PREMIUM CHOICE
VTech DM111
BEST OVERALL
Infant Optics DXR-8
BEST VALUE
DBPOWER Monitor
You can easily stay connected with your child throughout the day with the help of the best long range baby monitor.
Whether you are in the kitchen doing dishes, in the living room watching TV, or outside taking care of your lawn, these monitors let you view and talk to your little one whenever necessary.
These gadgets aren’t designed equal, though. They vary from brand to brand, feature different built-ins, sell at different price pints, and have varying signal coverage strength.
Signal transmission may not be an issue if you live in a small house. Because many units have enough range to work well.
But if you live in a larger house, and your child’s nursery is far from where you always spend most of your time, you should consider a baby monitor whose range covers a longer distance.
With signal strength extending beyond 500 feet and going up to 2,000 ft range in open areas, you can monitor your young one closely as you do your work in and outside the house.
The Top Recommendation
Supporting 150-foot and 800-foot indoor and outdoor coverage respectively, and designed to stream HD video through a secure FHSS digital wireless communication link, Infant Optics DXR-5, which you can buy here, is the best long range baby monitor that we have seen so far.
As the built-in rechargeable Li-on battery powers the 2.4-inch TFT LCD screen for hours on a single charge, the Voice Activation Mode conserves power in sleep mode. And if you set the VOX feature on, the DXR-5 can work for up to 12 hours before the battery runs out.
Because the monitor supports clear night vision display, you can check on your little one easily, even in the dark. By streaming video at 30 Frame per Second (FPS), Infant Optics DXR-5 easily eliminates screen tearing, object lags, and output delays.
Long Range Baby Monitor Buying Guide
So, how do you choose the best long distance baby monitor for the nursery?
It is important to understand that there are many features to look at before making a purchase. But the following are the most important ones.
Frequency
Baby monitors transmit audio and video signals at different frequencies. Some units use the 49-megahertz (MHz) standard. But they are subject to interference so they may not give you the best results.
Some units use the 900 MHz standard. These monitor feature extended range, which means you can use them to connect with your baby easily, even from a distance. They are still subject to interference, but not so much like the units that use the 49 MHz frequencies.
Some baby monitors use the gigahertz frequencies and they are often the best options. With up to 2.4 GHz frequencies, there is less signal inference and stable connection between the camera in the baby’s room and the parent unit.
Type
The type of baby monitor you choose depends on your preference and cost. If you just want to listen to your baby’s sound, from hic-up to giggles to cry, an audio-based unit should be good enough. But if you want to see and listen to your baby at the same time, choose a video-based unit.
Signal Type
It doesn’t make sense to choose an analog monitor anymore. They look cheap, they feel outdated, and they can be a little more than inconveniencing. Analog monitors not only pick signals from other electronics but also interfere with the communication between you and your baby.
Choose a digital baby monitor. It is the best option, really. With a digital baby monitor, you do not have to worry about signal interference, so you can be sure that the connection between you and your young one will remain stable.
Security
Security is important, very important. Never invest in a monitor that doesn’t have security features. Choose a baby monitor with a built-in FHSS or DECT (Source); ignore one that doesn’t have either feature. FHSS and DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Technology) encrypts data for secure transmission between a camera in a child’s room and the parent unit.
Clarity
You don’t want to miss seeing your baby when you should. You also don’t want to miss a cry, a giggle, or a single coo. So do not invest in an audio baby or video monitor that does not guarantee visual and/or audio clarity.
Best Long Range Video Baby Monitors
1. VTech VM321 Safe & Sound Video Baby Monitor
Editor’s Rating
Why VTech VM321?
- Can connect up to four cameras at once
- Reasonably priced and has a very decent range
- Clear display during the day as well as during the night
- DECT 6.0 technology enhances signal security and clears background noise
VTech creates a good balance between design and functionality to bring you a video monitor that works well through thick-insulated walls and in basements.
Featuring a wide range of up to 1000 ft and signals powered by the 2.4GHz system, the VTech VM321 is good enough to keep you close to your little one even if you are outside the house.
