As a parent, you know that your little one requires your undivided attention, but it’s not practical to stay in their room all the time. This is where video baby monitors come in handy. Initially, these devices were designed to provide audio-only monitoring, allowing you to listen to your baby’s sounds from another room. However, with advancements in technology, video cameras and other connected features have been added to the mix, enabling you to keep an eye on your baby at all times.
While there are several excellent audio monitors available, we’ve chosen to focus on smart models that offer video feeds and connect to your phone. In this article, we’ll review top ten best video baby monitors currently on the market, to help you make an informed decision for your family’s unique needs.
Related: Top 10 Baby Carriers to Buy – Detailed Review
Top 10 Video Baby Monitors at a Glance
Best Overall: Vava Video Baby Monitor With Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera
Best Overall Runner-up: eufy Security Spaceview Video Baby Monitor
Best Wi-Fi: Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Best Non-Wi-Fi: Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor
Best Smart: Google Nest Cam Security Camera
Best for Travel: Lollipop Baby Monitor
Best for Twin: AXVUE Video Baby Monitor E612
Best Budget: Babysense Video Baby Monitor
Best Features: Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor
Best Image Quality: Owlet Cam Smart Baby Monitor
What is the Importance of Baby Monitors with Cameras?
A baby monitor integrated with a camera is an incredibly valuable tool for parents that can provide numerous advantages, such as:
- Observing the baby’s actions and level of activity
- Monitoring the baby’s breathing patterns
- Hearing the baby’s sounds and cries from a distance
- Knowing when the baby is awake or asleep
- Ensuring the safety and security of the baby
What to Look for When Shopping for Video Baby Monitors?
When shopping for video baby monitors, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Battery life: Check the battery life of the monitor and make sure it will last through the night or day without needing a recharge.
- Portability: Consider if you want a monitor that is easy to move around the house, pack for travel, or one that transmits to your phone.
- Quality: Look for monitors that offer high-quality sound and video. Consider if you need to see fine details or a general picture.
- Safety: Ensure the monitor you choose is secure. For Wi-Fi monitors, make sure the firmware is up to date and that your home Wi-Fi network has a strong password.
- Extras: Decide if you need additional features like the ability to watch video footage or track vital signs.
- Budget: Determine how much money you want to spend on a monitor.
- Longevity: If you plan to use the monitor beyond the baby stage, look for one that can add more cameras without needing an additional monitor screen.
Keep these factors in mind when shopping for video baby monitors to find the one that best fits your needs.
Related: Which Type of Bottle is Best for a Baby?
5 Best Video Baby Monitors
Best Overall: Vava Video Baby Monitor With Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera
This monitor is a great choice for those who prefer a non-WiFi option that is easy to set up. It features a high-quality video screen with zoom, tilt, and pan capabilities, as well as a temperature display. The extended 24-hour battery life ensures that you have a clear view of your baby throughout the entire night. Additionally, this monitor has a video and audio-only mode and allows you to zoom in up to 4x for a closer view of your baby.
With the Vava monitor, you can purchase additional cameras and connect them to one handheld device to view your baby from multiple angles or keep an eye on several children from different rooms simultaneously. It has seven volume levels and noise indicator lights that work even when the screen is off, ensuring that you’re always aware of what’s happening with your baby.
Customer Reviews: 4.9 out of 5
With excellent picture and sound, the VAVA is an affordable video baby monitor that has everything you need.
– Hillary Grigonis, Insider
Setup took less than 5 minutes, and all I really had to do was mount the camera to the wall.
—Alicia Betz, Androidcentral
Pros
- Video was clear in full light and the dark
- Image went up to 100 feet indoors
- Easy to use and set up
Cons
- No stand or wall mount
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wireless 2.4GHz
Listed Open-Space Range: 900 feet
Power Source: Camera: 5V/1.2A micro-USB cable; monitor: 4500mAh lithium-ion polymer rechargeable battery with USB-C cord
Mount Options: Wall or table
Dimensions: 4.84 H x 7.51W x 8.46 D inches
App Required: No
Best Overall Runner-up: eufy Security Spaceview Video Baby Monitor
As a newcomer in the baby monitor industry, the eufy Spaceview Video Baby Monitor has exceeded our expectations with its exceptional performance. In fact, it boasts everything that makes the Infant Optics’ DXR-8 (another highly-rated video baby monitor) great, but with even better features.
