The Safest All-in-One Carseats? Fresh two thousand seventeen Crash Protection Ratings & Methods from Consumer Reports

Trio years ago Consumer Reports implemented a fresh, more rigorous crash test for carseats and embarked releasing the results of their ratings to subscribers. CR’s purpose in creating the fresh test wasn’t to recreate the wheel. We know every carseat on the market here in the U.S. must be able to pass a basic frontal crash test (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213), therefore we consider all carseats on the market to be “safe” because they can all pass this baseline test. However, we also know that all carseats are NOT created equal and it would be naive to assume that they all provide exactly the same levels of protection.

Consumer Reports set out to find which seats provide extra margins of safety, above and beyond FMVSS 213, and so they developed their fresh crash test to be more rigorous than the federal standards. Their crash test ratings scale will indicate a “BASIC,” “BETTER,” or “BEST” rating to indicate how well the child restraint performed as compared with the rest of the seats in that “peer group” category. One main concentrate of this fresh crash test is head protection, since head injuries are very common in crashes, even among decently restrained children.

This crash test was designed by an automotive safety engineer and peer-reviewed by an independent crash testing experienced with forty years of practice in the field. Testing is performed at an independent, outside testing facility. This test utilizes an actual contemporary vehicle seat (a two thousand ten Ford Ripple 2nd row seat) with a floor below it, unlike the government test which has a 70’s era back seat bench with no floor. There’s a “blocker plate” (pictured above) installed in front of the test seat to simulate the front seat in a vehicle. The blocker plate is intended to recreate the interaction that happens in real life crashes when the child or the carseat interacts with the back of the front seat. In addition, the speed of this test is set at thirty five mph (instead of thirty mph which is standard in FMVSS testing). Those who go after vehicle ratings will recognize the thirty five mph speed as the same speed used to crash vehicles in the NCAP program. CR’s fresh test applies 36% more energy to carseats than their old test protocol and a more severe test results in a greater distinction among carseat spectacle.

Consumer Reports crash tested fourteen All-in-One models in up to seven configurations, both forward-facing and rear-facing, with various dummy sizes, using LATCH or a 3-point seatbelt. Several models that received a “BEST” rating for crash protection are also on our Recommended Carseats List . We recommend the Graco Milestone, Graco 4Ever and Evenflo Symphony DLX/Elite with SureLATCH because of their ease of use and fit-to-child in all three modes (rear-facing, forward-facing & booster).

In addition to the Crash Protection Rating, Consumer Reports still gives each model an overall numeric “Score.” This is based in part on the Crash Protection Rating and also other more subjective factors, such as ease-of-use and fit-to-vehicle in various modes.

Top Performers in the All-in-One Category

Graco Milestone (Overall Score 79), Graco 4Ever* (overall score 75) and Evenflo Symphony sixty five DLX/Elite models with SureLATCH (Overall Score 72) were the top three performers in overall scores and each received a BEST rating for crash protection. Other All-in-One models that were tested in this round by Consumer Reports include the Safety 1st Grow and Go lineup, the Diono Radian lineup**, Evenflo SafeMax All-in-One and some addional Safety 1st All-in-One models. Gratefully, all the models tested in this round received either a BEST or a BETTER score for crash protection. Subscribers to Consumer Reports can see the finish ratings HERE.

*Graco 4Ever was only tested for belt fit in highback booster mode. It was not tested for decent belt fit as a backless booster.

**Diono Radian models (R100, R120 & RXT) were NOT crash tested rear-facing using the angle adjuster accessory because this is an accessory product that does not come in the box with the seat. Diono Rainier was tested but there was some confusion regarding availability so results for that seat will be added soon.

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Safest Family Minivans and SUVs for two thousand sixteen with 3rd Row Seats

Are safety and seating more than a duo kids your top considerations in selecting a fresh vehicle? You aren’t alone! Last year’s winner, the 2014-2015 Acura MDX, is still a contender to retain its title for 2016.

For 2016, the IIHS now requires a “Good” result in the newer puny overlap crash test to qualify for a Top Safety Pick rating. An “Acceptable” rating no longer qualifies. The IIHS also requires a front crash prevention system. These systems are not all created equal, some are only basic warnings that qualify for the basic TSP award, while advanced ones can actually brake in emergency situations and possibly avoid a crash better than lesser systems. To earn the “TSP+” award, an auto-brake system with an “Advanced” or “Superior” rating is now required.

There are slew of very safe vehicles. Most midsize crossover SUVs and minivans provide excellent protection for occupants, likely better than anything on the road fifteen years ago. Side curtain airbags and stability control are now standard features. In addition to frontal crash protection systems, advanced safety features like emergency crash notification, lane departure warning, cross traffic warning and blind spot warning systems are becoming more common on non-luxury models.

So how do we filter the list of so many family vehicles that have earned safety awards? It’s pretty effortless:

• Must be an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for two thousand fifteen or 2016
• Must have an NHTSA 5-star overall rating
• No individual NHTSA crash test results of 3-stars or less
• Must have at least six passenger seats

What vehicles make the cut? At the time of this writing, it’s a pretty special list. Two minivans from last year, the Honda Odyssey and Kia Sedona, no longer qualify as they did not achieve a Top Safety Pick+ rating for two thousand fifteen or 2016. Shame on these manufacturers for choosing not to provide even an optional advanced front crash prevention system on these popular family vehicles. The two thousand sixteen qualifiers:

*The two thousand sixteen Highlander was retested with a “Good” petite offset crash test result by the IIHS to also qualify in 2016.

And the Safest two thousand sixteen 3-row Family Vehicle is:

2014-2016 Acura MDX. What’s not to like, again? It not only received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with the optional Advance Package, but it also received a “Good” result in every single IIHS test AND sub-category of each test. Enormously extraordinaire, and remains the only 3-row vehicle to do so. Its frontal crash mitigation system earned an “Advanced” frontal crash protection rating from the IIHS as well, but you must opt for the pricey MDX Advance Package to get a total set of advanced safety features. In every trim are four utter LATCH seating positions for carseats, plus a 5th top tether anchor, an area where many SUVs and minivans skimp.

In the NHTSA testing, it not only received a 5-star overall rating, but also received 5-stars in each of the five individual crash tests at Safercar.gov. Also very awesome! At Four,300 lbs., the MDX is going to have an advantage over many vehicles in a frontal crash. Despite the weight, it is among the better treating midsize SUVs on the market and has received high praise from many automobile and consumer publications. Perhaps the main drawback is the price tag near $55,000 with the Advance Package. Premium fuel is required, but gratefully fuel economy enlargened considerably, from sixteen city, twenty one highway in two thousand thirteen up to eighteen city, twenty seven highway for AWD trim in 2014-2016.

2016 Honda Pilot. For those not willing to spend over $50K on a vehicle, there’s actually one that is almost as outstanding in terms of safety, can technically fit one more occupant and has slightly better fuel economy on regular gas. Not remarkably, this one shares some design elements of its sibling, the Acura MDX. Embarking at just over $30,000, it offers a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Models with the optional Honda Sensing system earn a “Superior” front crash prevention rating and Top Safety Pick+ award. It also received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and earned 5-stars in all but one of the five government crash tests. Its 4-star rollover rating was the same as the MDX.