Because the camera lens on the child’s unit is flexible, you can easily adjust it to get the best view of your little one. The built-in DECT 6.0 digital technology improves sound clarity by removing background noises and encrypts video signals for maximum security.
Split Screen and Night Vision
Built to connect with up to four cameras and supporting split screen functionality, you can watch your child in single, dual, and quad view modes. The 8 infrared LEDs built-in into each camera lets you view your child comfortably at night without having to go to their room.
Talk Back and Lullabies
The two-way talk communication feature lets you and your toddler talk to each other. Whenever you hear your little one cries, simply press the talk button to activate the two-way intercom and then sooth them with your voice. Or, you can use the 5 preset polyphonic lullabies to comfort your baby on the go.
Sound Indicator & Battery Life
VTech VM321-2 features a 6-level sound indicator that lets you monitor the noise level in your baby’s room, even when the parent’s unit is visually muted. You get one rechargeable, lithium-ion battery, which powers the unit for 3 hours and 30 minutes on a single charge.
What You Will Like
- While it comes with two cameras, you can connect up to four on the go
- VTech VM321-2 is reasonably priced
- You get a cord storage system for power cord management
- The night vision mode lets you keep in touch with your baby even in the dark
What You Won’t Like
- The lights on the camera are somewhat annoying because they are too bright
- Sound disappear when you turn the split screen mode on
- Terrible battery life; can’t last more than 3.5 hours
- This configuration includes one parent unit (monitor) and one baby unit (camera)
- High resolution 2.8" color LCD screen - never miss your baby's smile
- Automatic IR night vision - view your baby at night without disturbing them
2. DBPOWER Digital Sound Activated Video Recording Baby Monitor
Editor’s Rating
Why DBPOWER Digital Recording Monitor?
- Has a sensor for monitoring temperature in baby’s room
- Range of up to 1,000 feet in open areas
- Speaker and microphone on parent unit for communication
- Out of range and low battery alert function included
Equipped with a room temperature sensor, sound activated LED lights, and two-way talk function, and supporting a transmission distance of up to 1,000 feet, the 4.3-inch DBPOWER lets you monitor your little one without disruption.
The parent unit has a friendly user interface, and it is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery that can last for 9 consecutive hours on a single charge.
Easy Setup
Setting up DBPOWER baby monitor is easy and straightforward. Use the shelf mount to place the baby unit on a ceiling or on one side of your walls.
You can rotate the camera up to 270 degrees horizontally and up to 110 degrees vertically to get the best view of the nursery.
Alert System
The alert system is particularly a unique feature of DBPOWER and it has 3 very important functions.
It sends you an alert immediately your baby starts to cry, gives you a warning when the batter runs low, and lets you know if the parent unit (receiver) is out of range.
Two Way Communications
There is a speaker and a microphone on the parent unit that lets you talk to your baby from anywhere in or outside the house. Simply press the talkback button and send some clear, sweet commands to your toddler.
What You Will Like
- The infrared night vision delivers clear images on the parent’s unit
- LED lights included for better-viewing and hassle-free monitoring experience
- The device is easy to use
What You Won’t Like
- DBPOWER is quite expensive than many top models in the market
3. HelloBaby 3.2 Inch Video Baby Monitor
Editor’s Rating
Why HelloBaby 3.2 Inch Baby Monitor?
- Secure signal encryption for baby safety and your pace of mind
- Up to 960 feet of effective operation range
- Includes night vision as well as temperature sensor
- The built-in auto mute gets rid of background noise
HelloBaby may be cheap, but is one of the most secure units that money can buy.
With a reliable and powerful encryption technology, and supporting a range of up to 960 feet, you can easily keep an eye on your toddler from a distance without worrying about signal loss or data theft.
Temperature, Auto Mute and Night Vision
A reliable night vision isn’t exactly something you would expect from a baby monitor under $100. But HelloBaby’s infrared light is good enough to let you keep an eye on your little one during the night.
The auto mute function automatically switches off the monitor when sound levels in the nursery falls below 50 decibels. You also get a no signal warning if you go outside the effective operation range.
Two Way Communications and Lullabies
If you think about it, HelloBaby wouldn’t be very much useful without the two-way communication built-in. It’s an important feature, because – for the most part – all a baby may want to hear is your voice to give them an assurance that you are right next to them.
