Best Nanny Cams of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
Take a moment to look at all 8 nanny cams and compare the options. Each cam has its benefits, but every family is different and has its unique needs. Whether it’s pricing, detection range, or picture quality, see how the cameras stack up.
| Provider | Price | Best For Purpose | Cloud Storage | FOV | “Indoor/ | ||||||||
| Outdoor” | Instant Alerts | Integrations | Mobile App | Motion Detection | Night Vision | Pro Monitoring | Resolution | Video Playback | |||||
| Ring | $100 | Live video | No | 115° | Indoor | Yes | Alexa, Google Home | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Nest | $220 | Budgets | No | 130° | Indoor | Yes | Google Assistant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Wyze Pan | $38 | Integrations | No | 120° | Indoor | Yes | Alexa, Google Assistant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Wyze Indoor | $20 | Families | Yes | 110° | Indoor | Yes | Alexa, Google, IFTTT | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Yi | $23 | Ease of Use | Yes | 112° | Indoor | Yes | Alexa | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Blink | $80 | Babysitters | Yes | 110° | Indoor | Yes | Alexa | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Arlo | $200 | Wideangle | Yes | 130° | Indoor | Yes | Alexa, Apple, Google | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
| Logitech | $180 | Yes | 180° | Both | Yes | Alexa, Apple, Google | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1080p | Yes |
Nanny Cam Features to Look For
Before deciding on the best nanny cam for their home, families should look at the most important aspects of these hidden smart home devices. Check out the top things to look for below, then compare those preferences to the 10 best cams.
1. Field of View
The nanny cams with the widest field of view will bring the most security. With a wide-angle lens, it's possible to see the entire room or yard.
2. Continuous Recording
Most people prefer nanny cams that continuously record. Loop video recording allows them to check in on the home whenever they want. This way, there is no second-guessing whether the kids are safe.
This is perfect for those who want to keep an eye on a child's bedroom or play area.
3. Night Vision
There are nanny cameras without night vision, but it is generally a good idea to include this feature. That said, the nighttime quality will vary depending on the user.
4. Two-Way Audio
Nanny cameras with two-way communication are especially useful for families that rely on babysitters. This way, they can easily stay in touch with the sitter, as well as hear their infant. They will be able to pick up any crying or shouts through the built-in speaker.
Some people don't need to see too far in the dark, while others need up to 30 feet of viewing.
5. Power Source & Installation
Something else to think about is how these nanny cameras power up. Some of them are battery-operated, while others are hardwired and require a more intensive set-up. Most people prefer wireless models because they are user-friendly and not too technological.
6. Video Surveillance by Mobile App
Another common feature in the best nanny cameras is third-party integration. This may vary depending on the user, but most people prefer compatibility with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Other integrations to look for include Apple HomeKit and IFTTT.
8. Special Features
Depending on how much people are willing to spend on their babysitter cameras, they can get some special features.
These include things like facial recognition, animal detection, and crying baby alerts.
Shopping Tips & Things to Remember
Another thing to be careful of when purchasing a granny cam is the fact that there are lots of impostors out there. While it can be tempting to buy from an off-market brand, it’s important to think about quality. Below are some other aspects to consider before deciding.
1. Consider Hidden Camera Laws
This is something that depends on where the client lives. Different states have their own hidden camera laws. To avoid unnecessary trouble, individuals should check out the particular regulations in their area.
2. Security Kits or Packages
Another thing to consider is whether the cam is available as part of a larger security system. Some brands offer multi-packs, while others allow their cameras to work seamlessly together.
3. Client Support
Customer service is the name of the game. Without decent client support, there is no use in purchasing a security device. There will come a time when a family needs to contact the company, so invest in a brand that cares about its buyers.
4. Customer Reviews
Speaking of support and service, check out some customer reviews. This will provide a better security idea about what to expect from the company. Shoppers can also learn the major pitfalls and advantages of the device from people who already own it.
5. Budget/Costs
Finally, pricing is a huge component that people look for when shopping for surveillance technology. While it’s fine to look for a good deal, keep in mind that quality tends to cost a bit more. It is worth the investment, though.
FAQs
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Where Should a Nanny Cam be Placed?
There are a few different places to put a surveillance camera. If it is wireless, it can go just about anywhere. A few examples include a bookshelf, a nightstand, or mounted on the wall.
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How Do You Know If There is a Nanny Cam?
Keep an eye out for blinking lights or listen for static sounds. It’s also possible to check the Wi-Fi network on a cell phone and see if there is a connected surveillance device.
Another obvious clue is looking for wiring, but most people are good about concealing hidden cam wires.
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Can You Use a Nanny Cam in Court?
It’s possible to use a surveillance camera in court. However, homeowners should be aware of the hidden camera laws in their state before they use the footage as evidence. If they were using it illegally, then the point is moot.
Silent recordings are fine, but there are consent laws about including audio. The best policy is to tell the nanny or babysitter that a security cam is in use in the home.
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What Does a Nanny Cam Do?
These types of cameras are meant to record nannies and babysitters. They are particularly helpful for parents and families. Most of these cameras work with other smart devices, such as security hubs and speakers.
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How Much Data Does a Nanny Cam Use?
The amount of data that these devices can use will depend on the particular model. Some of them are compatible with SD cards that can hold 8, 16, or 32 gigabytes of data.
While some rely on local storage, others use cloud storage, which allows for a lot more space.
Don't Risk It, Record It!
It can be a bit of an investment to buy one of these products, but it is more than worth it. Families work hard to keep each other safe, but parents these days are busy. They want their kids to be okay, but if they are relying on different babysitters, there is some risk involved in security. It is better to have the peace of mind that a recording device provides then be left wondering if the kids are safe.
Have you used one of these surveillance cameras before? Let us know about your experience in the comments below.
