Our baby monitor buying guide takes an in-depth look at the different types and the variety of features available. Check it out if you want to learn about what type of baby monitor may be right for your family and how to choose one. In the meantime, here’s a list of the top features that many parents prioritize.
HD screen resolution: Most WiFi video baby monitors have color cameras and high-definition screen resolution. Our testers found that while even lower-res models are adequate to see what a child is doing, it’s probably worth getting a monitor with high definition.
2-way talk: Most baby monitors feature 2-way communication, which allows you to hear a baby’s noises and talk back. Some models can even play music or sounds.
Multiple cameras with split-screen displays: Most baby monitor manufacturers will sell you additional cameras that can feed the same display, which can be useful if you have more than one small child. If you’d like to be able to see multiple children at once, look for a model with an app that offers split-screen displays.
Temperature sensors: While most modern baby monitors report on the temperature in the child’s room, some also add a humidity reading, which might be useful, say, if you’re running a humidifier or a vaporizer in a sick child’s room.
Volume control: With a WiFi video baby monitor, you’ll access the live feed via an app on your phone. It’s important that you can still hear the live feed even if you’re not actively in the app. That way, you can use your phone while monitoring your child.
Notifications: Many WiFi monitor apps offer a variety of notification options. For example, some models can distinguish between a cough and a cry, and allow you to select whether you want to receive notifications for both, just one, or none. Our testers like monitors that have specific notification settings because they reduce the likelihood of false alerts but don’t miss when a baby needs soothing.
Night vision: Most baby monitors have a feature that uses an infrared setting on the camera so that you can see your baby in a dark room.
