Becoming a parent is one of life’s greatest joys—but let’s be honest, it also comes with its fair share of sleepless nights and constant worry. I still remember when I brought my first baby home. I’d tiptoe into the nursery a dozen times a night, just to make sure they were breathing. It wasn’t until I finally invested in a good baby monitor that I could rest a little easier. If you’re a new parent or expecting, finding the right baby monitor can be life-changing.

In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the best baby monitors from 2021. Whether you’re looking for advanced tech features, budget-friendly options, or something simple and reliable, there’s a monitor out there that can help you breathe a little easier, too.

Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor

When I first heard about the Nanit Pro, I thought it sounded like something from the future. But after using it, I understood the hype. This monitor isn’t just a camera—it’s like having a second pair of eyes and a sleep coach rolled into one. The Nanit Pro offers:

• HD Video Quality: Crystal-clear views of your baby, even in the dark.
• Sleep Tracking: The feature recommends personalized tips to improve your baby’s sleep patterns.
• Breathing Wear Compatibility: You can track your baby’s breathing without extra gadgets.

Honestly, what I loved the most was how it made me feel. Knowing that I could check on my baby’s breathing without tiptoeing into the room gave me so much peace of mind. Having peace of mind as a parent feels like a luxury since I constantly worry about so many things. If you’re someone who wants to keep a close eye on your baby’s health, this monitor is worth the investment.

Infant Optics DXR-8 Pro

Some parents prefer a traditional monitor without all the bells and whistles of Wi-Fi connectivity. If that sounds like you, the Infant Optics DXR-8 Pro is a solid choice. I recommended this to my sister when she had her first baby, and she still raves about it.

• No Wi-Fi Needed: This means no worrying about hacking or internet outages.
• Interchangeable Lenses: Customize the view of your baby’s room.
• Secure and Reliable: Offers a strong, private connection.

If you’re someone who values simplicity and security, this monitor is a great fit. This monitor has a great battery life so you won’t have to worry about it dieing unexpectedly.

Motorola Halo+ Over-the-Crib Baby Monitor

I’ll never forget the first time I saw my friend’s baby sleeping under the soft glow of the Motorola Halo+ night light. It felt like stepping into a peaceful, magical space. This monitor combines functionality with a gentle, comforting presence in your baby’s room.

• Over-the-Crib Mount: Perfect for a clear, top-down view of your baby.
• Integrated Night Light & Projector: Projects calming images to help your baby fall asleep.
• Two-Way Audio: You can soothe your baby with your voice without entering the room.

If you’re looking to create a serene sleep environment while keeping a close eye on your little one, this is a fantastic choice.

VTech DM221 Audio Baby Monitor

Sometimes, you don’t need a video feed—you just need to hear that comforting sound of your baby breathing. When I was visiting my cousin last summer, she used the VTech DM221, and I was surprised by how clear the audio was, even from across the house.

• Crystal-Clear Sound: DECT 6.0 technology minimizes background noise.
• Long Range: Works up to 1,000 feet outdoors.
• Affordable: Great for parents on a budget.

I liked this monitor because it is simple, effective, and budget-friendly, this audio monitor is a lifesaver.

Arlo Baby Monitor

Let’s talk about the cutest baby monitor ever—the Arlo Baby. This little gadget looks like a bunny, but it’s packed with features that make it one of the most versatile monitors from 2021. I bought this for a friend’s baby shower, and it became her favorite gift!

• 1080p HD Video: Clear and detailed visuals.
• Air Quality Sensors: Monitors the temperature and humidity in the room.
• Music & Night Light Features: Helps soothe your baby to sleep.

If you want something that blends function with adorable design, the Arlo Baby is perfect. It’s cute enough to fit into any nursery decor while offering top-tier monitoring features.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Baby Monitor

Choosing the right baby monitor isn’t just about picking the fanciest one. It’s about what fits your needs as a parent. Here are a few things to consider:

• Video vs. Audio: Do you want to see your baby or just hear them?
• Wi-Fi or Non-Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi monitors offer more features but can be vulnerable to hacking. Non-Wi-Fi monitors are more secure but may have limited range.
• Battery Life: You don’t want your monitor dying in the middle of the night.
• Additional Features: Think about extras like temperature sensors, two-way audio, or sleep tracking.

Finding Peace of Mind

At the end of the day, the best baby monitor is the one that helps you feel the most confident and secure that your baby is well. I remember the relief I felt when I finally found the right monitor for my baby. That small piece of technology allowed me to relax, knowing my little one was safe and sound. I didn’t have to watch his every move so closely since I had the monitor to give me an extra set of eyes.

Whether you’re drawn to the high-tech features of the Nanit Pro or the simple reliability of the VTech DM221, there’s a monitor out there that will meet your needs. You deserve to feel at ease, knowing that your baby is safe, even when you’re not in the room.