08 Best Baby Monitors of 2023 | Can These Be Hacked?
What is the best baby monitor 2023?
Check out our top picks of best baby monitors in the year 2023
- The Best Baby Monitor overall – The VAVA 720P 5″ HD Display Monitor
- The Best in Popularity – Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor
- Best Affordable Price- The Goodbaby Video Baby Monitor
- Best in Features – Heim Vision HM136 Video Baby Monitor
- Best Wide-angle view – The Hello baby Baby Monitor
- All in One Feature – Amcrest AC-2 Video Baby Monitor:
- Best Wifi Baby Monitor – Amcrest Zencam Camera with a phone app
- Best Audio Baby Monitor – VTech DM221 Audio Baby Device
Can baby monitors be hacked?
The straight forward answer is ‘YES’ There are some cases where a hacker hacked a baby monitor, gets the access and watching your baby, how terrifying is that?
Thankfully the manufacturers are aware of this issue and upgraded their products to provide a safe and secure experience for the parents and the young user. The 2.4 GHz channel with FHSS technology is introduced which frequently changes the frequency and making the baby monitor difficult to hack.
The FHSS is a technology that changes the frequency quite rapidly due to which signals are difficult to intercept and ensures that no data is shared through the internet and makes your device the best baby monitor.
What to look for in a baby monitor?
No parent can stay with the baby all the time. You may need to cook, take rest, go to the restroom, etc. and it is not easy to leave your baby unattended in the room especially for mothers and for these times you need the best baby monitors to make things easy for you.
Every person has a different need, requirement, and budget to buy anything for himself or the family so there are no right and wrong, it solely depends on your situation. Having said that, there are still certain factors to look for before deciding to buy the baby monitors.
Here are certain factors and qualities you should consider:
Night vision:
Night vision is one of the most important qualities a baby monitor should have to make it the best baby monitor, it allows you to view the progress of your baby even when its dark in the room. In the night-mode some cameras have range limitations, this means that they provide a clear vision from a certain distance, if you set the camera away from the assigned range you might not get the clear view. Do look for the night vision range before placing your order.
Hack free:
There are certain cases reported where an unidentified hacker takes over the control of the baby camera and gave threats to parents. This is the last thing you want as a parent. Most of these cases happened in cameras operated through wifi but this doesn’t mean that all cameras get hacked easily.
The ideal thing is to buy a Camera and baby monitors connected without a wifi, these are almost impossible to hack and give you peace of mind you need however there are certain wifi IP cameras that regularly provide updates to users about the security matters and also are very much safe.
LCD screen:
The LCD size is something that varies from user to user, you get LCD screen size from 3.2 to 5 inches, the larger the screen the better view you get but 3.2 screen size is also provide you enough details to keep an eye on the baby and make it the best baby monitor for you.
Remotely operated:
The remote control option is available on the baby monitors where you can move the camera right to left and upwards and downwards as well. This option is available in almost all baby monitors.
Zoom in and out:
This feature is also a must-have in a device to make it the best baby monitor, you can closely monitor the baby’s movements and also look at the wider picture of the room with just a push of a button. Some baby monitors offer 2X zoom whereas others come up with a 4X zoom option.
Two-way communication:
A two-way communication gets activated with a talk button given in almost all baby monitors. This means you can talk to the baby even when you are not in the room, this feature helps when your baby is uncomfortable and cries. Also there are built-in lullabies that you can play to calm the baby.
Room Temperature:
The camera has a sensor that identifies the room temperature and the baby monitor shows it on the display. This is helpful to know if your baby needs a blanket or is it the time to remove the blanket and keep the baby in a comfortable position.
Reminder Alarm:
This feature helps parents to set the feeding time of the baby, you can set the different alarms and the baby monitor will remind you with a ring when its time to feed the baby. It is a very useful feature added to some baby monitors.