The built-in auto mute on the parent unit lets you get rid of background noise so that you and your baby can listen to each other clearly.
And apart from the 8 built-in lullabies for soothing your baby to sleep, the unit includes 8 different alarm schedules that let you plan your babysitting sessions.
What You Will Like
- The infrared night vision delivers clear images on the parent’s unit
- LED lights included for better-viewing and hassle-free monitoring experience
- The device is easy to use
What You Won’t Like
- DBPOWER is quite expensive than many top models in the market
- Plug & Play ** The monitor’s parent unit and the camera are configured for local monitoring right out of the box – no set up is required. The parent unit is loaded with useful functions and intuitive to use.
- Fully Motorized Pan Tilt Zoom ** Enjoy your adorable baby in high definition videos and with 2X zoom! Fully motorized Pan & Tilt camera allows remote control from the parent unit to pan 260-degrees side to side, tilt 23-degrees up and down.
- Long Range ** Stay in touch to your baby from another room or even from the yard. Go about your day with up to 1000 feet of range.
4. Infant Optics DXR-8
Editor’s Rating
Why Infant Optics DXR-8?
- Uses a secure FHSS wireless communication link for data transmission
- The DXR-8 has a range of up to 700 feet
- The only unit with interchangeable lenses
- Up to 10 hour battery life in power saving mode
Infant Optics takes the undying connection between you and your baby seriously, and then designs the most accurate and useful baby monitor for the price.
The DXR-8 model is quite feature packed.
From interchangeable lenses and temperature sensor to a 3.5-inch LCD display, you get everything you need to stay connected with your little one every second of every day.
The intercom push-to-speak button on the parent unit lets you speak to and soothe your child whenever they cry.
Infant Optics DXR-8 transmits video signals through a secure 2.4HGz FHSS wireless communication link, so there are zero chances of hacking.
However, it has a shorter distance coverage compared to the Infant Optics DXR-5. The effective working range is only up to 700 feet, beyond which you begin to notice weak data transmission and eventual signal loss.
The Camera
Infant Optics DXR-8 is the only unit out there that features three interchangeable lenses.
The normal lens and zoon lens are included in the package, but the wide-angle lens is sold separately. Both normal and zoom lenses only provide mid-range coverage. The wide-angle lens, on the other hand, lets you see your child’s entire room.
You can control the camera remotely from the parent unit to get a better view of the room by tilting it up to 270 degrees horizontally and 120 degrees vertically.
Battery Life
The battery can last for 10 hours in power-saving mode and 6 hours with the video display active on a single charge. You can charge the battery from any USB outlet, so you are free to set up your charging station anywhere in the house.
When the battery goes below 50%, Infant Optics DXR-8 automatically goes into power mode. The screen turns off, but the sound system remains on.
Notifications
The built-in temperature sensor lets you know whether your baby is comfortable in their room. The out of range warning alerts you when you go outside the effective operation range. And the battery alarm is automatically set to go off when the battery runs low.
What You Will Like
- The camera easily adjusts from the base
- The night vision even lets you if your baby’s eyes are open
- Both the base and the camera function well without Wifi connection
- You can customize the focal length and viewing angle with the interchangeable lenses
- Temperature monitor included
What You Won’t Like
- The pictures are not sharper, but they are good enough
- The built-in alarm is rather loud for a baby monitor
- The device is quite expensive
- The light indicator that turns on when the battery is charging can disturb your sleep at night
- 2020 Award Winner: Babylist Best Baby Monitors Of 2020 *(Awarded On January 8, 2020)
- Perfect Size & Weight Ratio - No Large Batteries To Power Energy-Hungry Large Screens. The Dxr-8 Is Light-Weight And Portable, Designed For True Mobility Around The House. 10-Hr Battery Life On Power-Saving Mode, 6-Hr With Screen On
- Full Viewing Control - The Dxr-8 Is A Baby Monitor With Camera Features Such As Pan/Tilt/Digital Zoom And Interchangeable Lens. Fit The Zoom Lens To See Even Closer, Or Zoom Out With The Wide Angle Lens. Expandable Up To 4 Cameras
5. Summer Infant In View
Editor’s Rating
Why Summer Infant In View?
