Thanks to WIFI and Bluetooth technology, watching the baby monitor on your phone or computer is possible. But which one is the best? I did this research and reviewed more than 25 apps for iPhone, Android, and even Apple Watch. Here are the 4 apps I would trust.
As a fellow father of two, I know how nerve-wracking it can be to keep an eye on our little ones while doing chores around the house. That’s where baby monitor apps come into play! These apps have been a lifesaver for anxious parents like me. I’m here to share everything you need to know about choosing the best one for your family.
The article will cover the following:
- Best Baby Monitor Apps
- Key Features of Baby Monitor Apps
- Compatibility and Device Requirements
- Setting Up Your App
- Legal and Privacy Considerations
- Conclusion
Want a Handheld Baby Monitor Camera With an App?
If you don’t want to rely on your smartphone solely, here are the top 5 baby monitor cameras with an app you should consider. From the basic IP Camera to the smart baby monitor, all of those monitors have top reviews on Amazon.
| Baby monitor | Types | Highlights | Price | More details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nanit | Smart baby monitor | Sleep tracking | $$$$$ | Check price on Amazon |
| iBaby M7 | Wifi baby monitor | Sensors | $$$$$ | Check price on Amazon |
| Arlo | Smart WIFI Baby Camera | Works with Alexa | $$$$$ | Check price on Amazon |
| Motorola Connect40 | Wireless baby monitor | With screen and app | $$$$$ | Check price on Amazon |
| Nooie | IP Camera | Works with Alexa | $$$$$ | Check price on Amazon |
Baby Monitor Apps Parents Love Best
It’s a jungle out there when it comes to baby monitor apps. So, I’ve done the legwork and compiled a list of top-notch apps that fellow parents swear by. This section will compare their features, pricing, and what sets them apart.
Baby Monitor App for iPhone and Android
1. Baby Monitor 3G
Download the app for IOS / iPhone
or for Android
The Baby Monitor 3G app works with iPhone and Android; it also lets you mix and match the connected devices. Mom can use her Apple watch, and Dad can use his Android while also working with Mac, PC, tablet, or Chromebook. I believe Baby Monitor 3G is the most convenient baby monitoring app I used.
Features:
- Work with any network; WIFI, 3G, LTE
- Unlimited range
- Remote access wherever you are
- Video monitoring with night vision mode
- Activity recording
- Audio monitoring with adjustable microphone sensitivity
- Sound activated alerts
- Supports multi-parent units
Price: $3.99
Security: The Baby Monitor 3G app is taking the necessary precaution by using industry-standard encryption for all communications.
How to use the app: The Baby Monitor 3G is easy to use, especially compared to other baby monitor apps on the market. After you download the app on the device you will use as the baby unit, follow the installation steps. In the end, you will receive a code to pair the other phone that you will use as the parent unit.
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
More information about the app is on the official app website.
2. Alfred Home Security Camera
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
This app is meant for home security but also works as a baby monitor. You need to put one device into your baby’s room and use the second device as a parent unit. You can use a smartphone or a tablet with the app.
I would recommend mounting the baby’s unit on a tripod, so you can fully take advantage of the 360 cameras. The Alfred Home Security Camera app use both cameras on the smartphone so you can cover the whole room.
This app looks like the perfect solution if you need more than a simple baby monitor. You can use the app to check on your pet or catch whoever has been stealing tomatoes from your garden.
Features:
- Work with any network; WIFI, 3G, LTE
- Unlimited range
- Remote access wherever you are
- Video monitoring with motion sensor
- 360 camera: use front and back cameras
- Zooming options
- Activity recording
- Free cloud storage to save and keep your videos
- Talk-back / Walkie-talkie feature
- Alerts and notifications
Price: There’s a free version of the app, but if you want more features, a $3.99 per month subscription plan. In my opinion, it’s a bit pricey, but it worth it!
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
More information about the app is on the official app website.
3. Bipfun Baby Monitor
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
This simple baby monitor app works on every smartphone or tablet. You just need two devices to install the app, and you can monitor your child’s room.
