Rating of the 7 best video nannies (description, pros, cons, average price)

With the arrival of a child, the house is filled with joy and happiness. However, with them comes a string of new worries. The baby requires so much attention that mothers have practically no free time to do household chores. A few months after birth, the baby develops a certain routine. During this period, the mother begins to think: how to complete the accumulated housework while maintaining control over the newborn?

Babyroof , babysitter , baby monitor - whatever they call this miracle of electronic technology. Outwardly, it looks like a walkie-talkie, which consists of 2 blocks: parent and child. To make it easier to distinguish which block is whose, they are often marked with stickers or a marker. The device operates from a battery and batteries.

Baby monitors from trusted manufacturers are initially equipped with a charger. If you decide to go with a simple version of the device, then experienced mothers advise additionally purchasing an electrical adapter. This will solve the problem of constantly replacing dying batteries.

Types and characteristics of baby monitors

The devices are single-sided and double-sided. As a rule, this characteristic is the first thing people pay attention to when choosing. In one-way models, sound is transmitted from the baby to the mother, while the child himself does not hear anything. A two-way baby monitor will allow parents not only to monitor their child from a distance, but also to periodically communicate with him.

Models are classified according to the type of signal transmission. In simple devices, the analogue method of signal transmission and manual configuration of functions are taken as the basis. In more expensive digital samples, the signal is received and transmitted using sensors. Analog baby monitors are attractive at an affordable price. However, the quality of communication leaves much to be desired. In addition, the device easily picks up extraneous frequencies, which will give a whole bunch of unnecessary interference.

Digital baby monitors set all settings automatically: broadcast frequency, sound level, channel switching. The device can be connected to the telephone network if desired. Then extraneous sounds that appear in the child’s room will be automatically sent to the home phone number.

Special LEDs are built into the body of the digital model. The sensors are sensitive to extraneous sounds that arise in the baby’s bedroom. The LEDs provide the mother with a visual signal about the noise, but there is no sound signal. This function will be a great help if you have to lull an older child to sleep, while the younger one is frolicking independently in the next room.

The latest models of baby monitors have a set of useful functions: night light, vibration alert, music block. The model is able to measure the temperature and humidity level in the baby’s room and controls his breathing. All this is reflected in the price of the product, which is explained by the high quality and practicality of the device.

The best video baby monitors costing up to 5 thousand rubles

The budget segment includes simplified models with a static chamber, which is attached to the wall or installed in a place convenient for parents. It is equipped with night vision, two-way communication and a couple of additional functions. The signal is usually transmitted via Wi-Fi with a range of up to 250 m. The image quality is a bit low, but it is still better than a standard baby monitor.

Motorola MBP481 – with digital zoom

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

92%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Motorola's new product is equipped with a 2-inch screen, digital zoom, feeding timer and night light. This inexpensive and modern model operates at a Wi-Fi frequency of 2.4 GHz, transmitting clear and bright images to the receiver. The parent unit is connected to the network, but can also operate on Ni-MH 800 mAh batteries, which allows you to take it with you to the yard or move it from room to room.

The range in an open area is 200 m, but after passing a couple of walls, the signal deteriorates significantly. At night, infrared illumination works, transmitting images at a distance of up to 5 meters. This is quite enough to sleep separately from the baby and monitor his well-being.

Pros:

• 4 IR diodes provide night vision;
• Feeding timer;
• Sharp image;
• Powered by mains and batteries;
• Digital zoom allows you to enlarge the picture.

Minuses:

• Cannot be attached to the wall;
• There is no clip for the parent unit.

The clarity of the picture is quite high - when you zoom in, you can see how the child breathes. The only drawback of this model is the lack of attachment on the parent unit, which is why it cannot be hung on a belt, and can only be carried in a pocket.

Video Baby Monitor VB601 – video baby monitor with photo functions

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

A more functional model, she can “sing”, take photographs and monitor the child. It has two-way communication, but the signal radius is only 50 m. The device is programmed with 8 lullabies, and a thermometer monitors the temperature in the room. The sound of the transmission is clear and loud, the mother can speak to the baby and hear him, but within the frequency range.

At night, the IR vision on the camera turns on and transmits the picture to the parents in black and white. The unit with the screen runs on batteries and mains. A wall mount for it is included in the kit, but adapting it is not so easy.

Pros:

• Built-in 8 lullabies;
• Clear picture;
• Voice activation;
• Possibility to take photos;
• Two-way communication with loud sound;
• Night vision.

Minuses:

• Difficult to attach to the wall;
• The battery drains quickly;
• Works only within a radius of 50 m.

When using the baby monitor, you hear an echo and slight interference, but they are not significant, and the picture quality does not suffer. Within the radius of the apartment, the device functions perfectly both day and night, but outside the apartment, the connection is interrupted.

