Last updated on March 12th, 2024 at 04:52 am
What is a Baby Video Camera Monitor?
A baby video camera monitor, as its name suggests, is a camera system that lets you check on your baby from a different location.
It is also called a baby monitor with a camera, which differentiates it from the audio-only version.
It is especially useful if you’re in your house but can’t be near your baby. With a baby video camera monitor, you don’t always have to drop in now and then to check on your baby. You may continue your routine with peace of mind as if someone is looking after your baby.
You may also catch up with some rest or watch a TV show while your loved one sleeps.
Also, if you must be away from your house and leave your kid with a babysitter, a baby video camera monitor will help you check on how your baby is doing.
Types of Baby Video Camera Monitor
There are two types of baby video camera monitors. The first is the handheld type one you can use only within your house.
The advantage of this type of monitor is you don’t have to connect it to the Internet.
The second type is the IP-type baby video camera monitor or a smartphone monitor. With this type, you can monitor your baby remotely while connected to the Internet. You’ll usually do this through your smartphone or tablet.
The third type of baby video camera monitor works within and away from your house. In short, it’s a handheld-cum-smartphone monitor.
How Does a Baby Video Camera Work?
The baby video camera monitor is a set of 2 devices – a transmitter and a receiver.
The transmitter is placed near the baby, and you’ll have the receiver near you as you move around the house.
If your baby moves or there’s a movement near your baby, the receiver will alert you.
What are the Main Features of a Baby Video Camera Monitor?
Not all video camera monitors have the following features. However, they would cover the main ones listed below.
Breathing monitor
The video camera monitors the breathing of your baby in RPM (respirations per minute) in real time in the form of a live breathing waveform. You would need a smartphone app to do this.
Two-Way Audio Communication
You can hear your baby, and your baby can hear you. If your baby wakes and cries, you can speak to your baby and pacify her. You can also issue directions to your babysitter or nanny.
Night Vision
The ability to see your baby in low-light conditions or in near-darkness.
Pan and Tilt
You may adjust the position of your camera by panning and tilting it through your device to get a good viewing angle of your baby.
Temperature Display
You can get an indication of the room temperature your baby is in.
Lullaby and White Noise
If you cannot pacify your baby by communicating with her through words, you can use the lullaby and white noise feature to calm down your baby.
What to Look for When Choosing a Baby Video Camera Monitor?
Here are some important things to consider when choosing a baby video camera monitor.
Reception Distance
For handheld monitors, you would take note of the reception distance, especially if you’re living in a large, spacious house.
Most can cover up to 1000 feet.
Multiple Camera Setup
If you would like to monitor your other children in other rooms, you would want to choose a video monitor with multicamera functionality. Most models allow you to set up to 4 cameras in different locations.
Multiple Access
Some baby video camera monitors can allow multiple users to access them. This is useful if you want to include other family members to keep an eye on your baby.
Baby Video Camera Monitor Buying Ideas
Check out the recommendations for the best baby video camera monitors.
Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor
If budget isn’t a concern and you want the best for your baby, check out the Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor.
It comes with a 1080p resolution (night vision) with a floor stand included.
You can view your baby video with an iOS, Android, Kindle Fire, or Echo Show device anywhere there’s an Internet connection.
The floor stand allows for an overhead view of your baby with a safe-cable feature.
Track your baby’s sleeping pattern each morning in the Nanit app.
Also, monitor your baby’s breathing with the help of the breathing band. The band works without any batteries or wires. This works in real-time and sends you alerts if your attention is needed.
Take a look at the video below to learn more.
Check out the Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor.
Eufy Security, SpaceView Pro Baby Monitor
If you don’t need anywhere-access to your baby and want to view your baby video within the confines of your home, check out this Eufy Video Baby Monitor. It comes with a 5-inch screen.
A 720p video resolution should be clear enough to give you a good view of your baby.
Under normal use, the battery life is about 30 hours. For continuous monitoring, it should last about 12 hours.
Night vision will help when you’ve turned the lights off. Panning of 330 degrees is supported and tilting is available (100 degrees) to give you a view of the floor to the ceiling.
Check out the Eufy Security Video Baby Monitor.
Hybrid Motorola Halo+ Over-The-Crib Baby Monitor
The Motorola Halo+ Over-The-Crib Baby Monitor provides an excellent overhead view of your baby.