Features:
- Work with any network; WIFI, 3G, LTE
- Unlimited range
- Remote access wherever you are
- Video monitoring
- 360 camera: use front and back cameras
- Audio tracking
- Sound activated alerts
- Talk-back / Walkie-talkie feature
- Nightlight
Price: You can use the app for one month without paying.
Security: The app is not collecting data without your knowledge, and the communications are secured and protected.
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
4. Baby Monitor and Alarm
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
If you are looking for an app to monitor only the sound in your baby’s room, this is the one for you. Work great if you just need to hear the noise and get notified when your baby is awake. From what I saw, it looks reliable and easy to use.
Features:
- Audio monitoring
- Sound activated alerts
- Talk-back / Walkie-talkie feature
- Play lullabies
- Sound recording
Price: The app costs $2.99
Download the app for IOS / iPhone or for Android
More information about the app is on the official app website.
Which app is right for you? Let’s look at the essential features these apps should have.
Must-Have Features for Every Baby Monitor App
Not all baby monitor apps are created equal, so knowing what features you should be looking for is crucial. From secure connections to customizable settings, I’ll break down the most important features that will give you the peace of mind you need as a parent.
- Live video and audio streaming: You’ll want to see and hear your baby in real-time, so make sure your chosen app provides clear video and audio.
- Two-way communication: This feature allows you to soothe your baby with your voice, even when you’re not in the room. It’s been a lifesaver for me during those late-night cries.
- Notifications and alerts: A good baby monitor app should send you alerts when your baby is crying or moving or if there’s a room temperature or humidity change.
- Secure Connection: The last thing any parent wants is for strangers to have access to their baby monitor feed. So, ensuring a secure connection is crucial. Look for apps that use encryption and require strong passwords to protect your baby’s privacy. Some apps even have additional security measures like two-factor authentication, providing an extra protection layer.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s discuss compatibility.
Device Compatibility: Don’t Get Stuck with a Dud
There’s nothing worse than finding the perfect baby monitor app only to realize it’s incompatible with your device! In this section, we’ll discuss compatibility requirements and how to ensure the app you choose will work seamlessly with your smartphone or tablet.
How Does a Baby Monitor App Work?
The app is installed on two smart devices. It could be a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. The first is placed in your kid’s room, and the other you will carry.
The app will connect both devices and let you use the camera and microphone to monitor your baby. For security reasons, you need a unique password to access the video feed from your baby’s room.
The app will run in the background even if your screen is off. Some apps will notify you if your battery is low or the signal is lost.
The baby monitor app will transform your smartphone into a full-on baby monitor.
Want to learn more about how to use a smartphone as a baby monitor? Read this complete article I wrote on this subject.
What Devices Are Compatible with the Best Baby Monitor Apps?
The good news is that most baby monitor apps are designed to work with a wide range of devices, including:
- iOS devices (iPhones and iPads): Apple users, rejoice! Most baby monitor apps are available on the App Store and compatible with the latest iOS versions.
- Android devices (smartphones and tablets): Android users, you’re in luck too! Many baby monitor apps on Google Play work with various Android models and operating systems.
Always check the app’s description or website to ensure it’s compatible with your device and operating system.
Are There Any Special Requirements for Using Baby Monitor Apps?
Now that we’ve covered compatibility let’s discuss any special requirements you may need to consider when using a baby monitor app:
- Stable Internet connection: You’ll need a reliable Wi-Fi connection to stream live video and audio. Be prepared to upgrade your internet plan if necessary – after all, it’s a small price to pay for your baby’s safety!
- Adequate storage and processing power: Some apps may require a certain amount of storage and processing power to function smoothly. Ensure your device meets the app’s minimum requirements to avoid lagging or freezing.
Before committing to a baby monitor app, double-check that it’s compatible with your device and that you have everything you need for a seamless experience. Remember, we aim for more peace of mind, not more headaches! Once you’ve got your app, it’s time to set it up.
Setting Up Your Baby Monitor App: A Piece of Cake!
I promise, setting up your baby monitor app is more manageable than assembling that crib! In this section, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to get your app up and running, so you can start keeping a watchful eye on your little one.
What Steps Should You Take to Set Up Your Baby Monitor App?
- Download and install: Head to your device’s app store (App Store for iOS or Google Play for Android) and download your chosen baby monitor app.