One of the standout features of this monitor is its 720-pixel, 5-inch high-definition (HD) screen, which offers incredibly sharp video quality. Compared to most other radio frequency monitors, this monitor provides a wider view, thanks to its great zoom, pan, and tilt capabilities that allow you to see every detail.
Moreover, this monitor comes equipped with a range of desirable features, including extra-long battery life, night vision, two-way talk, instant alerts for crying babies, a wide-angle lens, wall mount, built-in thermostat, and easy setup. It takes all the desirable video monitor features up a notch while maintaining an affordable price point.
If you prefer to use your phone as the monitor but still want exceptional camera optics, you can opt for the camera-only version, which is slightly less expensive, works with your phone, and offers some upgraded camera and security specifications.
Customer Reviews: 4.2 out of 5
This camera is so much more clear than our previous camera! I absolutely love it. I can zoom in on him as well as scan the room. No Wi-Fi needed! It also displays the room temperature and time!
– Chelsea
I bought one. I was so impressed by this system that I bought 2 more. Raising 5 young grandchildren I need all of the help I can get. Between the 3 cameras I am able to see the entire back of the house.
– Kathi W Glomb
Pros
- Long battery life
- High video quality
- Remote pan, tilt, and zoom camera
- Large screen
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Range may not be as large as some other options
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wireless (FHSS connection)
Listed Open-Space Range: 1,000 feet
Power Source: Rechargeable 2900mAh battery
Mount Options: Wall or table (wall mount kit included)
Dimensions: 4.15 x 3.2 x 3.2 inches
App Required: No
Best Wi-Fi: Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor
The Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor is a powerhouse when it comes to providing parents with valuable information. This cutting-edge video baby monitor utilizes computer vision to track and analyze your baby’s movements, sleep patterns, room temperature, humidity level, and how often you enter the nursery.
All of this data is compiled in an easy-to-use app on your phone, freeing you from the burden of tracking your baby’s activities manually. With this app, you can monitor your baby’s sleep trends and receive personalized sleep coaching based on your baby’s unique patterns.
For parents who are struggling to get their little one to sleep through the night, the Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor provides much-needed assistance.
The stat tracking feature is available through the Nanit Insights subscription service, which offers one free year with your device. After that, the service costs approximately $100 per year.
This camera can stream to both a video monitor and the Nanit app, providing you with the flexibility to monitor your baby from anywhere. The Nanit Pro Smart Baby Monitor is highly rated by parents and is our top choice for those seeking a smartphone app-controlled monitor rather than a traditional camera and monitor setup.
Customer Reviews: 4.7 out of 5
I loveee the peace of mind this product gives me at night . It alerts you of babys breathing . This is better than the owlet and every other product outthere . Definitely recommend if you want to sleep a little less anxious.
– Elizabeth Demarcos
Has great picture quality, and we love all the special features like the breathing band, and being able to measure our little one. We sleep better knowing our little one is safe while we sleep.
– Kat
Pros
- Super sharp video quality
- Option to use phone or separate screen as a monitor
- Provides smart data: temperature, humidity, movement, sleep quality, and duration
- Wi-Fi connectivity means you can check on your baby from anywhere
Cons
- May be information overload for some parents
- Higher price tag
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wi-Fi and cellular (with 256-Bit AES encryption)
Listed Open-Space Range: Unlimited with cell service
Power Source: USB power cord
Mount Options: Wall (floor stand can be purchased separately)
Dimensions: 4.2 x 3.3 x 8 inches
App Required: Yes
Best Non-Wi-Fi: Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor
The Infant Optics DXR-8 Video Baby Monitor is a top choice for experienced parents, as well as those who rely on online reviews. This monitor is loved by almost everyone, thanks to its high-end features, including sharp video and audio quality, extended battery life, a two-way intercom, night mode, digital audio-only mode, and remote camera control.
