The early months of parenting can be a difficult adjustment period so many moms and dads welcome any aid they can have. A baby monitor means that you can watch TV or do the laundry while the bub sleeps whilst enjoying the peace of mind of knowing that he or she is healthy and sleeping soundly. However, like many baby related purchases, different models of baby monitors have flooded the market. So, how do you pick the right one? Let’s see some baby monitor reviews based on consumer reviews and personal experience to give you advice on making the right choice.
Tips on Choosing and Using Baby Monitors
A baby monitor transmits sound and sometimes images from the baby’s room to the parent’s monitor. Things that can hamper your monitor’s ability to do this include interference from other devices and battery life in the case of portable devices, etc. Here are more helpful tips for your reference.
- 1. Safety is priority. Look for systems that have digitally enhanced cordless telecommunications technology or DECT which allows a secure connection with limited chance of cross connection. Many systems also feature a digital lock that encrypts video images so that they cannot be intercepted by third parties.
- 2. Digital may be better. Analog systems can be cheaper, but digital systems provide a clearer image and sound. Analog systems are broadcast on radio waves which are easy to incept whereas digital systems broadcast data that cannot be eavesdropped on.
- 3. Video and audio are both fine. This is generally a matter of personal preference. Some prefer to see their baby using a video monitor still others prefer to purchase sound only models as they are less expensive.
- 4. A low-battery indicator is necessary. Get a low-battery indicator so that you will know before the batteries are dead and make sure you know your baby’s situation all the time.
- 5. Sound-activated light helps. Sometimes sound isn’t enough to draw the attention to the monitor when you baby is making noise. Some units light up when noise is detected and this allows you to know when bub is awake when you are vacuuming or watching TV.
- 6. Multiple receivers are available. Some parents need more than one monitor as they may need to keep one in the lounge room and one in the bathroom. Or mom may choose to keep one with her as well as dad. Sometimes additional receivers can be purchased from the manufacturer or retailer.
- 7. A wireless receiver is more convenient. A wireless receiver will allow you to keep an ear out for baby as you move from room to room or even outside. Many often come with a clip to attach to your belt or clothing to keep your hands free.
- 8. Frequency of 900 MHz or higher is recommended. This is the recommended frequency for clarity and minimum interference.
Excellent Baby Monitors Reviews
The price range for baby monitors varies dramatically according to types and brands with audio models available from $20 and video models available from $75. But higher quality, more elaborate models can be as expensive as $100 to $300 and beyond. Here are some reviews on a selection of good baby monitors available.
1. Infant Optics DXR-8 Baby Monitor
The handy and easy to use unit does not only offer pristine audio clarity but good quality video transmissions. It features night mode, long cables and a talk back feature for communicating to the babies room, just don’t accidently activate it or you will keep your bub awake! The easy to use receivers off high quality, long range transmissions and video controls allowing you to zoom and tilt the camera to get a better view. The battery life is great. While some complained that the range dropped when the door shut.
2. Samsung SEW-3037W Video Baby Monitor
This model boasts a wide range of features that are not available in less complex models. The zoom and other camera controls allow for more effective monitoring of baby but some complained the interface was not as easy to use. However, the range and clarity of the sound and video is impressive. With this model you get useful functions such as infrared night vision an 800 to 900 foot coverage. This model gives you 2-way talk back functions and rechargeable batteries or A/C power input.
3. Philips Avent DECT Baby Monitor
This model is good value for those who don’t need to see their baby but want the comfort of monitoring sounds and baby’s temperature. Monitoring temperature is a useful function in a baby monitor. This, however, does not have the range of pricier model but it does feature secure DECT technology to keep monitor transmissions between you and your bub. The talk back feature allows you to comfort your bub verbally before entering the room.
4. Summer Infant Baby Audio Monitor
This monitor costs less and has many of the same features as more expensive monitors. The clarity of the transmission leaves something to be desired but for a budget model this does the job. All the important things for monitoring bub are covered like remote control, temperature monitor and sound activated LED lights. However, this model has been known to break more easily and have problems with interference and static as it gets older.
5. Angelcare Movement and Sound Monitor
This model features a handy 2-receiver system and a night light on the baby unit. Two caregivers can use it. The popular feature of this is the under mattress sensor pad which detects temperature and heart rate. This system can use a sound activated transmission or a continuous transmission. This model is at a higher end of the audio only systems but some complained that it did not come ready to set up.
6. Levana Digital Baby Video Monitor
This digital video system has the advantage of not only being affordable, but it is also expandable to include up to 4 cameras which is great for parents with a few young children. It features night vision and talk back with camera controls that are quite useful once you work them out. The sound and picture is great. Some complain that this model might need to be readjusted.
This video offers some tips and options concerning baby monitors. Watch it to get some baby monitor reviews: