Best Convertible Car Seats 2021 on Amazon
Looking for the best convertible car seat? You’ve come to the right place! Did your child go from newborn to toddler right before your eyes?
Is their baby carrier getting a little heavy?
That means it’s probably time to move your child to a convertible car seat.
Even if we want our babies to stay babies forever, it’s not possible. I know, it’s sad, but it is a fact and we all know facts are very stubborn.
Now that you have to buy a new car seat, you will need to know what makes a quality seat and how to find the best one.
So relax, have a cup of tea, because in this article we will share with you the best convertible car seats in 2021 & 2020 and their reviews. The table below shows our top 5 pick from a list of 14 and we will delve deeper into our selection through the article.
PRODUCT
TOTAL SCORE
PROS
CHECK PRICE
Chicco NextFit Zip Air
4.7
- Super safe due to steel frame
- Extremely comfortable
- Easy to install
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1
4.7
- Lightweight
- Quick & simple install
- Highly flexible/adjustable for growing children
Graco Extend2Fit
4.6
- Lightweight
- Easy installation
- Highly flexible/adjustable for growing children
Britax Allegiance 3 Stage
4.6
- Simple adjustment
- Push button latch connectors
- Quick adjust 10 position harness
- Removable car seat covers
Diono Radian 3R All-in-One
4.6
- Strong steel frames
- Easy installation
- Very comfortable
What is a convertible car seat?
Convertible car seats are designed to be used rear-facing and then converted to be used forward-facing. This means that, in theory, you could buy a single seat for the life of your child’s seat.
Of course, convertible car seats are also designed to stay in the car. That’s why some families choose to start with an infant seat and then move on to a forward-facing car seat.
Convertible car seats allow you to switch from a rear-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing child car seat. It is rare for the same seat to convert to a high-back booster seat.
These seats will include detailed instructions on the size and weight your child must be to use the seat in a forward-facing position, as well as instructions for installation in a rearward and forward-facing position.
Why you need a convertible car seat
Because we are committed to helping you make informed choices and avoid unnecessary expenses. That’s why we’ve outlined the advantages and disadvantages of buying a convertible car seat right away, as opposed to using an infant car seat for the first 6 to 12 months.
Security: There is no doubt that small babies have different needs than older children: their small spine and skull are still growing and they are not yet able to support their own heads. So they need to be able to lie flat in the car seat, and you will need a seat that will allow them to do this. Children’s car seats are designed to do this, but most convertible car seats now do it as well. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping babies facing the back of the car until the age of 2, and this is the law in many American states. If your child is too big for a car seat before that age, which he or she is likely to do, you will have to switch to a convertible seat anyway. Remember that you need to consider the maximum height of the seat as well as the maximum weight allowed. Convertible car seats outperform child seats in their ability to protect a child’s head.
Comfort: Traditionally, baby car seats have been preferred for brand new babies because they offer some padding to ensure your baby’s safety and comfort. Nowadays, many convertible car seats have a removable “baby insert” designed for this purpose. Although if your baby is particularly small, you may find these seats a little too big at first.
Convenience: This is one of the great advantages of baby car seats over convertible models: they can be taken out of the car and carried around the house. Some models even fit directly on the stroller. But before you make a purchase decision based on this, there are two things you should keep in mind: Your baby’s going to get heavy! Of course, throwing the car seat directly out of the car and wearing it seems like a good idea at first, but as your baby grows, it will become less and less practical. Your car seat isn’t always safe. Some parents like to put the car seat on a trolley, but car seat and trolley manufacturers advise you not to do this as it can easily tip the trolley over and could injure your child. In the meantime, even leaving your child in the car seat at home is not such a good idea: a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics last year showed that it may not be safe.
Price: There is no contest: buying one car seat will certainly be cheaper than buying two! We believe that you can get all the benefits of an infant car seat from a convertible seat if you make a wise choice. Another reason parents choose a convertible car seat is that it has higher weight and height limits for the rear-facing position. This allows children to stay facing back longer, which is safer, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
What do I need to know before buying a good convertible car seat?
Overall, parents appreciate the convertible car seat because it allows them to rock their children so that they can better enjoy their relaxing time, all with maximum comfort. Even if the best convertible car seat isn’t cheap, the investment for a good seat is worth it if you have the budget. By reviewing this review of the best convertible car seats, and considering weight, ease of use and additional features, you will have some basics to tell you which convertible car seat to buy.
Weight: Although convertible car seats are generally designed to support several stages of your baby’s growth, some will be more versatile than others. Some models work from infancy to about 120 pounds, while others have a narrower weight range, from 20 to 65 pounds. But to be sure you know where to buy the best convertible car seat for your size, you’ll need to measure the dimensions of your car’s back seat and compare them to the dimensions of the convertible car seat.
Ease of use: There are two main elements to consider when it comes to the usability of a convertible car seat. These are the ease of installation and removal of the infant from the seat. Again, to show you how to choose the best convertible car seat, look at factors such as the harness, the shape of the seat, and how it fits your car. If you plan to use the convertible infant car seat frequently, these features will save you time. However, parents of small vehicles will certainly want the easiest and most compact models.
Features: some convertible car seats are more comfortable: cup holders, shock-absorbing upholstery, steel frame, head restraints with multiple reclining positions. These options will guide you to the best convertible car seat on the market. Of course, these considerations usually result in higher costs, so you should rely on a price comparator while taking into account how often you use your convertible car seat. And by evaluating how to buy a better convertible car seat, you can spend more on a model with additional features.
List of top 14 convertible car seat by Price Range
- Chicco NextFit Zip Air convertible Car Seat
- Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Convertible Car Seat
- Graco Extend2fit convertible Car seat
- Britax Allegiance 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat
- Diono Radian 3R All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
- Graco Contender 65 Convertible Car Seat
- Diono Radian 3rXT Convertible Car Seat
- Disney Baby Apt 50 Convertible Car Seat
- Britax ClickTight Marathon Convertible Car Seat
- Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
- Graco My Ride 65 Convertible Car Seat
- Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One Car Seat
- Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat
- Cosco Apt 50 Convertible Car Seat
How we ranked the best convertible car seats
Most of the time 4 main criteria are used to rank convertible automobile car seat: Safety (which represents the results of the crash tests); Ease of use, for installing the seat in the car and securing the child; Comfort, for the quality of the materials and the comfort of the seat; and finally, the overall score for reliability and overall performance.
