Where they really differ

How the video travels. The eufy E21 works like a classic monitor out of the box: the camera talks straight to its 5 in parent screen, with no Wi-Fi involved. The app is optional, and a switch on the camera turns Wi-Fi off completely. One setting to know: eufy’s “Smart Connect” is on by default and can send video over Wi-Fi when the direct signal is weak, so turn it off if you want the link strictly local. The Nanit Pro has no direct link at all. Video goes over your Wi-Fi and through Nanit’s servers to the app.

Where you watch. The eufy E21 comes with its own parent screen. Nanit is phone-first: you watch in the app, or buy Nanit’s separate display.

Security. eufy lists RSA-1024 and AES-128 encryption. Nanit lists 256-bit AES encryption and requires two-step sign-in on every account. With the eufy E21 kept local, there’s no account to protect at all.

Recording. The eufy E21 records around the clock to a microSD card you buy and keep at home. Nanit keeps video history only if you subscribe to one of its paid plans.

Subscriptions. Neither needs a plan for live video. Nanit’s paid plans add sleep tracking and video history; the sleep plan includes a free trial that renews automatically unless you cancel. We found no subscription requirement for the eufy E21.

Breathing tracking. Nanit sells breathing-tracking accessories, but its own terms say its products are not medical devices. The AAP advises against relying on home monitors to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Set up either one safely

  • Keep the camera and every cord at least 3 feet from the crib. Babies have strangled in monitor cords.
  • Never mount a monitor on or in the crib. The eufy E21 box includes a crib mount: don’t use it.
  • For the app side of either monitor, the FTC’s advice applies: a unique password, two-step sign-in, and regular updates.

Frequently asked questions

Which is more private?

The eufy E21, if you keep it local: with Wi-Fi switched off, video only travels between the camera and its screen. The Nanit Pro is built around the cloud, so its privacy depends on Nanit’s security and your account settings.

Can either monitor prevent SIDS?

No. A monitor helps you see and hear your baby; it doesn’t replace safe sleep practices.

What about monitors with no Wi-Fi at all?

Our video baby monitor guide includes no-Wi-Fi picks, from a budget option to one with a large screen.