- Create an account: Most apps require you to create an account, so go ahead and sign up with a secure password. Remember to enable two-factor authentication if it’s available!
- Pair your devices: If your app requires a dedicated baby monitoring device, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to pair it with your smartphone or tablet. If you’re using an old smartphone as a camera, ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Position the camera: Find the perfect spot in your baby’s room to place the camera, ensuring a clear view of the crib and surrounding area. Remember, safety comes first – keep cords and devices away from your baby’s reach.
- Test the connection: Once everything is set up, test the video and audio streaming and any additional features like two-way communication and notifications. You’ll want to ensure everything works smoothly before relying on the app.
Where to Install Your Phone in the Nursery?
Smartphones and tablets are fragile. Trust me, I paid my share of shattered screens. You should mount the smartphone on a small tripod placed on a shelf or directly on the wall. Bottom line, you want to put it somewhere safe, where it won’t be knocked down.
If you want more information, read my article about where to place a baby monitor in a nursery.
Getting the Most Out of Your Baby Monitor App
Your baby monitor app is installed, but are you making the most of it? I have some tips and tricks to help you ensure it runs at peak performance.
- Close unnecessary apps: Running too many apps on your device can slow down your baby monitor app. Close any unnecessary apps to free up processing power and improve performance.
- Keep your app and devices updated: Regular updates can improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features. Pay attention to those update notifications!
With your app set up, let’s maximize its potential.
Privacy Matters: Keeping Your Baby’s Data Safe
As much as we love our baby monitor apps, we must remember that privacy and security should always be a top priority. As a dad, I know that keeping our little ones safe goes beyond physical safety – it also means protecting their digital footprints.
So let’s discuss some legal and privacy considerations when using baby monitor apps and how to keep your baby’s data safe and secure.
What Legal and Privacy Concerns Should Parents Be Aware of When Using Baby Monitor Apps?
- Data storage and access: Some apps may store video and audio recordings in the cloud or on third-party servers. Review the app’s privacy policy to understand how your data is stored, accessed, and used.
- Sharing content: While sharing adorable moments captured by your baby monitor app on social media is tempting, be mindful of potential privacy risks. Always ask yourself, “Do I really want this video or image to be public?”
How Can You Keep Your Baby’s Data Safe and Secure?
- Use strong passwords: Create unique passwords for your app account and Wi-Fi network to keep hackers at bay.
- Keep software up to date: Regularly update your app, devices, and Wi-Fi router to ensure you have the latest security features and patches.
- Limit access: Only grant the app access to those who truly need it, like your partner or trusted caregivers. The fewer people with access, the lower the risk of privacy breaches.
- Be cautious with public Wi-Fi: If you need to check your baby monitor app. At the same time, out and about, avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be less secure. Stick to using your mobile data or a trusted VPN.
How to Know if a Baby Monitor App is Safe?
So many apps on the App Store and Google Play can use a baby monitor. It can be hard to know which one I can trust.
I’m always nervous when installing a new app on my phone, Especially if it’s from a company I don’t know. My life is on my phone, and I don’t want to invite a hacker.
I’ve reviewed the reviews on Itunes, Facebook, and Google to create this list of trustworthy apps. I’ve researched the company to know where they’re from and who they are.
After all this, I am confident and trust any of those apps.
Can Mobile Phones Be Harmful to Your Kid?
The security and health of our kids are important. This is why you must be aware that ALL wireless devices, including smartphones and baby monitors, emit microwave radiation.
Don’t worry. This is not Chernobyl.
I learned that the key is the distance between your baby and the wireless device. That’s why I advise you never to put the phone into your baby’s crib because the effect of the signal emitted by the phone is unhealthy for your little baby.
If you want more information about radiation and baby monitor, read this article I wrote. I have spent numerous hours researching the subject, and it’s worth your time.
Now, let’s wrap it all up.
Conclusion: Now You Know Which Baby Monitor App is the Best for You!
The baby monitor app is the perfect solution to get a high-end baby monitor with cameras for cheap. Especially if you already have another smartphone or tablet in the house.
I found this to be the perfect way to give a second life to my old smartphone.
Don’t overthink about his! Go ahead and download the app, give it a try, and enjoy your (almost) free new baby monitor.