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Price: $130 list | Available for $140 from Amazon
Pros: Easy to use and inexpensive Cons: Worst performing video monitor we tested on range, clarity, and features Bottom line: Look very closely at competitors before you jump to buy this attractively priced offering
Bottom Line
The MobiCam AV is a low-cost and simple to operate video monitor. But, our love for it stops there. In our tests it performed quite poorly relative to competing monitors, so much so that we see no good reason to buy it despite the temptingly low price. The screen size is much smaller than other video monitors, image and sound quality were the worst in our tests, and the range sucked. Read on for the full details.
Compare top rated competitors side-by-side > BabyGearLab Editors' Hands-on Review
Cheap is a word that cuts both ways. It can mean low-priced, and but can also mean lackluster performance or quality. It is the word that comes to mind when we think about the MobiCam AV.
Likes Its cheap (in a good way). At $130 list, it is the only video monitor we tested that sells for a street price under $100. And, its really pretty easy to use, since it doesn't have much in the way of features to confuse you. Dislikes Its too cheap (in a bad way). Across the board, in every test we conducted except ease-of-use, the MobiCam AV dragged across the finish line in last place. Most disappointing was the range test, where the MobiCam AV sucked wind like an aging smoker on a treadmill. And unlike the other video monitors which used digital technologies to avoid interference from electronic devices, the MobiCam's range got even worse if subjected to interference issues (which it was quite susceptible to). If range and interference issues weren't enough, the image and sound quality were both poor relative to competitors, finishing last by a wide margin on both metrics. The combination of a smaller 1.8 inch screen (too small from our point of view), and relatively poor image quality makes it almost impossible to see if baby's eyes are open or closed (a key litmus test). Unlike all the other monitors we tested, the MobiCam AV does not come with rechargeable batteries. It requires 10 batteries if not using AC power. It can't be wall-mounted, which is a real disadvantage when you try to get the best crib view. Lastly, the MobiCam AV does not provide a sound activation feature, which combined with poor sound clarity means you'll be subjected to painful and sleep-threatening levels of background noise and static in use. Conclusions While the low-price may draw you toward the MobiCam like a moth to flame, we urge you to avert your gaze to one of the many fine competing products. — RJ Spurrier Compare this product side-by-side to top competitors >
Mom-to-Mom™ ReviewsMost recent user review: March 28, 2012
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