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6 Best Nanny Cams for Watching Over Your Little One

These top-rated nanny cams offer crystal-clear video, smart alerts and remote access to help you stay connected and reassured.

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VerifiedExpert consulted: Test Engineer
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nanny cam monitoring in a baby crib with children toys
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Keeping an eye on your little one is a full-time job, but you can’t always be there every second of the day. A nanny cam offers an extra layer of reassurance, allowing you to check in on your child and their caregiver while you’re away. Whether you're at work, running errands or just taking a well-deserved break, a reliable nanny cam lets you stay connected and confident that your child is safe and well cared for.

While baby monitors are a must-have for tracking naps and nighttime wake-ups, nanny cams provide daytime peace of mind, offering a discreet way to monitor daily interactions. And they’re not just for watching over kids — they can also help keep an eye on pets or provide an extra level of care for aging relatives who may need assistance.

The Good Housekeeping Institute reviews all types of cameras, from outdoor security systems to video doorbell cams, but nanny cams require a unique set of features to stand out. Our experts evaluate these cameras based on ease of use, video quality, storage options and design, ensuring they seamlessly blend into your home without drawing unwanted attention.

Many models now include two-way audio so you can communicate with your child or caregiver in real-time. Whether you're looking for a low-profile option that fits into your decor or a feature-packed model with smart alerts, we’ve tested and rounded up the best nanny cams to give you peace of mind.

1
Best Overall Nanny Cam

Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam

On Sale
Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam

Pros

  • Same app for video doorbell and cameras
  • Excellent viewing coverage
  • Fast loading app

Cons

  • Not very discreet

Ring makes cameras for every application in your home and the 360-degree view of their pan-tilt indoor cam is perfectly suited to serve as an indoor nanny cam. We're impressed with the Ring video doorbell camera, and the same Ring app will work seamlessly with this indoor cam.

From the app you can pan side-to-side and tilt up and down for a full view of your room. With clear HD video, night vision and two-way talk, you can see, hear and speak to anyone in the room — day or night.

Our pros note that installation is super easy: The camera includes a wall mounting bracket and hardware with clear step-by-step guide. Or just plug it in and place it where you need it. The sleek design comes in multiple colors, making it a discreet addition to any nursery or playroom. For added security, a Ring Home subscription, which costs $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year, lets you record footage 24/7 and receive motion alerts for people and packages.

RELATED: Best Video Doorbells

Power sourceWired
Field of View143 degrees diagonal, Pan-tilt: 360 degrees pan coverage/ 169 degrees tilt coverage
Resolution1080p HD
Cloud storageWith subscription: 24/7 video stored for 14 days and video events stored for 180 days
2
Best Value Nanny Cam

EZVIZ C6N 3MP

C6N 3MP

Pros

  • Local or cloud storage
  • Auto motion tracking
  • Excellent price

Cons

  • Larger than most

This indoor nanny cam is a versatile, full-room monitoring solution perfect for keeping an eye on kids, pets or loved ones while you’re away. The 360-degree pan-and-tilt coverage features 2K resolution, with reviewers praising its sharp daytime video quality and clear IR night vision.

The standout feature is motion detection with smart tracking, which automatically follows movement and sends real-time notifications to your phone. The built-in two-way talk function allows you to speak with family members or deter intruders, adding an extra layer of security. For storage, you can save footage locally with a microSD card (up to 256GB) or opt for a cloud subscription for encrypted access.

If you need a budget-friendly nanny cam with comprehensive coverage, smart tracking and two-way communication, the C6N MP3 is a reliable choice.

RELATED: Best Baby Monitors

Power sourceWired
Field of View360 degree pan/tilt
Resolution2K
Cloud storageYes
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3
Best Hidden Nanny Cam

Arlo Pro 5S

On Sale
Pro 5S

Pros

  • High 2K resolution
  • Can be used both indoors and outdoors
  • Feature rich

Cons

  • Configuring the app can be difficult

The Pro 5S is an upgrade over the Pro 4 which received top billing in our roundup of home security cameras. It stands out as one of the best hidden nanny cams available. With 2K HDR video, a 160-degree wide field of view and 12x digital zoom, it provides clear footage without drawing attention.

Unlike bulky baby monitors, its compact, wireless design makes it easy to position anywhere — on a shelf, mounted high on a wall or tucked into a corner — without disrupting your home’s decor.

It automatically switches between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks for the strongest signal. This means you get a stable, real-time feed of your child and their caregiver without worrying about dropped connections. In addition, color night vision ensures visibility in low light, capturing clear images even in dim nurseries or playrooms.

Our expert did note that setting up the app was a bit troublesome, but once it was configured properly the system shined.

Power sourceWireless
Field of View160 degrees
Resolution2K
Cloud storageYes
4
Best Outdoor Nanny Cam

REOLINK Argus 4 Pro

Argus 4 Pro

Pros

  • Solar power
  • 4K resolution
  • Detection zones

Cons

  • No cloud storage

The Reolink Argus 4 Pro offers advanced security features with a seamless 180-degree field of view. It lacks the tilt and pan feature of the Ring but has crisp 4K UHD resolution and color night vision for maximum viewability of any patio or outdoor space. Some experts noted that while the app has a learning curve, it offers customizable detection zones and real-time alerts, reducing false alarms from pets or passing cars.

