Are you are looking for the best convertible car seat? You came to the Right Place! Has your infant gone from newborn to toddlerhood right before your eyes? Is their infant carrier starting to feel a little heavy? This means it’s probably time to switch your child over to a convertible car seat.
As much as we want our babies to stay babies forever, it’s just not possible. I know, it’s sad. Please hold your sobs in or else moms everywhere will join you in mourning. Now that you need to buy a new car seat, you’re going to need to know what makes a quality seat and how to find the best one, check our buyers guide at the bottom.
When Should I Put My Baby In A Convertible Car Seat?
If you don’t choose to go with an all-in-one or a convertible car seat from the start, you’ll switch your baby over once they grow out of their infant seats. A lot of infant seats accommodate babies until they reach 35 pounds.
However, more and more manufacturers are designing their convertible car seats to safely hold newborns.
The Difference Between Infant & Convertible Car Seats
Infant seats are only meant for infants up until between 25-35 pounds depending on which car seat you choose.
Convertible car seats are a more practical and convenient option because they will accommodate your newborn up until they reach at least 65 pounds (or more depending on the seat’s restrictions).
Our Top Choices
20 Best Convertible Car Seats
1. Chicco NextFit Zip – Top Rated Convertible Car Seat
For parents looking for a high-end seat, the Chicco NextFit Zip is one to look out for.
This seat can accommodate a rear-facing child up to 50 pounds and forward-facing up to 65 pounds.
- Zip-off padding is soft and machine washable for comfort and convenience
- Remarkably easy installation with a 9-position ReclineSure leveling system, SuperCinch LATCH...
- Superior DuoGuard protection with a deep rigid shell and EPS energy-absorbing foam, plus a...
It offers 25 percent more leg room when rear-facing and gives added calf support when forward-facing.
It also comes with a force-multiplying LATCH tightener to give the seat a more secure fit to the vehicle.
The NextFit Zip is really convenient because it comes with a full-body newborn positioner to keep baby in place as well as a 9-position headrest and a non-rethreading harness that can accommodate your child’s growth.
We really like this seat for its ease of installation. Chicco uses trademarked tightening and belt locking technology to ensure a secure installation.
Safety: 
(4.8 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: 
(4.7 / 5)Durability: (4.8 / 5)Pricing: 
(3.0 / 5)Average: 
(4.3 / 5)
You can install this seat using either the LATCH system or with the vehicle’s seat belt.
Chicco’s trademarked DuoGuard provides two layers of side impact protection and uses EPS shock-absorbing foam. The seat’s shell is also reinforced with a steel frame for added protection.
The seat’s pad can be unzipped and thrown in the washer in the case of a mess and the seat itself comes with a breathable 3D AirMesh backrest.
To add to the convenience factor, this seat comes with two detachable and dishwasher-safe cup holders too.
When washing the fabric, keep in mind that this should be hung up to dry. Do not attempt to put this in the dryer or use an iron. The heat can cause the fabric to shrink and shrivel.
Pros
- Extended Rear-Facing
- Easy to Install
- Uses Trademarked Technology to Add to Safety
- Can Use LATCH or Seatbelt
- Cupholders are Dishwasher-Safe
Cons
- Can’t Be Put Through the Dryer
- The Steel Frame Makes it Heavier
2.Britax Advocate – Safest Convertible Car Seat
This Britax seat comes with several safety features to ensure your child is properly protected in the car. It comes equipped with three layers of side-impact protection.
- Easy installation: Patented ClickTight makes car seat installation as simple as buckling a seat belt
- No rethreading, ever: Quick adjust 14 position harness with Click & Safe Snug Indicator gives a...
- Adjust accurately: Harness indicator gives an audible click when youve pulled to the proper...
The base is impact-absorbing and it compresses to reduce the force felt in an accident.
It’s also reinforced with an impact-stabilizing steel frame.
This one also comes with the Clicktight installation system to make installing super quick and easy.
To ensure the safety of your child, the Advocate comes with a Click & Safe Snug Harness, auto level indicators, and multiple recline positions. These recline positions come in handy for comfort as well.
