The 8 Best Nanny Cams in 2021
- Last Updated: January 29, 2021
- Matthew Wilson
Everyone wants to believe their home and family are secure while they’re out of sight, but there are only so many ways to be sure. Calling once an hour to check-in while you’re in a meeting or at work can be a bit daunting. A nanny cam can give you peace in knowing that your family is safe while you’re not there. The challenge is choosing the best nanny cams for your home, and that’s why we’ve researched the top nanny cams in the market and became experts.
We’ve compared features such as picture resolution, motion detection, camera angle, and two-way audio. It’s important to have the best nanny cam because it will give you a clear image on a consistent basis.
A mediocre nanny cam will have lots of lag and grainy images. This resource has all the information you need to make a conscious decision.
Contents
8 Best Nanny Cams on the Market:
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080p HD resolution
- Night vision (up to 30 feet away)
- 2-way audio
- Works with Alexa
- Works with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks (doesnt support 5GHz Wi-Fi)
- Motion tagging for detecting motion in live stream and playback modes
- Supports a minimum iOS 8.0 and Android 5.0
- Motion and sound detection with free 14-day cloud storage
Overview
This indoor wireless camera is by Wyze Labs. It has 2-way audio, night vision, and it works well with Alexa. It is available as one or two packs and the one pack can also include an SD card and a sense starter kit.
The camera streams live directly to your smartphone. This device works with Google Assistant and Alexa and will show you specific rooms by command.
Over half of customers believe this is the best wifi nanny cam you will find. It has a great price, great picture, and it is very reliable. Some customers report that the audio could be better and the video clips are too short to capture a full incident.
This nanny cam works really well provides a clear picture day and night, and it offers a good live feed. It’s a great value for the price and will be very beneficial if you need an affordable solution to securing your home.
Pros
- Great picture
- Great motion detection
- Good quality night vision
Cons
- Video clips are too short
- Motion detection is too sensitive even on the lowest setting
- Audio isn't great
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 112 Degrees wide angle lens
- 345 Degrees horizontal and 115 degrees vertical rotation range
- Advanced night vision with 8 built-in 940nm infrared LED beads
- The advanced and responsive microphone has a built-in anti-noise filter for clear 2-way audio
- Real-time activity alerts while youre gone from the home
Overview
This YI dome security camera is a 1080p HD and is available in black and white. It can pan, tilt, and zoom, giving you great surveillance in a room. Gives a total 360 degrees of coverage and for night vision the LED beads provide a viewing extension of 3 meters in total darkness.
The interface is user-friendly and intuitive, allowing you to customize the settings you want. You can set bookmarks, schedules, camera share, auto-cruise, or set your activity alerts. Built-in support of wi-fi band 802.11b/g/n 2.4Ghz (doesn’t support 5GHz).PC app can be used for viewing only
Just over half of the customers who reviewed this security camera say it is the best inexpensive nanny cam. They like that they can communicate through the camera and the price is nice. It provides accurate notifications when movement is detected. They also appreciate that the picture quality is excellent.
Some people reported that this camera wasn’t trustworthy and wouldn’t stay connected to the internet. A couple of customers reported that their camera got hacked and someone else was able to remote into their living room.
If you’re looking for a nanny cam for the nursing home, then this might be a great option for you. Customers who have used this camera at the nursing home are happy with it. You can get a clear view of what’s going on as well as speak to your loved one.
Pros
- Great picture quality
- Functions well in cold weather
- Good price
- 2-way communication
- Control camera movements remotely
Cons
- The app can't be open along with other apps on the phone
- A motion detector isn't the best
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- 1080P Full HD WiFi IP Camera
- Two-way Audio & Works with Alexa
- Smat Pan/Tilt/Zoom & Crystal Night Vision
- Real-time Motion Detection Alert
- Security and Privacy Protection
Overview
This wireless security IP camera works well as an elder, pet and baby monitor. Watch over the safety of your shop, home, or office. It is very compact and can be discreetly placed wherever you need it to be for special surveillance. You can also mount this camera to the wall. Communicate through this app’s two-way talk feature.
The camera can also call the phone. This cute nanny cam can be viewed online by up to users at the same time.Only a small number of customers reviewed this product and they are all very happy with it. Installation is pretty easy and this product is very cute. It works well in a child’s room or on the front door.
This cute panda camera works really well. It provides good sound and quality pictures. Use it as a nice decoration in your child’s room while you keep an eye on him/her, or you can install it at your front door.
It has a lot of features including the ability to call your phone directly from the camera. Invest in good security cameras for your home by purchasing this camera today!