But in this review of the best convertible car seat in 2020, we ranked our car seats based on three criteria:
- Amazon’s best sellers
- Adjusted reviews based on reviewmeta.com and fakespot.com
- The last 10 average review scores
Starting with best sellers from Amazon
The first thing we did was to find the best-selling products from Amazon so that a detailed comparison can be done while using the best of products that are available to you. The idea is to present the best of the best. Going through the Amazon customer best infant car reviews and the looking at the number of units sold of a particular design helped us curate a list of the best infant car seats currently available.
Once the list was ready, we analyzed the features provided by each product and then checked whether it justifies the price tag with which it comes. While some were slightly over-priced, some were truly value-for-money products. Furthermore, to make it a more precise comparison, we made a list of pros and cons as well for each product, which helped us filter the top 10 out of the many products that we considered.
Verifying review quality with reviewmeta.com and fakespot.com
As a customer, you should not forget that all online ratings, especially the ones on e-commerce platforms, are not as reliable as you think they are. This is the reason why you should not fully trust such reviews. To help you, we verified the review quality by looking at the data present on reviewmeta.com, a platform that uses a tool to filter out unnatural reviews or the ones that look suspicious in order to give you a reliable rating. It basically strikes out the reviews that clearly look like paid reviews or ones created by a fake account. This way, you can trust the rating given by the revieweta.com and get an idea about what the customers truly think of the product. As a result, you can consider these reviews to be the best convertible car seat reviews.
Last 10 review average rating
Since we are talking about the best infant cars of 2021, we also considered the last 10 review ratings. This way, we got an idea about what recent buyers think of the product. If there is a product that has excellent reviews but has not had a review in a year, then you should not trust such reviews because they could very well be fake ones. By taking an average of the last 10 review ratings for each product, we give you an idea about its recent performance and reaction by the recent buyers.
Top 14 convertible car seats in 2020 and their Reviews
Now that you are familiar with convertible car seat, and that you know how to make informed choices and avoid unnecessary expenses. We can share with you our pick of the top 14 convertible automobile seat in 2020.
#1. Chicco NextFit Zip Air Convertible Car Seat
NextFit Zip features the ComfortFlex Harness Management System with padding and a flexible design that keeps both sides of the belt in place during loading/unloading and keeps them in the right place once the baby is ready to be secured!
Now with an exclusive Zip & Wash seat cushion, NextFit Zip is the easiest convertible car seat to maintain, with a cushion that detaches from the shell for convenient machine washing. Designed with innovative safety and convenience features, NextFit is the easiest convertible car seat to install, simply, accurately and safely.
NextFit’s exclusive 9-position leveling system offers the most tilt options to fit more vehicles, and the SuperCinch LATCH tensioner uses force multiplication technology to help achieve a SUPER tight.
Two RideRight bubble levels accurately indicate the correct seat angle in both rearward and forward facing modes. And, when you’re ready to switch to forward-facing mode, a built-in slide allows you to easily reposition the latch strap without having to put it on again!
Buying a car seat is one of the most important purchases a parent will make for their child and, without question, the biggest concern is safety. The Chicco Nextfit Zip car seat responds to this safety concern.
The five-point harness and the super padded headrest of the Chicco Nextfit Zip further increase your child’s safety and expand easily as your little one grows. Designed to allow rearward-facing driving, the safest position, up to 40 pounds, in complete safety, this car seat is an excellent choice. Reinforced steel frame and exterior
Between sporting events, work, school and occasional travel, our babies spend long hours in their car seats. That’s why comfort is of the utmost importance. The Chicco Nextfit Zip has careful features to improve the comfort of children.
Inclination is important because it promotes sleep, which all parents like to see their children do, especially on long car trips. The Nextfit Zip reclines into nine different positions, which is quite rare in the world of convertible car seats. If you have a minivan or SUV, you’ll love this feature.
The harness pads are super full, which is nice for the baby, a feature not only found on this model. Imagine being strapped in for hours. Proper padding is appreciated. The harness and the padded headrest are easy to adjust, which I love. After two hours in the car, toddlers don’t complain.
- Total average score = 4.7
- Amazon rating – 4.9
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.1
- Adjusted reviewmata.com rating – 4.7
- Fakespot.com grade – A
Pros
- Super safe, with a steel frame, it exceeds all federal crash test regulations, and
- Comfortable for long journeys and tilts in 9 positions
- Extremely easy to install
- The inner fabric unzips and is machine washable.
Cons
- Heavy and a little bulky for sedans
- A high price
- The inner material must be air-dried.
#2. Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
Wondering how the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 convertible car seat compares to its competitors, including other car seats in the Graco family? We’ll help you answer your questions in our detailed study below.
The ideal car seat is safe, secure, durable, practical, comfortable, user-friendly and affordable. However, we know how long and stressful the search for the ideal car seat is due to the large number of child car seats on the market. We know how valuable your time is, and that’s why we’ve included a brief summary of the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat:
Graco’s SlimFit 3-in-1 convertible car seat is another impressive product from Graco, but what sets it apart from its competitors is its space-saving design and features that will solve many space problems for parents.
The Graco SlimFit includes a number of features and accessories designed to make children’s daily lives a little easier. These features provide your child with a safe and comfortable ride, and here are just a few that are worth mentioning.
We are pleased to announce that the Graco SlimFit is a car seat that fits most standard vehicles. In fact, when the cup holders are removed, the Graco SlimFit becomes 10% thinner than other Graco models and smaller than the average car seat on the market.
What’s really impressive about the Graco SlimFit is that it’s smaller and thinner without compromising the space and comfort for your child. On the contrary, this car seat allows you to save precious and indispensable space in the back seat while making room for other car seats!
That being said, we strongly recommend that you take measurements of your vehicle, especially your rear seat, before purchasing the Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 to ensure that it will fit comfortably and securely in your vehicle.
The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 car seat has an impressive weight range of 5 to 100 pounds, which means it will comfortably fit infants, toddlers and young children. With its wide weight range and numerous seating modes, this car seat can be used for a single child as he or she grows, but it can also be used for multiple children in your family.
Since the Graco SlimFit includes three different seating modes, it is good to know that many parents have praised the 3-in-1 SlimFit for the simplicity with which the seat can be converted between the three seating modes.
Here we have provided the size and weight specifications for SlimFit seating:
Rear-facing mode: suitable for infants and young children weighing between 5 and 40 pounds with their heads at least 1 inch below the handle.
Forward-facing mode: ideal for toddlers and young children weighing between 20 and 65 pounds and measuring between 27 and 49 inches.
Belt positioning acceleration mode: perfect for young children weighing 30 to 100 pounds and measuring between 38 and 57 inches.
Overall, parents commented on the ease and simplicity of installation of the Graco SlimFit. This is due to Graco’s built-in features that make installation quick, simple and safe.
