Philips AVENT Digital Video Baby Monitor SCD620 review

It offers Talkback, which allows you to communicate with your little one without trudging upstairs, and also a choice of lullabies.

The Philips Avent SCD620 won joint silver in the 2018 MadeForMums Awards, with judges praising it for its quality of sound and camera. With an RRP of £170 it is a bit more expensive than some of its competitors. The Gold Award winning Babymoov YOO-Travel video Baby Monitor, for example, is cheaper, at £139.99, and offers a 180 degree panoramic view and zoom, while the latest BT Video Baby Monitor 6000 has an RRP of £129.99.

The Philips monitor also may be wanting in the memorable name department, but makes up for this in its sleek, unobtrusive design, quality sound and pictures, and extra features.

What is the sound quality like on the Philips Avent digital video monitor?

The sound is great and very clear. There is no interference or tinny sound - I could hear my little one's night time ramblings well.

What is the picture quality like on the SCD620?

The picture quality is very clear. You can adjust the brightness too.

What is the night vision quality like?

The infra red night vision switches on automatically in the dark. I could see my little one very clearly with the light off.

Does the SCD620 have a temperature indicator?

No it doesn't have one.

Does it have different modes?

The Philips Avent digital video monitor has four different modes. There is video mode for video, obviously, and sound. There is audio mode for sound only. Vox mode which turns off video and sound until a noise is made, at which point they both switch back on. Eco mode turns off the video and sound, which then comes back on when a noise is made.

Is it hack free?

The video monitor is not connected to Wi-Fi. Philips also says it has a unique handset pairing for a private, secure connection.

How was it with background noise?

The monitor does pick up a bit of background noise, such as movement sounds, but it's in proportion. Some audio monitors I've had amplify the smallest noise so it sounds like a huge bang, but this video monitor makes the sounds easily identifiable - and of course, you can see what's going on too. It also allows you to adjust the microphone sensitivity, so you can set it to fit your needs.

How easy was it to set up the Philips Avent video monitor?

The monitor is really easy to set up. Just a matter of plugging it in and turning it on. The controls are pretty obvious too, but the instructions let you know the range of what the monitor can do.

Is it adjustable?

You can fix the camera to the wall or just stand it somewhere. The angle can be adjusted, but the camera doesn't pan around or zoom. This is the only criticism I have of this camera. Having these as extra features would make it excellent.

Does it have lullabies?

Yes, the monitor has a choice of 5 lullabies. They're a neat little add on.

What do you think of the Talkback function?

The Talkback function is really handy. It's nice not to have to be up and down the stairs to offer a bit of soothing. Your voice comes across very clearly and sometimes that's all that's needed.

Is it easy to clean?

Yes, it just needs a wipe with a duster or cloth.

Is it easy to transport around the house?

Yes. The parent unit is light and stands up well. It's sturdy so doesn't fall over. It can be operated by rechargeable batteries, so that makes it more portable too.

Would you recommend it?

Yes. It's really good for any parent to be able to see what's going on at night. This video monitor has clear vision and sound.

Is it rechargeable? How long do the batteries last?

Only the parent unit is rechargeable. It takes three hours to charge when switched off, but takes about twice as long if in use. A full charge offers you 10 hours of use.

What do you think of the low battery indicator?

The low battery indicator gives a clear green light when fully charged and then a red light when almost empty. The parent unit also beeps, so there are two features to let you know, which is great for peace of mind.

MadeForMums verdict:

I think the Philips Avent Digital Video Monitor SCD620 is a great device, offering clear picture and sound, and therefore reassurance for the parent.

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