- Cheap, but it delivers what it promises
- A signal coverage of up to 600 feet
- Night vision supported; see your baby even at night
- Can connect up to four cameras at once
You already know by now that the market is flooded by cheap baby monitors that promise premium delivery.
But we haven’t seen one that delivers the best results like Summer Infant In View.
Equipped with a rechargeable battery, and supporting the longest range of up to 600 feet, Summer Infant In View is just as good enough as some pricey models on this list.
Data Protection
Summer Infant takes the safety of your child and your peace of mind seriously by building a private and secure connection between the camera in their room and the parent unit.
The 2.4GHz signals are protected from interference by the FHSS technology within the supported range.
Supports Night Vision
The infrared LEDs are designed to adjust according to the level of light in a child’s nursery. So in dark rooms and low light conditions, the camera still transmits clear images, but in black and white.
The Camera
The zoom feature built-in the parent unit allows you to zoom the camera in your toddler’s nursery in or out for a better view.
The parent unit can connect and monitor up to three additional cameras on the go, so you can monitor activities in multiple rooms with ease.
What You Will Like
- The temperature sensor lets you know whether there is a need to lower or raise temperature
- Easy camera rotation lets you see different areas of the room
- The screen is clear
- The video displayed on the 5-inch color LCD screen has a good resolution
What You Won’t Like
- Video looks too pixilated on zoom, especially for objects far away
- The parent unit isn’t sturdy enough; it might break in the event of an accidental drop
- Battery on the parent unit lasts for only 3 hours. It should have been more, at least
- Large 5.0" full color digital flat screen with temperature display, adjustable volume and brightness control, and two-way talking
- Remote camera steering (pan & tilt) with digital zoom and automatic black and white night vision
- Up to 800 ft range with low battery and out of range indicators
Long Range Audio Baby Monitor
6. VTech DM111 Audio Baby Monitor
Editor’s Rating
Why VTech DM111?
- Very clear audio, you should hear and talk to your child easily
- It has five sound level indicators that lets you know the noise level in the nursery
- DECT 6.0 technology protects the monitor from hackers
- It has a good range, up to 1,000 feet outdoors
You may not be a fan of video units. Perhaps you find them expensive. Or, maybe hearing your little one’s voice is more than enough to know they need you.
If this sounds like you, VTech DM111 may help you a great deal.
It is a long distance baby monitor with an effective range of up to 1,000 feet, so it is good enough to use in different areas of your home.
Sound Level Indicator
The 5 built-in sound level indicators let you interpret the noise level in your little one’s room.
With the help of these indicators, you can easily tell if your bundle of joy needs your attention, even if you have set the receiver to a mute mode.
DECT 6.0 Digital Technology
DECT 6.0 digital technology boosts clear data transmission by preventing signal interference and eliminating background noise.
In the end, the only sound you hear is that of your little one. The technology further helps with the transmission of secure, encrypted signals, so the probability of data leaks is zero.
Belt Clip and Volume Control
Clip the parent unit on your pants or belt whenever you want to move around the house.
With a good battery life and a decent operation range, you should be able to connect with and listen to your child for a long time.
Volume control option is also included, so set how loud you want the parent unit to be.
What You Will Like
- DM111 is reliable and easy to use
- It is built to last
- The DECT technology not only enhances data security, but also boosts sound clarity
What You Won’t Like
- It does not feature rechargeable batteries
- Insert alkaline batteries (sold separately) into the parent unit and it will stay on while you move it to a new room. For extended monitoring, make sure the parent unit is plugged into AC power
- DECT 6.0 provides crystal clear transmission, eliminating the annoying white noise you hear from analog monitors
- 5-level sound indicator - graphic bars on the parent unit indicate the level of sound in your baby's room so you can visually monitor the noise level with the unit muted
7. VTech DM221
Editor’s Rating
Why VTech DM221?
