All-in-One car seats offer the best solution for your car seat investment. One quality purchase will provide you with a seat that can be a rear-facing infant seat all the way up to a belt-positioning booster for a big kid. While these seats are more expensive, they are worth the investment because they are made to last up to 10 years each.
The first stage of an All-in-One is a rear-facing infant seat. These are generally rated for 5 pounds to 40 pounds. Many have three or more reclining positions to keep your infant or toddler comfortable. The infant seat will have inserts and headrests that are adjustable for the size and weight of your child.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your child stays in a rear-facing position as long as possible. This means that all children up to age 2 and most up to age 4 will be rear-facing.
Once your child is ready for a forward-facing seat, your convertible seat will meet that need. The All-in-One seats generally accommodate forward-facing children up to 65 pounds. Look for a seat with an easy-to-adjust harness and headrest so that your child is positioned correctly in the seat.
For children over 65 pounds, a belt-positioning booster seat or high back belt-positioning, booster seat is best. Check carefully to see if your car seat converts to this level. Some convertible seats stop at 65 pounds. Often the seats labeled “All-in-One” and rated up to 100 pounds or more will convert to a booster.
Our extensive research and testing have shown that the best option for a convertible car seat is the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat. This exceptional car seat can be used for up to 10 years to safely carry a 4-pound premie up to a 120-pound elementary student.
The Graco 4Ever DLX has a steel-reinforced frame and multiple inserts and padding to ensure comfort and safety for your child. It is also easy to install with a one-click latch attachment.
We have sifted through all the best convertible and all-in-one car seats to help you make the best choice for your family. Continue reading for a detailed analysis of the top 6 convertible car seats, as well as their benefits and drawbacks.
We also included our Top 3 Picks
1. Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat – 10 years of use, 4-120 pounds, Steel-Reinforced frame
2. Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One – 10 years, 5-120 pounds, Safe and Easy ClickTight Installation
3. Diono Radian 3QXT 4-in-1 – 4 – 120 pounds, 4 part newborn protection package, Safe+ Engineering with Rear-Facing Anti-Rebound Bar
Top All In One Car Seats
Name | Weight Limit | Height Limit | Mode |
---|---|---|---|
Graco 4Ever DLX Convertible Car Seat | 4-120 lbs. | 57" | Both Rear-Facing/Forward-Facing |
Britax One4Life All-In-One Car Seat | 5-120 lbs. | 49" | Both Rear-Facing/Forward-Facing |
Evenflo EveryStage DLX Convertible Seat | 4-120 lbs. | 55" | Both Rear-Facing/Forward-Facing |
Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 | 5-110 lbs. | 57" | Both Rear-Facing/Forward-Facing |
Diono Radian 3QXT 4-in-1 | 5-120 lbs. | 57" | Both Rear-Facing/Forward-Facing |
Maxi Cosi Magellan XP Max All-in-One | 5-120 lbs. | 57" | Both Rear-Facing/Forward-Facing |
1.Graco 4Ever DLX 4 in 1 Car Seat – Best Overall
This all-in-one seat by Graco will accommodate your child from birth until they reach 120 pounds. Its high-back booster mode should only be used up to 100 pounds and then you should convert it to a backless booster for the remaining 20 pounds.
We love this seat because it allows rear-facing for up to 40 pounds.
It’s also ProtectPlus engineered to keep your little one safer in the event of a crash. ProtectPlus is Graco’s protection system that includes front, side, rear, and rollover protection in an accident.
SimplySafe Harness
Along with that, the 4Ever DLX also comes with the SimplySafe harness adjust system with ten different harness/headrest heights. The seat can also be reclined at six different angles. When it comes to installation, this seat shouldn’t pose too many issues. It comes equipped with Graco’s Inright Latch Attachment, which only requires one quick click to be installed.
There’s also an integrated belt lock-off to ensure a tight and secure installation. Cleaning should also pose little to no issue as the cover is removable and you don’t need to uninstall the seat to do so.
The cover is machine-washable and the rest of the seat can be cleaned with a damp washcloth. If you need a similar car seat with a slim profile at a great price, check out the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1.