Safety: 
(4.6 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: 
(4.9 / 5)Durability: 
(4.5 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.6 / 5)
The harness is quick to adjust and comes with 14 different positions to choose from as your child grows.
This seat is equipped with Safecell impact protection. This comprises of three features: an impact-absorbing base, an impact-stabilizing steel frame, and a patented V-shaped tether.
All three of those features work together to ensure the safety of your child.
The Advocate can accommodate rear-facing babies between 5 and 40 pounds and rear-facing babies and toddlers between 20 and 65 pounds.
Pros
- Easy to Install
- Harness Adjusting Isn’t Difficult
- Grows With Your Child
- Easy to Clean
Cons
- Fabric Wears Down After a Few Washes
- Instructions are Hard to Follow
3.Evenflo Tribute LX – Best Inexpensive Convertible Car Seat
Lightweight. Budget-friendly. Super compact. What more could you ask for?
This Evenflo tribute seat is a really good option for anybody who needs a seat they can transport from car to car easily.
- Side impact tested, Meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards and Evenflo's side...
- Designed and tested for structural integrity at energy levels approximately 2X the Federal crash...
- Multiple shoulder harness positions for better fit and longer use. Age at least two years of age
It weighs in at only just over 9 pounds and is compact. This is also really nice for people with smaller cars.
This seat can be used both rear-facing and forward-facing. Its rear-facing ability can be used until your child reaches 40 pounds and can be forward-facing until your child reaches 40 pounds as well.
This may not be a great option if you’re looking for a seat that can last with your child, but it’s a great back-up seat or seat for extra cars.
It comes with an upfront harness adjuster and has four different harness positions to grow as your child grows from infant to toddlerhood.
Safety: (4.5 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.3 / 5)Durability: (4.7 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
The seat pad is removable and can be used in the washing machine.
It’s made of polyester which adds to its durability and makes it a really breathable car seat. It’s also certified for air travel too.
Pros
- Great for Air Travel
- Super Easy to Clean
- Super Easy to Install
- One of The Best Affordable Car Seats
Cons
- Only Accommodates Up to 40 pounds
- Straps Get Twisted
4.Evenflo EveryStage LX – Best Convertible Car Seat For Tall Babies
For those of you looking to do a one-and-done shop, this is definitely one to consider. The EveryStage is an all-in-one seat that accommodates your child from infancy up to 120 pounds.
- RELIABLE ALL-IN-ONE CAR SEAT: The Evenflo EveryStage LX all-in-one car seat features an innovative...
- INFANT + BOOSTER + CONVERTIBLE: This all-in-one car seat is a genuine 3-in-1 solution. It can be...
- CUSTOM CRADLED FIT: The LX All-in-One includes a proprietary in-seat reclining feature that provides...
It’s fully adjustable and has up to 10 different positions to grow with your child.
This seat allows you to rear face your child up to 50 pounds which is perfect if you believe in extended rear-facing.
When rear facing, it offers different angles to help keep baby’s airways open and the infant insert can be removed as your child grows.
You can forward-face your child up to 65 pounds and then use the belt-positioning booster option until they hit 120 pounds.
Safety: 
(4.1 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.7 / 5)Durability: (4.6 / 5)Pricing: 
(4.4 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
When your child grows to the next size, you don’t need to worry about rethreading the harness at all. All you need to do is adjust the headrest and the harness will adjust in the same step. There are five different recline options.
Both the seat pad and the cupholders are removable and can be washed by washing machine and dishwasher respectively.
This seat has met and exceeded federal safety standards and the company even offers real-time support and installation advice. It has been rollover tested, side-impact tested and is certified for air travel along with regular federal standards.
Pros
- Meets and Exceeds Federal Safety Standards
- Has Gone Through Additional Safety Testing
- Allows for Extended Rear-Facing
- One-And-Done Purchase
Cons
- Hard to Tighten When Installing
5.Baby Jogger City View – Best Convertible Car Seat For Infant
This is another all-in-one pick that ensures your child’s safety throughout their car seat journey. It can accommodate babies as small as 5 pounds up to 100 pounds.