Parents particularly appreciate the option to connect up to four cameras and the ability to swivel and zoom the camera to capture every detail. Additionally, the wide-angle lens is useful for monitoring toddlers who are exploring their surroundings.
Moreover, adding another camera is a breeze, which comes in handy when another baby comes along. This feature eliminates the need to purchase an extra screen unit.
The DXR-8 delivers high quality and desirable features at an affordable price, utilizing radio frequency transmission to ensure a secure connection. Furthermore, the updated pro version boasts even better camera and screen specs, albeit at a slightly higher price point.
Customer Reviews: 4.5 out of 5
We absolutely love this camera and monitor. Controls are simple to use, picture and sound is great. Able to move camera to many angles. We are looking forward to purchasing a second camera to use when we have our next child and will use the scan feature to be able to watch both together. Highly Recommend!
– Kate
I was hesitant to buy this due to the warranty not being valid in Canada (for once I purchased the separate amazon warranty) but I’m glad we did as we are very happy with it. Our overall impression is of a very premium product. We were impressed with the little touches like the extra charger. It’s easy to use and does what it is supposed to. We haven’t had any use for the wide angle lens as many people have said.
– Nadine A
Pros
- Remote control of the camera angle
- Ability to connect multiple cameras to one monitor
- Lots of features for the price
Cons
- Decreased battery life over time
- Some reports that the monitor suddenly quitting after a few years
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wireless (FHSS connection)
Listed Open-Space Range: 700 feet
Power Source: Rechargeable battery; 6 hours with screen on, up to 10 hours in power-saving mode
Mount Options: Table or wall (has a cutout under the camera to hang on a nail or screw)
Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.4 x 6.5 inches
App Required: No
Best Smart: Google Nest Cam Security Camera
While the Google Nest Cam Security Camera is primarily intended for indoor security, it’s a versatile gadget that can serve as a baby monitor. When incorporated into your Nest smart home setup, it allows you to monitor your baby’s room, as well as other areas of the house.
The main selling points of this camera for parents are that you can install multiple units around the house, enabling it to function as a nanny cam, sleep monitor, and security camera, all in one. Plus, it livestreams directly to your phone, eliminating the need for a separate viewing monitor, and giving you the flexibility to check footage from anywhere.
You can view live footage on your phone, though the app must be running continuously, and you can even rewind and watch recordings from up to 3 hours ago. If you want to record footage for longer periods, you can subscribe to the Nest Aware service.
Some parents express concern about the security of Wi-Fi monitors. To mitigate these risks, it’s important to keep your firmware up to date and ensure that your network is secure. Nest has a strong reputation for customer service and timely software updates, so they should be able to assist you in securing your cameras if needed.
Customer Reviews: 4.6 out of 5
I have 5 of these cameras that I use around my house. I have them positioned to look at the exterior perimeters of my property. The first few I’ve had for years and I’ve added on. They are super simple to set up, highly reliable, great picture and sound quality and the Nest Aware subscription is well worth the annual fee to allow for saving clips, history and playback etc.
– Erika Atkins
We bought this as a baby monitor – this camera seemed like it had the perfect combination of night vision, sound detection, and motion detection. The camera does run a little hot like some of the reviews on here mention – but it’s not hot enough to cause concern in my opinion. Yes, you do have to pay for a Nest Subscription to watch recordings but you can still watch the live feed for free. This camera is perfect for what I wanted to use it for and would definitely recommend.
– Stephen Rose
Pros
- Integrates with your phone and other smart home devices
- No separate monitor needed
- Lower in price than others
Cons
- Function depends on Wi-Fi connectivity
- Requires subscription for access to all video history
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wi-Fi
Listed Open-Space Range: No limit while connected to Wi-Fi
Power Source: USB power cord
Mount Options: Table or wall
Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.8 x 4.5 inches
App Required: Yes
Best for Travel: Lollipop Baby Monitor
The Lollipop Baby Camera is a unique and cute-looking Wi-Fi video baby monitor. It has an app-based system, which means that it doesn’t require a separate monitor base and runs through your wireless network.
Some of its standout features include an audio-only night mode, an alarm if your network is disconnected, and a free app that tracks your baby’s sleep stats and crying, without any monthly fees.