Use Cellphone as Baby monitor:
If you are on a tight budget and cannot afford expensive devices, this option will be helpful. You only need to buy a camera that gets connected with your cellphone through the app and makes your cellphone the best baby monitor.
The advantage is that you get all the options in quite a low price whereas the disadvantage is that your phone gets busy and you might not use your cellphone till you are using it as a baby monitor. It might also drain the phone battery quickly.
Baby monitors with Audio only:
These are also very popular because of the cheap price and the features, The only thing you miss is the video display, all other options are mostly available in it. Furthermore, you get the vibration and belt hook feature which is not available in video baby monitors.
1. The VAVA 720P 5″ HD Display Video Baby Monitor:
This Vava 720P baby monitor is one of the best baby monitors around and is our favourites due to various reasons which we will discuss. Its 720P 5-inch large display provides a detailed view in comparison to most of its competitors. The screen provides full colour display at the day time and grayscale infrared images at night allowing you to view every movement of your baby clearly.
Its 4500 MAh battery ensures the device works for a longer period. The baby monitor works for 12 hours with screen display switched on and 24 hours if the display is turned off. You also get a 5 inch 720P display screen that provides an uninterrupted clear view from delicate movements to the softest breathing.
The baby cam offers 7 level sound volume, the highest volume lets you hear coughing and breathing of your baby and is designed to easily awake even the heavy sleepers. If you set the volume on the lower side the device will capture only the crying sound of your baby. It’s a great feature that allows you to set the volume as per your requirement and situation.
One feature that makes this baby monitor better than the ‘Infant Optics DXR-8’ is its 2X and 4X zoom which means you can zoom in and zoom out with a simple push of a button unlike the DXR 8 where you need different lenses to set the view. You can also scan the nursery with its auto-pilot panoramic mode.
The screen provides room temperature enabling you to ensure the safe and sound condition of the room. Furthermore. it also provides a long transmission range between 480 to 900 feet that provides uninterrupted video any time anywhere in the house.
It is however, to keep in mind that 900 feet coverage is available in open areas. You can also connect up to 4 cameras to have different views as per your requirement. The additional cameras are not included in the package though.
Pros:
- Temperature monitoring
- Long transmission range (480-900 ft)
- 4500 mAh best battery life
- 5 inch 720 p display screen
- 7 level volume sound
- Zoom in and Zoom out option
- 270-degree side wave and 108 degree up and down view movement
- Built-in microphone for two way communication
- A built-in kickstand on the back for easy monitoring
- 95% happy customers
Cons:
- Price is on the slightly higher side
- Multiple cameras don’t show on the screen at the same time
Customers’ Feedback:
This baby cam is got 1700 plus reviews and it proudly stands at a score of 4.8 out of 5 which is extraordinary performance considering the thousand plus feedbacks. The factor of 95% happy customers is enough to judge the ground performance of the amazing baby monitor. It is by far one of the best baby monitors available in the market today.
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2. Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor:
This is one of the best baby monitors for its popularity in the market for quite some time now which is not a surprise if you look at the features this widget offers. The video quality is of outstanding quality which is a constant factor during both daytime and nighttime conditions. Besides the audio quality matches the great standards as well.
This baby monitor offers a two-way intercom allowing you to interact with the baby without getting out of your bed. The baby monitor is lightweight, easy to carry and requires no large batteries. Its menu of the parents’ unit has the sound and brightness control option, it allows you to set a video shutoff timer, lets you a two-time zoom and you can also set the volume of low battery warning sound.
You also connect different cameras in the same or different rooms and monitor the two different feeds by flipping between the two.
One of the core features is a pan/tilt/zoom and interchangeable lens, fit the zoom lens to view close-up and zoom out with a wide-angle lens. This is a good feature however you need to change the lens every time if you want to change the angle view which frankly speaking is a hassle and there is always a chance to lose a lens because of its small size which in my opinion is a shortcoming of this great product. It is expandable up to four cameras.