Gratefully, the Honda Sensing package with collision mitigation braking is optional embarking on the mid-range EX trim for under $33,000, a bit more with AWD. The EX trim is nicely tooled with handy safety features like LaneWatch and HondaLink Assist for automatic crash notification to emergency services. Honda Sensing is a reasonably priced $1000 option that also gives you Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control. Bluetooth hands-free and a backup camera are standard on all trims. Fuel economy is fairly good for an 8-passenger vehicle at nineteen city, twenty seven highway in 2WD trim. The Pilot does have a utter array of lower anchors and top tethers, unmatched by any other SUV.

2016 Toyota Highlander. Like the Pilot, the two thousand sixteen Highlander received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with 5-stars in all but one of the five government crash tests. While the 2014-2015 model only rated “Acceptable” in the IIHS petite offset crash test, the two thousand sixteen model is improved to receive a “Good” result and also an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award again for 2016. Overall, a very nice family SUV. Downsides include some minor confinements with carseats in the 2nd row and a high price tag for the auto-brake system that qualifies for the Top Safety Pick+ award. A utter set of advanced safety features is only available on Limited trim models with the Technology packing costing almost $43,000, almost $Ten,000 more than the Pilot to earn a Top Safety Pick+ award.

2016 Volvo XC90 T6 and two thousand sixteen Infiniti QX60, Utter crash testing on these models was published too late to be considered for our awards, but either one is clearly as safe as our top choices. The XC90 T6 7-Passenger SUV earned the highest results in every test and qualifies as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ with STANDARD equipment, unusual even for luxury vehicles. At just over $50,000 with AWD, that makes it much less expensive than MDX or QX60 to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. The lack of top tether anchors for carseats in the third row is a notable omission. The base Infiniti QX60 requires the $7,000 Deluxe Technology Package with Forward Emergency Braking to qualify for the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. This package also requires the Premium and Premium Plus package, driving the price to over $55,000 with 2WD.

The 2015-2016 Kia Sedona and 2014-2016 Honda Odyssey both aced all the crash tests from the IIHS and NHTSA. Both received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. The only thing preventing them from qualifying for the Safest 3-row Family Vehicle award is the lack of an auto-brake front crash prevention system. Despite this omission by Honda and Kia, there is no debate that these vehicles suggest considerably more space than the SUVs above, both for passengers and cargo. There simply is no substitute for a minivan in terms of being friendly to carseats and kids in back, so these models proceed to be Recommended for families. The Odyssey maintains an advantage for child seating plasticity and remains our top overall pick for being kid and carseat friendly. If only it had been suggested with Honda Sensing, the Odyssey would likely be our Editors’ Pick in this category and overall.

Maybe you already have a minivan or larger SUV, or just want something smaller and lighter to fit into a parking spot or garage? Or with one or two kids, you simply don’t need the extra row of seating. There are also some excellent 5-passenger SUVs and some top-performing sedans awarded in our next segments.

Updated June, 2016

SafeDad writes about automobiles, carseats and traffic safety issues at CarseatBlog

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Recommended Carseats 2017

Recommended Carseats

Our detailed reviews and ratings help you to find the safest infant, convertible, combination or booster carseat for your child! We narrow down all the options to a smaller list to help you choose the best child safety seat for your vehicle.

Here’s an article with some background to these recommendations. Feel free to comment about our list or about your dearest child seats there! If you’ve found our data helpful, we’d appreciate it if you’d consider purchasing your carseat and other household items from one of our links to Amazon or use our updated DEALS page. This supports CarseatBlog’s mission to supply the most thorough carseat reviews, and parent perspective on life, kids, and carseats.

Recommended Carseats

This award is a total listing of all of our recommendations for two thousand seventeen split into categories. These are based on many factors, including our extensive hands-on practice with each seat as well as the competition in each category and price point. We do not separate this list by price point. Our top picks in each budget category can be found at the bottom in our Editors’ Picks.

Rear-Facing Only (Infant Seats)

Infant seats typically have a base that stays in the vehicle albeit most (but not all) models can also be installed without the base. This type of carseat is rear-facing only for infants up to twenty two or 30-something lbs. and is very portable. For infant seats rated higher than thirty lbs., almost all babies will outgrow the seat by height before reaching the weight limit. You can purchase extra bases to use in other vehicles, if that suits your needs.

Britax B-Safe 35

Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 32″ tall; four sets of corset slots; two buckle positions; impact-absorbing base with SafeCell Technology; unique center-pull lower LATCH strap installation; premium push-on lower anchor connectors; built-in lockoffs for effortless seatbelt installations; easy-to-read level indicators; extra large canopy; treat can be in any locked position during travel

Drawbacks: Interior space is narrow and better suited to thinner babies who don’t have broad shoulders. Decent installation without base is more difficult than usual and may require use of pool noodles to stabilize the recline angle.

Comments: Fits preemies and puny newborns well. Effortless to install in a multiplicity of vehicles with either lower LATCH anchors or with seatbelt. See our total review of the B-Safe thirty five here.

Chicco KeyFit 30

Features: 4-30 lbs.; up to 30″ tall; three sets of corset slots; one buckle position; adjustable base; unique center-pull lower LATCH anchor tightening adjustment; premium push-on lower anchor connectors; built-in lockoffs for effortless seatbelt installations; puny storage compartment in base; EPS foam; newborn insert (4-11 lbs. use only); adjustable canopy; treat can be in any locked position during travel

Drawbacks: Canopy not as generous as some other models.

Our comments: Fits preemies and puny newborns well. Very effortless to install in a multiplicity of vehicles using either lower LATCH anchors or seatbelt. Effortless to fasten and detach carrier from base. There’s also a Chicco KeyFit twenty two version that has a maximum weight limit of twenty two lbs. We have a utter review of the KeyFit thirty here.

Chicco Fit2 Infant & Toddler

Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 35″ tall; no-rethread corset with seven height positions; two goods strap/buckle positions; adjustable base with anti-rebound bar; base has separate settings for infant & toddler; lockoffs for seatbelt installations; push-on lower LATCH connectors; energy-absorbing EPS foam; newborn insert; treat can be in any locked position during travel.

Drawbacks: Carrier is on the strong side at eleven lbs.

Our comments: We love the anti-rebound bar and the 2-stage base with separate settings for infant & toddler. Fits preemies and puny newborns well but also accommodates toddlers (up to 35″ tall) very nicely. Most toddlers could fit in this seat until their 2nd bday and some kids will fit even beyond that. Very effortless to install in a multiplicity of vehicles using either lower LATCH anchors or seatbelt. We have a Finish Fit2 Review Here.

Cybex Aton Q

Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 30″ tall; no re-thread corset with eight height positions; single goods strap/buckle position; adjustable base with stream gam; base has tensioning plate for ease of installation with either lower LATCH connectors or seatbelt; premium push-on lower LATCH connectors; energy-absorbing EPS foam and telescoping Linear Side Influence protection feature; integrated UVP 50+ sun canopy; treat must be up during travel; permits European beltpath routing when installed without base

Drawbacks: Toddler-sized chest clip; carrier is on the strenuous side at eleven lbs.; lacks built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations; outgrown by height more quickly than most other infant seats.