Pros
- Easy to install
- Good picture
- Good sound
Cons
- N/A
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Monitors outdoor and indoor areas
- 1080p HD video resolution
- Night vision
- Slim design that can be mounted anywhere
- The motion detector will send notifications to your device as soon as motion is detected
- Works with select Alexa devices to showcase real-time video with voice
Overview
This wired security camera is by Ring. It is a stick-up cam with two-way talk capabilities and night vision. This one is white but it’s also available in black, and it works with Alexa.
Over half of the customers that reviewed this product feel it is the best nanny cam for the elderly. The setup is really simple and the app works well to let you manage various devices.
Ring provides accurate recording of motion activity with no false alerts. Some customers feel that the camera indoor utility will be limited until the camera is fully integrated with Ring security alarm system.
If you’re looking for one of the best nanny cams to purchase this device might be a good option for you. It provides good clear video, it’s easy to set up, and it also allows two-way talking. This nanny cam works indoors and outdoors and has good night vision.
Pros
- Good video quality
- Easy setup
- Two-way audio
Cons
- The audio speaker is a little too low
- The mounting base plate is plastic
- Hole in bottom of the camera for wire feed is too large and lets moisture in
- The fish-eye view is too strong and can't be adjusted
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- HD 720P video at 30fps (resolution of 1280x720)
- 24/7 Playback and record through local micro SD card (max 128GB)
- 3 Step QR code setup through iPhone or Android smartphone with the Faleemi app
- Super wide viewing angle
- 24 Hours of monitoring with IR LED
Overview
This wireless network camera is by Faleemi. It works great for monitoring your baby, elder, pet, and office. Use the Faleemi app to access your footage. The app is free to download.
Just over half of the customers who reviewed this affordable nanny cam are happy with it. It has a clear night vision, good sound, and the app works well.
The installation is basically plugging and play once you scan the code on the camera. The pan/tilt feature is really convenient when you have young children to watch. A few customers reported having trouble with the app freezing up occasionally.
Motion detection with alerts, email alerts with snapshots as well as Windows PC, Mac OS and web (supported browsers include Safari, Firefox, Chrome, and IE)
This camera provides a decent picture in various types of light. It’s easy to install and it also comes at an affordable price. If you can get past the intermittent glitching of the app, then this might be the perfect camera for you and your budget.
Pros
- Great method of security
- Clear picture
- Good sound
- Easy install
Cons
- App freezes up sometimes
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Easy to use
- Portable small HD nanny cam
- Night vision reaching 16 with 6 invisible IR LEDs
- 1080P HD resolution
- Motion detection and recording
- 12MP photos
- 12-month warranty
Overview
This mini spy camera is great for indoor covert security. Use it to monitor your office and home. Watch over your pet, baby, housekeeper, or a nanny.
You can also use this tiny device as a body cam or drone use. Only a few customers reviewed this product but they feel it is the best-disguised nanny cam on the market. It works well, and it comes at a great price. It is made from quality material and it looks nice.
The problem with this device is the short battery life. You also can’t view the motion sensor and night vision together.
This is a quality nanny cam that comes at an affordable price and it’s easy for you to set up on your own. It works well, but there may be a slight lag in transmission.
Your battery life might run down quickly also, but overall the camera will capture motion and record. If you’re ready to secure your home and your loved ones, invest in your nanny cam today.
Pros
- Looks nice
- Great price
- Quality material
Cons
- Short battery life
- Can't use motion sensor and night vision at the same time
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- USB charger for charging portable devices
- Records 1080p full HD video
- Wide 90 Degree angle
- Quick plug and play, no Wi-Fi needed
- Includes micro SD card up to 32GB class 10
Overview
This USB spy camera is compact enough for you to discreetly keep an eye on babysitters, caregivers, employees, or nannies. Use it at home, work, or wherever you need to monitor activity. Just about all the customers who reviewed this mini spy cam are happy with it. They feel the camera is good quality and easy to hide.
It provides a clear video and it’s very easy to setup. Very few people seemed to have received a defective camera that didn’t work properly.
This is the best hidden nanny cam with audio. If you’re looking for a clear image and a reliable camera that won’t freeze up on you, then give this camera try.
It is affordable and small enough to hide in anyplace at your home or office. Installation won’t take up much of your time at all because it is really simple.