Pros
- Lasts ten years
- Six different recline angles
- Ten different harness heights
- Easy to clean
- Accommodates a higher weight limit than other seats
- ProtectPlus engineered
Cons
- The adjustment strap is short
- Fabric wears easily
2.Britax One4Life Car Seat – Super Easy ClickTight Installation
The best of the best from Britax is available in seven different colors and can be used for up to ten years.
The seat can be used in rear-facing mode until your child hits 50 pounds, forward-facing harness until 65 pounds, and high-back booster mode from 40-120 pounds.
It also comes equipped with Britax’s ClickTight installation system to make installing the seat easier for parents. All you do is pinch open the seat bottom, thread and buckle the seat belt, then click the seat closed.
Safecell Technology
The One4Life also has two layers of side-impact protection, a high-strength steel frame, and a v-shaped tether for stability. Safecell technology is also incorporated in the seat to ensure safety in the event of a crash. In a different aspect of safety, this Britax seat doesn’t contain any added flame retardants in its fabric. It comes with a SafeWash cover which is both machine-washable and dryer-safe.
Ventilated Mesh Fabric
In terms of comfort and safety, it has built-in cooling channels and ventilated mesh to prevent overheating and sweat. The seat has a 15-position adjustable headrest and nine different recline positions.
Pros
- Ventilated, breathable fabric
- Super customizable to your child
- Easy to clean
- Lots of added safety features
- Easy to install
- Lasts up to 10 years
Cons
- Not compatible with ClickTight rebound bar
- Pricier than other all-in-one seats
3.Evenflo EveryStage DLX – Best For Preemies
The Evenflo EveryStage works for babies as little as 4 pounds and will last until they surpass 120 pounds. This seat is perfect for parents who want to practice extended rear-facing because it allows your child to be rear-facing until they hit 50 pounds.
Evenflo EveryStage has five different recline positions and is specially angled to minimize head slump while in rear-facing modes. Minimizing head slumps helps keep baby’s airways open, which makes this seat optimal for safety-worried parents.
EasyClick LATCH
In terms of installation, this seat comes with technology to make installing simpler for parents. It comes equipped with EasyClick LATCH technology that boasts a 3x tighter install than other LATCH seats.
Evenflo puts all of their products through rigorous safety testing. This seat has been tested at energy levels twice the required amount by federal safety standards.
Along with these features, the seat also comes with a removable and machine-washable seat pad along with two removable and dishwasher-safe cup holders.
Pros
- 90-day limited warranty
- Great for extended rear-facing
- Easy to clean
- Rigorously crash tested
- Five different reclines
- Great for preemies
Cons
- Difficult to tighten harness
- Initial installation may be tricky
4.Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 – Most Affordable
This all-in-one favorite is a great pick for any parent that wants all of the safety features without the expensive price tag.
This car seat meets or exceeds Federal, ASTM, and JPMA standards and grows with your child from 5 pounds to 100 pounds, so there is plenty of value for the money.
While there are only three recline positions, Safety First makes up for it with a built-in harness holder to keep both straps out of the way, two cup holders, and a machine-washable seat cover available in a ton of colors. Keep in mind that the Grow and Go is spacious and lightweight, but may be too wide for small cars.
- Easy to clean with removable seat covers
- Attractive design
- Adjust height of headrest and harness in one easy step
Cons
- Only 3 reclining positions available
- May be a tight fit in smaller cars
5.Diono Radian 3QXT 4-in-1 – Best for Travel
Diono introduced a Q series of car seats in 2021 with updated safety features like eight layers of side impact protection and a steel anti-rebound bar. An anti-rebound bar is for rear-facing use and helps to reduce rebound rotation and brace the car seat in the event of a crash.
There’s also a 12-position headrest that goes higher than previous models and a memory foam seat. Just when you thought these babies couldn’t get any more comfortable.
As with previous Diono models, the 3QXT is ideal for airline travel. It has a slim profile (17”), folds flat for transport, and comes with a travel high wedge that angles newborns to keep their airways open. In most cars, you can fit three of these car seats across the backseat. The Q series has a 10-year expiration date and is suitable for rear-facing 4-50 pounds, forward-facing 22-65 pounds, and highback booster from 40-120.