The DX-8 has taken the feedback of its customers quite seriously and retuned itself for regular improvement and this could be one of the main reasons for its popularity that around 36000 units have been sold which is the highest so far and reflects the popularity of this baby monitor.
There are some complaints you must have seen where an unknown person hacked a baby monitor and gets the access and watching your baby, even imagining such situation is terrifying, This DXR-8 baby monitor offers a great solution. Its video and audio are transmitted through a safe and secure 2.4 GHz channel with FHSS technology. To explain the FHSS in easy words, it’s a technology that changes the frequency quite rapidly due to which signals are difficult to intercept and ensures that no data is shared through the internet.
The battery life is great and works 12 hours in audio mode and 8 hours for live screen. It has remote pan and tilt capabilities and can pan around 270 degrees and tilt 120 degrees.
Pros:
- Difficult to hack
- Two-way talk system
- Remote thermometer
- Expandable up to 4 cameras
- Invisible IR night vision
Cons:
- A bit bulky
- 3 lens for 3 different views, which can be a hassle to change
- Sensitive material need to be carefully handled and avoid dropping it on floor
- Price is high for the features it offers
- Few complaints of battery life and signal issues
Customers’ Feedback:
The product is in the market for more than five years with different versions that are upgraded from time to time. One unique thing about this baby monitor is the number of ratings that exceeds 36,000. This is one of the highest reviews which we have seen for any product and that is simply outstanding.
85% of these reviews are on the positive side whereas 11% are the negative ones. Its satisfactory score stands at 4.4 out of 5 which is a great achievement considering the number of reviews. The happy customers have found this product great, faithful and the one that provides them peace of mind.
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3. The Goodbaby Video Baby Monitor:
Let’s talk about the LCD in the beginning, its 2.4 inch in size which is connected to the baby camera to via 2.4GHz wireless technology that ensures a clear, real-time and uninterrupted best audio and video of the baby.
Its infrared night vision display the view of your baby even when the lights are turned off. Furthermore, you also have the option to monitor the room temperature on the screen. The built-in high sensitivity mic provides a two-way clear communication and help soothe the baby in crying situations.
The maximum coverage distance is around 1000 feet in an open area and works effectively inside the house allowing you to roam around the house, keeping an eye on your baby.
Another fabulous feature is auto screen off mode which will keep the screen off but as soon as your baby cries the screen will automatically wake up, this feature extends the working time of the device and provide peace of mind to parents. Also, you can set the alarm on the baby monitor to remind you about anything necessary like feeding the baby.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- 4 GHz wireless technology is almost impossible to hack
- Long transmission range (480-900 ft)
- Connect up to four cameras
- 5 level sound volume
- Built-in microphone for two way communication
- Auto screen off enables the screen when baby cries
- 360-degree free rotation
- 93% happy customers
Cons:
- Small Screen size
- Few complaints of connectivity
Customers’ Feedback:
This baby monitor has got around 1000 customers’ feedback and it stands at a satisfaction score of 4.7 which is more than impressive due to the number of reviews and also the low price of the product. There are only a few complaints of connectivity however the frequency of this complaint is not more than 1%. The 93% happy customers find this baby monitor portable, easy to set up and a high-quality product.
4. Heim Vision HM136 Video Baby Monitor:
This is another great baby monitor that is loaded with lots of features that a parent can wish for. Its monitoring system provides a 5-inch 720p resolution provides a detailed high-quality video enabling you to keep a close look at your baby from a distance. The monitor is equipped with a 2100 mAh battery which is not ideal but works well.
Its night vision sensor automatically enables the night vision when its dark without compromising the video quality. The sound detection feature can be set on low, medium and high. Most people prefer to set it on high mode to listen to every movement in the room. You can also set the screen on timings after which the screen automatically turns-off and save the battery life.
You can connect four cameras with one monitor to view baby from different angles or different rooms on just one monitor, there is a 2x digital zoom option also available which you can use without any requirement of changing the lens.