One of these features includes Graco’s exclusive InRight LATCH system that provides a one-second hold with 4 tilt positions. Another feature is Graco’s safe and easy adjustable harness system, which allows you to easily adjust the harness and headrest to make your child comfortable.
- Total average score = 4.7
- Amazon Reviews – 4.9
- Last 10 review average rating – 4.9
- Adjusted Reviewmeta.com rating – 4.8
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- Unique car seat comfortably protects children from 5 to 100 lbs.
- Two rotating cup holders can be swiveled inward to save space and make the car seat 10% narrower
- Harness and headrest can be easily adjusted with one hand
- The In Right LATCH system is easy to install
- Machine washable cover
- Narrow enough to fit in many standard size vehicles
- FAA-approved
- Lightweight, which makes it easier to carry than some.
- Adjustable, so the car seat can grow with your child over time.
- This car seat has exceptionally passed all safety tests.
- Plush cushions, which are excellent for long car journeys.
- The installation of the locking system allows a quick and simple installation.
- It is not necessary to rewind the seat belt.
Cons
- It was found that the locking system for the installation is difficult to tighten the first time.
- This car seat does not convert into a low-back booster seat, but into a high-back booster that can be positioned accordingly.
- This car seat does not connect to strollers like some models on the market.
- The car seat does not recline as much when facing backwards.
#3. Graco Extend2fit Convertible Car Seat
Graco excels once again with its Extend2Fit car seat, at a more than affordable price and with unprecedented reliability. This seat is rated as one of the safest models in crash tests.
This model is much easier to install in rear-facing mode than in front-facing mode. Moreover, it is perfect for a car seat from birth (starting at 4 pounds) if you decide not to buy a shell-type infant car seat. Your child must weigh between 22 and 65 pounds to use the forward-facing seat, but you can use it in rear-facing mode up to 50 pounds, which is rare for a convertible seat.
The Graco Extend2Fit has a beautiful design and is available in several colors. It competes with the Graco 4Ever model, the most popular model of the brand sold at a higher price. The main differences between these two seats are the ability to convert the 4Ever into a booster seat and its upper height limit facing forward.
The Graco Extend2Fit is relatively light and compact compared to other convertible car seats on the market. However, even with a sports car, you’ll find it difficult to fit 3 seats of this model in the back or 2 seats and a rear passenger.
The biggest advantage of this seat is the leg rest which extends in 3 different positions under the seat. It is recommended to leave the child facing the rear as long as possible (at least up to 24 months). The main reason why parents install the seat in the forward facing position (from 12 months) is the lack of space between the backrest and the seat.
Fully deployed, the Graco Extend2Fit’s leg rest provides up to 5 inches of additional leg room for the child’s legs while providing a safe and comfortable head and neck support. This option alone makes this model a popular choice. However, if you have a compact vehicle, the front passenger will have less space with a fully extended leg rest.
The Graco Extend2Fit offers 10 positioning options for the headrest and headrest and 6 tilt options. Parents mentioned that it was easier to install the seat with the UAS system than with the seat belt.
The chest loop is sometimes difficult to use due to a lack of flexibility. Some will say that it is good for safety because there is no chance that the child can get rid of the buckle. Several users mentioned that the belt straps twist easily and that their rigidity hinders their tightening.
The cover is machine washable, but must be dried flat. However, the cover is difficult to remove for washing. The buckles and straps are difficult to remove from the cover, which wastes valuable time and is very annoying.
This seat is undoubtedly a safe choice, as it can be used for a long time when facing backwards. Offered at a reasonable price, the Graco Extend2Fit is a tribute to the great reputation of the brand.
- Total average score = 4.6
- Amazon Review Ratings – 4.8
- The last 10 revisions average Rating – 4.9
- Adjusted ReviewMeta Rating – 4.5
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- An affordable price
- Comfortable
- Optimal use of the rear panel
- Allows for rear-facing up to 50 pounds
- Adjustable leg extension that supply 5 inches of extra room for baby’s legs
- Bubble level for accurate tilting
- It looks big but leaves legroom for the front passenger, even though it’s rear-facing.
- Easy LATCH installation with push connectors
- Pockets with buckles to prevent buckles from hindering the entry and exit of children
- Performance in real accident scenarios
- Machine washable blanket (air dry only)
- Two removable integrated cup holders
Cons
- Difficult to wash
- The poor quality of the materials
- Straps that are difficult to tighten and tend to bend
- The cover is difficult to remove and replace for cleaning.
- Installing seat belts in rear-facing vehicles can be a challenge
- The sling may be difficult to tighten.
- Too large for premature and very small newborns
- Cannot use leg extension or sling in the case of forward orientation
- The chest clip’s a little heavy
- Versions with easy-to-remove covers are much more expensive.
#4. Britax Allegiance 3 Stage convertible car seat
The market is flooded with car seats. Choosing the right one can take months of your time.
Yes, there are a few cheap convertible car seats on the market that do the trick. And in most cases, you’ll need a budget if you want to drive your children safely.
What I like about the Britax brand is that it uses parents’ feedback to improve its products. This is the case with Britax Allegiance. They make car seats easier to use. Plus, kids love it because it’s very comfortable.
The Allegiance convertible car seat is safe and comfortable for your child when you’re on the go. The Britax Safe Cell crash protection system offers a system of patented safety features that provide advanced protection. A foam-lined shell provides side impact protection in the event of a collision.
Babies grow quickly, and the 10-position harness adjusts to keep up with them. Installation is easy with lower anchors that lock into place with a click and release with the push of a button. Plus, the foam padding and three recline positions keep your baby comfortable.
This car seat is excellent for parents who want their child to face backwards for as long as possible. For safety-conscious parents, it’s an excellent choice.
As it is a 3 stage convertible car seat, it will be useful to your children for many years.
There’s no rocket science when it comes to putting the car seat up. With the locking system, you can’t go wrong. Once you hear the click, you know it’s done.
To my surprise, it’s not that heavy. It has a steel frame for protection, and you can still move it from car to car, although I advise you not to take it by plane. It’s not that light.
The main selling point is the strap system. There is no manual rethreading. This is a real time-saver. When you have a difficult child and you have to rethread it, it’s a nightmare. With the Britax Allegiance, on the other hand, it’s automatic.
It’s a sturdy, well-constructed chair. Some parents have said that extra padding would have been nice. Anyway, kids love this seat. Five- and seven-year-olds approve of it, which is reassuring.
Britax did a great job with this car seat. It is reasonably priced and offers both protection and comfort. It is a well-made, robust and reliable car seat.
After safety and comfort, ease of cleaning is the most important factor. The material is easy to remove, but can only be washed by hand. If that doesn’t hold you back, you can buy it.
