When shopping for a baby monitor, you’ll be shocked by the discrepancy in price. Today, we’ll figure out how much you should pay for a baby monitor.
The cost for a baby monitor may vary drastically and can range anywhere from $15 to $200 (and even more). However, you can expect to pay around $100 for a decent baby monitor. To pinpoint precisely the price range of your future baby monitor, you must decide if you need an audio-only or video monitor. Plus, the following features will also greatly influence the price of the baby monitor.
If you’re seeking for the best baby monitor and hoping to find real reviews from real parents. You should check out this list I created of the top baby monitors.
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How much does a baby monitor cost?
A standard audio baby monitor will cost between $15 to $75, depending on the brand and quality.
If you’re looking for a more advanced option, a video monitor will cost anywhere between $50 to $200. The price will vary depending on the features you’re looking for, so if you want additional monitors or extended rage options, you’ll end up paying more. Moreover, the cost depends also on the reliability and quality of the baby monitor. Generally speaking, the most popular brands are in the higher price bracket, but they are also the most reliable monitor.
What are the essential features of a baby monitor?
When you’re looking at standard audio baby monitors, you should look for a monitor with a frequency of 900 MHz or higher. Because it will increase clarity and reduce most interference.
Battery life is definitely a critical feature. I also recommend finding a monitor with a bright low-battery light. It’s handy to know if the monitor will die before it does, so you aren’t left wondering why there is no noise being emitted. Going wireless is an excellent option for parents, so battery powered is a great way to go.
Another great feature that is available on some monitors is a sound-activated light. These blinking lights allow you to visually acknowledge if your little one is awake and making noise. It’s undoubtedly helpful while you’re doing chores, like vacuuming. This feature is also a great help to def parents.
As for video monitors, the notable extra features available on video monitors include temperature sensors, a 1,000 ft range, playing lullabies, expandable systems, and cloud technology. The cloud technology allows you to record and rewatch your little one on your laptop or tablet later.
What to look for when buying a monitor?
Here are my tips for what to look for when purchasing a monitor:
Analog vs. Digital
While analog monitors are more budget-friendly, but because of other families in the surrounding with their monitors, it might interfere with the signal or tap into yours. Digital monitors encrypt the signal if they are DECT (digital enhanced cordless technology), making it extremely difficult for others to tap into your signal. Bottom line, digital monitors increase the level of security on your baby monitor.
Frequency
As I mentioned earlier, finding a monitor that has at least 900 MHz will help reduce interference. If your neighbors have an old cordless phone on the same frequency, it can interfere. A lot of newer baby monitors have upgraded to 2.4 GHz. A monitor that offers 1.9 GHz with DECT is the least prone to interference with enhanced security.
Audio or Video
Depending on your comfort level, audio monitors work well for those who want to listen and hear their little ones waking up. They have been a useful product for a long time. However, the video monitor allows you to hear and watch your little one. It gives you that extra information you need to judge if your baby is still asleep or not. Many brands are offering a wide range of features that will surely suit all your needs.
Size
How wireless do you aim to be? A smaller receiver will be easier to clip on a belt or put in your pocket to carry around the house with you. If you don’t plan on moving far from the monitor, size might not be a selling feature for you. Video monitors usually come in a variety of screen and camera sizes, so choosing what works best for you is easy.
Low Battery Indicator
A low battery indicator is an excellent feature because it alerts you before the battery is about to die. It’s good to be notified before you can’t hear what’s happening in your baby’s nursery.
Expandable
Most models come with a receiver or two. If having more than two receivers is important to you, then you will want to find a model that is expandable or comes with more receivers. Some parents like keeping a receiver in each room the kids use the most instead of carrying a monitor around with them. There’s also the option of multiple transmitters, allowing for monitoring in the nursery and the playroom. Some of these monitors work with your smartphone for efficient tracking.
Are Baby Monitors Worth It?
Super high-tech monitors, like those that have oxygen and heart rate detectors, might not be worth the high price tag.
Experts suggest that these types of monitors might not be as effective as they claim, with multiple reports of false readings and wrong alerts. Experts suggest that these types of monitors have parents relying too heavily on the signals coming from them, rather than paying close attention to their baby. It removes the responsibility off the parents, and they can become complacent.
Baby monitors are great, whether you choose a video or audio monitor because they allow you to check on your baby without disturbing them. You risk waking them up if you have to check on them every 10 minutes, which interrupts what you’re trying to accomplish as well. You don’t want to be constantly worried about your little one if you’re trying to get some chores done or get some work accomplished. Either audio or video monitors will definitely help ease your mind.
Video monitors are particularly helpful as your children get older because of the sleep training phase. It allows you to see if your toddler is making a fuss because something is actually wrong, or if they want your attention.
It can also be an excellent resource for when you introduce their big kid bed. You can make sure they stay sleeping and comfortable in the new phase in their life. Video monitors take all the sneaking around out of making sure your kiddo stays put.
New video monitors that are durable and high quality should last you a long time. Perhaps even through multiple children! So if you want to spend a little more money to make sure you get the right quality product that will last, I recommend doing so.
Takeaway
A baby monitor can save you a lot of legwork, by reducing the number of times you need to check on your little one. As a new parent, every little noise may cause you concern. Having a tool that allows you to check on them as often as you need to is excellent for your peace of mind. Whether you decide to choose a radio monitor or a video monitor, a monitor can help ease any stress and anxiety you have about leaving your child alone.
Don’t directly buy the cheapest or most expensive baby monitor, first be sure to understand your needs. There are so many options on the market that it can be overwhelming to select the features that are most important to you without looking into it first. So, pick the monitor that works best for you and your baby.
I hope the tips I’ve offered in this baby monitor buying guide can help with your decision!
P.S. If you’re seeking for the best baby monitor and hoping to find real reviews from real parents. You should check out this list I created of the top baby monitors.
To get the best insights and tips to find the best baby monitor, I read more than 300 reviews online and ask my friends or others parents. From all their insights and my own experience, I’ve built this list of the best baby monitors.