watch your baby from your phone? Our favorite choice for the best WiFi baby monitor is the Victure FHD Baby Monitor Camera Wireless. This camera has a 120-degree wide-angle lens to view a large area. Place the camera anywhere you want to monitor, whether it sits on a table or mounts to the wall or ceiling. With the help of cloud storage – the first month is free – the unit automatically begins recording when the camera detects any movement. The baby monitor then sends an alert message directly to your phone, and you can view the recorded video. A micro SD card is also supported, but not included.
The Victure WiFi baby monitor automatically switches to night vision when the light is dimmed or the room grows dark. It has advanced night capabilities thanks to eight infrared LEDs, which allow you to see your baby in pitch black up to 20 feet. And when you want to soothe her back to sleep or assure her you are there, the 2-way intercom allows you to speak with your baby through your phone.
Victure FHD Baby Monitor Camera Wireless Key Features:
- Night vision capability up to 20 feet in dark
- 2-way intercom
- View from any tablet or smartphone
- Video saves to cloud storage or optional SD card
- 120-degree, wide-angle lens
Best Baby Monitor with 2 Way Audio: Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with Intercom & Night Light
If you’re looking for a baby monitor that not only keeps tabs on your child but allows you to speak with her as well, then check out the Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with Intercom & Night Light. This monitor features a 2-way transmission so your baby can hear you. And with a belt clip to attach the receiver to, you can walk around your home while monitoring her. The rechargeable batteries allow for up to 18 hours of continuous listening, with a range of up to 1,000 feet.
The Vtech baby monitor with intercom is available with two parent units, so you can leave one unit on a table while you walk around with the second one. The base unit features a night light for your little one, while the parent unit offers you the option to turn the sound off but still monitor the nursery. A sound-activated indicator lights up on your parent unit to alert you to noise. You also have the option for the unit to vibrate when the unit is muted.
Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with Intercom & Night Light Key Features:
- Clear transmission with no white noise
- Noise level indicator when unit is muted
- Up to 18 hours on single charge
- Available as two units
- Silent vibration alert while unit is muted
- Night light has automatic shutoff
- Lighted digital display
- Low battery indicator
Who Should Buy a Baby Monitor
You’ve put your baby to bed in the nursery, but it’s down the hall and you can’t hear her crying from your own bedroom. It’s nap time, but your child is being fussy. You need to get dinner ready, but the kitchen is on the other side of the house. You’ve employed a babysitter to watch your kids while you go out to dinner but would feel better if you could check up on them. You and your significant other would like to go to a movie, but you’re concerned about leaving your new puppy.
Baby monitors provide a way to check up on your kids or animals from another part of the house. Some work through audio-only, but others have a screen so you can visually see what’s going on. And other types of baby monitors use WiFi to send audio and visual to your phone, allowing you to check in from just about anywhere. These monitors also come with a number of other functions, such as a night light, 2-way intercom, alarms and alerts, and cloud storage.
Important Features to Consider
A baby monitor should do several things well and have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a baby monitor:
- Audio, video, or both. Consider what you want from a baby monitor. Are you looking for visual confirmation of your child or do you want a device that provides auditory proof only? Video monitors give you the opportunity to have eyes on your kid or nursery, and some let you remotely control the angle and positioning of the camera. All baby monitors feature sound, and most also provide a visual indicator for sound when the volume is down.
- The type of connection required. Baby monitors can be powered by a standard outlet or via batteries. Many of them are functional with a rechargeable battery. The amount of time you get from one charge varies with the brand of monitor. Some baby monitors may require you to purchase batteries separately. Another connection to consider is how the video or audio is transmitted from the base unit to the parent unit. Baby monitors are available as wireless, typically using an encrypted signal over a secure channel, and vary in how far the signal reaches. Other monitors offer a WiFi connection so you can view your child from just about anywhere.
- Additional functions for customization. Are there other features you would like to have with your baby monitor? Consider what other functions may be either essential or convenient. Monitors provide an array of extras including 2-way audio so you can talk to your baby, pre-programmed lullabies to soothe your child, infrared night vision so you can still see your baby in the dark, and alert tones for a variety of safety features.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a baby monitor work?
Baby monitors work through either analog or digital technology. The base of the monitor is placed where you want to monitor the child. It transmits either sound or image via a microphone or lens through waves to wherever the receiver is located. This allows you to listen to or watch your baby without being in the same room.
Can baby monitors be hacked?
Unfortunately yes, baby monitors can be hacked. However, it’s not common and many companies take precautions so that doesn’t happen. Radio monitors cover a short-range and transmit over an encrypted channel. Hackers would not only have to be in the range of the baby monitor, but they would have to bypass the encryption. WiFi monitors connect to your home network, leaving it as vulnerable as your computer, phone, or tablet. A hacker would have to bypass your personal router. Other models work over the internet, and these are the most vulnerable.