We’ve chosen it as the best monitor for travel because of its compact size and flexibility. The Lollipop camera can be easily bent or twisted to attach to almost anything, making it effortless to set up in new locations.
However, it’s important to note that you will need a Wi-Fi network wherever you’re staying, which could be a concern for some parents. To ensure your baby’s safety, it’s essential to set up a secure and trusted connection when using Wi-Fi for your baby’s monitor.
Although some parents may prefer a radio frequency video monitor for travel, the Lollipop is an excellent option for those staying with friends or family.
Customer Reviews: 4.3 out of 5
The Lollipop baby monitor camera has been great and easy to use! It allows my daughter to view her child on her phone in the same app as her home Lollipop camera when our grandchild is visiting us. The picture & sound are very clear, both day & night. When we are on vacation, we use the camera to view & talk to our cats. I will be buying a second Lollipop camera for the new grandchild in the Spring.
– Erica Burkheimer
My wife and I believe this monitor to be the best one we’ve had!! The app is user friendly, with many options to use. You can even get their subscription that allows you to also monitor your baby’s breathing without having to add extra equipment. You’re able to track your baby’s sleep as well. My wife’s favorite part is being able to talk to our baby when she gets notified about the noise or cries. It helps calm our baby down. My favorite part is the crossing detection, it allows us to see if our baby is trying to climb out of the crib.
– Otto
Pros
- Small and portable
- Easy to set up anywhere
- Cute
Cons
- Uses Wi-Fi for video transmission
- Requires a subscription for access to video history
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wi-Fi
Listed Open-Space Range: No limit while connected to Wi-Fi
Power Source: USB power cord
Mount Options: Table or wall
Dimensions: 11.7 x 3 x 1.6 inches
App Required: Yes
Best for Twin: AXVUE Video Baby Monitor E612
The AXVUE Video Baby Monitor E612 is a highly rated option for parents of twins. It comes with two cameras right out of the box, making it easy to monitor both babies at the same time.
The monitor is simple to set up and can be used in separate rooms or to spotlight each crib in a shared space. It has a good battery life, range, temperature reading, and two-way talk, all features that parents appreciate.
If you have twins, investing in a monitor with two cameras can be a smart choice, as it eliminates the need to purchase an additional camera and monitor separately. The AXVUE Video Baby Monitor E612 offers convenience and peace of mind for parents of multiples.
Customer Reviews: 4.2 out of 5
I love this baby monitor. I got one for my baby shower and weused it every night when we started putting our baby to sleep in his own room. My son actually threw the monitor away by accident and I decided to buy the same one to replace it. Night vision is awesome, sound is awesome, it’s a great option that it comes with two cameras. Sometimes I struggle with the signal going through but that isn’t often. The monitor has a decent battery life but I leave it on the charger all night just in case. I Highly recommend!
– Amy Smith
I love this camera, it gives me piece of mind while my baby is napping. Wasn’t too comfortable having her sleep in her crib or bed but this has helped 10/10. easy set up, you get the best view when its hanging off the wall (is able to be hung) i also wanted something that wasn’t connected to the internet
– Kieya
Pros
- Affordable
- Base package includes two cameras
- Positive reviews
Cons
- Not quite as high tech as some of the other options
- Not the highest quality materials on our list
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wireless
Listed Open-Space Range: 1,000 feet
Power Source: Rechargeable battery
Mount Options: Table or wall
Dimensions: 7 x 4.3 x 4.6 inches
App Required: No
Best Budget: Babysense Video Baby Monitor
The Babysense Video Baby Monitor is a popular choice among parents due to its comparable features at a more affordable price point.
It boasts good quality video and audio, as well as useful features such as zoom, pan, tilt, wide-angle lens, night vision, two-way communication, and a temperature gauge to keep your baby comfortable and safe. Additionally,
you can add multiple cameras to the same monitor.
All of these features at a reasonable price make the Babysense Video Baby Monitor a great option for parents.
Customer Reviews: 4.4 out of 5
Totally love this monitor, I was very hesitant due to the price comparison to other baby monitors. But I did want an affordable high quality baby monitor and this is it !! I hardly right reviews and when I do I either love it or hate it and I love this product !!