The built-in microphone provides a 2-way communication to let your baby know that you are around. You can talk to your baby and also can soothe the baby with a variety of lullabies which is a great feature.
This baby monitor camera provides a 110-degree angle view, the camera can pan left and right, up and down with just a push of a button allowing you to cover every corner of your room easily.
The camera and monitor are already connected and there is no requirement of installing any app and internet, just put it out of the box and it is ready to use. As there is no need for the internet the chances of some unknown hacker taking over the control of the camera are close to none.
The baby monitor also provides baby feeding reminder option just set the alarm and you will get the reminder.
Pros:
- 5 in LCD with 720p resolution
- Built-in lullabies
- Feeding reminder alarm
- 2x Zoom
- 110-degree wide-angle view
- 2100 mAh battery
- Sound detection feature
- Automatic screen off option to enhance working time
- Easy to connect and hacking free
- 88% happy customers
Cons:
- Few complaints of battery life
Customers’ Feedback:
This baby cam seems to be new in the market but doing quite well so far with a satisfaction score of 4.4 out of 5. There are 88% happy customers who find it better than other brands, worth the value of money and believe that product has provided peace of mind.
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5. The Hello baby Baby Monitor:
This ‘Hello baby’ baby monitor provides the LCD of 3.2 inches with a remote control camera that rotates 355 degrees horizontally and 120 degrees vertically allowing you to have a full and clear view of the room. It is available in black and gold colors.
The monitor comes with a rechargeable battery allowing you to move around with the device anywhere in the house. It is extremely easy to set up just switch it on and its already parried with the camera. The built-in microphone provides a two-way communication feature allowing you to talk and listened to your baby.
You can connect the device with four cameras, and you can switch the view with a push of a button. The display screen of the baby monitor provides room temperature, night vision that allows you to keep an eye on your baby even when it is dark. The available built-in lullabies provide a soothing experience to the baby, the sound level option is also there to choose the right one for your self.
In short, this baby monitor is equipped with almost all the features that one can find in an expensive baby monitor.
Pros:
- 2 inch LCD screen
- Night vision mode
- 355 degree horizontal and 120-degree vertical view
- Easy to setup
- Built-in microphone allows two-way communication
- Built-in lullabies
- Sound volume option
- 87% happy customers in count of 3000 plus reviews
Cons:
- Few complaints of product not working properly
Customers’ Feedback:
This baby monitor is in the market for more than a year now and has more than 3000 reviews on Amazon and it stands at a satisfaction score of 4.5 out of 5 which is outstanding considering the number of reviews and also its affordable price. The 87% happy customers show its popularity among the users.
6. Amcrest AC-2 Video Baby Monitor:
The Amcrest AC-2 is another baby monitor that is available at quite affordable price. The white colour baby monitor comes with a 3.5-inch display and 2.4 GHz wireless connection with FHSS technology which makes the hacking extremely difficult and provides you safe and secure products with peace of mind. There is no connection of the internet required which makes it even further safe.
Its camera pan and tilt 300 and 110 degrees respectively, you also get the option of 2x zoom enabling you to keep a close eye on the baby. Its night vision feature allows parents to watch their baby even when its dark however this feature works up to 15 feet distance. The camera has a temperature sensor installed to give you the room temperature details.
The range of baby monitor is up to 984 feet i.e. around 300 meters, the range is enough to allow its user to move around the house with the baby monitor and watch the baby without any interruptions. It has 1800 mAh battery that keeps the baby monitor working up to 6-8 hours when fully charged.
