Recently many readers asked us about the differences between iBaby M7 vs Arlo Baby vs Nanit Plus baby monitors.
I won’t be surprised if you have trouble deciding which one to choose. These three top models all have their unique pros and cons. That’s why our team decided to do a thorough analysis and make this comparison guide.
In this guide, we will talk about baby monitors in general and how to evaluate them. Then we will list the detailed comparison between iBaby Smart Wifi Baby Monitor M7 vs Arlo Baby All-in-One Baby Monitor vs Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor. Followed by it is a detailed review of each model. Let’s go!
Our Final Verdict
Best Overall: Nanit Plus Baby Monitor
It is the most reliable and high-quality baby monitor that also analyzes a child’s sleep quality
Best Budget: iBaby M7 Baby Monitor
It is the most economical baby monitor that offers a rich list of features
Most Portable: Arlo Baby Smart Monitor
It is the most adorable baby monitor that features a rechargeable battery and is compatible with Alexa
Types of Baby Monitors
Before you choose one of these three baby monitors, it’s good to know all the types of baby monitors available today.
Audio baby monitors only transmit sounds in the baby’s room. They can pick up baby’s noise, crying, or loud movements. Voice-only monitors don’t need wifi connection, is easy to use, and don’t have hacking or privacy issues.
Non-wifi baby monitors are video monitors but connect through a local network. They also don’t require Wifi or Bluetooth, and usually have a shorter transmission range. Many parents choose non-wifi monitor because it’s less prone to hacking, is not susceptible to wifi connection issues, and is generally cheaper.
Wifi baby monitors are also video monitors but they connect through the Internet. This requires your home to have a stable Wifi connection with decent speed. The biggest advantage of Wifi baby monitors is that you can watch your baby on your phone while you are away from home.
Smart baby monitors are Wifi baby monitors plus smart monitoring functions. For example, some smart baby monitors can detect a baby’s breathing and heart rate. You should note though some of these monitors require external smart wearables while some don’t. These monitors are generally more expensive but can give you more data about your child.
Which Type of Baby Monitor Do You Need?
To evaluate which type of baby monitor suits you the best, here are some guidelines to get you started.
- Budget – Sound only monitors are the least expensive while the smart all-in-one baby monitors can cost around $400 to $500. If you don’t plan to use the monitor for too long or you don’t need comprehensive data, go with a less expensive option.
- Privacy – Are you worried about being hacked? Do you mind having a monitor in a room? Some parents are cautious about videotaping in the house and some feel uncomfortable having a pair of “eye” on the family members all the time. Consider a non-Wifi baby monitor if this is you.
- Location of monitoring – If you only need to monitor the baby while you are in a separate room or floor, then you don’t really need a Wifi baby monitor. But if you need to check on your child while doing grocery shopping or at workplace, then you need a Wifi baby monitor in order to see the streaming on your mobile device.
Important Features to Look For in the Best Baby Monitors
No matter which type of baby monitor you are considering, here are some common factors you should think about before you make the purchase. As an expensive item, you want to make sure that the one you buy offers all the features you are looking for.
Comparison of iBaby M7 vs Arlo Baby vs Nanit Plus
If you can’t decide whether to buy iBaby M7 vs Arlo Baby vs Nanit Plus, then this section will explain in detail how they compare to each other. Knowing the similarities and differences will help you make an informed decision.
1. Camera Features
Similarities: All three models have zooming capability.
Differences: Among all three models, iBaby M7 has the most robust camera features. You can remotely pan the camera 360 degrees horizontally and tilt the camera 140 degrees up and down. This is very useful when your child can crawl or walk as you can follow there they go.
Nanit Plus can also pan and tilt but you can to do it manually. That means you won’t be able to rotate the angle of the camera through your phone.
The camera on Arlo Baby cannot pan or tilt up and down.
2. Smart Sensors
Similarities: All three models can monitor the temperature and air humidity in the nursery.
Differences: Besides the regular feature of monitoring temp and humidity, iBaby M7 can also detect the TVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds) readings and scent. This helps your monitor the indoor air quality in the nursery.
Nanit Plus is capable of monitoring the baby’s sleep without extra sensors or gear. It can also send you sleep guidance and tips from pediatric sleep experts. Additionally, Nanit Plus can monitor your child’s breathing and let you “see” your baby’s chest as they breathe in real-time.
3. Video Quality
Similarities: Both iBabyM7 and Arlo Baby feature a 1080HD video quality. Though Nanit Plus doesn’t have a specified resolution, the image quality is close to 1080HD and is crisp enough.
Additionally, all three baby monitors have night vision so that you can see your child when the room is pitch dark.
4. Add-on Features
Differences: iBaby M7 has a wide range of add-on features that are normally not available on other monitors. For example, it comes with a moonlight projector and can play songs and stories. Additionally, it has privacy modes, a privacy breastfeeding button, and a customizable diaper and feeding alert.
Arlo Baby also features built-in lullabies and a night light.
Nanit Plus features nature sounds and white noises to soothe the baby. Additionally, Nanit Plus can be mounted on a wall or with a multi-stand. It is also compatible with Nanit Breathing Wear.
5. Portability
Similarities: All three baby monitors can be portable and easy to travel with, though Nanit Plus will need a multi-stand.