- Has a very decent battery life
- Sound level indicator, two-way communication, and Night Light Function for a soothing effect
- DECT 6.0 technology improves sound quality and protects the monitor from hackers
- This one also has an effective operation range of 1,000 feet
If you are in the market for the most inexpensive audio baby monitor with the best range, you should probably try VTech DM221.
With an effective range of up to 1,000 feet and a built-in DECT 6.0 digital technology, you can securely connect and keep in touch with your child easily, even if you are far away from their nursery.
This one has a belt clip, so you can attach it on your attire and easily move with it around the house.
Two Way Talk & Sound
The five sound level indicators and the sound alert built-in in the parent unit easily indicate the noise sound level in a baby’s room.
The built-in intercom on the PU lets you talk back to your little one whenever they cry. The volume control lets you set the level of the sound of the monitor.
The Night Light Function can give your baby what parents normally call the relaxing night effect.
Detect 6.0 Digital Technologies
VTech has built-in the DECT 6.0 technology into DM221 audio baby monitor to eliminate the background noise. Thanks to DECT 6.0’s efficiency and convenience, your child’s sound is the only thing you will ever hear.
Battery Life
You will love the battery of this device for two reasons.
First, it is 100% rechargeable, which means you do not have to worry about buying replaceable batteries.
Second, the battery has a long life. It can work for up to 18 hours on a single charge and you get an alert when the battery runs low.
What You Will Like
- VTech DM221 can easily detect even the slightest sound
- It features a built-in belt clip for easy portability
- It’s an inexpensive unit, good for parents on a budget
What You Won’t Like
- You don’t get a battery backup
- It has a very short range for volume
- CLEAR AUDIO AND LONG RANGE - DECT 6.0 technology provides clear audio transmission, eliminating annoying background noise while allowing you to move from room to room. Up to 1,000 feet of range lets you stay connected to your baby from another room
- 5-LEVEL SOUND INDICATOR AND 2-WAY TALK-BACK INTERCOM - LEDs on the parent unit indicate the level of sound in your baby's room so you can visually monitor the noise level. The built-in intercom on the parent unit lets you talk to your baby from any room
- NIGHT LIGHT ON THE BABY UNIT - A soothing light on the baby unit gently illuminates a dark nursery. Both the parent unit(s) and baby unit allow you to turn on or off the nighlight on the baby unit
8. Philip Avent SCD570 DECT
Editor’s Rating
Why Philip AVENT SCD570?
- Sturdy, can stand a drop or more and work just fine
- It has an effective signal coverage of up to 900 feet
- It uses DECT for security as well as sound clarity
- You can extend the rang of this monitor
The Philip Avent SCD570 DECT is sturdy and built with durability in mind, so it can survive a drop or two and work just fine.
With a fine-tuned audio clarity that lets you hear your baby no matter where you are around the house, you won’t miss to hear your little one whenever they need your presence.
Lullabies and Talk Back
Play any of the five built-in tunes to sooth a restless or crying baby, get them to stop crying and then let them drift to a peaceful sleep.
It’s that easy.
But if the lullabies don’t work best for you, or if you just don’t like to play them for your child, use the talk back feature to talk to them as if you are in their room.
Range and Temperature Sensor
Philip Avent SCD570 has a range of up to 900 feet, so you can stay connected with your young one whether you are in or outside the house.
You can extend this up to 1080 feet, but how well the extended range works highly depends on your surroundings.
You know as much as I do that toddlers cannot regulate their body temperature on their own.
This is the reason why the temperature sensor built-in Philip Avent SCD570 DECT is an important feature. The sensor lets you know the temperature levels in your child’s room, so that you can make adjustments if necessary.
Security
The built-in DECT technology encrypts data to provide a private and secure connection between the parent unit and the transmitter in the nursery.
DECT 6.0 also boosts sound clarity by removing background noise. With the high quality, clear sound, you will never miss your baby’s hic-ups, gurgle, or even the tiniest giggle.
What You Will Like
- DECT technology gets rid of sound interference and boosts audio clarity
- The two-way communication is always connected
- With a wide range of up to 900 feet, you will never lose connection with your baby
- The vibration alert makes this model a good option for parents with hearing difficulties
What You Won’t Like
- It’s pricier than the audio monitors on this list
- It doesn’t have the best interface
- There are so many buttons on the baby unit
9. Philip Avent DECT SCD501
Editor’s Rating
Why Philip AVENT SCD501?