Pros
- Includes a travel wedge, newborn insert and harness pads, and an anti-rebound bar
- Wider weight range for rear-facing
- Steel core and frame
- Easy click installation
- Can wash and dry covers
Cons
- While fitting three across is possible, installation can be challenging
- Expensive option
6.Maxi Cosi Magellan XP Max All-in-One – Best Luxury
The latest addition in Maxi Cosi’s line of convertible car seats, the XP Max has five different modes and will last your child for ten years.
This seat is intended for use rear-facing, forward-facing, and as a booster, from 5-120 pounds. There are a whopping fourteen headrest positions, seven recline options, and an adjustable torso.
Maxi Cosi has updated this seat with high-quality, washable woven fabric and padding that’s removed with an EZ zipper. Buckling up is easier than ever with a one-handed magnetic chest clip and a harness system to keep straps out of the way. The seat is very easy to tighten and install with a one-click LATCH system.
Pros
- Soft, plush fabric and padding
- Easy to tighten
- ClipQuik magnetic chest clip
- Washable, removable seat and cup holders
Cons
- Wide
- Expensive- but it’s the only seat you’ll need!
Other 9 Options That Didn’t Make the List
7.Cybex Eternis S All-in-One Seat – Works Well for Preemies
The Eternis S is one of our picks because not only will it last a long time, but it works well for preemies. The seat will accommodate as low as 4 pounds and will last until your child exceeds 120 pounds.
This one is also great because it allows rear-facing up to 50 pounds, while many other seats cap off at 40 pounds. While this one is on the higher end when it comes to price, it has several convenient features to make using it much easier.
There are magnetic buckle holders to keep straps out of the way and it comes in four different color options too. In order to get the right fit, the seat has a 3-position headrest recline and a 10-position seat recline. The headrest also has 12 different height adjustments as well.
SensorSafe Technology
The Eternis S is also equipped with several safety features including SensorSafe technology in the chest clip.
SensorSafe technology pairs with the BlueTooth connection on your phone to notify you if there are any issues with the buckle along with some other functions as well (too long in the car seat, the seat is too hot, etc..).To add to the convenience factor, the seat comes equipped with a removable cup holder.
Pros
- Removable cup holder
- SensorSafe technology
- Easy to clean
- Comfortable padding
- Easy to install
- Manufactured in the USA
Cons
- High price point
- SensorSafe may malfunction
8.Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Car Seat – The Most Affordable
This Graco seat will grow with your child up until they surpass 110 pounds.
It comes equipped with the Simply Safe Adjust harness adjustment system and can be adjusted with one hand. The headrest has 10 positions to choose from and six recline positions.
Two Different Booster Modes
This is a 4-in-1 seat as well, which means not only can it be used as a high-back booster, but as a backless booster as well. Keep in mind though, the highback booster caps at 100 pounds while the backless option caps at 110 pounds.
In addition to its booster modes, the seat also comes with a handy storage compartment for the harness when not in use.
The Grows4Me can be installed via LATCH or the vehicle’s seatbelt.
We really like this seat because of its durability. It’s made with a steel-reinforced frame and has undergone several crash tests to prove itself. This seat meets and exceeds all federal US safety standards. Along with these features, the seat comes with a cupholder as well. Read a more detailed review of the Grows4Me car seat.
Pros
- Super durable
- Can be a high back or backless booster
- Installs via LATCH or seatbelt
- Great buy for the price
- Easy to install
- Two different color options
Cons
- Cupholder isn’t removable
- Shoulder straps twist easily
9.Graco TrioGrow SnugLock LX 3-in-1 Seat – Great for Long Trips
The TrioGrow made our list for its ease of installation and other convenient features. For starters, the seat is equipped with SnugLock technology to ensure a secure installation. This is perhaps the most important aspect of a car seat, so this specific belt-locking technology is helpful.
3-in-1 Car Seat
This Graco seat has the ability to be used in rear-facing, forward-facing harness, and belt-positioning booster mode. Your child will be able to use this one until they surpass 100 pounds. Safety is also a big priority with the TrioGrow, along with other Graco car seats.
ProtectPlus Technology
This is ProtectPlus engineered, meaning Graco has put the seat through rigorous crash testing to determine its durability. The TrioGrow also comes with a rapid remove cover for easy washing and fuss-free harness pockets for extra convenience. It has six different recline positions along with ten adjustable headrest settings.
