The top-rated video baby monitors will never let you down, especially when you need them the most. They will offer you clear pictures and sound, good signal strength, and a long-lasting battery.
You’ve probably read this somewhere, especially on the side of the packaging. But it is not always the case. In fact, our test doesn’t prove that all baby monitors are as perfect as they are made to look. And this means it is important to do proper research so that you find the best baby monitor you can buy for your baby.
Choosing the Best Baby Monitor
Considering what you will be using your baby monitor for is a good starting point
- Are you planning to fly out with your baby monitor?
- Are features like temperature sensors, lullabies, and night light important to you?
- Would you like to just hear, or hear as well as see your baby?
- Will you be moving with it from one corner of the house to another, or will you need access even when you are in your garden?
Throughout this guide, we try to take a look at different types of baby monitors, the features you might want to look at, what makes up a good monitor, and also which one might not be necessary for you.
How much do I need to spend on a baby monitor?
$20 is the minimum amount you can spend for a basic audio baby monitor. For $300, you can get a top of the range video monitor.
Having an expensive baby monitor won’t necessarily mean that it is the perfect piece of safety equipment for your child. And that’s why it is ideal to test major features, such as signal strength and battery life.
Do I need a baby monitor if my house is small?
Many people who live in small houses find it not necessary to buy a baby monitor. They claim that they can hear cries easily through the thin walls. Yet activities such as laundry and gardening will take you outside where you will not be able to hear your baby crying, no matter how small your house is.
Let’s assume you have hearing problems. The visual element can be of great help to you since it emits sound-sensitive lights. Also, those who own homes with thick walls will find it necessary to have a baby monitor, particularly because such homes are more than likely sound-proof.
Should I Buy AM audio baby monitor or video baby monitor?
An audio baby monitor always comes in two parts, the first part stays in the baby unit and the second part stays with you (anywhere you go, you have to carry it along). The video baby monitor also comes in two parts, but this time around the baby unit has to have the cameras that will send videos back to the parents’ unit.
Because of this connection, a parent is able to see what his or her baby is doing while dealing with the home chores.
The parent unit on a video baby monitor greatly varies. Some video baby monitors come in large screens allowing you to see everything your child is doing. Others come in small screens limiting you from seeing everything. The one you choose to purchase will depend on your preference and the much you are willing to spend.
Should I Buy an Analogue, a digital, or a DECT audio monitor?
Most of the video monitors in the market today offer digital sounds. Many of them are DECT baby monitors (Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication). Their microprocessors are designed to make sure that you only get sounds from your nursery and not from anyone else’s nursery.
The analog baby monitors are open to accidental broadcasts, their signals are easily picked up by normal radios and other people’s monitors. So, they may not be the best to invest in. Fisher-Price Sound ‘n’ Lights is an example of analog monitors still in the market today.
What makes up a good baby monitor?
Our goal in this section is to help you find the best monitor that will satisfy your needs as well as fit your budget. The best place to start from is from our baby reviews because we tested almost all the monitors. With that said, here are some factors that we would like you to consider when buying a baby monitor.
1. Signal
Before you purchase a baby monitor, test its sound clarity. Make sure the DECT (digitally enhanced cordless telecommunications) is made in such a way that it ensures no sound leaks to other devices. The test helps to check on interferences from other devices as well as assessing the clarity.
2. Range
This indicates the far you can go with the parent unit and continue receiving quality signals. Some boast a distance of up to six hundred meters.
3. Property Type
The type of property can also make a difference. For old houses, there might be a problem with the signals, while for the new houses with thinner walls allow signals to pass through easily. We have tested most baby monitors in both types of homes.
Which baby monitor brand?
Baby monitors are unique products. Therefore, opt to buy a model from different companies not just from traditional brands.