Differences: Though all models are compact, the sizes and weight for each baby monitor are quite different.
iBaby M7 is the heaviest one. It measures 7″x 7″x 7″ and weighs 2.2 pounds. Arlo Baby measures 4.3″ x 2.6″ x 2.5″ and weighs 1.72 pounds. Nanit Plus is the smallest and highest one. It measures 3.3″ x 3.4″ x 1″ and weighs only 1 pound. However, if you plan to travel with it, keep in mind that it needs a compatible multi-stand.
Besides AC power, Arlo Baby also features a rechargeable battery that can last 6 hours. It is the only model among these three that can be used without a power cord.
6. Smart Alerts
Similarities: All three models can send out notifications to you when they detect the baby’s sudden movement or sound. This feature is very useful because you can keep your phone locked and still be notified when the baby is crying.
7. Price
Differences: iBaby M7 is the least expensive model and it costs around $100. Arlo Baby costs near $190 while Nanit Plus costs about $250.
Which One Is the Best: iBaby M7 vs Arlo Baby vs Nanit Plus?
Now with a clear view of the differences of each model, we can conclude that these three baby monitors are for parents with different preferences.
iBaby M7 is a budget option that is packed with features, Arlo Baby is the most portable monitor that is also compatible with Alexa, and Nanit Plus is the most high-tech baby monitor but costs a premium.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. iBaby Smart WiFi Baby Monitor M7
Top Pros:
Top Cons:
iBaby caught many parents’ eyes by its inexpensive price tag and a wide range of features.
Costing only $100, this WiFi video baby monitor has all the important functions that its expensive counterparts. Not only that, but it also comes with other useful features such as stories, moonlight projector, privacy mode, and diaper reminder.
Comparing to Arlo Baby and Nanit Plus, not only is iBaby the least expensive model but it also is the only one that can remotely control the angle of the camera. With a 360-degree panning and 140-degree tilting, you will be able to see most places in the room. You will thank this feature when your child becomes mobile and crawls all over the place.
The downside about iBaby though is its glitchy software. We noticed that the software update is not keeping pace with the Android and Apple operation system updates. Besides, the hardware on the camera crashes sometimes and you will need to unplug the camera and plug it in again.
Who Is It for?
iBaby M7 WiFi Baby Monitor is for parents who are on a budget but desire a monitor with rich features.
Production Specifications
- Dimension: 7″ x 7″ x 7″
- Weight: 2.2 lbs
- Camera Feature: Remote pan and tilt, Zoom
- Compatibility: Android and Apple
- Two-way talk: Yes
2. Arlo Baby Smart Wifi Baby Monitor
Top Pros:
Top Cons:
Arlo Baby is an adorable baby monitor with a cute bunny-looking appearance.
The camera itself can function as a dimmable ambient night light. This is useful when your child is afraid of darkness as you can leave the warm light on to give her a sense of security.
The biggest advantage of Arlo Baby is that it sports a built-in battery that can last up to 6 hours on a single charge. If for some reason you cannot plug in the monitor or there is a power outage, you will still be able to use the monitor. Of course, you will still need wifi to connect the camera to your phone.
Another pro about Arlo Baby is that it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa. But it won’t work if you have an Echo Show instead.
Who Is This For?
Arlo Baby Wifi Monitor is for parents who need a baby monitor that doesn’t have to be plugged in all the time.
Production Specifications
- Dimension: 4.3″ x 2.6″ x 2.5″
- Weight: 1.72 lbs
- Camera Feature: Zoom
- Compatibility: Android and Apple
- Two-way talk: Yes
3. Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor
Top Pros:
Top Cons:
Nanit Plus is a well-known baby camera that has gained many parents’ trust. It started off as Nanit Smart Baby Monitor and was then upgraded with more features after a few years.
Nanit Plus features a camera that offers a bird’s eye view. That’s why even though it cannot remotely pan or tilt, it can cover a decent area of the room. We recommend that you mount Nanit Plus on the wall rather than placing it on a table. You will get a much broader view that way.
You may not see too many fancy features on Nanit Plus that’s because the manufacture emphasizes more on the quality and reliability of the most essential features. You may not be able to play a story using Nanit Plus but you can be assured that the connection and monitoring are always working stably as intended.
You may be paying a premium for this baby monitor but you also get to monitor your child’s sleep pattern and breathing pattern without investing in another smart wearable.
Who Is It For?
Nanit Plus Smart Baby Monitor is overall the best baby monitor for parents who are looking for a reliable baby monitor that can also monitor a baby’s sleep.
Production Specifications
- Dimension: 3.5″ x 3.5″ x 1″
- Weight: 1 lb
- Camera Feature: Manual pan and tilt, Remote zoom
- Compatibility: Android and Apple
- Two-way talk: Yes
Final Words
It is easy to see why many parents have difficulty making up their minds about the best baby monitor to buy. Our final recommendation is that Nanit Plus is the best overall model for most parents who are flexible with the pricing. iBaby M7 is the best budget option that offers a comprehensive list of features while Arlo Baby is the most portable one that can be used without being plugged into the wall.
Allen Yeung is a technology enthusiast and has over 10 years of experience in advanced engineering, IoT, and supply chain management. He is an expert in the field of robotics and automation. He is an expert in the field of STEM education for children.
