As an expecting parent, there are some baby essentials you’ll want to be ticked off your ‘to get’ list before your new arrival makes its way into the world. One being a baby monitor so you can rest easy when it comes to naps and nighttime, knowing that you’ll be alerted if your little one needs you.

Deciding which baby monitor to buy, however, can be a little overwhelming, with lots of different brands, products, and features to choose from. To help navigate those baby monitor need-to-knows, in this article, we’ll look at the factors to consider to get the right balance of safety, value and features to suit your needs. Plus, we’ll highlight frequently asked questions on the topic and share our top five baby monitor picks from our trusted brands.

How to Choose the Best Baby Monitor

Choosing the best baby monitor is simply about aligning your individual requirements with the right features to find your dream match. When making your decision, keep the following in mind:

Home Style and Monitor Range: If you have a larger home, you might require a monitor with a longer range. Wi-Fi monitors let you check in from anywhere, even when you’re away, and are more reliable if your home has thick walls. Non-Wi-Fi monitors, meanwhile, usually cover a few hundred to a thousand feet.

Battery Life: As a new parent, you’ll rely on your monitor a lot, so it’s important to consider battery life. Some monitors need to stay plugged in (especially video ones), while others run on batteries or come with a charger. Be sure to check how long they last to fit your needs

Technology Preferences: Ask yourself, would you feel content with a traditional audio-only monitor, or would you feel more comfortable with a video monitor that lets you see your baby and has additional innovative features, such as room temperature monitoring?

Video Quality and Night Vision: If going with the video monitor option, you’ll want to see your baby clearly, no matter the level of light, day or night.

Ease of Use: As a busy parent, a monitor that’s easy to set up, access, and use is a godsend. Touchscreen controls and app-accessible models can be game changers for those nighttime check-ins.

Security: Wi-Fi baby monitors have been vulnerable to hacking in the past, so it’s essential to ensure your digital security is robust if you decide to use one.
With these factors in mind, let’s dive a little deeper into your baby monitor options.

Audio vs. Baby Camera Monitors: What’s the Difference?

When searching for the best baby monitor to buy, you’ll come across two main types:

Audio Baby Monitors: These are simpler devices that allow you to hear your baby’s cries or sounds but don’t offer visual feedback. They’re generally more affordable and suited to parents who are comfortable simply listening for signs of restlessness.

Video Baby Monitors: These come equipped with a camera that allows you to visually monitor your baby, offering additional peace of mind, as you can see your baby’s movements and check on them when they’re sleeping. Many models also come with two-way audio, allowing you to soothe your baby with your voice without entering the room.
Ultimately, which baby monitor is best for you depends on whether you prefer sight, sound, or both.

Must – Have Baby Monitors Features for New Parents

While all baby monitors provide basic functionality, there are a few standout features that can help give new parents greater reassurance and control. Here are some advanced features to consider when deciding which baby monitor to buy:

Two-Way Talk Functionality: This prayer-answering feature allows you to communicate with your baby from a distance, whether it’s to reassure them with your voice or to let them know you’re on your way to comfort them.

Temperature Monitoring: Some smart baby monitors include temperature sensors, alerting you when the room gets too hot or too cold. This can help ensure your baby’s sleeping environment is always comfortable and safe.

Sleep and Breathing Tracking: If you’re a parent who wants extra reassurance, consider a smart monitor that tracks your baby’s sleep patterns and breathing movements. This can provide peace of mind, especially during those first few months.

Night Vision: Having a baby monitor with night vision ensures you can keep an eye on your little one even in the dark. This is essential for late-night checks when you don’t want to risk disturbing their sleep with a bright light or by physically entering the room.

Portable and Travel-Friendly Baby Monitors: If you travel often or simply want to move from room to room without losing sight or sound of your little one, a portable baby monitor is a must-have. Look for a lightweight model with a long battery life, which allows you to easily carry it with you.