How long should you use a baby monitor?
Most parents stop using a baby monitor when their child is roughly 6 months old. This is the typical age when a child begins sleeping peacefully through the night. Experts warn to stop looking in on your child as soon as your kid is done with nightly feedings. Otherwise, your child may never learn to sleep through the night. Besides, you’ll get a better night’s rest yourself.
Where should you place a baby monitor?
A baby monitor can be placed inside your home in any area you wish to watch your child or pet. Monitors should be placed where all parties are aware to ensure everyone knows which areas are being watched and which are private.
Baby monitors should be placed at least six feet away from your baby and set in a spot that gives you the best sound or view. Microphones on baby monitors are designed to pick up the slightest noise, but they still need to be close enough to your child. Depending on the baby monitor model you select, you may have the option to rotate, tilt, and zoom the camera, either manually or remotely, to create the best angle.
Other Baby Monitors We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other baby monitors. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best baby monitor list, they’re the best of the rest and are still great options for keeping an eye on your baby. The information you need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Baby Monitors with Multiple Cameras
GoodBaby Video Baby Monitor with Camera and Audio
GoodBaby offers a video baby monitor that has a range of up to 1,000 feet, a 360-degree rotation, and features wireless technology. The rechargeable battery allows for up to 8 hours of screen time. This baby monitor has night vision capability and can connect up to four cameras.
Key Features:
- Includes 2-way intercom, and eight pre-programmed lullabies
- Unit has auto-standby mode to save battery life
- Monitors room temperature, and has a noise indicator light
Cost: $60
The HeimVision baby monitor features a 5-inch screen, a range of up to 1,000 feet, 360-degree camera rotation and 110-degree tilt, enhanced night vision capability, and pre-programmed lullabies.
Key Features:
- Set up to four cameras
- Up to 5 hours on a single charge
- Includes audio and room temperature alerts, and 2-way audio
Cost: $120
Lbtech Video Baby Monitor with Two Cameras
The Lbtech baby monitor offers two cameras with a range of up to 1,000 feet, and features a 4.3-inch color monitor to view your baby. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery allows up to 8 hours of screen time, and the camera has a 360-degree rotation with digital zoom.
Key Features:
- Connect up to four cameras with 2-way intercom
- Includes room-temperature sensor and night vision capability
- Noise detection turns unit on
Cost: $110
Summer Explore Panoramic Video Baby Monitor
This video baby monitor has a 5-inch screen, plus remote camera positioning and digital zoom to see your baby better. Add up to four cameras with a range of up to 1,000 feet and the option for 2-way audio.
Key Features:
- Infrared night vision, and multi-color night light
- Camera rotates 180 degrees
- Includes room-temperature sensor, LED sound indicator, and low battery and out-of-range notifications
WiFi Baby Monitors
Lefun Baby Monitor Wireless IP Security Camera WiFi
The Lefun WiFi baby monitor features cloud storage and allows you to view your baby on your PC, tablet, or smartphone. It also can record and save events for playback.
Key Features:
- Infrared technology provides night vision
- 2-way intercom
- Remotely pan, tilt, and zoom the camera
Cost: $32
Motorola Connect40 Wireless Security Camera
The Motorola security camera with a 5-inch screen can remotely pan the room, or zoom in or out for better viewing of your baby and nursery. Up to 4 cameras can be controlled from any smartphone or tablet, and you can receive alerts directly to your phone. This unit offers hands-free control by Google Assistant or Alexa.
Key Features:
- Includes 2-way intercom, infrared night vision capability, and room temperature monitoring
- Subscription available for recording and storage
- Record sounds for your baby
Cost: $200
Motorola Smart Video Baby Monitor with Wi-Fi
Motorola offers a Wi-Fi baby monitor that’s compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant and has many features, such as a 2-way intercom, infrared night vision, and room temperature monitoring. The unit is compatible with any smartphone or tablet and covers a range of up to 1,000 feet.
Key Features:
- LED sound indicator
- Low battery and out-of-range alerts
- Camera has zoom function
Cost: $97
Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor and Floor Stand
The Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor is attached to a floor stand so you can get a bird’s eye view of your baby in his crib. This Alexa-enabled baby monitor features a 2-way intercom, night vision, and temperature and humidity monitoring.
Key Features:
- View your baby on any smartphone or tablet
- Encryption technology
- Sound and motion notifications
Cost: $380
Nooie Baby Monitor WiFi Camera Indoor
Connect with Alexa to use this Nooie baby monitor that features an HD image that can be viewed from any smartphone or tablet. The camera has a 360-degree rotation and 90-degree tilt, and can be mounted on the wall.
