It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time parent or a child-rearing veteran. Either way, the importance of good rest for guardian and child cannot be overstated. In fact, within only hours of babysitting this became quite apparent to me also, the cool aunt. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely adore my niece and nephews. But after a certain amount of patty-cake and peek-a-boo, I’m as ready for their nap as they are. This might be why I became so intrigued by their baby monitor, the Vtech VM819.
VTech VM819 Features and Design
The first thing that struck me about this monitor was its high-quality display. It features a 2.8-inch screen that gave a surprisingly clear image with the ability to zoom in even closer. Even the fine movement of breathing could be picked up with its night vision camera. As a nervous-nellie that was greatly reassuring. It also differentiated it from older competitors that made me feel like I was trying to interpret an Atari screen. The camera the monitor connects to is adjustable and easily clips onto the side of a crib or mounts on the wall. It includes a built-in temperature sensor too, though a weakness is that it isn’t always precise. The battery level however lasts an impressive 19 hours.
Both camera and monitor have a sleek, light-weight design and an impressive range. With a durable plastic exterior and a length less than 5-inches I carry the wireless monitor all around the house. It easily balances on the ledge above the sink while I wash dishes or the arm of the couch while I watch a show. With a range of 1,000 feet, I’ve never run into any trouble with distance either. I’m able to bring it with me downstairs while baby sleeps peacefully on another level.
The VM819 also dependably picks up even quiet noise. This however brings me to a complaint; the device audio will occasionally pick up extra feedback, giving my niece’s self-sung lullabies a subtle echo. Eerie . . . but not very noticeable. I also love that I have the option to use 2-way audio so I can speak back if needed. And, while I typically use the monitor over naptime, it works great overnight too. The volume control option is perfect for light and heavy-sleepers alike. This provides the peace of mind needed to actually enjoy that much needed rest.
WiFi Free Equals Worry Free: VM819’s Privacy Assurance
But for me the ultimate selling points on this device were privacy and price. The Vtech VM819 doesn’t use Wi-Fi. This means it doesn’t pose the same risk of being intercepted as many other monitors on the market. Instead, it utilizes an internal, secured channel. I feel this is the most important feature. It ensures the convenience of using a monitor does not come at the expense of security. It also means an easier set-up right out of the box—no need to clear storage and download yet another app. As for price, this model can currently be purchased on sale for $39.98 off Amazon, both camera and monitor included. The cost of baby monitors can quickly jump to twice that much (and keep climbing). This gives you bang for your buck.
Should You Buy?
Overall, I’d say the VTech VM819 baby monitor delivers on their product, and I’d personally recommend it to interested consumers. I was impressed. While there are other comparable products on the market, I really appreciated the VM819’s simplicity without sacrifice of quality. I think they distinguish themselves as a secure and economic option. At the end of the day (literally), you want a product that works dependably for both adults and kids. The Vtech VM819 baby monitor offers a solution so that both can rest comfortably with mind and body at ease.
Note: Our reviews are always 100% independent, but Gearadical receives a small affiliate amount if you purchase the product on Amazon.