Our comments: The Aton Q is part of the “Platinum” series lineup from Cybex and has some unique features not found on the other Aton models. The stream gam vastly improves crash protection and telescoping L.S.P. enhances protection in side-impacts. The addition of a no re-thread corset and an improved, integrated canopy on this model are nice upgrades. This particular model will fit preemies and puny newborns better than the other Cybex Aton models. Like all Aton models, the Aton Q has a compact shell which means it will fit well in puny backseats but the drawback is that it will be outgrown by height more quickly than most other infant seats. Since the tensioning plate does not act as a built-in lockoff when installing with seatbelt, you must read your vehicle possessor’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this seat. See our total review of the Cybex Aton Q here.

Graco SnugRide SnugLock thirty five DLX & SnugRide SnugLock thirty five Elite

DLX Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 32″ tall; four corset height positions; two buckle positions; premium SnugLock DLX base which also acts as a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations; premium push-on LATCH connectors; EPS foam; full-sized canopy; one-hand adjustable treat; treat can be in any locked position during travel

Elite Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 32″ tall. Includes almost everything the DLX model has but adds a 15-position no-rethread corset, visor extension on the canopy and a rapid-remove cover for effortless cleaning. However, the Elite model lacks the one-hand adjustable treat found on the DLX model. If you want the SnugLock model that comes with ALL the available features, check out the SnugLock Platinum & Platinum XT (with cold weather boot) models.

Drawbacks: All SnugRide SnugLock models permit European beltpath routing if installing the carrier directly (without the base) using a lap/shoulder seatbelt. It’s uncommon for most parents to install the infant seat without the base but the Euro belt routing option is a nice feature to have if you travel by taxi or car service often. Unluckily, the Euro belt routing with the SnugLock models isn’t ideal since the shoulder belt often slips too low across the back of the shell to suggest much support. This isn’t a deal breaker for most parents who use the base 99% of the time but if you are in the 1% who frequently install without the base, it’s something to be aware of. You can still install the carrier directly to the vehicle with seatbelt using the standard belt routing if you’re not glad with the Euro routing. We have more details and pictures of the issue in our total review.

Our comments: Don’t confuse these specific SnugRide SnugLock models with any of the other current Graco SnugRide models available (there are numerous Click Connect and SnugLock versions with various specs and features). The SnugRide SnugLock thirty five DLX & Elite models both come with the premium SnugLock DLX base that we choose. Both the DLX & Elite models fit preemies and puny newborns well. Both have a tall shell so they also fit older babies and smaller toddlers well. The DLX model is presently only available at Babies R Us and BuyBuyBaby for MSRP $199.99. The MSRP on the Elite SnugLock model is $219.99 but it can often be found online for less. See our total review of the SnugRide SnugLock 35.

Nuna PIPA

Features: 4-32 lbs.; up to 32″ tall; three sets of corset slots; two buckle position; adjustable base with geyser gam; rigid lower LATCH connectors; built-in lockoff for effortless seatbelt installations; EPS foam & memory foam; newborn insert and separate low birthweight cushion insert; best-in-class canopy with “Fantasy Drape”; treat can be in any locked position during travel; permits European beltpath routing when installed without base

Drawbacks: Most vehicles don’t have dedicated lower LATCH anchors for the center seating position (albeit there are some that do). Just be aware that if you plan to install this seat (or any other carseat that has rigid connectors) with LATCH, that you will most likely need to install in an outboard (near the door) seating position. You can still install Pipa in the center position, but most likely you will need to install the base with the center seatbelt. Not a big deal since the Pipa base has a nice lockoff but something consumers should be aware of.

Our comments: Explosion gam vastly improves crash protection. Super effortless to install in a multiplicity of vehicles using rigid lower LATCH connectors. Effortless seatbelt installation too with built-in lockoff. Corset adjuster is slick and very effortless to tighten and loosen straps. Fits preemies and petite newborns well. The only infant seat presently on the market in the U.S. to feature both rigid lower LATCH connectors and a explosion gam. The “Wish Drape” feature is amazing. We have a total review of the Nuna PIPA here.

Peg Perego Nido

Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 32″ tall; no re-thread corset with six height positions; single buckle position; adjustable base with anti-rebound bar and geyser gam; push-on lower LATCH connectors; built-in lockoff for effortless seatbelt installations; EPS foam; 2-stage infant insert; has unique anti-rebound treat and European beltpath routing when installed without base; meaty canopy.

Drawbacks: Treat is recommended to be down in the vehicle. Tall seat so it’s going to take up a significant amount of front-to-back space in vehicles. Carrier is on the strong side at eleven lbs.

Our comments: Love, love, love that the base has an anti-rebound bar AND a flow gam. Should fit puny newborns well. Very effortless to install in a diversity of vehicles using either lower LATCH anchors or seatbelt. One of the few infant seats not made in China, this product is made in Italy. See our total review of the Peg Perego Nido here.

Safety 1st onBoard thirty five Air

Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 32″ tall; four sets of corset slots; three buckle positions; “Air Protect” technology for enhanced side-impact protection; energy-absorbing EPP foam; adjustable base with premium push-on lower LATCH connectors; built-in lockoff for effortless seatbelt installations; adjustable canopy; treat can be in any locked position during travel

Drawbacks: Since it’s a tall seat it may take up a lot of real estate in smaller backseats.

Our comments: Only the “Air” onBoard models have the premium base with lockoff and the carrier with Air Protect technology. Fits petite babies and preemies exceptionally well. Also one of the tallest infant seats so it fits older babies and toddlers longer than many other infant seats. Made in USA! Read our review here.

UPPAbaby Mesa

Features: 4-35 lbs.; up to 32″ tall; no re-thread corset with five height positions; two buckle positions; adjustable base with stress indicator and auto-retracting lower LATCH connectors; built-in lockoff for effortless seatbelt installations; EPS foam; integrated canopy made with SPF fifty material; treat can be in any locked position during travel

Drawbacks: No-rethread corset design lacks splitter plate so it may not be possible to substitute the corset straps down the road if you wished to do that. Other than that, there indeed aren’t any downsides to this seat.

Our comments: MESA is packed with safety and convenience features and is aesthetically pleasing. The base is a breeze to install with lower LATCH connectors. Seatbelt install is effortless too thanks to lockoff on base. This model fits preemies and petite newborns well. Fresh for 2017: Henry style is the very first (and presently the only) infant carseat that is naturally flame retardant. The Mesa has an industry leading 3-year warranty with product registration. See our total UPPAbaby MESA review here.

Convertible and All-In-One Seats

Convertible seats can be used either rear-facing or forward-facing. They are generally the next step after the infant seat. However, many models will fit average-sized total term newborns well and many parents choose to skip the infant seat altogether and use a convertible right from the begin. For optimal crash protection, use a convertible seat in the rear-facing position until the child reaches either the rear-facing weight or height limit. With a few exceptions for the smallest convertibles and/or the largest toddlers, most kids can remain securely rear-facing until they are two or three years old. Weight and height thresholds vary depending on the specific model. Convertible seats are more permanent in the vehicle, so you lose the convenience features of the infant seat.