– RosaSo far this baby monitor is working great. It arrived quicker than expected and has so many features. It is far less expensive than the other camera and monitor that I had, and does more. I’ve only used it for a few days so far, but it is great and I would highly recommend it. Hopefully it will last as long as I need it. I use it for my childcare business.
– Shirley E
Pros
- Good functionality
- Lower cost
- Large range
Cons
- Lower quality components
- Smaller monitor screen than mos
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wireless
Listed Open-Space Range: 960 feet
Power Source: Rechargeable battery
Mount Options: Table or wall
Dimensions: 6.42 x 5.79 x 3.11 inches
App Required: No
Best Features: Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor
The Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor is not only sleek and modern, but also packed with high-tech features. With impressive video and audio quality, it connects to the Miku app on your phone for continuous monitoring, without
any subscription fees.
One of its standout features is its ability to monitor your baby’s breathing rate and rhythm without the need for a wearable device like a sock or strap. Equipped with AI sensors, the camera can count your baby’s respirations
and show their breathing pattern in real time, providing peace of mind for parents.
Compared to other monitoring devices, the Miku is much simpler to use, as there are no additional pieces to attach to your baby. Just the camera and your smartphone. While the initial cost is higher, the absence of subscription fees may make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Customer Reviews: 4 out of 5
We loved the miku so much with our first child, that we decided to get another one for our baby due this spring! The design is so sleek; but my favorite feature is the app connectivity. We’re easily able to check on baby when they make a sound and can also track sleep and breathing which is so comforting to me. I can’t recommend this product enough!
– Madi F
The miku pro was super easy to set up as well as it comes with more than just the baby monitor. it was everything we were looking for and i couldn’t recommend another baby monitor!
– Ashleigh
Pros
- Super high quality audio and video
- Monitors baby’s breathing without an attached device
- Provides a lot of information with integrated app
- No subscription fees
- Will accept HSA/FSA funds
Cons
- Expensive
Key Specs
Type of Connection: Wi-Fi and cellular (256-bit encryption)
Listed Open-Space Range: Unlimited
Power Source: USB-C power adapter
Mount Options: Wall mount with cord hider
Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.6 x 5.25 inches
App Required: Yes
Best Image Quality: Owlet Cam Smart Baby Monitor
The Owlet camera is a Wi-Fi enabled device that delivers high-quality video and real-time alerts to caregivers. It comes with both a magnetic base and a wall-mounting kit for added versatility. Setting up the device requires
downloading an app and creating an account. However, online reviews suggest that the process may not always be smooth, and the Wi-Fi connection can sometimes drop, leaving caregivers without access to video.
Despite this, the Owlet camera has a great range and provides clear video of your baby from anywhere. It also sends notifications for sound and motion, and allows for zooming up to 4x. The camera has a 130-degree
wide-angle lens and provides a clear picture even in low light conditions. The audio can also play in the background when the phone is locked or in use.
The Owlet camera also monitors temperature and humidity, and for more detailed sleep tracking, can be paired with the Owlet Dream Sock. The app does not require a subscription, but it also does not save video recordings.
Overall, the Owlet camera is a great option for those looking for Wi-Fi enabled monitoring without the need for a subscription.
Customer Reviews: 4.2 out of 5
This product is great for my granddaughter. We are able to monitor her without waking her up.
– Kristi
Easy to setup. Clear picture. Notifications are awesome. Can set your phone to notify you when there is motion or sound. Also has a temperature monitor. Includes everything you need to mount the camera. Soo much easier than having a ton of monitors that all need charged and plugged in. Can also link multiple phones to the camera.