You now have a clear idea of what to expect.
- Total average score = 4.6
- Amazon reviews – 4.8
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.0
- Adjusted reviewmeata.com rating – 4.5
- Fakespot.com grade – A
Pros
- It has a simple adjustment function without retreading the straps manually.
- Excellent strap support, no more time wasted looking for it
- This three-step convertible car seat saves you money because you buy it once.
Cons
- The manual confuses you with YouTube videos
- The fabric is not machine washable, you can imagine the rest.
#5. Diono 2019 Radian 3R Convertible All-In-One Car Seat
Diono’s range of convertible car seats is top of the range. They are super safe and will allow you to see your child from infant to big child (really big!). The company’s Radian seats are designed to fit three people in most mid-size rear seats, which is a huge advantage for families with three or more children.
When it comes to safety, the Radian 3R is designed to protect your child. Although it is the basic model in the Radian range, it remains extraordinarily safe. The alloy steel frame has reinforced aluminium side walls. This solid steel construction sets this car seat apart from its competitors.
In addition, the seat is lined with EPS foam and has a patented Safe Stop harness to absorb shocks in the event of a collision.
As an important safety feature, your child can ride in the safest, rear-facing position in this seat up to 40 pounds.
Diono’s Radian RX and RXT seats perform even better and you use them longer in the rear and as a booster seat. The RXT is also equipped with additional head protection in the event of a side impact.
Once your child is past the size of the rear-facing seat, rotate your child into a forward-facing seat with a 5-point harness, then convert to a high-back booster seat with a belt. Theoretically, your child can gain up to 100 pounds in the booster seat. That’s more than most children need, but it’s a reassuring safety rating.
For newborns and small babies, the seat is equipped with head and body support cushions, so you can do without the baby car seat and use it if you wish. The life span of this seat is 10 years, which is 2 to 4 years longer than most seats, so it can really accompany you through your child’s first decade.
The Diono Radian 3R comes in a high quality material with covers that you can remove and machine wash. You will need to rewind the headgear to remove and replace the cover.
It also has the particularity of being foldable. Yes, you read it right. The seat folds flat for storage or travel (the company sells a travel strap which can be very practical). Moreover, it is FAA approved for use on airplanes.
Thanks to its steel frame, it is a super heavy seat, weighing 28.5 pounds. Usually you keep your car seat in the same place, so weight is not a problem.
But if you have to move it often, weight becomes a factor. And although this seat is compact from side to side, it takes up a lot of space in the car from front to back when it’s installed in a rearward reclined position (the position facing the road is perfect). You can buy a separate angle positioner to help you with this task, but it can still be a problem when installed rear-facing in more compact cars or in an airplane.
- Total average score = 4.6
- Amazon ratings – 4.9
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.9
- Adjusted reviewmeta.com rating – 4.7
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- Steel frame ;
- easy locking system (or you can use the seat belt) ;
- Easier to use 5-point harness button;
- Beautiful, comfortable, nice material
- Ideal for older children. Elegant
- Slightly narrower at the hips, looks really solid.
- high quality Narrow Comfortable
- Slim and safe profile Easy to install
- Sleek and narrow, 17″ wide Rugged construction Easy and comfortable buckles that can fit 3 in width
- fine seat design to work with many other seats, Good price
- Robust, easy to install, easy to use, narrow and well padded. Extreme sense of security.
- Feel very strong. Look like you’re asleep and don’t have a million cracks to hide crumbs in.
Cons
- Heavy, so it’s not necessarily a good idea to switch from one vehicle to another.
- Not much side impact protection for the face.
- Inexpensive
- Takes up a lot of space in a rear-facing configuration Not many solid color options Too many logos, labels and badges
#6. Graco Contender 65 convertible car seat
The Contender 65 convertible car seat can accommodate an infant from 2.2 kg to 16 kg facing backwards and an infant from 10 to 30 kg facing forwards thanks to its 5-point harness.
It easily accompanies your child’s growth thanks to the Simply Safe harness system Adjust, which allows the height of the harness and headrest to be adjusted simultaneously. It includes an anchoring clip and an easy-to-read built-in level indicator to help you install it correctly.
The seat Contender 65 envelops and supports the body of your child in a remarkable way. It also includes a machine washable seat cover and two belt slots to ensure a perfect fit as your child grows. This seat is guaranteed Safe Seat Engineered, which includes side impact testing and the use of EPS foam.
Graco has beautifully designed, a cost-effective convertible car seat that is compatible with most vehicles, including compact sedans, which is a feat in itself.
You can install a rear-facing baby up to a maximum weight of 40 pounds, which is not ideal for parents of large children. This is not ideal for parents of older children. Recommendations state that a rear-facing child should be installed until at least 2 years of age. A forward-facing child can be installed from 22 to 65 pounds.
Like other Graco seats, the Contender 65 is very easy to install and the level indicator is very user-friendly. You will have no difficulty installing this seat very tightly and avoiding any shaking, both front and rear.
It is very easy to adapt the Contender 65 to your child’s size. The headrest, with its 8 possible adjustments, is connected to the shoulder straps, making the correct adjustment quick and easy.
The 5-point harness is very easy to use. Tightening and loosening the straps is child’s play! However, some parents have mentioned that they have more difficulty with the strap buckle, which is not very long.
Some parents also mentioned that the seat, when used forward-facing, may be slightly reclined, which would be uncomfortable for the child.
The Contender 65 comes with an insert and a comfortable, removable extra cushion for infants. The seat cover can also be easily removed and machine washed. The seat is also equipped with a cup holder.
You certainly make a good choice with this model. Its price is not to the detriment of its quality and comfort. The Graco Contender 65 can be safely installed in most vehicles without compromising the front seat.
- Total average score = 4.6
- Amazon rating – 4.8
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 5.0
- Rating on reviewmeta.com – 4.4
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- Multiple headrest, harness and buckle positions for a comfortable and secure fit over time
- Quick and easy one-handed adjustment of the sling
- Extensive collision, impact and temperature testing
- The cup holder is integrated into the armrest so that it cannot be easily removed or dislodged.
- Easy to read level
- FAA Approved
Cons
- Does not bow
- Anchor buttons difficult to drive in
#7. Diono Radian 3RXT Convertible Car Seat
Many call this seat the Cadillac of car seats. However, with the high price tag, an informed consumer may demand more usability and comfort from this seat.
First of all, the 3-in-1 formula of the Diono Radian 3RXT is interesting. This seat will accompany your child from birth until he or she reaches the legal weight and height to safely sit directly on the seat of your vehicle. Using the rear-facing seat means adding a base included at the time of purchase that allows a better angle for a young baby. This rear-facing mode is possible for a child between 5 and 45 pounds. The forward-facing mode is possible for a child between 20 and 80 pounds. Finally, the Diono includes a “booster” mode for up to 120 pounds, allowing you to use your car’s seat belt directly. Enough to get your child used to the range.
