There’s nothing quite like watching your baby sleep—tiny chest rising and falling, fingers twitching mid-dream. In those early, often anxious months of parenthood, seeing your little one peacefully snoozing in real-time can be incredibly comforting. I can still remember the first time I watched my son through the baby monitor display at 2 a.m.—I felt like I could finally breathe.

Today’s baby monitor technology has come a long way. Gone are the days of grainy screens and static-filled audio. Now, crystal-clear video, two-way talk, and reliable battery life that lasts through the night are practically standard. Not to mention, many top monitors come with bonus features like night lights, soothing white noise, and even highlight clips that show what your baby was up to overnight (a surprisingly fun way to see just how much they wriggle around!). 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. There are plenty of reliable baby monitors under $100 that provide clear audio, video, and even extra features like night vision, Wifi 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, even if it is a baby monitor. Honestly, we already have sooo many things to purchase as parents and it would be great to get a budget baby monitor under $100 that simply gets the job done.

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

Top 4 Budget Baby Monitors Under $100

Monitor	Price	Type	Screen Size	Range	Battery Life	Features	Personal Review
VTech DM221	~$40	Audio-only	N/A	Up to 1,000 ft	Up to 18 hrs	Two-way talk, night light, DECT 6.0 (interference-free)	Cousin loved its clarity and simplicity in a small apartment with lots of Wi-Fi traffic.
HelloBaby HB32	~$60–$80	Video	3.2-inch LCD	Up to 960 ft	8 hrs	Night vision, two-way talk, temperature monitoring	Friend used this during nursery transition and found comfort in clear video feed.
iFamily Baby Monitor	~$90–$120	Video	5-inch LCD	Up to 960 ft	30 hrs	Secure transmission, night vision, power-saving mode, two-way audio, temperature monitoring, Lullabies	Neighbor loved it for its reliable signal in a thick-walled, older home.
ANMEATE Digital Monitor	~$60–$75	Video	2.4-inch LCD	Up to 960 ft	8 hrs	Night vision, two-way talk, temperature monitoring, zoom	—

Best Audio Baby Monitor Under $100

VTech DM221 Audio Baby Monitor 

Price: ~$40

• 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.

Best Budget Non-Wifi Baby Monitor Under $100

HelloBaby HB32 Video Baby Monitor

Price: ~$60–$80

• 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.

Best Budget-Friendly Non-Wifi Baby Monitor

iFamily Baby Monitor Portable Video Monitor

Price: ~$90–$120

• Type: Video
• Screen Size: 5-inch LCD
• Range: Up to 960 feet
• Battery Life: 30 hours
• Features: Secure transmission, night vision, power-saving mode, temperature monitoring, two-way audio

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.

Best Easy-to-Use Baby Monitor

ANMEATE Digital Video Baby Monitor

Price: ~$60–$75

• 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.

Choosing the Right Type of Baby Monitor

Depending on your lifestyle and comfort level, there are a few types of baby monitors to choose from:

📡 Local-Video Monitor Hybrids

These monitors use a dedicated parent unit that connects directly to the camera in your baby’s room—no Wi-Fi required. That means less worry about connectivity issues or security risks. The Babysense MaxView Baby Monitor was our go-to in the early days. The screen was super clear, and the connection never cut out, even when I wandered out to the backyard for a breath of fresh air during naptime.

Perfect for: Parents who want simplicity and reliability without having to rely on their smartphones.

🌐 Wi-Fi–Enabled Monitors

If you’re the type who likes to check in from anywhere—whether it’s during a date night, a work trip, or even from your office—then a Wi-Fi–enabled monitor might be more your speed. These use an app on your smartphone to stream the camera feed, and most let you share access with a partner, caregiver, or grandparent.

We upgraded to the Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor with the Floor Stand when I went back to work, and I still use the app daily. I love that I can peek in without disturbing nap time, and the sleep insights and tips are actually helpful—not just gimmicky.

