We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance,
functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you
are agreeing to our privacy policy
4 Best Audio Only Baby Monitor
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Audio Only Baby Monitor
Choosing the right audio-only baby monitor is all about ensuring that you can reliably hear your baby when you’re not in the same room, providing peace of mind while your little one naps or sleeps at night. Since audio-only monitors focus on sound rather than video, they tend to be simple, trustworthy, and easy to use. When picking one, it’s important to look for features that will fit your living space and lifestyle, making sure you feel confident that you won’t miss a thing. By understanding the key features, you'll be able to match your needs with the right device for your family's routine.RangeRange refers to how far apart you can place the parent unit and the baby unit before the signal becomes weak or disconnects. This is important because you want to move around your house or maybe step into the yard without losing connection. Audio monitors usually offer a range from around 500 feet to over 1,000 feet. If you live in a small apartment, even a modest range can be enough, but in larger homes or for those who might go outdoors, a longer range is safer. Always check whether the quoted range is measured in open space or includes walls and obstructions, and choose based on the size of your home and where you’ll be using the monitor.
Sound QualitySound quality determines how clearly you’ll hear your baby’s noises and cries. The importance of this feature is obvious—you don't want to miss soft whimpers or be startled by static. Monitors can offer basic sound output or more advanced options like high-definition audio. Some may filter out background noise, letting you focus just on what's happening in the baby’s room. If you want to clearly distinguish between your baby stirring and outside noises, prioritize better sound quality and noise filtering. If you’re only concerned with loud cries, standard sound will suffice.
Battery LifeBattery life tells you how long the monitor can run before it needs recharging or new batteries. This is crucial for overnight monitoring or for using the monitor away from sockets. Some units operate mainly on batteries, others on constant power, and many offer both. Battery lives can range from just a few hours to more than a full night’s sleep. If your home has reliable power and you’ll keep the monitor plugged in, battery life is less critical. However, if you want portability or live somewhere with occasional outages, look for longer battery life or the flexibility to swap batteries.
Interference and PrivacyInterference refers to unwanted signals or noise from other devices, like cordless phones or Wi-Fi networks, which can affect sound quality. Privacy protection means other people can't easily listen in on your monitor. Monitors can use analog or digital signals, with digital models often offering less interference and better privacy through secure connections. If you live in a busy neighborhood or have many wireless devices, look for monitors labeled as digital or those that mention secure or encrypted signals. For homes with fewer gadgets, analog can be sufficient, but always consider how important privacy is for your family.
Portability (Parent Unit)Portability is about how easily you can carry the parent unit—the part that stays with you—around your home or yard. Some units are small, lightweight, and may even have belt clips, making it simple to carry as you move about. Portability matters if you do chores, work, or relax in various rooms, or want freedom in the yard. If you'll mostly be in one spot, this is less crucial, but for active families, a portable parent unit means you always have your baby's sounds with you.
Sound Activation / Sensitivity ControlsMany audio monitors offer sound activation or sensitivity controls, letting you adjust how much noise the parent unit picks up before alerting you. This is important for filtering out minor sounds or setting the device to pick up only louder cries. If you're a light sleeper or easily bothered by every little sound, look for a monitor with adjustable sensitivity so you can set it to your comfort. For those who want to hear everything, choose a unit that transmits all noises.
Two-way CommunicationTwo-way communication allows you to talk back through the monitor to your baby, which can be useful for calming them down with your voice without entering the room. Not all audio-only monitors offer this, but it can be a handy feature for soothing or reassuring your child from afar. If you think talking to your baby remotely could help, choose a monitor with this capability; otherwise, a standard, listen-only model may be all you need.