The Diono is known for its narrow width, which allows the installation of 3 seats in most vehicles on the market. This seat is narrow but very heavy. This is probably the price to pay for a quality steel chassis. However, this steel frame allows a regulated useful life of 10 years, compared to an average of 5 years for a plastic frame. Convenient for a seat that accompanies the child from the moment the child is discharged from the hospital until the start of the school year!
The Diono will be difficult for some people to install. Many have reported a complication to ensure the seat is tightened properly and to avoid any movement of the seat, even with the UAS system. In addition, it is convenient to be able to put 3 seats in a row, but installing the child is more difficult in these conditions, given the limited space.
The Diono Radian 3RXT seat does not offer much padding, which does not suggest optimal comfort for the child. The fabric covering the seat is still very soft to the touch and is comfortable, especially the memory foam underside. In addition, the webbing cushions are interesting because they are longer than what is usually seen in this type of seat. The cover covering the seat can be easily removed, making it easier to wash in case of damage or simply for maintenance. In addition, a cup holder is included with the purchase, but it is possible to add 3 others, sold separately.
The Diono Radian RXT is distinguished by its folding function, allowing more compact and convenient transport. However, it is important to remember that it is one of the heaviest seat models on the market, so it is best not to move it around a lot. Nevertheless, it is the preferred model for parents who wish to travel with their children by plane and carry their own seat (in countries where this is possible).
This seat is very high, which will prevent parents from seeing their child when it is used in the back. The Diono also takes up a lot of space when used in a rear-facing position. Diono sells separately a reclining cushion for a better orientation of the seat to reduce the space between the seat and the front bench. However, this cushion cannot be used for newborns, as the child must be able to support his or her head unaided.
Many consumers find the Diono’s headrest difficult to move. In addition, the belt straps can sometimes be stiff and difficult to buckle.
With the purchase of a Diono Radian 3RXT, you are probably making a sustainable investment. Its price discourages many, but its compactness is just as attractive. If your main buying criterion is the narrow waist, this chair is definitely for you, don’t hesitate.
- Total average score = 4.5
- Amazon rating – 4.7
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 3.8
- Adjusted reviewmeta.com rating – 4.5
- Fakespot.com grade – A
Pros
- A top-of-the-range seat
- Narrow width
- Comfortable
Cons
- High price
- A difficult installation
- Difficult-to-adjust adjustment loop
#8. Disney Baby Apt Convertible Car Seat 50
Disney Baby offers to parents who need car seat for their baby everything they need to bond with their child every step of the way. The Disney Baby line includes essential items for dressing, nursery, travel, bathing, feeding, discovery and celebration.
Travelling is more fun with Disney for the ride! Use the rear-facing position for up to 40 pounds, front-facing for up to 50 pounds, and for children up to 43 years old, the Disney Baby Apt 50 convertible car seat keeps them safer every step of the way with side impact protection. This Disney Baby car seat also meets the standards of the Federal and American Society for Testing and Materials Safety. There are also six harness heights and three buckle locations for optimal adjustment as they grow.
With kids in the car, damage happens. Now, thanks to the easy-to-clean car seat cushion, no more stress. The cushion is available in a wide range of styles and colours, all of which can be removed from the seat and are machine and tumble dryable. Simply machine wash it thoroughly.
If the vehicle you have chosen is an airplane, the Disney Baby Apt 50 will cover you. Certified for use on an airplane, it offers your child a familiar seat during the flight. Its light and compact design also allows you to cross the airport without weighing yourself down. Two integrated cup holders provide your co-pilot with plenty of space for drinking or snacking during the flight, whether on the ground or in the air.
The Disney Baby Apt 50 convertible car seat is proudly manufactured by Cosco in Columbus, Indiana. Made by American families for American families.
- Total average score = 4.5
- Amazon rating – 4.7
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.8
- Adjusted reviewmeta.com rating – 4.4
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- Fun Design
- Super light
- The seat cushion is machine washable and can be tumble dried.
- Encourages the extension of the rear face
Cons
- It’s not the safest option on our list.
- Harness straps loosened on their own.
#9. Britax Marathon ClickTight Convertible car seat
The Britax marathon offers one of the best safety performances in its class, which is not insignificant when it comes to choosing a car seat for our children. Its steel structure and expanded polypropylene foam padding offer optimum resistance in the event of an accident. Note that the latter material is more environmentally friendly than expanded polystyrene foam.
At a more reasonable price than its top-of-the-line model, the Britax Boulevard, it’s frankly worth it and there’s no need to pay more. The only advantage of the Boulevard model is that it offers more adjustment possibilities, which can make it more comfortable. On the other hand, the Britax Marathon performs better in crash tests, especially in side impacts.
The ClickTight system, developed and patented by Britax, makes installing this seat child’s play. Simply lift the seat, put on your car seat belt, tighten it and close the seat. Even grandparents will find it just as easy to use it for a short walk with their grandchild. It’s probably the safest and easiest installation system on the market.
In addition, the buckle of the straps is very easy to hook and unhook. The straps are soft and very comfortable for the child. The harness system of the Britax Marathon seat has 10 adjustment points to ensure an optimal fit for the child’s size. However, the crotch straps may be a little short for children with nice round thighs.
The Britax Marathon fabric can be washed very well with a cloth in case of minor damage. However, many parents have noticed that the seams have deteriorated, making the cover more susceptible to tearing. Britax does however sell a separate seat cover which can be a protection against this type of inconvenience.
At 28.5 pounds, it’s certainly not the lightest model on the market, but that’s probably the price to pay for high-quality materials that avoid shocks.
In addition, the Britax marathon is run without a cup holder, which is not ideal for long trips. It can be purchased separately, but the many negative comments about the product discourage purchase. Indeed, many people mention that the cup holder does not hold in place and is of poor quality.
Nevertheless, the Britax Marathon is an excellent choice for parents who want to buy a safe and easy to use convertible car seat. This model certainly stands out from its competitors. It is important to note that the easier a car seat is to install, the safer it is; the most common cause of injury in accidents is due to improper installation of the seat.
- Total average score = 4.4
- Amazon rating – 4.8
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.5
- Adjusted reviewmeta.com rating – 4.4
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- High performance in crash tests
- Ease of installation
- Quality of materials
Cons
- Heavy
- Short crotch strap
- No cup holders
#10. Safety 1st “Grow and Go” 3-in-1 convertible car seat
The Safety 1st 3-in-1 Grow and Go convertible car seat is the car seat designed to grow with your child. It features an adaptable design that allows you to switch from a rear-facing car seat to a forward-facing car seat and finally to a belt-positioning booster seat.