What Really Matters to Parents

As someone who’s tested (and obsessed over) more than a few monitors, here’s what I’ve found truly matters:

• Picture and sound clarity – You want to see every wiggle and hear every soft cry.
• Battery life – Especially during those long nights or power outages.
• Durability – Because let’s face it, that monitor will eventually get dropped… possibly by a toddler.
• Ease of use – No one wants to fiddle with settings at midnight.

And of course, anything that makes parenting easier—like white noise, temperature monitoring, or two-way audio—is a big win in my book.

Understanding the Different Types of Baby Monitors: What Works Best for Your Family

Choosing a baby monitor might seem straightforward at first—but once you start shopping, you’ll quickly discover there’s a wide range of options out there, each with its own benefits and considerations. As a parent myself, I’ve tested more than a few of these to find what worked for our family’s changing needs. So let’s break down the most common types of baby monitors and what to think about before deciding which one is right for you.

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Audio Monitors

These are the classic monitors many of us remember from our own childhood homes. Audio-only baby monitors let you listen in on your little one, making them the simplest and usually most budget-friendly option.

💡 Personal tip: When my daughter was a newborn, we started with an audio-only monitor. It was easy to use and perfect for our tiny apartment—I could hear every peep without worrying about displaying video or connecting to Wi-Fi.

🟢 Pros: Affordable, simple, long battery life
🔴 Cons: No visual, so you may be up checking every sound

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Video Monitors

If you like the idea of actually seeing your baby while they sleep, a video monitor might be your best bet. These allow you to both hear and see your little one, giving peace of mind when you’re wondering if that whimper means they’re stuck or just adjusting.

Dr. Gina Posner, a board-certified pediatrician, agrees: “Video can be really helpful to tell if baby needs you or is self-soothing.” But like Fisher (another parent I know), I’ll say this: while video is great, we survived just fine with audio during those early weeks.

🟢 Pros: Visual display reassurance, great for anxious parents
🔴 Cons: Usually more expensive, shorter battery life

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Wi-Fi Monitors

For tech-savvy parents or families often on the go, Wi-Fi baby monitors are a game-changer. These monitors connect to your home’s internet and pair with an app, letting you check in from anywhere.

📱 Personal note: We loved our Wi-Fi monitor when we started leaving the kids with a sitter. I could peek in during date night just to see that everyone was asleep and all was well—it saved me a few unnecessary texts.

🟢 Pros: Unlimited range, high video quality picture, remote access
🔴 Cons: Dependent on internet, potential security risks (though most are encrypted)

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Non-Wi-Fi Monitors

Prefer to skip the internet connection altogether? Non-Wi-Fi monitors offer a secure, direct signal between the camera and the receiver. These are great for parents who want simplicity, quick setup, and peace of mind when it comes to security.

Tip from my own experience: We took a non-Wi-Fi monitor on a weekend trip and appreciated how easily it worked without needing to worry about logging onto a new network.

🟢 Pros: Easy to use, no Wi-Fi required, safer from hacks
🔴 Cons: Limited range, fewer smart features

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Smart Monitors

Smart baby monitors are the new kids on the block—offering sleep tracking, breathing monitoring, and other bells and whistles. Some even give sleep summaries or alert you to movement patterns.

🧠 Just a heads up: While we tried one of these during a particularly restless sleep regression, the extra data was sometimes more anxiety-inducing than helpful. These monitors are not FDA-approved medical devices, so always use them as a complement, not a replacement, for parental instinct and supervision.

🟢 Pros: Advanced features, sleep insights, breathing monitoring
🔴 Cons: Pricier, sometimes overwhelming, not always accurate

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Portable Monitors

If you’re a family that travels or visits grandma often, portable baby monitors are a lifesaver. Compact and often battery-powered, they’re easy to pack and don’t require Wi-Fi.

We kept a small one in our travel bag, and it was the hero of every family trip—especially during nap time in a new place.

🟢 Pros: Travel-friendly, compact
🔴 Cons: Fewer features, often limited range or screen size

WiFi vs. Non-WiFi Baby Monitors: Which One Is Right for You?

