Becoming a parent comes with an endless list of worries, and keeping an eye on your baby while they sleep is one of the biggest concerns. A good baby monitor can ease that anxiety, letting you check on your little one without constantly hovering over the crib. But not everyone wants to spend a fortune on a high-tech monitor. The good news? You don’t have to. There are plenty of reliable baby monitors under $100 that provide clear audio, video, and even extra features like night vision and temperature monitoring.

I remember when my sister had her first baby. She was overwhelmed by all the baby gear options and assumed she had to spend hundreds of dollars to get a decent monitor. After some research, she found a budget-friendly model that worked just as well as some of the pricier ones. That experience made me realize that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Honestly, we already have sooo many things to purchase as parents and it would be great to get a reasonably priced baby monitor under $100 that simply gets the job done.

If you’re looking for a baby monitor under $100, this guide will help you find the best options without breaking the bank.

What to Look for in an Affordable Baby Monitor

When you want to get the absolute best baby monitors, then you have to remember these very important features to look for

Audio vs. Video

Some parents prefer a simple audio-only monitor, which allows them to hear when their baby cries without the need for a screen. Others want a video monitor for added reassurance. Video models often come with night vision, zoom, and movement detection, making it easier to keep an eye on your baby even in the dark.

Range and Connectivity

You don’t want to lose connection when moving around the house. Look for a monitor with a long-range signal, especially if you have a larger home. Most budget monitors offer up to 1,000 feet of range indoors. Some models use Wi-Fi, while others rely on radio frequency for a more secure connection.

Battery Life and Power Options

A good monitor should last through long naps and nighttime use. Battery-operated models offer flexibility, but plug-in options provide reliability without worrying about charging. If you choose a rechargeable battery model, check for at least 8-10 hours of battery life on a full charge.

Sound and Motion Alerts

Even a budget-friendly monitor should include sound detection that alerts you when your baby cries. Some models go a step further with movement tracking and two-way talk, allowing you to soothe your baby from another room.

Extra Features

While affordability is key, some monitors under $100 still offer extras like temperature sensors, lullabies, and zoom capabilities. Consider which features are must-haves for your family.

Top Baby Monitors Under $100

VTech DM221 Audio Baby Monitor

• Type: Audio-only
• Range: Up to 1,000 feet
• Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
• Features: Two-way talk, night light, DECT 6.0 technology (prevents interference)

If you don’t need a video screen, this VTech audio monitor is one of the best affordable options. It delivers clear sound quality without interference, even in a multi-device household. The two-way talk feature lets you speak to your baby from another room, and the built-in night light provides a soft glow without disturbing sleep.

My cousin used this monitor when she lived in a small apartment, and she loved how easy it was to use. She didn’t need a screen—just a way to hear her baby without static or interruptions. It worked perfectly, even in a place with a lot of Wi-Fi traffic.

HelloBaby HB32 Video Baby Monitor

• Type: Video
• Screen Size: 3.2-inch LCD
• Range: Up to 960 feet
• Battery Life: 8 hours
• Features: Night vision, two-way talk, temperature monitoring

For parents who want a video monitor under $100, the HelloBaby HB32 is a solid pick. It includes a large screen, automatic night vision, and even room temperature monitoring so you can make sure your baby is comfortable. The two-way talk function is a nice touch, allowing you to reassure your baby without entering the room.

A friend of mine used this monitor when she transitioned her baby to a separate nursery. She was nervous about not being in the same room, but the clear video feed helped her feel connected, even from the other side of the house.

Infant Optics DXR-5 Portable Video Monitor

• Type: Video
• Screen Size: 2.4-inch LCD
• Range: Up to 800 feet
• Battery Life: 10 hours
• Features: Secure transmission, night vision, power-saving mode

This monitor is a great no-frills option if you want reliable video monitoring without unnecessary extras. It has a private, interference-free connection, which is great for security-conscious parents. The power-saving mode extends battery life, so you don’t have to charge it constantly.

My neighbor swears by this monitor because of its strong connection. She lives in an older house with thick walls, and other monitors would cut out, but this one stayed connected.

ANMEATE Digital Video Baby Monitor

• Type: Video
• Screen Size: 2.4-inch LCD
• Range: Up to 960 feet
• Battery Life: 8 hours
• Features: Night vision, two-way talk, temperature monitoring, zoom

This budget-friendly monitor comes with all the essential features at a fraction of the price. The high-quality night vision allows you to see your baby clearly, and the temperature monitor ensures the room stays at a safe level. It also includes a zoom function, which is rare for budget models.

One of my friends, who had twins, found this monitor incredibly useful. She placed the camera where she could see both cribs and used the zoom feature to check in when one baby stirred.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to find a dependable baby monitor. Whether you prefer a basic audio model or a feature-packed video monitor, there are plenty of affordable options under $100.

If you want simple, reliable audio, the VTech DM221 is a great pick. If you need a budget-friendly video monitor, the HelloBaby HB32 offers clear video and night vision.

At the end of the day, the best monitor is the one that makes you feel confident and at ease while your baby sleeps. No matter which one you choose, peace of mind doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.