The body pillow allows you to adjust the size of your baby and can be removed when your child is too big. The Quick-Fit harness system allows you to change the height of the headrest and harness in a single movement for correct adjustment.
The integrated harness holders allow you to get your child in and out of the seat without any worries. No more searching for the harness and straps behind your child. For all ages, the car seat cushion is easy to maintain. It can be placed in the washing machine and dryer, and its design allows easy removal without having to remove the harness.
The “Safety First Grow and Go” program offers parents on a small budget an interesting product. The company has built up a solid reputation in the field of baby products worldwide. At this price, don’t expect a top-of-the-range model, but the Grow and Go meets the minimum criteria that parents are looking for in a convertible car seat: safety, comfort and user-friendliness. However, this model is very wide, especially when used rear-facing.
Your little one will be over the moon in the car thanks to the comfortable cushions of this seat. The headrest adapts to your child’s morphology throughout his growth. The design of the cushions is comfortable, even in hot weather. However, the buckle at chest level is quite wide and can be uncomfortable for small babies when the seat is used from birth.
In addition, the cushion covers can be easily removed for easy washing. You won’t need to remove the straps to remove the covers, saving you a lot of time. With this seat, you won’t have to worry about milk or other unwanted substances.
As far as installation is concerned, you will not have the same ease as with other similar but more expensive models. In addition, the fastening straps are difficult to adjust. Since you have to adjust them every time you use them, this is a major disadvantage for this model. Nevertheless, the Safety First Grow and Go is a better choice than its low-end model, Alpha, which is even more difficult to install.
You will appreciate the 2 cup holders that can be easily detached from the seat and put in the dishwasher. In addition, the strap holder is easy to use, so you won’t have to look for the straps under your child.
Large, but fairly light (you won’t have any trouble transporting it from one car to another), the Safety First Grow and Go is available in several colors. Its design is interesting and easily hides its poor quality materials. As mentioned above, expect this seat to be imposing when used rear-facing.
In short, while being comfortable for your child, this seat disappoints with its more difficult installation and its rigid straps that make installing your child a real nightmare. You can certainly find a better seat at a better price.
The rebound bar near the foot of the car seat protects the baby from collisions by minimizing effort and reducing rotation by up to 50% in the event of a rear-end collision.
- Total average score = 4.4
- Amazon ratings – 4.7
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.4
- Adjusted Reviewmeta.com Rating – 4.4
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- 3-in-1 use as a rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seat to accommodate a wide range of ages and sizes
- Easy conversion of reinforcements for the use of vehicle safety belts with storage of harness straps
- The 5-position, quick-adjusting harness makes it easy to secure your baby as he or she grows.
- Harness holders keep the straps away from each other so you can get your baby in and out without getting tangled in loose straps.
- Offers more legroom in the rear-facing front seat than other car seats on the market
- Easy-to-remove, machine-washable and dry-proof lid
Cons
- Takes up more space when fully tilted (facing backwards)
- May not fit well or at all in compact cars or certain types of vehicle seats such as bucket seats.
- Cannot use LATCH with the booster option
- A large clamp on the chest can be uncomfortable for some babies.
#11. Graco My Ride 65 Convertible Car Seat
The Graco My Ride 65 convertible car seat was the first on the market to offer a 40-pound rear weight limit. This car seat also allows front-facing toddlers to weigh 65 pounds. It features a deep, wide shell and harness slots wide enough for your baby or toddler to use the car seat for as long as possible.
It can probably be used until the child is 5 or 6 years old.
The My Ride 65’s higher weight limits and reasonably high shell should save you a lot of money when it comes to your time. The upper harness slot height is approximately 17 inches, which is one of the largest available for convertible seats. Since many children get too big for their forward-facing convertible car seat when their shoulders pass over the harness slot, this is a good feature to keep your child in the harness a little longer.
The sling itself is made of thick straps that do not twist easily. Instruction labels on the harness straps and elsewhere in the car seat make it easy to adjust everything.
The My Ride 65 is very easy to install at the front and rear, with a seat belt and a latch. Separate, differently colored straps at the front and rear make the latch particularly easy to install. Rearward-facing angle is easy to achieve in most vehicles. You can change the angle of the car seat by folding or unfolding the flaps at the bottom of the car seat.
An infant protector is included to help small children settle into this large car seat better if you jump out of the infant car seat and use a convertible from the start. The deep seats provide a good rocking position for small babies and also offer greater comfort for older children with long legs.
In some vehicles, it can be difficult to adjust the harness when facing backwards because the adjuster is low on the front of the car seat. The harness must be adjusted every time baby is in the car, so make sure you can reach the tail of the adjuster.
You have to unscrew the harness to adjust its height. This is not difficult, but there is a risk of incorrectly fitting the harness, so be sure to keep the instruction manual handy to check your work. You can also take a digital picture of the “front” and refer to it when reattaching. There is a piece of plastic at the back of the seat that the harness should also be behind. It is easy to divert the harness on this piece.
Locking straps have fairly inexpensive connectors that can be difficult to use if the fit is tight or if the distance between seats is long to find the anchors.
It weighs no more than others of its size, but it is large. Built-in cup holders are perfect because they can’t get lost, the more kids love them, but they add a lot to the width of the car seat. If you’re hoping to fit three car seats in the back seat, the My Ride 65 is probably not for you.
For parents who want to keep their child rear-facing for as long as possible, and who also want to keep their child in a front-facing sling after the age of four, this is an excellent choice.
- Total average score = 4.4
- Amazon rating – 4.7
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.5
- Adjusted reviewmeta.com rating – 4.4
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- Meets and exceeds federal safety standards
- Lateral impact test
- Double cup holder
- Easy to read level indicator
- Machine washable seat cushion
- Removable pillow for a newborn baby
- FAA Approved
Cons
- Harness must be re-threaded for cleaning and size adjustments.
- Car seat large enough for the weight and height of the child
- Straps can be narrow and rub on the child’s neck.
- Fewer than three tilt positions in rear-facing mode
#12. Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One convertible car seat
The latest Britax model grows safely as your child does, keeping them safe at all stages of their life, from rear-facing infant seats to high-back booster seats. Britax has integrated all of its safety technologies, such as Safe Cell, V-strap, steel frame and Click Tight system into this seat.
The Britax One4Life All-In-One car seat is a car seat that will last a lifetime for your child for the years your child uses the car seat.
