The VTech DM221 is the gold standard for audio-only baby monitoring: under $40 buys industry-leading DECT 6.0 transmission, 1,000-foot range, two-way talk-back, and vibration alerts. Multiple long-running review sites have named it Editor's Choice in the audio category. Get it if you've decided you don't need video, if you want a simple second monitor for downstairs or grandparents, or if you're keeping costs low.
- — Loudest parent unit in its class — 103.4 dB max volume that's clearly audible from across the house
- — DECT 6.0 digital technology eliminates background interference from other electronics and provides secure audio
- — Audio-only — no video, so you can't visually confirm the baby's position or what's happening
- — No temperature sensor or any environmental tracking
▾Why it's ranked here
The VTech DM221 is the gold standard for audio-only baby monitoring: under $40 buys industry-leading DECT 6.0 transmission, 1,000-foot range, two-way talk-back, and vibration alerts. Multiple long-running review sites have named it Editor's Choice in the audio category. Get it if you've decided you don't need video, if you want a simple second monitor for downstairs or grandparents, or if you're keeping costs low.
- — Loudest parent unit in its class — 103.4 dB max volume that's clearly audible from across the house
- — DECT 6.0 digital technology eliminates background interference from other electronics and provides secure audio
- — Audio-only — no video, so you can't visually confirm the baby's position or what's happening
- — No temperature sensor or any environmental tracking