– ROPER2022
Pros
- Easy setup
- Consistent video quality
- Zoom-in capability
Cons
- App sometimes disconnects from camera
- Owlet Sock purchase required for sleep data
Key Specs:
Type of Connection: Encrypted Wi-Fi, cellular
Listed Open-Space Range: Unlimited
Power Source: Power adapter
Mount Options: Wall mount (comes with innovative safe wall mounting kit
that keeps cables away from babies)
App Required: Yes
Dimensions: 7.83 x 3.3 x 6.5 inches
Comparison Table for 10 Best Video Baby Monitors
Brand | Price | Screen Size | Signal Range | Highlights |
---|---|---|---|---|
Vava | $179.99 | 5 in. | Wireless | 900 feet |
eufy | $159.99 | 5 in. | Wireless | 1,000 feet |
Nanit | $239.99 | Cell phone | Wi-Fi/cellular | Unlimited with cell service |
Infant Optics | $165.99 | 3.5 in. | Wireless | 700 feet |
Google Nest | $147.00 | Cell phone | Wi-Fi | No limit while connected to Wi-Fi |
Lollipop | $159.99 | Cell phone | Wi-Fi | No limit while connected to Wi-Fi |
AXVUE | $106.99 | 4.3 in. | Wireless | 1,000 feet |
Babysense | $49.99 | 3.5 in. | Wireless | 960 feet |
Miku | $418.00 | Cell phone | Wi-Fi/cellular | Unlimited |
Owlet | $79.99 | Cell phone | Encrypted Wi-Fi | Unlimited |
Conclusion
Video baby monitors are essential devices that offer parents peace of mind and ensures their baby’s safety. These devices come in two types, audio and video baby monitors, and some advanced models include technology that tracks vital signs and sleeping patterns.
When selecting video baby monitors, several factors should be considered, including its price, battery life, screen size, audio quality, range, connection type, connection security, and the ability to stream footage on your phone. With numerous options available, choosing the right baby monitor can be overwhelming. However, we hope our reviews have provided you with valuable insights to help make an informed decision. And here’s to hoping you and your baby enjoy many peaceful nights ahead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Best Video Baby Monitors for 2023?
The Vava Video Baby Monitor is overall the best baby monitor of 2023. It features a superb image quality and packs a long list of helpful features. The eufy Security Spaceview is the best premium smart monitor of 2023.
What is the Safest Video Baby Monitor?
We found in our tests that the Owlet Cam Smart Baby Monitor is the safest baby monitor for health tracking.
Can a Video Baby Monitor be Hacked?
Unfortunately, any device that is connected to the internet is at risk of being hacked. Even traditional radio frequency monitors could be vulnerable to hacking if someone is able to tune into the same frequency. However, this type of hacking usually requires close proximity to the actual device, similar to how kids would play with walkie-talkies.
When it comes to Wi-Fi monitors, their safety is only as secure as the internet connection you are using. If you keep your home router updated and password-protected, your monitor is more likely to be secure. However, you may need to take extra precautions if you access your monitor from other networks, such as while traveling or at work.
To ensure optimum security, it’s recommended to check the monitor’s settings and make necessary adjustments to enhance its security.
Does a Video Baby Monitor has Radiation?
Baby monitors emit radiation in the extremely low frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic fields (EMF) category, but the amount is minimal and has no known risks. However, concerns have been raised regarding the cumulative effect of surrounding electronic devices, particularly for fetuses and young children. The World Health Organization (WHO) has studied the effects of ELF-EMF exposure on human health, and the evidence linking it to adverse health effects is weak and inconsistent. It’s essential to follow safety guidelines when using electronic devices, such as placing the monitor at a safe distance from the baby’s crib and choosing a monitor with low radiation emission levels.
Can I Utilize my HSA or FSA Account to Purchase a Video Baby Monitor?
If a baby monitor is capable of tracking essential vitals such as movement, breathing, pulse, or blood oxygen levels, it may be eligible for coverage under your HSA or FSA account. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that you must also verify if any accessories associated with the monitor are also HSA or FSA eligible. We have reviewed a few monitors that meet the criteria:
The Nanit Pro is an exceptional choice. The Nanit Complete Monitoring system and the Breathing Wear line products are eligible for coverage under HSA or FSA accounts. But note that buying Nanit without a Breathing Wear component does not qualify for coverage.
The Miku Pro Smart Baby Monitor is another eligible option.
You can also consider the Owlet Sock or Owlet Sock & Cam bundle, both of which are eligible. However, Owlet Cam alone does not meet the criteria for HSA or FSA coverage.