Britax Boulevard ClickTight & Advocate ClickTight

Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; Advocate model has “MAX” side-impact protection features including outer energy-absorbing cushions. Both Boulevard CT and Advocate CT models have ClickTight installation system which also acts as a built-in lockoff device for the seatbelt; deep headwings with EPP foam and energy-absorbing headrest; no re-thread corset with fourteen height positions; two buckle positions; non-twist corset straps; Click & Safe snug corset indicator; energy-absorbing HUGS corset pads; “rip stitch” energy management tether; anti-slip base with impact-absorbing technology and seven recline positions; optional newborn insert and optional corset strap covers. Optional anti-rebound bar (sold separately).

Drawbacks: Very strenuous; LATCH installations are very limited due to LATCH weight thresholds; if seat is linked with LATCH, the hook connectors can be very challenging to disconnect from the lower anchor bars in the vehicle; “Click & Safe” snug corset indicator may click too soon; HUGS pads can be bulky and annoying if you are using the seat for a newborn or petite baby but they are optional for rear-facing so you can liquidate them if they get in the way more than anything else. Just recall to put them back on before using the seat forward-facing. HUGS pads are required for forward-facing. Models made after Jan 27, two thousand fifteen no longer permit rear-facing tethering.

Our comments: Consumers are encouraged to always use the seatbelt with the ClickTight system to install these seats. Very effortless to install decently rear-facing or forward-facing with ClickTight. Very effortless to use correctly but Click & Safe snug corset indicator feature may not work as well as intended so don’t rely on it totally. Excellent option for extended rear-facing for kids under forty lbs. Fits newborns very well. If you don’t need the maximum recline angle (for a newborn or very youthful baby), then these seats do not take up a lot of space when rear-facing so they are a good option for smaller vehicles. Anti-rebound bar (ARB) accessory is available for purchase if you want that extra feature. See our total review of the Britax Boulevard CT here. See our total review of the Britax Advocate CT with ARB here.

Chicco NextFit Zip & NextFit iX Zip

Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; no re-thread corset; two buckle positions; innovative SuperCinch LATCH tightening system; premium push-on LATCH connectors; nine position base; energy-absorbing EPS foam; non-twist straps; built-in lockoffs for effortless seatbelt installations; anti-slip base; ZIP models feature zip-off cover for effortless washing

Differences inbetween original NextFit and NextFit iX: iX model is fresh generation; iX model offers 9-position no-rethread corset; original model offers 6-position no-rethread corset; both models feature lockoffs for both rear-facing and forward-facing but the style of lockoff is different – the lockoffs on the original NF model are a tweak style and the iX models are a cinching style; iX models do not have 2-position chest clip featured on original NF models.

Drawbacks: Intense and bulky; must switch to a seatbelt installation once child weighs more than thirty five lbs. rear-facing or more than forty lbs. forward-facing (not a big deal since you have lockoffs for effortless seatbelt install but not fairly as effortless as using SuperCinch).

Our comments: One of the easiest convertibles to install correctly with either LATCH or seatbelt. Installing with SuperCinch is so quick and effortless that it’s downright revolutionary. Use seatbelt plus tether to install if child weighs more than forty lbs. Fits newborns (even petite newborns) very well. Doesn’t take up a lot of space when rear-facing so it’s a good option for smaller vehicles. Generous rear-facing height and weight boundaries. Almost all kids will be able to rear-face in the NextFit until they reach forty lbs. Well-padded and very comfy. We love the extra convenience of the zip-off cover found only on Zip models. See Kecia’s utter review of the Chicco NextFit here.

Clek Foonf & Clek Fllo

Features: 14-50 lbs. rear-facing, 20-65 lbs. forward-facing; five sets of corset slots; two buckle positions; dual-length groin strap; REACT Safety System (Foonf); EACT Safety System (Fllo); steel and magnesium sub-structure; anti-rebound bar; rigid lower LATCH connectors on Foonf (for forward-facing installations only); lockoffs for RF and FF installations with seatbelt; Crypton super fabrics

Differences inbetween Foonf & Fllo: Foonf has rigid lower LATCH connectors for forward-facing; sits up higher when rear-facing due to its unique base; has rear-facing LATCH weight limit of twenty five lbs. and requires using the anti-rebound bar. Fllo has pliable (typical) deluxe LATCH connectors for both rear-facing and forward-facing, a different base that sits a little bit lower; rear-facing LATCH weight limit of thirty five lbs. and the anti-rebound bar is optional.

Drawbacks: Both seats are very intense and there is a learning curve involved with both Foonf and Fllo. Cannot be used for newborns or petite babies unless you purchase the “Infant Thingy” insert (sold separately) which modifies the seat to fit smaller babies. For rear-facing installations you must switch to seatbelt installation once your child reaches the LATCH weight limit. When forward-facing there are weight boundaries for LATCH connectors too. It’s too complicated to cover in a brief summary so please see our utter reviews of Foonf and Fllo for all the significant details.

Our comments: The rear-facing set-up is complicated. These aren’t seats that you can pull from the box and install quickly. This may not be an issue for “seasoned”, savvy CPS Techs and advocates, but could be challenging for many parents. However, once you’ve read the directions, have the anti-rebound bar fastened and you’ve had some practice installing the seat – you’re golden. The payoff for your time and effort is that you get one of the most advanced convertible carseats on the market, with unique, high-tech safety features and exceptional rear-facing weight and height thresholds. Just make sure you understand the LATCH weight thresholds for both rear-facing and forward-facing. See our total review of the Clek Foonf here and our total review of the Clek Fllo here.

Cosco Scenera NEXT

Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing; 22-40 lbs. forward-facing and at least two years old; four sets of corset slots; three goods strap positions; fits puny newborns well; narrow; generally effortless to install; lightweight; budget-friendly.

Drawbacks: No EPS or EPP foam; very low top corset slots; sparse padding; basic hook-style LATCH connectors; no lockoff for seatbelt installations but you can use LATCH up to the maximum weight limit of forty lbs.

Our comments: The Scenera NEXT is a good budget-friendly seat for babies and puny toddlers. Just don’t expect it to fit many kids over age two or Trio. Also nice for traveling since it’s so lightweight. If installing with LATCH isn’t an option then you must read your vehicle owner’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this carseat with seatbelt. See our utter review of the Cosco Scenera NEXT. Also check out our Comparison of Convertible Seats Under $100.

Diono Radian RXT & Diono Rainier

Features: Rear-facing 5-45 lbs. (Radian RXT) or 5-50 lbs. (Rainier), Forward-facing 20-80 lbs. (Radian RXT) or 20-90 lbs. (Rainier); premium push-on lower LATCH connectors; three buckle positions, EPS foam; adjustable head wings for use with the top three corset slots; tether that can be used rear-facing as well as forward-facing; SafeStop crash force explosion limiter for forward-facing corset use (liquidate SafeStop at forty lbs.); infant head support and assets support; rubber grips on base of seat; folds vapid for storage; steel framework

Differences inbetween Radian RXT & Rainier: Rainier has deeper sides for enhanced side-impact protection, is rated to fifty lbs. rear-facing and up to ninety lbs. forward-facing. Rainier is a little broader than the RXT and less likely to “puzzle” next to other carseats when forward-facing. Radian RXT is more narrow and better suited for taut 3-across situations. Radian RXT is rated to forty five lbs. rear-facing and eighty lbs. forward-facing.