Pros
- Approved for Air Travel
- Removable, washable cupholders
- Easy to clean
- Easy to install
- SnugLock technology
- Meets and exceeds safety testing
- Easy to adjust to your child
Cons
- Crotch strap is short
- Fabric isn’t very breathable
10.Diono Radian 3RXT All-in-One Seat – Approved for Air Travel
The original “three across” car seat is getting a new model this year. The Diono Radian features a super slim, space-saving design and will allow you to fit three seats next to each other in most vehicles.
It’s designed with a steel core and uses SuperLATCH technology for installation. We like this seat a lot because it encourages extended rear-facing.
Your child can rear-face in this seat until they surpass 45 pounds. After that, it can be used in forward-facing harness mode until 65 pounds and highback booster mode until 120 pounds.
Great for Air Travel
This seat is also really convenient for frequent flyers (or anyone planning an airplane trip soon). The seat can be folded in half for easy carrying and the seat is also approved for air travel. The 2020 edition of this seat is available in four different color options: Black Jet, Gray Slate, Purple Plum, and Red Cherry.
Pros
- Plenty of colors to choose from
- Slim design
- Easy to carry
- Air travel approved
- Lasts longer than most all-in-one seats
- Encourages extended rear-facing
Cons
- Higher price point
- Installation is tricky
11.Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 Car Seat – Lasts Longer then Most Seats
The Evenflo EveryFit is another seat on our list that is really good for preemies. Not only will it last until your child doesn’t need it anymore, but it can be used as long as your child is at least 4 pounds.
This seat can be used in rear-facing mode up to 40 pounds, forward-facing up to 65 pounds, highback booster from 40-120 pounds, and backless from 40-120 pounds.
We like this seat too because the fabric is made of a specific airflow mesh to maximize breathability. Along with that, the EveryFit comes with a convenient, removable snack tray along with a cupholder for drinks too.
SureSafe Quick Connecting LATCH
If you’re worried about installation, this seat comes equipped with SureSafe quick connecting LATCH capability for fast and easy installation. Along with that, the headrest can be adjusted with one hand and offers 12 different positions. The EveryFit also has four different recline positions too.
Pros
- Lasts longer than other all-in-one seats
- Breathable fabric
- Cupholder and snack tray
- Good for preemies
- Two different booster modes
- Easy to install
Cons
- Difficult to strap baby in rear-facing
- Installation can be tricky
12.Graco Slim-Fit 3-in-1 Seat – Great for Small Cars
This model is an excellent choice because it grows with your child, from 5 pounds all the way to 100 pounds. Safety-wise you can’t get much better.
It is made and crash tested to meet or exceed U.S. standard FMVSS 213. It’s also been tested for side-impact testing.
Great for Small Cars
People who have bought this seat also like it because it’s a good fit for smaller cars and has lots of cushion for their babies. Special features include an adjustable four-position recline that grows with your child. The seat cover is washable, and the seat comes with rotating cup holders.
Pros
- Good value for the price
- Great for smaller cars
- Fits children up to 100 pounds
Cons
- Some users wish it had 5 recline positions instead of 4
13.Evenflo Symphony Elite All-In-One – Comfortable & Easy to Install
The Evenflo symphony seat supports children from 5 to 110 pounds, so you have an extra ten pounds of leeway here versus the Graco model above.
It exceeds all federal and safety guidelines and features Evenflo’s e3 side impact protection. The slide harness means you get an accurate fit every time.
This can be helpful as the seasons change and the bulkiness of your child’s clothing changes. It’s also easier to use and adjust as your child grows. In the special features department, your little one can ride in style with an expandable cup holder to fit drinks of all sizes.
Pros
- Can be installed in 60 seconds with the 5-point infinite slide harness
- Pads can be machine washed separately
Cons
- Large in size, may not fit smaller cars
- Odor on cushions can be difficult to get out at times
14.Baby Jogger City View Space Saving All-In-One Car Seat
When you’re looking for an all-in-one car seat, you may scroll past this one because of the price. It’s hard not to notice that it costs nearly double many of the other all-in-one car seats.
But, remember what we said? You get what you pay for, and this model is loaded with features you may love. Safety-wise, it meets or exceeds all government standards. It includes a secure-stop anti-rebound bar.