Pros
- Clear picture
- Good sound
- Easy installation
- Easy to hide
Cons
- Poor Quality
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Rating
Highlighted Features Of The Product
- Motion detection with alerts to smartphone and a recorded clip to cloud
- 2 Year battery life
- Easy self-install takes minutes to setup
- Real-time monitoring with live view streaming mode
- Free cloud storage no subscriptions needed
Overview
This indoor camera is by Blink Home Security. This IP camera uses Wi-Fi to send data. You can have up to 5 indoor cameras on this system. It provides HD video and motion detection with a sensor alarm.
A good majority of customers feel this is one of the best battery operated nanny cams on the market. The system transmits audio and video. You can also get the live feed.
Customers appreciate that the app is simple to use and gives a clear picture. Quite a few people mentioned issues with the motion sensor. Getting it on the right sensitivity to pick up accurate data without running the batteries down proved to be a challenge.
If you’re looking to buy the best nanny cam system, then this product might be helpful for you. Watch your playback or live feed right from your smartphone. You will have to be a little patient with the motion detector and battery changes, but other than that, this affordable camera can be just the monitor you need.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Good live feed
- Night mode works really well
Cons
- Can only watch playback or live through the phone. Not on the PC
- Large time delay with motion sensor
Tips on Choosing a Nanny Cam
Audio
A nanny cam with a two-way talk will allow you to communicate with your kids and the babysitter whenever you need to. It’s convenient and can be helpful to the babysitter if they have any questions.
Wireless
A wireless cam will give you access to live feed instead of just letting you watch the playback. Try to get the wireless for the best monitoring experience.
Quality Image
Aim for a nanny cam that gives a crystal clear image even in low-light. A clear image will give you an idea of who is on your property or what incident is taking place during playback or live stream
Register your device and create a strong password
Product registration always helps when there needs to be a warranty repair. Sometimes having your product registered can help you receive notices when there’s an upgrade due or when you need to change your battery.
A strong password will keep unauthorized users from getting into your system. Your camera and all its settings are configured to protect you, your family, and your property. You don’t want anyone to compromise your safety.
Viewing angle
A wide-angle camera is the best choice for larger rooms or you can get a camera with a pan-tilt option so you can move the camera around remotely and capture the entire area
Smartphone Compatible
Make sure to check which operating system your camera is compatible with. Verify whether it works on the devices you already have. You could be streaming from your Android, iPhone, or iPad while you are away
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Nanny Cam
Hidden or not:
You will need to decide whether you want to place your camera in a discreet location or have it out in the open. Hidden cameras are not only there to watch the babysitter, but they also provide a level of protection for the home and allow you to check on things overall when you’re not around.
If you decide to hide your camera, you will be in the market for a small enough camera to hide with ease.
Recording:
The majority of nanny cams will record on an SD card, but those cards get full quickly. Check and see if the camera you like offers a loop recording. You will also want to check if an SD card is included or if you’ll have to purchase one. Some cameras require a subscription to get your saved videos stored in the cloud. Try to get a camera with an NVR if possible.
Legal placement:
Nanny cams are legal to have as long as they are in respected areas and used properly. You can not place a nanny cam in your nanny’s bedroom, and you can not place a nanny cam in the bathroom. Placing a camera in these forbidden areas breaks the video surveillance law.
Legal listening:
Audio recording laws will be different depending on your state. Some states need at least one person on the audio to have prior knowledge of the recording. Other states require you to notify the babysitter about the audio and video recording otherwise you would be breaking the audio recording law.
Nanny Cam FAQ
A nanny cam is a form of surveillance made to allow you to monitor the interior of your home. It helps you keep an eye on your babies or children while you’re not in the room and it also helps you monitor your home while you have a babysitter caring for your children.
Improper use of a nanny cam includes installing the camera in a bathroom or bedroom which violates privacy. Also, keep in mind that speech laws can also protect the nanny from being recorded without consent. Check with your state to see if you have a right to record the nanny without proper notification. If you do not, then it becomes punishable by law.
The right nanny cam for you will be the one with the clear video, accurate notifications, two-way audio, and compatibility to your devices. The most important features are the ones that will consistently allow you to monitor your family or home and make sure that everyone is safe.
Making The Decision
Now that you know everything about the best nanny cams available on the market it’s time to narrow down your choices and make a purchase. There are many cameras to choose from but keep in mind that your goal is to keep your family safe.
You want the most reliable camera out there that will send you accurate information and allow you to view a clear live feed and playback whenever you want.
Remember to read customer reviews. They have already done the hard work of purchasing the nanny cam you’re interested in. See if the other customers are happy and check out the functionality of the camera before you commit to the one you like.
After you’ve narrowed it down and you’re getting the most important things for your family’s safety, invest in your peace of mind by buying the best nanny cam today!