Drawbacks: Both seats are very strenuous; lack no re-thread corset; lack built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations; are incompatible when forward-facing in some vehicles. Both will take up a lot of room rear-facing if your child isn’t old enough to use the optional angle adjuster accessory to make the seat more upright; may not fit a newborn. Shoulder belt guides are problematic when used in booster mode and we do not recommend either seat be used as a booster. SafeStop attachment must be added for forward-facing kids under forty lbs. but must be liquidated once child hits forty lbs. (and this process requires uninstalling the seat). You must switch from installing with lower LATCH anchors to installing with seatbelt in the rear-facing position once the child hits thirty five lbs. When forward-facing you must switch from LATCH installation to seatbelt plus tether once the child hits forty lbs.

Our comments: If you want to be able to rear-face your kid beyond forty lbs., or if you’re attempting to fit three seats across the back of a narrow vehicle then these may be the seats for you. The low profile of these seats makes it effortless to geyser and unload kids. Forward-facing almost all kids will max the seat out by height before being anywhere near the weight boundaries. Installation can be challenging in many cases, especially if you can’t use lower LATCH anchors because your child is over the weight thresholds. In some cases the seat is just incompatible and a decent installation cannot be achieved. Since these seats lack a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle proprietor’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install these carseats with seatbelt. The Diono rear-facing angle adjuster accessory can help make the seat more upright (subsequently taking up less space) for older rear-facing kids but there is no other way to adjust the rear-facing recline angle. We do not recommend using either seat in booster mode due to the seatbelt getting stuck in the shoulder belt guide. We have a utter review of the Diono RXT here and a total review of the Diono Rainier here.

Evenflo Sonus & Evenflo Stratos 65

Features: Rear-facing 5-40 lbs.; forward-facing at least two years old and 22-50 lbs. (Sonus) or 22-65 lbs. (Stratos); six sets of corset slots; three groin strap positions; fits newborns well; generally effortless to install; lightweight; budget-friendly

Differences Inbetween Sonus & Stratos 65: Stratos has a higher weight limit for forward-facing and includes 5-position height-adjustable headrest with deep wings. Stratos also offers push-on LATCH connectors, removable cup holders, corset strap covers and an extra “recline stand gam” on base which makes it less likely that you would need to use a pool noodle or spinned up towel to achieve the decent rear-facing recline angle in vehicle.

Drawbacks: No lockoffs for seatbelt installation but you can use LATCH up to fifty lbs.; moving LATCH belt from RF beltpath to FF beltpath is challenging; both seats come out of the box with the LATCH strap routed in forward-facing beltpath which means parents will have to make this adjustment before they can install the seat in the rear-facing position.

Our comments: Budget friendly seats for extended rear-facing! Two year age minimum age for forward-facing use. Both Sonus & Stratos fit a broad range of kids – from petite babies to older kids ready for a booster. Lightweight and fine for traveling. LATCH weight limit is higher than most other seats on the market. These seats lack a lockoff for seatbelt installations so you must read your vehicle proprietor’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this carseat with seatbelt. Check out our Comparison of Convertible Seats Under $100.

Evenflo SureRide

Features: 5-40 lbs. rear-facing; 22-65 lbs. and at least two years old forward-facing; six sets of corset slots; three groin strap positions; fits puny newborns well; generally effortless to install; lightweight; budget-friendly

Drawbacks: Basic hook-style LATCH connectors on most models, large gap inbetween corset slots three and Four; deep sides make loading and unloading rear-facing child cumbersome; no lockoffs for seatbelt installation but you can use LATCH up to fifty lbs; moving LATCH belt from RF beltpath to FF beltpath is challenging; SureRide comes out of the box with the LATCH strap routed in forward-facing beltpath which means parents will have to make this adjustment before they can install the seat in the rear-facing position.

Our comments: This is the uncommon extended rear-facing seat available for less than $100! The SureRide is budget-friendly and fits a broad range of kids – from puny babies to older school-age kids. Also nice for traveling since it’s so lightweight. This seat lacks a lockoff for seatbelt installations so you must read your vehicle holder’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this carseat with seatbelt. See our total review of the Evenflo SureRide DLX. Also check out our Comparison of Convertible Seats Under $100.

Graco 4Ever All-in-One & Milestone All-in-One

Features: 4-40 lbs. (4Ever), 5-40 lbs. (Milestone) rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing with 5-point corset, booster up to one hundred lbs.; no re-thread corset with ten position headrest; two buckle positions; base with numerous recline positions for rear-facing and forward-facing; push-on LATCH connectors; EPS foam; infant insert; cup holder

Differences Inbetween 4Ever & Milestone: 4Ever is rated from four lbs. because of its infant insert cushion and fits smaller newborns better than Milestone, which doesn’t have the same insert and starts at five lbs. 4Ever base has six recline positions (Three for rear-facing), Milestone base has four recline positions (Two can be used for rear-facing). 4Ever can be used as a highback or a backless booster, Milestone can only be used as highback booster.

Drawbacks: Both models lack a lockoff for seatbelt installations

Our Comments: Either is an excellent choice for extended rear-facing; they’re so tall that all kids will be able to rear-face in the 4Ever or Milestone until they reach forty lbs. Effortless to install in many vehicles but discontinue forward-facing installation with lower LATCH connectors and use seatbelt plus tether to install if child weighs more than forty two lbs. Since these seats lack a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle holder’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install these carseats with seatbelt. Milestone should fit average-sized utter term newborns well but may not be a good fit for low birthweight babies or preemies. 4Ever is better suited for smaller newborns. We have a accomplish review of the Graco 4Ever here and a accomplish review of the Graco Milestone here.

Graco Contender sixty five & Graco Size4Me sixty five

Features: Rear-facing 4-40 lbs. (Size4Me), 5-40 lbs. (Contender), 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; both models have no re-thread corset with eight height positions; EPS foam; two buckle positions; infant insert; integrated cup holder

Differences Inbetween Size4Me/MySize & Contender: Size4Me sixty five and its “clones” (MySize sixty five & Fit4Me 65) are rated from four lbs. because of their infant insert cushion which helps to fit smaller newborns better than Contender, which doesn’t have the same insert and starts at five lbs. Contender has a different base design with a roll foot that you budge back and forward for rear-facing and forward-facing. Size4Me has premium push-on LATCH connectors while Contender has basic hook-style connectors. Contender is generally about $30 cheaper, a few pounds lighter and its headwings are shaped differently.

Drawbacks: All models lack a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations; can be difficult to get the last bit of slack out of the corset when tightening, especially on a puny baby; padding is minimal. Contender has basic hook style lower LATCH connectors.

Our Comments: Excellent choice for extended rear-facing; almost all kids will be able to rear-face in the Size4Me/MySize/Fit4Me or the Contender until they reach forty lbs. Effortless to install in most vehicles but discontinue installation with lower LATCH connectors and use seatbelt plus tether to install if child weighs more than forty five lbs. Since these seats lack a lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle possessor’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install these carseats with a seatbelt. Should fit average-sized total term newborns well but may not be a good fit for low birthweight babies or preemies. See our utter Size4Me review here. Contender review here.

