10 best baby monitors: Tried and tested video and audio models

For the first few months of your baby ’s life, it may feel like you’re completely attached at the hip . With contact naps aplenty and no real routine in place, those newborn days are a joy of closeness. Over time, though, as your baby settles into a more consistent routine and (let’s be honest) you’re ready to reclaim a little more of your evening back, it’s probably time to start thinking about a baby monitor.

A good baby camera or monitor will leave you feeling confident that you can see and hear your baby well, while not in the same room. If you’re happy with just being able to hear your baby, there are some great audio-only options. But more common are the traditional video monitors, with the camera in the nursery and a separate viewing screen, which stays with the caregiver.

If you’re willing to splash out a little more, a smart camera could be more your scene. These connect through wifi, via an app on your smartphone or tablet , which means you can check in on your baby even when you’re in the garden .

For an even greater level of monitoring, wearable elements, such as wraps or socks , allow you to monitor more than just your baby’s crying or movements – you can also monitor their breathing, oxygen levels or temperature. We have to note that, while these can be a welcome addition for new or anxious parents, you should keep in mind they’re not medical devices and are often not 100 per cent accurate.

Whether it’s a simple, affordable audio-only option you’re keen on, or you’d prefer a bells and whistles setup with soothing features and remote viewing, we’ve got you covered.

How we tested

We tested each camera and monitor over the course of a few nights for naps, night-time sleep and observing play. Our little helper is seven-months-old and just beginning to move around independently while in the cot alone.

Prices range on average from £29 to £399, offering varying features. We chose nine of the best to suit every parent’s budget, to give a great view of your child, day or night.

The best baby monitors for 2024 are:

• Best baby monitor overall – CuboAi sleep safety bundle: £229, Getcubo.com
• Best for tracking heart rate – Owlet smart sock 3 smart baby monitor: £289, Owletbabycare.co.uk
• Best for crying babies – Tommee Tippee dreamsense smart baby monitor: £229.99, Tommeetippee.com
• Best for awkward spaces – Lollipop baby monitor: £166, Amazon.co.uk

CuboAi sleep safety bundle

Nanit pro camera

Owlet smart sock 3 smart baby monitor

Tommee Tippee dreamsense smart baby monitor

Lollipop baby monitor

Vtech DM1212 audio baby monitor

Babymoov 360-degree yoo moov motorised video baby monitor

Motorola VM65X smart baby monitor

Maxi-Cosi see baby monitor

Hubble connected nursery view video baby monitor

Baby monitor FAQs

Do you need a baby monitor?

Audio vs video: What type of baby monitor is best?

When to stop using baby monitors

Can baby monitors be hacked?

The verdict: Baby monitors