Vtech BM2500 – model with adjustable chamber

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

77%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Another worthwhile option for a video baby monitor with a two-inch screen, a set of songs, night vision, zoom and two-way communication. The signal is received at a distance of up to 300 m (in the presence of concrete walls, the range is reduced to 70-50 m) and transmits a color image, but, as practice has shown, it is not very clear. You can control the camera from the parent unit, including melodies that play simultaneously with the sounds of nature in the background. The angle of the lens can also be adjusted remotely.

The parent unit receives temperature measurement results and a sound signal when the battery is low. As the lighting on the camera deteriorates, night vision automatically turns on, as well as a night light for the child.

Pros:

• Two-way communication for communication with the child;
• 5 lullabies and sounds of nature;
• Remote camera control;
• Automatic night vision;
• Signal range in open areas – 300 m;
• Battery and mains operation;
• Ability to control camera tilt.

Minuses:

• The picture is not clear;
• The signal is reduced when passing through concrete walls;
• The battery drains quickly.

The device is equipped with a reliable mount to the wall, so you choose the location of the camera yourself: on the crib, on the table or on the wall. There is a zoom, but the enlarged picture turns out blurry.

iNany NM108 – video baby monitor with LCD display

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

72%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

This “smart” nanny will promptly inform mom about a decrease in the temperature in the room, for which the built-in thermometer is responsible. Another “bells and whistles” is a 1.8-inch LCD screen. It conveys an almost perfect picture, unless it is hampered by a large number of extraneous devices and thick walls. The signal radius reaches up to 250 m in open areas or in a house with wooden partitions.

Communication with the child is ensured by two-way communication and remote control of the device - you can play a lullaby from another room. The unit has the ability to connect four cameras simultaneously and monitor the condition in the nursery from 4 positions.

Pros:

• Remote control;
• 5 melodies;
• LCD screen;
• Built-in thermometer;
• Night mode;
• You can connect 4 cameras simultaneously;
• The battery holds a charge for up to 12 hours.

Minuses:

• No night light;
• The angle of inclination cannot be adjusted;
• Buying 3 more cameras will not be cheap.

When fully equipped, iNany will cost a pretty penny, despite the low cost of the basic set. So it is better to use it in small rooms where you can get by with one camera.

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Purchase and operation of a baby monitor

What should you pay attention to first when purchasing this device?

1. Experienced mothers advise purchasing samples with a large range of action.
2. When purchasing a baby monitor, pay attention to the materials from which it is made. A good confirmation of the safety of the product will be the certificate attached to the purchase.
3. During operation, baby monitors often fall. It is important that the body of the device is strong.
4. If you plan to use a baby monitor when your child grows up, it is better to opt for the option with two-way communication. By the way, let the device be simple and discreet. Otherwise, the child will confuse it with a toy.
5. A model with a built-in feature such as presence control in the radio zone is preferable. If one of the units breaks down, the device will indicate this with a sound signal.

How to install and configure a baby monitor?

1. When buying a baby monitor, ask the seller in detail how to install it correctly, what are the principles of its operation. Additionally, the instructions included with the product will answer all questions.
2. Before placing the baby monitor in the baby’s room, it is worth conducting tests in one room: check the correct connection and serviceability of the device. To do this, both units are turned on and the sound quality and level are checked.
3. After checking the settings, the baby monitor is installed in the baby’s bedroom at a distance of about 1 m from the crib. The microphone is turned towards the child.
4. It is important to be careful when operating a baby monitor. If the device is connected via an adapter, the wires should be at a safe distance from the baby. Battery-powered models are periodically checked and charged.

The baby monitor is the embodiment of practicality and functionality. It is not only designed to keep the baby calm. By purchasing a device, parents can calmly resolve household issues. At the same time, they will always be aware of events, even if the child is at a distance.

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Tags: products for newborns

How to choose

To choose a high-quality video baby monitor model, you need to consider:

1. Signal type (digital, analog).
2. Transmitter power (the range of the device will depend on this).
3. Power supply method (from the mains, battery or batteries).
4. Monitor diagonal.
5. Microphone available (voice activation, two-way communication).
6. Number of children's blocks.
7. Possibility of connecting to parents' phone, remote control.
8. Additional functions (video recording capability, night vision, temperature, motion and breathing sensors, lullabies, night light, etc.).

Discussion

2 comments on “Baby monitor: types, characteristics, how to choose”

1. What brand do you recommend? Maybe someone has used specific models and will leave their feedback? Just hurry up, please, otherwise I’ll have to buy it in a month or two))

   Galina | 17 Sep 2014, 23:34

2. I don’t know about anyone, but I somehow regretted the money on a baby monitor - and got along just fine without it Or rather, it was not useful, since in the first months my daughter almost did not let go of her ((it was a little difficult at times, but this period is over

   Olga | 12 Oct 2014, 00:17

The best video baby monitors costing from 10 thousand

These models are distinguished by durability, impeccable image quality, good signal range, rich functionality and equipment.