Graco Extend2Fit

Features: 4-50 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; 4-position legrest extension panel for rear-facing only, no re-thread corset with ten height positions; two buckle positions; base has six positions; EPS foam; push-on LATCH connectors; corset storage pockets to hold corset out of the way during loading/unloading; infant insert; dual integrated cup holders.

Drawbacks: Lacks a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations; seat takes up more space rear-facing when the legrest panel is extended; can be difficult to get the last bit of slack out of the corset when tightening – especially on a smaller baby; moving LATCH belt from RF beltpath to FF beltpath is challenging because the cover is difficult to detach at the bottom; corset strap covers cannot be used when child is forward-facing; recline position #Four is required when the seat is installed forward-facing for a child weighing less than forty lbs.

Our Comments: We jokingly refer to Extend2Fit as the “Shut Up and Take My Money Seat” because it’s a home run for Graco! A top choice for extended rear-facing. Effortless to install in most vehicles but discontinue installation with lower LATCH connectors and use seatbelt (plus tether if forward-facing) to install if child weighs more than forty five lbs. Since this seat lacks a lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle proprietor’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install the E2F with a seatbelt. Should fit average-sized total term newborns well but may not be a good fit for low birthweight babies or preemies. See our utter Extend2Fit review here.

Maxi-Cosi Pria seventy & Pria 85

Features: Rear-facing 9-40 lbs. (Pria 70), 14-40 lbs. (Pria 85); Forward-facing 22-70 lbs. (Pria 70), 22-85 lbs. (Pria 85). Both seats have no re-thread corset; deep head wings with Air Protect technology for enhanced side-impact protection; push-on LATCH connectors; three position base; integrated cup holder, effortless eliminate covers that are machine washable and dryer safe.

Differences inbetween Pria seventy and Pria 85: Both seats are rated up to forty lbs. and 40″ tall in the rear-facing position but the minimum weight boundaries are different. The Pria seventy model starts at nine lbs. and the Pria eighty five models starts at fourteen lbs. The seventy model is rated to seventy lbs. forward-facing and the eighty five model is rated to eighty five lbs. Both seats have Air Protect cushions on the headwings for enhanced SIP. The Pria eighty five model offers corset holders (clips on the sides of the seat that can hold the corset out of the way while loading/unloading).

Drawbacks: Lacks lockoff for seatbelt installations; Ten″ bottom corset slots means most babies won’t fit until about six months old; recline position #Two is required when the seat is installed forward-facing for a child weighing less than forty lbs.

Our comments: If you’re planning to use an infant seat very first and then transition to a convertible when the baby is fatter, then the Pria seventy or Pria eighty five models could be the seats for you. With tall Legitimate″ top corset slots and generous rear-facing and forward-facing weight boundaries both Pria models are superb for extended rear-facing and for forward-facing older kids too. Effortless to install in most vehicles but discontinue installation with lower LATCH connectors and use seatbelt plus tether to install if child weighs more than forty lbs. These seats have rules about what base positions must be used both RF and FF so make sure you read the instructions cautiously. Since all Pria models lack a lockoff device for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle holder’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install these carseats with seatbelt. Both Pria seventy and Pria eighty five models have lots of padding in the cover – it’s like sitting on a cloud! See utter Pria eighty five review here.

Nuna Rava

Features: 5-50 lbs. rear-facing; 22-65 lbs. forward-facing and at least one year old (Two years old is suggested); 10-position headrest with no-rethread corset; two buckle positions; innovative “true strain doors” for ease of installation with seatbelt (preferred installation method); 10-position base; energy-absorbing EPS foam & side influence protection (SIP) pods; slick corset adjustment; extension panel that can be used rear-facing for enlargened legroom or forward-facing for extra hip support.

Drawbacks: Intense and bulky; may not fit newborns well; top corset slots not as tall as many other convertibles; “true stress doors” do NOT act as a lockoff for seatbelt installations so parents must still put seatbelt in locked mode if seating position has a switchable retractor.

Our comments: Excellent overall if you are planning to use an infant seat from birth and then transition to a convertible when your baby is fatter/older. The fifty lbs. rear-facing weight limit gives parents the option to keep their kids rear-facing longer but the top corset slots aren’t especially tall (16″) so it will be outgrown by height in the forward-facing position long before the sixty five lbs. weight limit is reached. Rava is one of the most expensive convertibles on the market but the quality and features are all top-notch and the styling and fashions are luxurious. LATCH weight boundaries are 35. lbs in the rear-facing position and forty lbs. forward-facing but Nuna recommends installation with seatbelt so you don’t have to recall to switch from one installation method to another when your child reaches a certain weight. See our accomplish Rava review here.

Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible

Features: 5-45 lbs. rear-facing, 22-65 lbs. forward-facing; deep headwings for enhanced side-impact protection; ten corset height positions; no re-thread corset; two buckle positions; tether can also be used rear-facing; EPS foam; thick no-twist corset straps; push-on LATCH connectors; premium fabrics

Drawbacks: Rear-facing beltpath is taut to work with. What looks like it should be a lockoff for seatbelt installation is just a “guide” according to Peg Perego and you must still lock your seatbelt to install this seat correctly.

Our comments: One of the few convertibles rated beyond forty lbs. in the rear-facing position but rear-facing height room is limited so most kids will outgrow the rear-facing position by height before reaching the weight limit. Very effortless to install and use decently but discontinue installation with lower LATCH connectors and use seatbelt plus top tether to install if child weighs more than forty lbs. Since this seat lacks a real lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle proprietor’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this carseat with seatbelt. Italian fabrics are high-end and luxurious. Molto Bello! See Heather’s total Primo Viaggio Convertible review here.

Forward-Facing Only Seats

Forward-facing only seats can be cracked into two groups: forward-facing harnessed seats and combination seats. Forward-facing harnessed seats are seats that can only be used with the 5-point corset in the forward-facing position and do not convert for any other mode of usage. Combination seats are much more common and can be used with the 5-point harnesses and then converted to a belt-positioning booster seat after the corset is outgrown.

Combination Seats

Britax Frontier ClickTight & Britax Pinnacle ClickTight

Features: 5-point corset from two years old AND 25-90 lbs.; booster to one hundred twenty lbs.; innovative ClickTight installation system; effortless no re-thread corset height adjuster; HUGS corset pads; three buckle positions; SafeCell technology in base; dual integrated cup holders; arm rests; Pinnacle ninety model has extra energy-absorbing “Side Influence Cushion Technology” bolsters on sides for enhanced protection in side influence crashes

Drawbacks: Strong & bulky; Pinnacle model is very broad due to the extra side-impact bolsters; corset adjuster is hard to find at very first (it’s set waaaay back); lower LATCH connectors limited to forty lbs.—but who needs LATCH with ClickTight?

