Having a baby on board completely changes the driving experience. Parents want to keep their little one safe and know what’s going on in the backseat at all times. But should you use a baby car mirror or a baby car camera to monitor your infant while driving?
There are pros and cons to both options. In this post, we’ll compare baby car mirrors and cameras so you can decide which is best for your family.
What is a Baby Car Camera?
A baby car camera is a video camera that mounts in your backseat and displays video footage on a screen up front. You can attach the screen to your dashboard or windshield. Some cameras offer split-screen views so you can see baby and still have a rearview display. Other cameras integrate with existing vehicle screens and sync with smartphones or tablets.
Prices for baby car cameras range from $50 for standalone cameras to $200 or more for systems with multiple cameras, large screens, and more features. Unlike simple mirrors, cameras allow you to zoom in and get a closer view of your child. You can even replay footage to get another look if you spot something concerning. Some high-end cameras have two-way communication so you can talk to and soothe your baby from the front seat.
What is a Baby Car Mirror?
A baby car mirror is a special rearview mirror that attaches to the existing rearview mirror in your vehicle. It allows you to see your baby in the backseat while looking forward through the windshield. Many baby mirrors are convex or have wide angles to provide a bigger view of the backseat. Some mirrors also have night vision or temperature gauges.
Baby car mirrors are relatively inexpensive, typically ranging from $10 to $50. Many parents prefer mirrors because you don’t have to look away from the road to check on your child. Simply glance up at the mirror and you can see your baby. This only takes your eyes off the road for a split second. Mirrors are also useful for interacting with your child while driving. You can make eye contact, sing songs, and play peekaboo to soothe your little one when they get fussy.
Critical Differences Between Baby Car Cameras and Mirrors
There are some notable differences between baby mirrors and cameras to consider:
- Field of view – Mirrors provide a wide rearview of the entire backseat area while cameras offer a zoomed in view focused just on your child.
- Attention required – Quick glances up at a mirror allow you to check on your baby while keeping your main focus on driving. Cameras typically require longer looks away from the road to view footage and assess your child’s status.
- Nighttime visibility – Basic mirrors rely on existing light and may not provide the best view in low light. Cameras often have infrared night vision to keep tabs on your baby when it’s dark.
- Entertainment – Mirrors allow interactive play while cameras are simply for monitoring. However, some high-tech camera systems have two-way audio for entertainment.
- Installation – Mirrors quickly clip onto the existing rearview mirror while cameras require wiring and securing screens and mounts.
- Price – Simple mirrors are much less expensive than full camera systems. But cameras provide more features and upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Baby Car Cameras
Some positives and negatives of using a baby camera in the car are:
Pros of Baby Car Cameras:
- Clear view – Digital cameras provide a crisp, glare-free picture of your baby day or night.
- Full view – The wide angle lens allows you to see baby’s whole body so you don’t have to strain.
- Multi-camera options – Some systems have cameras that also show the back seat or view the road behind you.
- Additional features – Options like temperature displays, night vision, zoom and talkback give added functionality.
- Playback – Many cameras continuously record so you can go back and view past footage if needed.
- Secure installation – Cameras mount firmly on the rear headrests with adjustable angles.
Cons Baby Car Cameras:
- Expensive – Cameras cost $75-$300 so are a pricier monitoring option.
- Can be distracting – While intended to help keep eyes on the road, frequently checking the camera screen can be distracting.
- Positioning problems – An improperly angled camera with restricted view defeats the purpose.
- Tech problems – Like any electronic gadget, cameras can have technical glitches.
- Limited night vision – Bad lighting reduces visibility so features like infrared night vision help.
Pros and Cons of Baby Car Mirrors
Here are some key benefits and limitations of using a baby car mirror:
Pros Baby Car Mirrors:
- Inexpensive – Baby mirrors typically cost between $10-$50, making them an affordable monitoring option.
- Easy to install – Most baby mirrors clip or strap onto the rear headrest and are adjustable, making them simple to install in just a few minutes.
- Unobstructed view – Well-positioned mirrors give you a clear, unblocked view of your baby while you drive.
- Familiar technology – Mirrors have been used for decades so most parents are already accustomed to glancing in the rearview mirror.
- Promotes connection – Being able to see your baby in the mirror can help you feel connected and reassured.
Cons Baby Car Mirrors:
- Distracting reflections – Sun glare and nighttime headlights can make it hard to get a clear view of your baby.
- Limited view – Mirrors have a narrower field of vision than cameras so you may not be able to see baby’s whole body.
- Positioning problems – If the mirror shifts out of position, it can be difficult and dangerous to adjust while driving.
- Can fall – If installed incorrectly or cheaply made, mirrors can detach and fall with force.
Key Factors in Deciding Between Mirror vs Camera
When choosing how to monitor your rear-facing baby on car rides, keep these key factors in mind as you decide between a mirror or a camera:
- Features – If extras like night vision and temperature displays appeal to you, a camera system likely provides more bells and whistles.
- Visibility – Cameras offer a clearer, glare-free wide view so if seeing more of your baby is top priority, a camera may work better.
- Budget – If you want a budget-friendly option, basic mirrors tend to be much cheaper than camera systems.
- Technological preference – Parents less comfortable with electronic gadgets may find a straightforward mirror less intimidating.
- Distraction – If you’re concerned about taking eyes off the road, a mirror in your line of sight may feel less distracting.
- Car compatibility – Make sure either option mounts properly in your make and model before purchasing.
Top Features to Look for While You Buy Either Car Camera or Mirror
If you opt for a baby car camera system, look for models with features that make monitoring your child easier:
- Large display screen that is easy to glance at
- Split screen shows baby and rear view
- Infrared night vision
- Temperature displays to monitor car seat area
- Wireless connectivity to smartphones/tablets
- Lens adjusts to zoom in on baby
- Two-way audio communication
- Video recording and playback
- Alerts you if camera is off or obstructed
For mirrors, look for:
- Wide, convex glass for maximum viewing area
- Secure mounting system that won’t loosen
- Pivot and swivel adjustments to optimize angle
- Ball joints that allow mirror repositioning
- Night mode or low light visibility
Extra Safety Tips
While baby car mirrors and cameras allow you to view your little one on the go, they should not replace your attention. Here are some extra tips to keep your child safe:
- Properly position mirror/camera for optimal view before driving
- Avoid adjusting or repositioning mirror/camera excessively while driving
- Never take eyes off the road for more than a quick glance
- Stop vehicle to tend to baby for involved interactions
- Always place baby’s car seat rear-facing in the backseat
- Pull over if baby needs attention and it’s unsafe to multitask
- Use common sense and don’t become overly reliant on gadgets
The Verdict
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and budget when choosing a baby car mirror versus a camera. Both options have advantages and disadvantages. Mirrors provide an economical way to interact and check on your baby with minimal distraction. But cameras offer more viewing flexibility, night vision, and hi-tech features for maximum monitoring.
If you want the most basic and affordable option, a simple mirror gets the job done. For a more high-tech, feature-packed system, a baby car camera system provides useful upgrades. Either way, no gadget beats taking a hands-on approach when you can safely stop and interact directly with your little one. With the right precautions, both mirrors and cameras can provide added visibility to help give you peace of mind on the road.
