Baby Monitor vs Home Security Camera: Which Should You Get?

2020 Update 

Although nearly two years old, all information in this article is still relevant. It is important to know the differences between security cameras and baby monitors; scroll down to find out more.  

Many do-it-yourself home security camera systems are now being promoted as options you’re your are searching for a quality baby monitor. With product review sites insisting that  most connected baby monitors are effectively just home security cameras, it can be downright baffling to determine exactly what you should put into your shopping cart. Here are some tips to help you sort through your options for networking, camera angles, and recording options available for your family. 

Why Are You Watching? 

Are you looking to buy a security cam or baby monitor to watch your baby when you are not in the room? Or are you trying to catch your neighbor while they hack your cable box?  Baby monitors  generally do not provide the same level of video storage as security systems. However, they may include other options like: 

• Heat and humidity sensors 

• Two-way audio 

• Remote light displays intended to help distract and soothe baby 

• High-resolution feed for a narrow range of vision 

• Snapshot capabilities when baby turns in the night 

• Limited networking capability 

A security camera  is designed to: 

• Record continuous video of your home and neighborhood 

• Capture wide-angle images 

• Be wired into your monitoring network with multiple other cameras  

Where Are You Watching? 

While many security and nanny cam systems offer apps to operate and access your cameras through a smartphone, not all offer the same level of access.  Many baby monitors include two-way audio so that you are able to speak to your child while on the move. 

Recent innovations in security camera technology have given them the ability to capture two-way audio as well. Such updates are critical for steering your search for at-home monitoring devices. Why? Because you can use many of these audio settings through the mobile application provided with your security camera. Other updates include sound and vibration settings that trigger alerts when sound is detected. This is great for tracking one of the most critical baby monitor function: when a baby cries.  

If you’re monitoring your child from the office, you may wish to move the camera angle. It is more likely that you will find that kind of adaptability in security systems that are intended to cover larger areas vs. baby monitors that are typically used to keep track of a child in a small area like a playpen or crib. Your baby monitor system might include photo opportunities in the phone app. This is where you can capture a screenshot and share it over your social media when the baby is wiggling with a big smile. You will only be able to complete screen captures locally on your standard home security system. Meanwhile, if you only want to keep an eye on your child while you are preparing dinner in the other room, the full-blown home security system might be overkill. 

Determine What You Expect 

Before you go hunting for the most expensive baby cam on the market, you should analyze what you truly want and need out of a camera system. Make a list of your needs before browsing the internet or visiting the big box store. If you end up with a salesperson assisting you, that list will help them ensure your complete satisfaction with your purchase. 

Get Home Security That Can Grow with You 

The great thing about monitored home security systems is they can protect your baby for many years to come. If you have a Brinks Home Security ™ professionally monitored security system, you may be able to expand your current capabilities to include baby monitoring with the  right equipment. This increases the overall level of protection in your home and doesn’t limit your monitoring to just one tier of security. Instead you’re equipping your home with 24/7 professionally monitored systems built to keep you and your loved ones protected at all hours of the day. Our customizable packages keep you from paying for equipment you don’t want. Contact Brinks Home to find out more.  

Lauren Slade is a Dallas-based writer and editor.