Our comments: Very high weight thresholds combined with very tall top corset slots will keep kids in a 5-point corset longer than any other seat on the market. ClickTight installation system makes it a desire to install decently with seatbelt and acts as a lockoff too. Requires tethering over sixty five lbs. but ideally should be tethered at any weight. Nine year lifespan before expiration. Kudos to Britax for putting a two year minimum age limit and reasonable lower weight limit on the seat! If you don’t have the room for the extra width of the Pinnacle model then look at the Frontier instead. The Frontier CT and Pinnacle CT both have a Best Bet rating from the IIHS. See Darren’s review of the Frontier ninety here and Heather’s review of the Pinnacle ninety here.

Evenflo Maestro

Features: 5-point corset from 22-50 lbs. AND at least two years old; booster from forty to one hundred lbs. AND at least four years old; four sets of corset slots; EPS foam; two goods strap positions; dual integrated cup holders; lightweight

Drawbacks: Not very tall in booster mode; non-adjustable headrest; basic hook-style LATCH connectors; lacks a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations

Our comments: A nice, lightweight seat for kids at least two years old that is also budget-friendly. Tall top corset slots combined with the fifty lbs. weight limit on the corset is enough to get many kids to the size/age/maturity to securely transition to a booster. Just don’t expect them to use this seat very long in booster mode. You can install with LATCH up to the maximum corset limit of fifty lbs. If installing with LATCH isn’t an option then you must read your vehicle owner’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this carseat with seatbelt. The Maestro has a Best Bet booster rating from the IIHS. See the Evenflo Maestro review here.

Evenflo SecureKid LX & DLX

Features: 5-point corset from 22-65 lbs. AND at least two years old; booster from forty to one hundred lbs. AND at least four years old; four sets of corset slots; two buckle positions; height-adjustable headrest; SureLATCH self-tightening LATCH connectors (DLX model); energy-absorbing “e3” foam; dual integrated cup holders; lightweight

Drawbacks: Corset might be a little taut for kids on the top end of the weight and height limits—especially if they are dressed for colder weather. Lacks a lockoff for seatbelt installations.

Our comments: Everything we love about the Maestro but better! Lightweight seat for kids at least two years old that is also budget-friendly. SureLATCH connectors on DLX model work indeed well due to the design of this seat. If you’re not planning to install with LATCH then save yourself a few bucks and opt for the Secure Kid LX model instead which costs a little less because it has standard push-on LATCH connectors instead. Discontinue installation with lower LATCH connectors and use seatbelt plus tether to install if child weighs more than fifty lbs. Since this seat lacks a built-in lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle holder’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install this carseat with seatbelt. The SecureKid has a Best Bet booster rating from the IIHS. See Kecia’s utter review of the SecureKid here.

Graco Nautilus sixty five LX & Nautilus eighty Elite

Features: 5-point corset from 22-65 lbs. (LX model) or 22-80 lbs. (Elite model); converts to a highback booster and backless booster; no-rethread corset; three buckle positions; 3-position recline; EPS foam; integrated cup holder; storage areas in each armrest.

Differences inbetween sixty five LX & eighty Elite models: eighty Elite model offers a higher weight limit and a lockoff for effortless installation with seatbelt

Drawbacks: LX model lacks a lockoff for seatbelt installations; both models have basic hook-style lower LATCH connectors

Our comments: Current Nautilus models suggest a no-rethread corset and a 3rd position for the groin strap/buckle. These are nice improvements over the original Nautilus models. All Nautilus models are generally effortless to install and use correctly albeit they still have the basic hook style LATCH connectors. Use seatbelt plus tether to install if child weighs more than forty five lbs. Since the Nautilus LX model lacks a lockoff for seatbelt installations you must read your vehicle holder’s manual to determine how your seatbelts lock in order to decently install that model with seatbelt. The Nautilus models have a Best Bet rating from the IIHS when used in highback mode.

Highback Boosters

Highback booster seats are belt-positioning booster seats that have a back and head restraint. They do not have a built-in corset and must be used with the vehicle’s lap/shoulder seatbelt. Some models may also convert to a backless booster.

Britax Parkway SGL

Features: 40-120 lbs.; adjustable “SecureGuard” lap belt clip to prevent submarining; removable back to convert to a backless booster; back adjusts height-wise with one mitt; dual cup holders; SGL model has lower LATCH connectors

Drawbacks: Lap belt clip may annoy some children but it’s optional and can be liquidated.

Our comments: A versatile booster that will grow with your child. Tall maximum height setting. Good head and pecs support for sleeping and for enhanced protection in side-impact crashes. Only the SGL model has lower LATCH connectors. Best Bet rating from the IIHS when used in highback mode. See our Parkway SGL review here.

Chicco KidFit & KidFit Zip

Features: 30-100 lbs.; 40-110 lbs. as a backless booster; lower LATCH anchor connectors; ten height positions; EPS foam in head rest; dual cup holders; zip models have machine washable zip-off pads.

Drawbacks: Minor assembly required; not as tall as other dedicated highback boosters

Our comments: We recommend only for kids over four years old who weigh at least forty lbs. and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. It’s reasonably priced, convenient, LATCHable and tends to fit kids of different ages and sizes well. We just wish it was a little bit taller! The KidFit has a Best Bet rating from the IIHS in both highback and backless mode. See our Chicco KidFit review here.

Clek Oobr

Features: 33-100 lbs. with back; 40-100 lbs. as a backless booster; rigid lower LATCH connectors; EPS foam; open loop shoulder belt guides; tall armrests; recline feature when affixed to lower LATCH anchors; magnesium framework; has a detachable drink-thingy; Crypton upholstery fabric.

Drawbacks: Broad; mighty; gam depth not as deep as some other dedicated boosters

Our comments: We appreciate the rigid lower LATCH connectors, a “true” recline feature and the Crypton fabrics (on all fashions except for Drift). We recommend only for kids over four years old who weigh at least forty lbs. and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. The Oobr has a Best Bet rating from the IIHS when used in highback mode. See our Oobr review here.

Evenflo Spectrum

Features: 40-110 lbs.; 44-57″ tall; at least four years old; Lyf+Guard side-impact protection bolsters on headrest; can be used as backless booster; dual cup holders/snack tray; eight height positions; height adjusts with one forearm

Drawbacks: Minor assembly required; it’s broad due to the extra side-impact protection on headrest so it won’t fit well next to another booster or forward-facing carseat.

Our comments: It’s one of the tallest booster seats on the market! It’s also budget-friendly, well-padded and has enhanced side-impact protection. It fits kids of different ages and sizes well. We only wish it had lower LATCH anchor attachments but considering everything that you’re getting for the price (under $60), we indeed can’t complain. Spectrum is fresh and has not yet been rated by the IIHS. See our utter Spectrum Review here.

Graco Affix

Features: 30-100 lbs.; 40-100 lbs. as a backless booster; lower LATCH anchor connectors; EPS foam in head rest; dual cup holders; height adjusts with one forearm

Drawbacks: Assembly required; not as tall as other dedicated highback boosters

Our comments: We recommend only for kids over four years old who weigh at least forty lbs. and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. It’s budget-friendly, LATCHable and tends to fit kids of different ages and sizes well. We only wish it was taller! The Affix has a Best Bet rating from the IIHS in both highback or backless mode. See our review of the Graco Affix here.

