How to choose the best video baby monitor

go digital
Video baby monitors are quickly becoming the must-have for new parents, but when it comes to choosing one, it can get a bit confusing. This is because there are so many different models for sale, ranging in price and features. So how do you choose the right video baby monitor for you?

The first thing to look at is the type of transmission. Most of the video baby monitors these days use digital technology which offers much safer and interference free transmission. Even so, digital transmission can be open to interference, especially if you have other wireless devices operating on the same frequency. Therefore, choosing a model with digital frequency hopping technology is a good idea, since the signal is much more difficult to intercept.

Does size matter?
Video baby monitors come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and it’s up to you to decide which one you prefer. Just like choosing a TV, you need to think about what size screen you prefer. Screen sizes range from around 1.5″ to 7″. Most of the really popular models have a screen size around 3.5″, which I think is a really good size. The only thing that really matters is that you have a big enough screen to comfortably view your baby.

Also, the bigger the screen, the less portable the monitor is. Most parents prefer to have a portable parent unit that they can easily carry in their hand or place on a table. If you’re always on the go, you should consider a monitor that has a belt clip so you can clip it to your belt, waistband, or pocket. Many have removable stands so you can easily place them on a table or other surface.

I really like video baby monitors that look like and are the size of a smartphone. Not only do they look really modern and stylish, but they are also easy to carry in your hand.

What features are important?
There are some features that parents really find important and these are night vision and two-way feedback. Almost all video baby monitors offer automatic black and white night vision. What happens is that as the light in your baby’s room dims, the camera’s built-in infrared LED lights allow you to see your baby in her crib. Depending on the monitor, some allow you to see anywhere between 6 feet and 20 feet.

Having the ability to talk to your baby without having to go into their room is a really cool feature. You can talk to your baby through the microphone on the parent unit and you can listen through the microphone on the baby camera. This means that you can soothe your baby even when she is in the garden, doing laundry or cleaning.

Another important thing to think about is whether you might need to expand your display options in the future. If you think you may need to monitor more than one room, you should choose a model that has the ability to support more than one camera. Many do, some even support four.

For me, these are the most important features to look out for, but of course there are monitors with many other useful features. These include motion or sound alert sensors, temperature sensor, and lullabies. Also, some of the newer cutting-edge models offer the ability to view your baby remotely via Skype, as well as connect to your TV, iPad, iPhone, etc.

Video baby monitors range in price from basic models around $100 to all-singing and dancing models at over $200. Give serious consideration to the functions and features you need and go for the best you can afford.