Britax One4Life convertible car seat grows with your child from 5 to 120 pounds until your child no longer needs a protective seat when in the car. This practical convertible seat becomes three seats.
First of all, the seat is a rear-facing infant car seat. Use it to take your new baby home from the hospital until he or she weighs 15 kilos.Once your child has grown, the chair converts to a forward-facing 5-point harness seat.Finally, your older child can use the chair as a belt-positioning high-back booster seat until he or she weighs 120 pounds.
A car seat for life! One4Life takes your child from birth to old age with Britax Safety and Click Tight Installation. The Safe Wash cover can be safely machine washed and dried.
The fabric contains no added flame retardants. Click Tight is as simple as wearing a seat belt, so you can install it with confidence, every time.
Color-coded belt paths present you where to route the seat belt for each installation mode. Plus, easy-to-read indicators help you find the right tilt angle.
A high-strength steel frame, deformation zone and V-shaped attachment help absorb crash energy. In addition, two layers of side impact protection surround your child’s head, neck and torso.
As your baby grows, adjust the headrest and sling to 15 positions in seconds for a perfect fit. When it’s time to switch to booster mode, simply slide the harness into the integrated storage compartment. With its cooling channels, high quality padding and integrated armrests, your child will love the ride.
Parents who are familiar with Britax will also notice their Safe Cell technology. You can see the design of the Safe Cell in this car seat. It helps to disperse energy appropriately in the event of an accident. The automotive seat absorbs the impact, decreasing the affect felt by your child.
The anti-rebound bar is another safety feature. It absorbs energy in the event of an accident and ensures the safety of your baby. In Britax fashion, it can also be attached upside down when the seat is used in the forward facing position. This makes it a useful footrest for your child, so no room or space is lost.
- Total average score = 4.1
- Amazon rating – 4.8
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 4.0
- Rating on reviewmeta.com – 4.6
- Fakespot.com grade – C
Pros
- Users rave about the softness and comfort of the padding
- Installation is quick and easy
- Easy to clean
- Easy to follow instruction manual
- Cup holders are dishwasher safe and can be used to offer drinks and snacks to your child.
- The base is solid and flat, so it doesn’t leave any marks in your car seats.
- Infant insert prevents the infant’s head from sagging to the sides during travel
- Easy to convert between children of different ages and sizes
- Harness can be attached and detached with one hand
Cons
- The seat is very large and takes up a lot of space.
- May not be ideal for small cars or families who need several car seats.
- The straps can be difficult to tighten and the chest clip seems to sink into the baby’s chest.
- Heavy and difficult to transport.
#13. Evenflo Tribute LX convertible car seat
The Evenflo Tribute is the first base price for Evenflo: starting at $45, the Tribute is available in several trim levels (Sport, LX, DLX). The only difference between the trim levels lies in the materials: Sport is the least chic, LX is the “deluxe” version that also adds a cup holder.
Use it as a rear-facing seat with your baby and then as a forward-facing seat with your older child. The Tribute’s compact size makes it easy to install in the vehicle while providing side impact protection. Other features include front harness adjustment, four shoulder strap positions and a removable cup holder.
The Evenflo Tribute LX can be installed using your car’s seat belts or the LATCH system. The LATCH system allows you to attach a car seat to the metal frame of a vehicle using anchors and fasteners. Some cars do not have the necessary anchorages to use the LATCH system, so in these cases, installing the seat belt may be the only option. In general, both methods are considered equally safe, but which one is best for you will depend on your needs and the construction of your vehicle.
The Evenflo Tribute LX convertible seat can only be used with children weighing up to 40 pounds. Note that rearward-facing seating is recommended – and often required by state law – for children under 2 years of age or who weigh less than 40 pounds and are less than 37 inches tall. The minimum weight for the Evenflo is 5 pounds.
The Evenflo Tribute LX works with rearward orientation up to 40 pounds, which will allow the average child to be rearward oriented until the age of two (as recommended). For your information: some older versions of the Tribute that only work up to 35 pounds are still sold in some stores and online.
The Evenflo Tribute LX checks all the boxes for the basic design of convertible car seats. It has a five-point harness that can be used on one of the four height settings and a removable pillow that positions your child’s head correctly. There aren’t as many customizable adjustments as there are in the high-end models, but if you only need the basics to keep your child safe, this car seat has them. The car seat is available in over 10 colours and patterns, from bright azure to mommy pink.
Most parents’ comments on the Tribute are positive – fans say that this seat is ideal for travel (planes, rental cars).
- Total average score = 4.1
- Amazon rating – 4.6
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 3.6
- Adjusted reviewmeat.com rating – 4.3
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- It weighs only nine pounds, so it may be even easier to drive to an airport than the Cosco APT 50.
- The whole fabric cover can be thrown in the washing machine for comfortable washing.
- It is also relatively thin on each side to allow more than one car seat to be installed in the back seat and even to leave room for another child in the back seat.
- Thanks to the LATCH system, the Evenflo is easy to install for most parents and caregivers.
Cons
- When facing backwards, the car seat can take up some space in your car.
- Once your child reaches the 40-pound limit, which may come sooner rather than later for some, he or she will have to change car seats.
- The cup holder, although handy on paper, does not seem to stay in place during use or even when the car seat is installed.
#14. Cosco Apt 50 Convertible Car Seat
In a perfect world, all car seats would have the capacity to accommodate children of all ages and sizes for the duration of their need for a car seat in general. But in the real world, it doesn’t work that way.
Fortunately, there are still car seats like the Cosco APT 50, which serves as both a rearward and forward facing car seat for your little one to use for a while. He may not be able to enjoy it for years and years, so it may not be the only one he needs, but it’s convertible in a way, and that’s certainly something.
As a rear-facing car seat, it can be used for infants from 5 to 40 pounds, and as a forward-facing car seat, your infant or toddler must weigh between 22 and 50 pounds, which means you can easily move from infant to toddler with the Cosco APT 50. This is even if the weight limit of 50 pounds is respected, which means that your child will then move on to another car seat with booster capabilities.
While some car seats are rear-facing for a much shorter period of time, the Cosco APT 50 allows your baby to remain rear-facing for longer, up to 40 pounds, for safety and comfort.
It also allows you to keep your child in a forward-facing harness for longer than usual, which again is best for their safety, as it is always good to keep them in a five-point safety harness for as long as possible.
To make sure your baby or child is as comfortable as possible, there are even six different harness heights so that the car seat can really grow with them and three locations for the buckles.
When you need to travel, the Cosco APT 50 has also been approved for use in a real plane to give your baby the most comfort, safety and a sense of familiarity during flights.