- You get clear audio with up to 900 feet of signal coverage
- Works well with both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries
- Can work plugged or cordless
- Can work for up to 24 hours on a single charge
Philip Avent SCD501 may not have as many features as the SCD570 model, but is still an option that you can use throughout the day. With a wider range of up to 900 feet, clear audio, and a decent battery life, you can stay in touch with your child without worrying about disconnections.
24-Hour Operation
While it doesn’t have many features like other units in the Philip Avent series, the SCD501 promise up to 24 hours operating time. However, how long it works depends on the type of battery you use as well as how often you want the parent unit to run on batteries.
The parent unit can work well either cordless or plugged in. It can support a 1.2-Volt R6 AA rechargeable battery or a 1.5-Volt R6 AA alkaline non-rechargeable battery. You also get an alert on the PU if the battery runs low.
Sound Clarity
You will never miss your baby’s giggle, hic-ups, or gurgle thanks to the DECT 6.0 technology, which not only encrypts data for secure transmission but also eliminates background noise to boost sound clarity.
What You Will Like
- It is cheaper than the SCD570 model
- Philip Avent DECT SCD501 is very easy to use
- The effective operational range is decent and sound clarity is guaranteed
What You Won’t Like
- This model is quite limited in features
- Some parents say that the range is somewhat average
- DECT technology guarantees zero interference, clear souund, with range up to 900 feet
- Parent unit is outlet or battery powered
- 5 sound activated LED lights to show sound level and comfort nightlight
10. VTech DM222 Audio Baby Monitor
Editor’s Rating
Why VTech DM222?
- You will love the glow-on-ceiling night light
- It also uses DECT 6.0 technology for security as well as audio clarity
- You can use it up to 1,000 ft in range
The DM222 is an improved model of the VTech DM2221.
Although both have a similar operational range of 1,000 feet, the DM222 model features a glow-on-ceiling night light, also known as projected stars, which calm a baby and enhance the mood in their room.
Talk Back Feature
You may not really use DM222’s talk back feature every time. However, the talk back system is still a unique function that allows you to talk to your little one if you can’t make it to their room, especially if you are busy with house chores or doing your personal stuff.
Detect 6.0
DECT 6.0 eliminates background noise in your baby room and transmits only their voice to the parent unit. It also encrypts sound signals to boost the security of the device.
What You Will Like
- The DM222 is a well-priced unit
- It has a belt clip, so it is easily portable
- The projected stars and planets from the glow-on-ceiling feature are beautiful and relaxing
What You Won’t Like
- Although not often noticeable, the humming noise on the parent unit can be quite bothersome
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Really Need a Long Distance Baby Monitor?
You probably don’t need one if you live in a small apartment.
But if you live in a larger house, or your child’s nursery is on another floor, or you spend time outdoors sometimes, you should consider getting a unit with a decent range.
At the end of the day, the device will give you peace of mind knowing that your little one is safe.
Is the Device Safe Enough for Your Child?
Modern video and audio baby monitors use advanced Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (Source) and DECT 6.0 technologies to lock data into a single display unit and to enhance wireless communication safety.
With the implementation of DECT 6.0 and FHSS, you are rest assured that no one outside your home can view or talk to your child.
Should You Choose an Audio or Video Monitor?
It comes down to a personal choice, really. If you just want to know whether your toddler is crying in their nursery, an audio unit should be more than enough.
If you want a combination of your child’s visuals as well as their voice, consider getting a video-based unit.
How Can You Increase the Range of the Device?
It is important to understand that both audio and video monitors have set ranges beyond which they cannot work well.
And while you can increase the range by tweaking a monitor’s antenna, it may not really make a big difference, at least in my opinion.
So, it is best to check the range of different monitors to decide if the distance coverage supported is good enough for your needs.
When Does the Range Alarm Go Off?
Whenever you move outside the effective operating range, an alert indicator will light and a buzzer will sound. Moving closer to the transmitter will turn the light indicator off and the buzzer will stop sounding.