When it comes to baby monitors, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a WiFi-enabled model or a more traditional non-WiFi monitor. Both have their strengths and drawbacks—and I’ve personally tried both at different stages of parenting.

🛡️ Non-WiFi Baby Monitors: Simple, Secure, and Reliable

Non-WiFi monitors work using a closed transmission system, which means you don’t need an internet connection to use them. They come with their own parent unit—usually a handheld screen—and connect directly to the camera in your baby’s room.

Why I liked it:

When we brought home our first baby, I was admittedly a little tech-shy and really valued the plug-and-play ease of a non-WiFi monitor. It didn’t need apps, usernames or passwords—just turned it on, and it worked.

Pros:

• ✅ Virtually unhackable—since it’s not connected to the internet, there’s no risk of outside access and there is a low security risk.
• ✅ Real-time transmission—no delays in audio or video picture
• ✅ Simple setup—perfect for tech-averse or tired new parents
• ✅ More affordable—generally lower cost than WiFi models

Cons:

• ❌ Limited range—you need to stay within the signal area (usually 800–1,000 feet)
• ❌ No remote access—you can’t check in or supervise your baby while away from home
• ❌ Less smart functionality—no sleep tracking or app integration
• ❌ Requires carrying a parent unit—another device to keep charged and close by

📱 WiFi Baby Monitors: Feature-Rich and Always Within Reach

WiFi monitors are internet-connected devices that let you view and supervise your baby through an app on your phone or tablet, making them perfect for modern, tech-friendly families or parents who travel or work outside the home.

Why we upgraded:

When our second child came along, I was juggling work calls from the home office and wanted the ability to peek in without grabbing a separate screen. With the WiFi monitor, I could check in and supervise from anywhere—even while grabbing groceries or letting grandma babysit.

Pros:

• ✅ Unlimited range—monitor baby from anywhere with internet
• ✅ Crystal-clear video—many models offer HD resolution
• ✅ Smart features—like sleep tracking, breathing alerts, and temperature readings
• ✅ Multi-user access—both parents (and even caregivers) can stay connected

Cons:

• ❌ Potential connectivity issues—WiFi dropouts can cause momentary blackouts
• ❌ Slight delay in transmission—not always instant like non-WiFi models
• ❌ Privacy concerns—though many are encrypted, WiFi monitors can be hacked if not secured properly
• ❌ Setup can be tricky—especially if your WiFi is spotty or you’re not very tech-savvy

If you value simplicity, security, and real-time responsiveness, a non-WiFi baby monitor is probably your best bet. It’s perfect for staying connected to your baby while at home, and there’s virtually no learning curve.

On the other hand, if you’re a working parent, frequent traveler, or love high-tech features, a WiFi monitor offers peace of mind with flexible access and advanced capabilities.

👉 Personally, we started with a non-WiFi model for the newborn stage when we were always nearby, and later switched to a WiFi monitor once routines got more complex and babysitters entered the picture. Both types have their place—it just depends on what fits your current lifestyle.

How to Keep Your WiFi Baby Monitor as Safe as Possible

When you’re setting up a WiFi video baby monitor, security might not be the first thing on your mind—but it’s incredibly important. These monitors allow us to check in on our babies from anywhere, but they also connect to the internet, and that means we need to take a few extra precautions to keep things safe.

I remember how excited I was to unbox our first smart baby monitor. The picture was so clear, the app was easy to use—but I’ll admit, I didn’t think twice about security until a friend mentioned her concerns about privacy. That sent me down a research rabbit hole, and I quickly learned how a few simple steps can help keep your baby’s feed private and secure.

🛠️ Easy Steps to Secure Your WiFi Baby Monitor

1. Secure Your Home WiFi Network

Start with the basics:

• Change the default router username and password to something unique that can not be easily discovered.
• Enable WPA3 or WPA2-PSK encryption in your router settings (this is standard on newer models).
• Turn on automatic updates for your router firmware to patch any vulnerabilities.

We upgraded our router when our first baby arrived and were surprised how much of a difference these settings made—not just for the baby monitor, but for our entire smart home setup.