Graco TurboBooster

Features: 30-100 lbs.; 40-100 lbs. as a backless booster; EPS foam in head rest; dual retractable cup holders; height-adjustable arm rests; back adjusts height-wise with one palm

Drawbacks: Elaborate assembly required (you’re going to have to read the manual). Armrests require screws to be installed (you’re going to need a screwdriver too)! Not as tall as other dedicated highback boosters.

Our comments: The TurboBooster has been a staple in the booster market for over ten years. We recommend only for kids over four years old who weigh at least forty lbs. and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. It’s budget-friendly and tends to fit kids of different ages and sizes well. We just wish it was taller! The screws provided in the little plastic bag with the manual (to secure the arm rests) are often lost and they are required, so look for them if you purchase the seat. The TurboBooster has a Best Bet rating from the IIHS when used in either highback or backless mode.

Maxi-Cosi RodiFix

Features: 30-120 lbs.; highback only (does not convert to backless booster); rigid lower LATCH connectors; thick energy-absorbing EPS foam; Air Protect Technology for enhanced SIP; height-adjustable back; recline option; no armrests

Drawbacks: Side wings are just EPS foam and are not supported by plastic shell making them potentially fragile; narrow seat—is better suited to slender or average-sized kids

Our comments: RodiFix is a unique, high-end booster with innovative features that make it effortless to install and effortless for kids to buckle themselves. Deep head and pecs wings plus the Air Protect cushions suggest enhanced protection in side-impact crashes and make the RodiFix convenient and supportive for sleeping. The rigid lower LATCH connectors are a massive bonus and we like the fact that it only weighs fourteen lbs. We recommend only for kids over four years old who weigh at least forty lbs. and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. The RodiFix has a Best Bet rating from IIHS. See our total review of the Maxi-Cosi RodiFix here.

Backless Boosters

Backless boosters are belt-positioning boosters that raise the child up so the lap/shoulder seatbelt fits correctly. The vehicle must have a head restraint for the child since the booster doesn’t provide head support for whiplash protection. Backless boosters are recommended for older kids who don’t sleep frequently in the car.

Evenflo AMP

Features: 40-100 lbs.; dual integrated cup holders; tall armrests for effortless buckling; optional shoulder belt adjuster strap

Drawbacks: Broad; may not fit well in narrow or contoured seating positions.

Our comments: It’s a backless booster with cool, kid-pleasing colors at a reasonable price. We recommend only for older kids who weigh at least forty lbs., don’t sleep in the car and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. What else is there to say? Well, there’s more to say in Kecia’s AMP Review! The AMP also has a Best Bet rating from IIHS.

Harmony Big Boost Deluxe with LATCH

Features: 30-110 lbs.; hook-style lower LATCH attachments; optional shoulder belt adjuster strap; cup holder can be fastened to either side.

Drawbacks: Broad, may not be a good fit on smaller, lighter kids; presently only available at Walmart

Our comments: A fine lightweight, LATCHable backless booster. Best suited for kids who weigh at least fifty lbs. We recommend only for older kids who don’t sleep in the car and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. Available at some Walmart stores and at Walmart.com. The Big Boost Deluxe has a Best Bet rating from IIHS. See Kecia’s Big Boost Deluxe review here.

Harmony Youth Booster

Features: 30-100 lbs.; full-wrap cover; optional shoulder belt adjuster strap; size and form make it a good option for narrow or contoured seating positions

Drawbacks: Low profile belt guides are lightly missed by kids who buckle themselves (and inattentive parents or caregivers). Make sure you route the seatbelt decently under those little armrests!

Our comments: Narrow and lightweight. A good little booster for a excellent price. Joy fashions that appeal to big kids. We recommend only for older kids who weigh at least forty lbs., don’t sleep in the car and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. Available at most Walmart stores. The Harmony Youth Booster has a Best Bet rating from IIHS.

Lil Fan No Back Slimline

Features: 40-110 lbs.; for kids forty – 57″ tall; optional shoulder belt adjuster strap; size and form make it a good option for narrow or contoured seating positions; lightweight; full-wrap cover is machine washable;

Drawbacks: More expensive than a typical backless booster but you’re paying a premium to have a team logo on the cover. Licensing agreements aren’t cheap and Lil Fan has a lot of them.

Our comments: This is child passenger safety for the fanatical! Tons of NCAA and MLB teams to chose from. Also available as a highback booster. Relatively narrow and very lightweight. Fashions that appeal to big kids (and parents too!). We recommend only for older kids who weigh at least forty lbs., don’t sleep in the car and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. The Lil Fan backless booster has a Best Bet rating from IIHS. We have a review of the Lil Fan Booster here.

BubbleBum

Features: 40-100 lbs.; inflatable; enormously lightweight; optional shoulder belt adjuster strap; size and form make it a good option for very narrow or contoured seating positions.

Drawbacks: Shallow gam depth; lap belt guides can be difficult for junior kids to navigate

Our comments: A niche product. Superb for travel, carpooling and taut 3-across situations. We recommend only for older kids who weigh at least forty lbs., don’t sleep in the car and are mature enough to sit decently in a booster. Newest models have updated lap belt guides which are lighter for kids to use. The BubbleBum has a Best Bet rating from IIHS. See our BubbleBum review here.

Safety 1st Incognito

Features: 60-120 lbs.; enormously lightweight; comes in vehicle seat colors

Drawbacks: Tab at back of seat can interfere with some vehicle seats

Our comments: This unique “kid-positioner” fits kids fatter, older kids when traditional boosters don’t. Its brief stature boosts those fatter kids up just enough for decent belt fit while its plain design makes it look more like a vehicle cushion than a booster. Shorter adults have even been known to use it to improve belt fit! See our preview and kid-written review of this terrific product.

Editors’ Picks

This award goes to our dearest carseats in each category. Where possible, we separate categories by cost and limit the choices to one or two carseats at each price point. If you want to narrow down your choices quickly, this is the place to embark!

Rear-Facing Only (Infant Seats)

• Budget: Safety 1st Onboard 35
• Midrange: Chicco Keyfit thirty (Review)
• Premium: Nuna PIPA (Review) & UPPAbaby MESA (Review)

Convertible Carseats

• Budget: Cosco Scenera NEXT (Review) & Evenflo SureRide (Review)
• Midrange: Graco Extend2Fit (Review)
• Premium: Britax Boulevard ClickTight (Review) & Chicco NextFit Zip / iX Zip (Review)

All-In-One Carseats (RF/FF/Booster)

• Premium: Graco 4Ever (Review)

Combination Carseats

• Budget: Evenflo Maestro (Review)
• Midrange: Graco Nautilus eighty Elite (Review)
• Premium: Britax Frontier ClickTight (Review)

High Back Booster Seats

• Budget: Graco Affix (Review)
• Midrange: Britax Parkway SGL (Review)
• Premium: Clek Oobr (Review)

Backless Booster Seats

• Budget: Harmony Youth Booster
• Midrange: Evenflo AMP (Review) & Safety 1st Incognito (Review)

In many cases, manufacturers make almost identical seats with different names or slightly different features. For plainness, we do not list similar products on our Editors’ Picks list. Our total list of Recommended Carseats can be found above by scrolling UP.

For reference, here is an article with some background to these recommendations. Feel free to comment about our list or about your dearest child seats there.

Last Updated: August 2017

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