The voice activation feature (VOX) offers a variety of settings and turn on the monitor when it detects noise or crying sound of the baby. Its built-in microphone and speaker allow a two-way communication allowing you to communicate with the baby whenever required. The 5 built-in lullabies and white noise help to soothe the baby and possibly support them to enjoy a better sleep.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- 1-year warranty
- 4 GHz wireless technology
- Hack proof
- Temperature display
- White light
- 300-degree pan and 110-degree tilt movement
- Night vision up to 15 feet
- 1800 mAh battery works for 6-8 hours
- 87% happy customers
Cons:
- Some complains of range issue of the baby monitor
- Buttons do not light up in the night
Customers’ Feedback:
The baby monitor seems to be a new arrival in the market and doing a good job so far. Its satisfaction score stands at 4.5 out of 5 which is good but not very impressive considering the fewer reviews in comparison to its competitors. Never the less, 87% of people seem happy with their decision to buy this baby monitor.
7. Amcrest Zencam Camera with phone app:
This Amcrest Zencam camera doesn’t come with a baby monitor instead it makes your cellphone to work as a baby monitor by simply installing an app. Since there is no separate monitoring device that comes with the camera the price is also on the lower side, so if you have a limited budget and still want to video monitor your baby, this can be a best Wifi camera for you.
The camera provides a 355-degree pan and 90-degree tilt movement and a digital zoom option to have a close look at your baby. you can watch the live streaming on your android and iPhone, record the video, receive notifications.
The built-in microphone and speaker allow you to have two-way communication with the baby this helps the baby to realize that you are not far away from the baby. The device is equipped with an infrared IR LED that provides a clear night vision up to 32 feet.
You can set up the device in a matter of a few minutes with the help of the ‘zencam app’ available for both android and IOS. The 2.4 GHz wireless IP camera provides a secure SSL/HTTPS connection and receives regular security firmness updates. Also the manufacturer provides one year US warranty and lifetime technical support which is amazing.
Pros:
· Night vision up to 32 feet
· 1080p resolution
· Affordable price
· Works both for android and iOS
· 355 degree pan and 90 degree
· 90 degree horizontal angle view
· Easy to connect with app
Cons:
· Cellphone gets engaged as baby monitor may affect some important matters
Customers’ Feedback:
The camera/baby monitor is new in the market and have a very limited number of reviews however the good thing is that there are 3, 2 and 1-star ratings which shows that the product is going the right direction
You can use the same device with a 720p resolution in 10 dollars less. Click to view price:
8. VTech DM221 Audio Baby Monitor:
The Vtech baby monitor provides audio coverage only, you get one device to put in the room of the baby and one audio baby monitor to keep with you if you want two devices for both parents you can get an additional baby monitor device by paying extra 3 dollars only.
The transmission you get is clear and free from any annoying white sound. There is a graphic bar shown on the parent’s device that enables you to visually monitor the baby’s progress even on mute mode. Its two-way talkback intercom mode provides a feature to talk to your baby even from a reasonable distance.
The rechargeable batteries provide up to 18 hours of operation time on a single charge which is amazing, the normal video baby monitor provides up to 10 hours only. You also have the option to use AAA batteries which are not included in the package.
Go hands-free with the belt clip on the parent unit, this feature allows you to move around the house easily with the device. The operating coverage is up to 1000 feet outdoors and 160 feet indoors.
The light button on the baby’s unit provides a soothing night light for the young one. Also the vibrator feature on the parent’s unit silently alerts the parents when there is sound in a baby’s room.
Pros:
- 18 hour working time
- Low price
- Additional parent unit for 3 dollars only
- 1000 feet coverage outdoors and 160 feet indoors
- Make it hands-free with belt clip
- Soothing night light on baby’s unit
- Vibrator feature alerts parents silently
- 86% happy customers out of 8000 plus feedbacks
Cons:
- No video of course
- Make sounds when losing connection which can be annoying if you are sleeping
Customers’ Feedback:
This baby monitor is no doubt one of the most popular ones around with more than 8000 customer reviews, it currently stands at a satisfaction score of 4.5 out of 5 which is a great achievement. It’s really surprising that even with the availability of video baby monitors many people prefer to go with this device that offers audio-only. It might be because of the low price and good quality.