Key Features:
- Night vision capability up to 32 feet in pitch dark
- SD card and cloud storage available
- Motion and sound detection alerts, and activated recording
Budget Other Baby Monitors
ANMEATE Video Baby Monitor with Digital Camera
This baby monitor covers a range of up to 960 feet with 8 hours of battery time and features a high-resolution screen. Remotely position the camera with the 360-degree rotation, 60-degree tilt, and zoom function.
Key Features:
- Connect up to four cameras
- Eight infrared lights for night vision capability
- Includes room-temperature sensor, 2-way intercom, and four pre-programmed lullabies
Cost: $63
Babysense Video Baby Monitor with Camera and Audio
This baby monitor has a range of up to 900 feet and features a camera that can pan 360 degrees, tilt 60 degrees, and zoom in or out. It also includes a 2-way intercom, pre-programmed lullabies, and notification alerts for noise, motion, and room temperature.
Key Features:
- Set up to four cameras
- Wall mounting available
- 1-year warranty, with 90-day money-back guarantee
Cost: $59
Newbaby Video Baby Monitor with Digital Color Camera
The Newbaby baby monitor manually rotates 360 degrees and tilts up to 60 degrees, and includes a zoom feature, so you can have any view in the nursery. With a range of up to 900 feet, the monitor has eight infrared lights for night vision capability.
Key Features:
- Includes room thermostat monitoring and built-in lullabies
- 2-way intercom
- Reminder alarm and LED sound indicator
Cost: $50
Security Baby Monitor TOPVISION Wireless Video Monitor
The TOPVISION baby monitor reaches up to 1,000 feet and features a crisp color image with wireless transmission. It also includes infrared night vision capability, room-temperature sensor, 2-way intercom, and eight pre-programmed lullabies.
Key Features:
- Programmable alarm function
- 360-degree camera rotation
- Unit automatically turns on when sound is detected
Cost: $41
UOKIER Video Baby Monitor with Camera and Audio
This baby monitor covers a range of up to 1,000 feet and can connect up to two cameras using encryption technology. The rechargeable battery lasts for up to 20 hours.
Key Features:
- Night vision capability, with eight pre-programmed lullabies
- 2-way intercom, noise activated screen, and alarm clock function
- Room temperature sensor
Cost: $80
Victure Baby Monitor with Camera and 2 Way Audio
The Victure baby monitor uses wireless technology and features a sound-activated receiver so the screen automatically turns on when your baby makes noise. With just over a 3-inch screen, the camera has a 360-degree rotation and a 60-degree tilt. This baby monitor covers a range of up to 1,000 feet, and the rechargeable battery allows up to 7 hours of screen time.
Key Features:
- 2-way intercom
- Includes eight lullabies and room temperature monitoring
- Night vision capability
Cost: $65
Vtech Audio Baby Monitor with Two Parent Units
The Vtech Audio monitor features two units that have a range of up to 1,000 feet.
Key Features:
- Visual indicator of noise level when unit is muted
- Includes belt clip, and low battery and power indicator light
- Encrypted signal transmission
Other Baby Monitors
Baby Monitor VAVA HD Video Baby Monitor
The VAVA baby monitor features a 5-inch monitor with HD images, with a range up to 900 feet. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 24 hours for audio and 10 hours for video. This baby monitor includes night vision capability, 2-way intercom, and room temperature sensor.
Key Features:
- Can monitor up to four cameras
- LED sound indicator with seven volume levels
- Zoom and panoramic camera modes
Cost: $160
Moonybaby Split 50 Baby Monitor
The Moonybaby split monitor allows you to view your child from two different cameras, but see her on one screen. The unit covers up to a 1,000-foot range, and the camera has a wide angle lens with zoom function.
Key Features:
- Automatic night vision
- 2-way intercom
- Includes noise and temperature alerts, and built-in lullabies
Cost: $160
Owlet Smart Green Sock Baby Monitor
The Owlet baby monitor detects your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels while she sleeps so you can worry less, and alerts you if anything is off. Three sizes of washable socks are included, which fit babies up to 18 months of age or 25 pounds.
Key Features:
- Connect base up to 100 feet
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Tracks heart rate, oxygen, and sleep history
Cost: $299
Summer Baby Pixel Zoom HD Video Baby Monitor
This baby monitor has a range of up to 800 feet, with a 5-inch color screen. Set up a virtual sleep perimeter so it alerts you should your child leave the safe area.
Key Features:
- Camera has remote positioning and zoom function
- Room temperature, sound, and motion alarms
- Includes built-in lullabies, 2-way intercom, and wall mounting option
Cost: $198