But that’s not its main feature. The main feature is its hybrid nature. If you’re around your house, you may use the parent monitor unit. If you’re out of the house, you want to use the remote mode. This will allow you to monitor your baby through your smartphone.
The Hubble Baby Smart Sleep Assistant feature helps you keep track of your baby’s sleep hours, diaper changes, and feeding times.
If your baby feels restless, you can use the night light, which has 7 different colors. This light projects images onto the ceiling and lulls your baby into sleep.
You would not need a mound or a stand to get it working. Attach it over the crib, or anywhere it provides a good view.
Monitors must be installed at least 3 feet away in the name of baby safety.
Check out the Hybrid Motorola Halo+ Over-The-Crib Baby Monitor.
Motorola 5 Video Baby Monitor with Two Cameras
Do you need two viewing angles for your video baby monitor? If so, check out this Motorola 5 Video Baby Monitor with two cameras.
This video baby unit with two cameras works like the Hybrid Motorola Halo+ Over-The-Crib Baby Monitor.
You get a 5-inch parent unit to view your baby while in your house. You can use your smartphone app to monitor your baby if you’re away.
There is a remote pan scan, digital tilt, and zoom feature, which will allow you to get a full view of your baby’s room.
Check out the Motorola Connect85-2 Video Baby Monitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions often asked about baby video camera monitors.
What’s the difference between a video baby monitor and a nanny cam?
The key difference between a video baby monitor and a nanny cam lies in their intended purpose and functionality:
- Video Baby Monitor: This device is designed specifically for monitoring a baby’s well-being. They typically prioritize safety and privacy.
- Focus on Baby’s Needs: Features like room temperature monitoring, lullabies, and soothing sounds promote a comfortable environment for your baby.
- Secure Connection: Often non-Wi-Fi or use secure digital transmissions to minimize hacking risks.
- Limited Features: May not have features like continuous recording or extensive remote access through apps, prioritizing privacy over extensive functionality.
- Nanny Cam: This device is designed for broader home security and monitoring purposes, including supervising a nanny or other caregivers.
- Focus on Security: It may offer features like continuous recording, motion detection, and wider viewing angles to capture activity within a room.
- Remote Access: Often, Wi-Fi connected and accessible through smartphone apps for remote viewing and recording.
- Privacy Considerations: Since they might be used to monitor adults, nanny cams may have features that raise privacy concerns, like cloud storage of recordings.
What additional features should I look for in a video baby monitor?
- Video quality and night vision: Look for a monitor with clear video, especially in low light. Night vision is essential for seeing your baby at night.
- Range: Consider the distance between the nursery and where you’ll be using the monitor.
- Sound features: Two-way talk allows you to soothe your baby remotely. Sound activation can alert you when your baby makes noise.
- Additional features: Room temperature monitoring, lullabies, and pan/tilt functionality can be helpful.
How safe are video baby monitors?
Look for monitors with secure digital transmissions to minimize the risk of hacking. Avoid monitors with constant streaming, as this can expose your baby to unnecessary radiation.
Do I need a Wi-Fi-connected video baby monitor?
Wi-Fi monitors offer features like smartphone access and remote monitoring, but they can be more vulnerable to hacking. Non-Wi-Fi monitors offer a secure connection but lack some remote functionalities.
How much do video baby monitors cost?
Prices range from $50 for basic models to over $300 for feature-rich monitors.
What’s the difference between a split-screen and a multi-camera monitor?
Split-screen monitors can display video from two cameras simultaneously. Multi-camera monitors allow you to connect and view footage from multiple cameras on one parent unit.
What’s the battery life of a video baby monitor?
Battery life varies depending on usage. Most monitors last for several hours on a single charge. Look for models with low battery alerts and long-lasting batteries.
Can I use a video baby monitor while traveling?
Yes, most monitors are portable and can be used anywhere with a power outlet. However, consider the monitor’s range and compatibility with different voltages if traveling internationally.
Are video baby monitors safe for my baby’s health?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against placing any electronic devices, including monitors, inside a baby’s crib. Keep the monitor at a safe distance from the crib.
When should I stop using a video baby monitor?
There’s no strict timeline. Some parents continue using them for toddlers, while others transition to audio-only monitors or stop using them altogether as their child gets older.
Read also: The Best Video Camera for Kids.