2. Use a Strong, Unique Password for the Baby Monitor App

Avoid reusing the same password you’ve used elsewhere. A password manager can help keep things organized (and secure). If you ever experienced a data breach with another account, hackers could try that same username and password credentials to access your baby monitor.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

If your monitor’s app supports it, always enable 2FA. With the Nanit Pro, for example, 2FA is required the first time you log in on a new device—you’ll get a 4-digit code sent to your phone, adding an extra layer of security.

When I set up the Nanit on my phone, I liked knowing that even if someone had my username and password, they’d still need my phone to access the feed. It gave me peace of mind, especially when I had a babysitter over or shared access with my spouse.

4. Monitor Pairing and Access Control

The VTech RM7766HD doesn’t offer 2FA, but it’s still built with strong pairing controls:

• To connect the camera to the app, you must scan a QR code on the physical monitor.
• If someone new logs in (like a babysitter), you can easily reset the security key afterward to revoke access.

We tested this out after a family member used the monitor for the weekend—resetting the pairing was quick, and I loved having that control without calling tech support.

5. Turn on Automatic Updates for the Monitor & App

Just like your phone or laptop, baby monitors need updates too. These updates fix bugs, patch security holes, and keep the device running smoothly.

Both Nanit and VTech monitors support automatic update downloads, which are usually enabled by default. I double-checked in the app settings just to be sure, and now I sleep better (literally!) knowing the monitor’s downloaded software stays current.

This lesson came from experience: a few years ago, a popular brand had a security vulnerability that let strangers peek into other families’ feeds. That news was a wake-up call for me—now, I make sure every baby device we use is set to auto-update.

WiFi baby monitors can be an amazing tool for peace of mind, especially when you’re away or want to check in without tiptoeing into the nursery. But like any internet-connected device, a little preparation goes a long way in protecting your family’s privacy.

🔐 With a secure home network, strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and up-to-date software downloads, you’ll feel confident knowing your monitor is not only helping you keep an eye on baby—but also staying safe from digital intrusions.

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.

Concerns Around Wi-Fi Baby Monitors

Wi-Fi baby monitors—and internet-connected cameras in general—have raised valid concerns over the years, often due to stories of unauthorized users gaining access to the live feed. It’s no surprise that many parents are hesitant about using them. Like any smart device connected to the internet—whether it’s a video doorbell, a smart thermostat, or even a connected fridge—baby monitors require a few security steps to protect your privacy. But if you’re not especially tech-savvy, navigating those settings can feel a little intimidating. Even with precautions in place, the risk of data breaches still exists.

When researching baby monitors for our family, I definitely felt some anxiety about this. I remember reading about those horror stories and wondering if a Wi-Fi model was worth it. That said, the models we ended up testing and considering all followed solid security protocols—video feeds are encrypted during transmission, any data stored in the cloud is also encrypted, and most of the brands we looked at had undergone third-party security testing.

Still, if the idea of tweaking your home network settings or staying on top of app updates feels like a hassle, you might feel more at ease using a local video monitor. Personally, I kept a non-Wi-Fi monitor in our baby’s nursery for day-to-day use and only used the Wi-Fi-enabled one when we were traveling or if a sitter was staying over. That setup gave us the best of both worlds—convenience when we needed it, and peace of mind when we didn’t want to worry about internet security.

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.

Whether you choose a local video monitor like the Babysense MaxView or a smart, Wi-Fi–enabled system like the Nanit Pro, the peace of mind it brings is worth every penny. For me, having a reliable baby monitor didn’t just help me keep an eye on my baby—it helped me feel a little more in control during a time that felt chaotic and new.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to baby monitors—what works for one family might be totally different for another. Think about your daily routine, living space, travel habits, and your comfort level with tech. Whether it’s a no-fuss audio monitor or a feature-rich Wi-Fi setup, the right choice is the one that helps you feel more confident and connected to your baby.

So if you’re expecting or deep in the trenches of newborn life, know that a great baby monitor can be the quiet hero of your nursery.