Samsung SEW-3057 WPX2 – set with two IP cameras

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

97%

buyers recommend this product

The most reliable video baby monitor, which comes with two cameras, a 5-inch monitor, a clock with a vibration signal that alerts you to sounds in the nursery, as well as an air sensor and an LED night light. The sound system is very sensitive - the cameras react at the slightest rustle and notify parents about it. You can connect to them not only using the main display, but also from any Android device.

The quality of the transmitted video is 720p HD. The image is clear and without delays if there is a stable Internet connection in the house. If this is not the case, the baby monitor uses its own FHSS connection between the cameras and the parent unit. The vibrating clock beeps when it detects crying or any other sound from the nursery.

Pros:

• 2 cameras can be used in one or two rooms at the same time;
• High sensitivity to sounds;
• Excellent image quality;
• Transmission of information via Wi-Fi and its own channel (range 300 m);
• Large 5-inch display included;
• Night light in the children's block;
• Remote control of camera rotation;
• Playing lullabies;
• Watch with vibration system when crying is detected.

Minuses:

• The cost is more than 35,000 rubles.

The kit includes almost everything that parents and children may need, the range of functions is huge - all you need to do is install it. The program itself will report problems in the nursery, be it crying, a drop in temperature, extraneous sounds or movement. You can install cameras in one or two rooms at the same time, monitoring several children.

iBaby Monitor M7 – video nanny-night light with night sky projection

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

92%

buyers recommend this product

An interesting model that combines the functions of a cool night light and a security camera. You can watch your child from anywhere in the world - if only there was a stable Internet connection. The device works via Wi-Fi, transmitting information to the mother’s smartphone around the clock (at night in IR mode).

The image is transmitted in the highest quality – Full HD 1080p, the zoom works great. At night, your child can turn on a night light with a projection of the starry sky. As a useful addition, there are air pollution sensors with alerts, as well as a thermometer and hygrometer to determine humidity levels.

Pros:

• High video quality even at night;
• Remote camera control;
• Sensors for air purity, temperature and humidity;
• Surveillance through any Android gadget;
• Rotating camera (360°) with vertical tilt up to 110°;
• Alert for crying and movement in the nursery;
• Two-way communication, playing music and audio stories.

Minuses:

• Expensive – from 22 thousand;
• The wall mount must be purchased separately.

The super-innovative iBaby Monitor model will help parents always be in touch with their child; remotely you can play music, fairy tales, and record your own voice. When there is movement or the slightest sound vibrations, the nanny sends an alert to the parent unit.

Alcatel IPC-21FX – nanny with video recording on microSD

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

This slightly more modest, but no less functional model will cost much less. It is also controlled remotely from a mobile device, but its image quality is slightly lower - 720p. Sound is transmitted in both directions, there is a motion and voice sensor, as well as a video recording function on the card - on a schedule or constantly. Additional features include night vision, playback tunes and a thermometer.

Pros:

• Viewing angle 115 degrees;
• Feedback;
• Sound and motion sensors;
• Video recording on microSD with the ability to view on a smartphone;
• Remote control via phone;
• Automatic inclusion of night mode;
• Privacy indicator: blue – no monitoring, red – video surveillance.

Minuses:

• No night light;
• Quite a large model.

All “nanny” data is recorded on a memory card. You can clean it or save a specific moment, for example, the baby’s first steps, which he took in your absence. The camera installs without any hassle, and the viewing angle allows it to capture the bulk of the room.

Maman BM4600 – owl camera with 4.3″ display

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

79%

buyers recommend this product

A cute owl will always watch the baby, accordingly arousing his interest. And two-way communication will create the effect of a mysterious bird from a fairy tale that can talk. The camera can be installed on a table, crib or wall, but for this you need to purchase mounts separately.

The miracle bird's skills include transmitting video at a distance of 40-300 meters to the parent unit. She also sees perfectly in the dark thanks to IR illumination, plays 5 songs and 4 sounds of nature, is activated by sound and is controlled remotely.

Pros:

• Original shape in the form of an owl;
• Image transmission at a distance of up to 300 m;
• Rotate 270 degrees horizontally and 70 degrees vertically;
• Night vision;
• Playing songs and sounds;
• Lost connection message;
• 2x zoom.

Minuses:

• There is no mounting for the crib and wall;
• Sometimes it loses connection.

The parent unit has a battery that can operate continuously for 5 hours. At the moment of rest, the energy saving mode is automatically turned on. Also, the unit operates from the network.