This reduces rearward movement during a crash, but can only be used in the rear-facing position. Just like its competitors, this seat can be used for children from five pounds to 100 pounds.
In the special features department, the headrest can be adjusted in ten different positions. You can change it as your child grows. The cup holder is also detachable. You can not only put it on either side, but you can take it out making it easy to wash.
Pros
- Installs easily using push-button LATCH
- Narrow design
- Customers comment on the plush padding
Cons
- Pricey compared to other all-in-one seats
- Heavy, so don’t plan on moving from car to car that often
15.Graco Milestone All-In-One Convertible Car Seat, Gotham
From five pounds to 100 pounds, the Graco milestone model will be with your child for a long time. It’s priced right and has many safety features that parents love.
Graco uses an exclusive InRight LATCH attachment. This allows you to install it easily and safely with an audio click, so you know you’ve done it right.
The Simply Safe Adjust Harness System adjusts the height of the harness and headrest so that your child is always safely buckled. This car seat also meets or exceeds all U.S. safety standards and has been side impact tested.
It reclines in four different positions and does include a cup holder. Beyond that, there aren’t any other special features included with this seat.
Pros
- Removable plush inserts for greater infant comfort
- Washable seat cover
- Slender fit for smaller cars
Cons
- Not many special features
- Can be difficult to clean
Buyers Guide: What To Look For?
Durability
The whole point of buying an all-in-one car seat is so that you don’t have to buy a new one every time your child has a growth spurt. That’s why durability is one of the most important factors to consider. You want one that isn’t going to crack or come apart.
If that happens, your child’s safety can be compromised which is something you don’t want to happen. Be conscious of safety ratings and crash test results. Make sure the car seat you’re considering has passed and surpassed all requirements.
Also, do your research to see if the model you’re interested in has ever been recalled. This information can be a good indication as to whether the car seat is durable and one that you want to consider.
Price
Since you’re only buying one car seat versus two or three as your child grows, you can expect to pay more for an all-in-one versus other car seats. But, if you add up the cost of two or three car seats, you’ll find the value of an all-in-one is reasonable.
Generally speaking, the price will be less than the cost of buying multiple seats. Keep in mind that the brand and features you choose will impact the cost. More features mean it will be more expensive.
If an expense is an issue, chose the all-in-one seat you want and add it to your baby registry. Oftentimes people will buy a more substantial gift together, especially one that is a necessity, like a car seat.
Special Features
When it comes to special features, many car seats have bonuses like a cup holder or extra neck support. As with a car, the more “loaded” a car seat is, the more it will cost. Although you may not need the Mercedes Benz of car seats, special features can make life easier for you because your baby will be more comfortable.
A cup holder can prevent the continual passing of a cup while you’re driving. A headrest can make the ride comfier for a fussy baby. It all depends on how much these types of features are worth to you.
Why Get All In One Car Seat?
Many parents choose an all in one car seat because they only have to buy one car seat as their child grows. These seats allow you to transition from a rear-facing car seat for your infant to a forward-facing 5-point harness seat for your toddler.
From there you can use it as a high-back booster with a seatbelt to finally a backless booster with a seatbelt. While safety is always priority number one, you also want to consider things like durability, price, special features, and customer reviews.
What Do Parents Say About All In One Car Seats?
While everyone’s preferences are different, customer reviews can shed light on how the car seat functions and how comfortable it is for children. If you read a list of negative reviews from different parents, they may be on to something. Don’t forget, very few products will receive a string of 5-star reviews.
But, you still want to choose one that has more positives than negatives. Here are some reviews for Britax One4Life Car Seat:
“I can get the car seat installed in under two minutes and that’s with adjusting to the correct angle.” “We love the cup holders and plush fabric! “
Avoid the Hassle to Install Multiple Car Seats
When choosing and installing a car seat, remember that before you’re allowed to leave the hospital with your newborn, someone from the hospital will inspect it for you.
They’ll look to make sure you have the right kind for your infant and that it’s in the correct position. They’ll also look at whether it’s installed properly.
If you have questions or problems when installing your car seat before heading to the hospital, many local police departments will often offer to check it for you. They’ll make sure it’s fastened securely and positioned correctly.
What is your best all-in-one car seat? Which brand do you prefer? Let us know in the comments section!