Walkie-talkies are similar in functionality to baby monitors: One device sends an acoustic signal, and the other receives it. So you could use a walkie-talkie as a baby monitor too, couldn’t you? I will answer this question in this article. I will also introduce you to different walkie-talkies that can be used as baby monitors.
Short Answer
In order not to keep you in suspense for long, I would like to tell you directly whether you can use a walkie-talkie as a baby monitor:
Yes, a walkie-talkie can be used as a baby monitor. A basic requirement for this is that the radio has the so-called VOX function. This is a hands-free function that is activated as soon as a certain volume is exceeded, without having to use the send button (push to talk). This allows it to be used as a baby monitor as follows.
- The baby makes noises (e.g. it cries).
- The noise level is exceeded, which activates the hands-free function.
- The walkie-talkie transmits the baby’s sounds.
Suitable walkie-talkies are for example the Motorola T260 and the Retevis RT49.
Long Answer
Using a walkie-talkie as a baby monitor is not quite as simple as described above. Instead, some other factors must be considered. I want to introduce these to you now.
VOX Function is crucial
I have already mentioned that a VOX function is indispensable for using a walkie-talkie as a baby monitor. This ensures that the radio always sends sounds when a certain noise level is exceeded.
However, this level should also be individually adjustable if possible. If the level is too high, the child may not be heard when it cries. If, on the other hand, it is set too low, even the smallest noise is transmitted, which can strain the battery.
Observe Battery Charge and Tuntime
The battery is also another important point to consider. On the one hand, battery life plays an important role. If the toddler sleeps for several hours, the walkie-talkie’s battery should last without any problems. This should not be a hurdle with most walkie-talkies. Often, a charge even lasts several days on standby.
On the other hand, another small “problem” arises from the battery charge. There should be sufficient charging of the batteries before using the “baby monitor”. Finally, many walkie-talkies can not be used during charging.
Two walkie-talkies needed
As with the baby monitor, walkie-talkies always require two devices. Therefore, you should make sure that you do not buy a single radio, but at best a set of 2. This is usually not a problem, as most walkie-talkies are sold in sets of 2, sets of 3, sets of 4, or even sets of 8.
No Video Function
Many modern baby monitors can not only send sounds but also transmit a picture of the baby. This is not possible with walkie-talkies. A video function is a valuable feature but not necessary. Nevertheless, you should consider this when making your purchase decision.
Radio Interference
A baby monitor is usually connected in such a way that only two devices can communicate with each other at any one time. With walkie-talkies, it’s a little different. Here, other people can also communicate via the channels. Of course, this is not desirable when used as a baby monitor because the sounds could wake the child up. Adjustable subchannels and codes can prevent this by significantly reducing the probability that another person will radio on the same channel.
Tutorial: How to use a Walkie-Talkie as a Baby Monitor
- Turn on both walkie-talkies.
- Set the devices to the same channel.
- Turn on the VOX function on the walkie-talkie that goes into the baby’s room.
- Also, adjust the sound level on this device.
- Make sure that the microphone on the parent device is deactivated so that the baby is not
- accidentally woken up by the walkie-talkie.
Best Walkie-Talkies for Baby Monitor
Here are my three favorite walkie-talkies to use as a baby monitor:
#1 Midland GXT1030VP4
Specifications
- Brand: Midland
- Range: 36 miles
- Power output: 2 watts
- Frequency ranges: 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS)
- Battery: NiMH rechargeable battery or 4 AA Alkaline batteries
- Size: 2.5 x 9.8 x 1.8 inches
- Weight: 0.3 lb
- Waterproof: yes (JIS4)
- License needed: yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license)
Pros of the Midland GXT1030VP4
- Durable and high-quality
- Waterproof or Splash Resistant
- Has a variety of channels to choose from
- Great range under optimum conditions
- A lot of different features
- Easy to charge
Cons of the Midland GXT1030VP4
- Charging does take time
- Any physical obstructions greatly influence communication range
- Cannot be completely submerged in water
#2 Motorola T465
Specifications
- Brand: Motorola
- Range: 35 miles
- Power output: no information
- Frequency ranges: 462-467 MHz (FRS/GMRS)
- Battery: NiMH rechargeable battery or 3 AA Alkaline batteries
- Size: 7.54 x 2.26 x 1.37 inches
- Weight: 0.43 lb
- Waterproof: yes (IP54)
- License needed: yes, if GMRS channels will be used (FCC license)
Pros of the Motorola T465
- has an emergency alert button and flashlight
- has access to NOAA weather channels and reports
- has silent features like VibraCall and QT
- has VOX/iVOX hands-free
- wide range
- weatherproof
Cons of the Motorola T465
- belt clip does not hold very well
- antenna is fixed
- not as cheap as other similar or more simple radios
#3 Retevis RT7
Specifications
- Brand: Retevis
- Range: not stated
- Power output: 5 Watts
- Frequency ranges: 400-470 MHz (UHF)
- Battery: Li-ion 1,500 mAh
- Size: 4.80 x 2.17 x 1.10 inches
- Weight: 0.38 lbs
- Waterproof: no
- License needed: yes (FCC License)
Pros of the Retevis RT7
- Has a lot of inclusions in the model package
- Affordable walkie talkie model from a reputable brand
- Easy to update and upgrade the system of the device using the PC programmable software
- Lightweight two-way radio
- Compact design
- The design is fit for children, the elderly, and people who are not very confident in the technical details of electronic device
Cons of the Retevis RT7
- The battery may become an issue for longer hours of use
- It’s not waterproof
- Other models may have a more robust casing than the Retevis RT7
Conclusion – Can I use a Walkie-Talkie as a Baby Monitor?
Most walkie-talkies can be “abused” as baby monitors. It is important here that they have a VOX function with an adjustable volume level. Likewise, it is useful if sub-channels, as well as codes, can be set so that no one else uses the same channel. If you want to receive not only sounds but also a picture of the child, however, a baby monitor is a must. In any case, radios are recommended as an alternative to baby monitors, especially if the child sleeps a little further away.