With the Cosco Apt 50 convertible car seat, your children will travel more – up to 50 pounds. Rear-facing at 40 pounds and front-facing at 50 pounds, the Apt 50 keeps children safer all the way through the journey with side protection.
With the kids in the car, the mess is coming. Now, with the easy-to-clean car seat button, you don’t have to push it anymore. The cushion is available in a wide range of styles and colours, all removed from the seat and are both machine washable and dry cleanable. It takes only one machine cycle to wash it thoroughly.
If the vehicle you have chosen is an aircraft, the Apt 50 will cover you. Certified for use in aircraft, it offers your child a familiar seat during the flight. Its light and compact design also allows it to cross the airport without weighing you down.
Two integrated cup holders Make sure your co-pilot has enough room to drink or snack during the trip, whether on the ground or in the air.
The seat cushion can be easily removed for easy machine washing and drying, and for your child’s convenience, two built-in cup holders can also hold snacks if needed.
The Cosco Apt 50 seat has an extended rearward facing capacity as well as an extended forward harness carrying capacity. The seat itself weighs only 11 pounds, making it easy to carry and move from car to car or even travel. It is also designed with side impact protection to ensure the safety of your baby or toddler in the event of a car accident.
- Total average score = 4.1
- Amazon rating – 4.6
- Last 10 Amazon review average rating – 3.8
- Adjusted reviewmeta.com rating – 4.2
- Fakespot.com grade – B
Pros
- Your baby can use the infant car seat up to 50 pounds, which means he or she can use it until infancy.
- Your baby will enjoy the full benefit of the car seat and for a price that is significantly lower than some other forward and rear-facing car seats.
- As it is approved for use on aircraft, the car seat is also very comfortable and light enough to be transported to an airport.
- It’s perfect for large babies who may not be able to sit properly or comfortably in an infant car seat for very long periods of time.
- There is enough padding to make your baby comfortable, but not so much that he gets too hot or feels like he has less room because of it.
Cons
- Without the LATCH system, it may be difficult for some parents or caregivers to properly install the Cosco APT 50.
- In some cars, it may seem almost too wide or too big, even though it’s supposed to be more substantial to accommodate your growing child.
- Tightening safety straps can be difficult and frustrating for some.
Convertible car seat guide
How to install a convertible car seat
The seat manual is the best place for parents to find accurate information, on how to install their particular car seat. However, we can offer some universal tips and advice that will help you in case you don’t have access to your convertible automotive seat manual.
All car seats must be secured using the lower anchors (see LATCH system below) or a seat belt, but never both. The lower anchors are small horizontal bars located in the space between the backrest and the seat cushion. Note: When your child exceeds the weight limit of the car seat, it is important to move your child to a larger car seat or booster seat. In addition, you will want to use fasteners to secure forward-facing car seats. Fasteners are usually located above or behind the rear seat.
Convertible car seat FAQs
When can you use a convertible car seat?
Although infant car seats are available and designed specifically for newborns, infants can also use most convertible car seats to return home from the hospital. It is recommended that parents wait until their child is at least two years old before converting to a forward-facing car seat.
Do convertible car seats come with a base?
Unlike infant car seats, convertible car seats are installed directly on the rear seat with attachments, anchorages and seat belts rather than on a base. Also, most convertible car seats are not compatible with strollers.
When should I switch to a booster seat?
Your child must be at least four years old, weigh more than 40 pounds or be taller than the harness before moving to a booster seat. Most convertibles have a weight limit between 40 and 70 pounds.
What is the LATCH system?
The Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system was installed in cars manufactured after 2003. These anchors and tethers make it easy to install a car seat in any position in your car (even the middle seat). The top anchor is located above the back seat. It helps hold the seat in place when the driver makes a sharp turn or comes to a sudden stop, and is compatible with leather or vinyl upholstery. If you have a vintage car, you’ll use the seat belt instead of the lower anchors that are built into cars today.
How do I choose a convertible car seat?
Choosing a convertible car seat for your newborn, is not easy. To help you in your choice, here are a few things to consider before making a purchase:
Easy adjustment: Adjusting the harness can be tricky! Try to find a seat with an easy harness adjustment, and make sure that you cannot pinch the harness between two fingers when your child is strapped into the seat.
Side impact protection: Make sure the seat you choose has adequate side impact protection. It doesn’t have to be comfortable, but it does have to be there.
Easy installation: As mentioned earlier, the vast majority of children use car seats that are not properly installed. The best way to avoid improper installation is to purchase a car seat with a fail-safe installation system.
Safety: Make sure your car seat meets or exceeds safety guidelines. Register your seat with the company to be notified of any recalls or repair kits provided by the company.
LATCH: Most cars today are equipped with a locking system (lower anchors and child restraints). The LATCH system makes it much easier to install the safety seats correctly. Whether or not your current vehicle is LATCH-equipped, make sure the car seat you choose offers this option.
Expiry: Many seats today expire after 10 years, but some do not expire until after 7 or 8 years. Never use a car seat that is past its expiration date, even if it looks perfectly good. And check how much time you have left before the seat expires: If you plan to have only one or two children, you should be able to buy each of them a single convertible car seat, which will last from birth until they are ready for a backless booster seat or seat belt.
Bottom Line
Three main criteria were assessed to rank our convertible car seats: amazon’s reviews, reviews on reviewmeta.com, and average of the last 10 exam scores. But Safety, Ease of use; Comfort; and finally, reliability and performance score can also be used to classify convertible auto seats.
Despite the fact that it is not on top of the list of amazon’s best seller, my first Pick is the Britax marathon convertible car seat. This is a very high quality car seat that often tops the rankings for the best convertible car seats. Britax has built a solid reputation for safety and quality while maintaining reasonable prices. The ClickTight installation system will help you avoid problems when it comes time to install the seat in the car and the 10-position strap adjustment system will ensure that the seat fits your child optimally. Also easy to use, this seat offers the performance you are looking for.
Graco also offers an interesting product for smaller budgets with its Contender 65 model. This seat does not offer the same quality as a Britax seat, but it will provide comfort for your child, easy-to-clean padding. In addition, it is compatible with most vehicles, so you will probably have no difficulty installing it. This model is a great value for money purchase.
I therefore invite you, dear readers, to comment on this article in order to give your opinion on it and also to share your experiences in order to help those in need, those who want to buy a convertible car seat.
References & Citations
Best Convertible Car Seats, ConsumerReports.org
The Best Convertible Car Seats, Wirecutter
Best Convertible Car Seats, BabyGearLab
Best Convertible Car Seats,Babylist
Best Convertible Car Seats of 2019, WhattoExpect
The 9 Best Convertible Car Seats You Can Buy Now,The Bump
Best Convertible Car Seats,BestReviews