This outdoor nanny cam runs on battery but can be continuously charged via a 6W solar panel, providing up to 70 days of runtime with just a few hours of sunlight. Unlike many subscription-based cameras, the local storage option (up to 512GB microSD) means no monthly fees.

While some reviewers felt the design wasn’t the sleekest, the compact form makes it easy to place discreetly. If you want a high-resolution, wide angle camera that can alert you if your kids go in your front or backyard, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro is a solid, subscription-free choice.

RELATED: Best Outdoor Security Cameras

Power sourceSolar battery
Field of View180 degrees
Resolution4K UHD
Cloud storageNone
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5
Best Portable Nanny Cam

Nanit Pro

On Sale
Pro

Pros

  • Doubles as baby monitor
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Limited field of view

The Nanit Pro is a baby monitor first, but can double as a nanny cam as well. Like most nanny cams it features 1080p video, motion and sound detection, and two-way audio through the app. Our experts enjoyed the 130 degree wide-angle lens which offers full-room coverage as well as a popular zoom feature, allowing parents to check in on caregivers and children from anywhere in the room.

Advanced baby monitor features are unnecessary for users seeking a nanny cam, but if you need a two-in-one device, then you may appreciate sleep analysis, milestone alerts and temperature and humidity monitoring.

This nanny cam form factor is small and lightweight which makes it ideal for packing on short trips or extended stays. While it may not be the best choice for parents who want a simple plug-and-play nanny cam, those looking for detailed insights and smart home integration will find Nanit Pro to be an excellent choice.

Power sourceWired
Field of View130 degrees
Resolution1080p
Cloud storageNone
6
Most Discreet Nanny Cam

Safety 1st Connected Wi-Fi Baby Monitor

Connected Wi-Fi Baby Monitor

Pros

  • Nice design
  • Local and cloud storage

Cons

  • Needs strong Wi-Fi

Another baby monitor that can be used a nanny cam, it offers 1080p video, night vision and two-way audio through the app. The chic, modern design was universally loved by our experts who also appreciated the easy setup. The ability to share access with family and customize motion and sound alerts adds extra flexibility. Storage options include microSD or cloud recording, making it easy to save footage.

While strong Wi-Fi is required, its app-based control and travel-friendly design make it a versatile, secure nanny cam for parents who want reliable remote monitoring.

Power sourceWired
Field of ViewN/A
Resolution1080p
Cloud storageYes
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How we test nanny cams

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Our expert reviewers at the Good Housekeeping Institute stay on top of technology trends by attending trade shows and industry events like CES. For this report, we researched and identified the top-selling security cameras and baby monitors that you’re most likely to find at home centers and online. We identified traits that would make them appealing nanny cams. Then our experts focused on brands with a proven track record for performance and reliability.

Hands-on testing took place in the Home Improvement Lab at the Institute, as well as in the homes of reviewers, giving us a combination of controlled Lab results and user feedback based on performance in real-world conditions. Finally, we pored over thousands of consumer reviews to spot any red flags related to usability, safety and maintenance.

What to look for when shopping for the best nanny cam

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Choosing the right nanny cam depends on how you plan to use it and what features matter most to you. Some parents prioritize video storage options for reviewing footage, while others focus on resolution and field of view to ensure a clear, wide-angle picture. Here are key factors to consider:

✔️ Video storage: For some users, it's important to record and share video. You can choose from local storage on a microSD card or accessibility through cloud storage.

✔️ Resolution: A clear crisp picture with at least 1080p resolution at a minimum is what you should look for. If you need more detail there are nanny cams with 2K and 4K resolution available.

✔️ Field of view: A wide fixed field of view is ideal, but if a camera can also tilt, pan and zoom, you can view a larger space with greater detail.

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Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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This guide was created by writer and editor Timothy Dahl, who covers everything from consumer electronics to home, outdoor, tools and more. He's also a parent of two young boys, and understands the value of a discreet surveillance solution. Timothy consulted the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Test Engineer Alec Scherma, as well as the Lab’s extensive testing data, to include the latest top-performing picks.

Headshot of Timothy Dahl

Timothy Dahl is an experienced writer and editor covering home improvement, DIY, and lifestyle topics for nearly 20 years. With a deep background in hands-on testing and reporting, he has reviewed and worked with hundreds of tools, products, and home innovations. Timothy's work has appeared in The New York Times, Wired, and Popular Mechanics, and he's the founder of Charles & Hudson. He specializes in making complex projects accessible and is passionate about empowering homeowners with clear, actionable guidance.

Headshot of Alec Scherma
Expert consulted:Alec Scherma
Test Engineer

Alec Scherma (he/him) is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s test engineer, where he helps to create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering.

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