A baby monitor lets an exhausted new parent hear or see the baby from another room.
A baby monitor suits parents who want to hear, or see, the baby from another room. Choose between audio only and video, then check whether it has its own screen or uses a phone app, how clear the night view is, the range, and how long the battery lasts.
Gift ideas
A retailer can change a price at any time, so check it before you buy.
The VTech RM5968HQ 5 Smart 4K Video Monitor with remote access allows you to stay close to your baby when you are at home, on the move or away. This monitor features both Direct Connect mode - for direct connection between parent unit and baby unit without the need for a separate Wi-Fi network, and App Connect mode - which uses your home wireless network to stream live video and audio from the HD camera unit to the free MyVTech Baby app. It allows you to maintain a constant connection to your baby. It uses the MyVTech Baby app to let you instantly see and hear what's happening with your baby from anywhere in the world from your smartphone or tablet. It has a 5-inch colour parent unit with a 4K HD pan & tilt camera with automatic night vision, night light, 24x local digital zoom and 30x remote digital zoom. Two-way talk with the camera from the parent unit or remotely via the app. Comes with 10 soothing sounds, temperature sensor, motion detection, sound activation mode.
The VTech BM5850HD 5.5 HD Monitor helps you keep an eye on your baby with a clear 5.5 colour HD screen and a motorised pan and tilt camera. You can adjust the view remotely, zoom in digitally and use auto night vision to check in after dark. The parent unit features a high-capacity rechargeable battery providing up to 13 hours of active video monitoring, so you're free to move around the house. With a built-in touch night light and simple controls, it's designed to make everyday monitoring easier and more reassuring.
The SC430 4.3 Video Baby Monitor features a bright colour LCD display, a camera with motorised pan-tilt and zoom, and clear two-way talk. It includes room temperature monitoring, soothing lullabies, and a handy feeding timer to support your daily routine. With up to 30 hours of battery life in power save mode and the option to connect multiple cameras (sold separately), the SC430 offers peace of mind and effortless monitoring for modern parents.
The VTech BM3750N Video Monitor helps you keep an eye on your baby from anywhere in your home. The 3.5 full colour parent unit lets you see and hear clearly using 2.4GHz FHSS technology designed to help provide a private connection. With auto night vision, digital zoom and vertical angle adjustment, you can check in day or night. A room temperature sensor with alerts helps you stay aware of changes, while two-way talkback, soothing sounds and lullabies offer extra comfort when your little one needs it. Auto Wake-up mode helps conserve battery by switching the screen off when no sound is detected.
A baby monitor suits parents who want to hear, or see, their baby from another room. It is a useful gift for first-time parents in the weeks before the baby arrives, and for any family where the nursery is a long way from the kitchen or the sofa.
It is a sizeable gift, so it suits a group of friends or relatives chipping in, or a grandparent who wants to give something practical.
What to look for in a baby monitor
Audio or video. An audio monitor carries sound. A video monitor adds a camera and a screen.
Screen or app. Some come with a parent unit with its own screen. Others use an app on a phone, which needs wi-fi and a phone to use it on.
Night view. A camera that shows a clear picture in the dark is useful for night feeds.
Range. In a small flat any monitor will do. In a large house, check the range on the listing.
Battery. A parent unit that holds its charge can be carried from room to room.
Extras. Some include a lullaby, a night light or a two-way talk button.
Set-up. Look at how it mounts, and where the cable has to go.
When a baby monitor is the wrong gift
Families differ on how much they want to watch, and some prefer an audio monitor only, or none at all. If you don't know their view, ask before buying. And if they live in a small place where they can hear the baby anyway, they may like a different present more.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an audio and a video baby monitor?
An audio monitor carries sound from the baby's room to the parent unit. A video monitor adds a camera and a screen, so parents can see as well as hear. Some families prefer audio only.
Do baby monitors need wi-fi?
Some do. Monitors with a phone app connect over wi-fi, while many with a parent unit connect directly to it. The listing says which, so choose the one that fits the home, the phone and how the family likes to use it.
Is a baby monitor a good baby shower gift?
It can be, but it is a personal choice, and some families want one while others don't. Ask first if you can. It is also a good gift for friends or relatives to give together, since it is a sizeable present.