- Narrow design saves space
- All-in-one car seat offers 3 ways to ride for children 5-100 lbs.: rear-facing, forward-facing...
- SecureStop Anti-Rebound Bar provides a 45% reduction in rearward movement of the car seat during a...
It also comes with the SecureStop anti-rebound bar for added safety when rear-facing.
This rebound bar reduces the amount of car seat movement in the event of a frontal collision by more than 45 percent.
The harness doesn’t need to rethreading as your child grows because it simply adjusts automatically when you adjust the headrest.
We like this seat because it’s super easy to install. It has large, color-coded belt paths to guide you if you choose to use the seatbelt to fasten. It’s also equipped with LATCH technology if you prefer that method.
Safety: (4.7 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.9 / 5)Durability: (4.7 / 5)Pricing: 
(4.2 / 5)Average: (4.6 / 5)
This seat has been side-impact tested and has gone through Baby Jogger’s specific TRUE test as well.
If you’re looking for convenience and compactness, this is definitely one to consider. It’s designed to be space saving to keep from taking up the entire back seat.
It also comes with a detachable cup holder that can be attached to either side of the car seat.
This is convenient if the space between your door and back seat is narrow so you don’t need to worry about crushing it with the door.
This seat’s rear-facing ability maxes out at 40 pounds and as a forward-facing car seat at 65 lbs. After that, you can use it as a high-back booster until your child reaches the maximum weight limit.
Pros
- All-In-One Seat
- Cup Holder Can Be Attached to Either Side
- Equipped With an Anti-Rebound Bar
- Space Saving
- Can Hold Up to 100 Pounds
Cons
- Buckle May Pinch Skin if You Aren’t Careful
- The Fabric Feels a Bit Rough
6.Britax Boulevard Clicktight Ultimate Comfort Seat – Provides Extra Protection
If safety is your biggest priority, as it should be, this is a good car seat to add to your list.
- Easy installation: Patented ClickTight makes car seat installation as simple as buckling a seat belt
- No rethreading, ever: Quick adjust 14 position harness with Click and Safe Snug Indicator gives a...
- Adjust accurately: Harness indicator gives an audible click when youve pulled to the proper...
It comes with two layers of side impact protection and a Click & Safe Snug Harness Indicator to help you get the harness to the proper tightness.
To add to its safety amenities, the seat has an energy-absorbing shell and a foam-lined headrest.
The frame is reinforced with steel for stabilizing impact in the case of an accident and is most secure right where it’s fastened in your vehicle.
Safety: (4.9 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.3 / 5)Durability: (4.7 / 5)Pricing: (4.2 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
Installation is super easy with this seat because it’s equipped with ClickTight technology.
It’s also reclinable, so you’re able to keep a rear-facing baby at the safest angle and your front-facing child can be comfortable too.
There are seven different recline positions in total.
To adjust the harness, this seat doesn’t require rethreading. It easily adjusts as you adjust the seat’s headrest. This particular seat has 14 different positions as well as two belt positions for maximum comfort
If you’re worried about messes, no need. The seat’s pad is removable and can be run through the washing machine.
Pros
- Removable Seat Pad for Easy Washing
- 14 Different Height Positions and 7 Different Reclines
- Easy to Install
- Places a Big Focus on Safety
Cons
- Fabric Isn’t Super Soft or Squishy
7.Britax Marathon Clicktight – Easy Install Convertible Car Seat
The Clicktight technology makes this car seat super easy to install. In addition, this seat comes with plenty of safety features to ensure the utmost protection while on car rides.
- Easy installation: Patented ClickTight makes car seat installation as simple as buckling a seat belt
- No rethreading, ever: 14 position harness, 2 position buckle for a comfortable fit as your child...
- Relax and Recline: 7 recline positions ensure comfort and the best vehicle installation angle
The Britax Marathon Clicktight comes with a deep energy-absorbing shell that offers side-impact protection.
The base is made of Safecell technology to reduce the force of a collision.
It also comes equipped with an impact-stabilizing steel frame with the most support at the base where it attaches to your vehicle.
Their patented V-shaped tether minimizes seat rotation when in an accident by further reducing the impact of a crash.
Safety: (4.1 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.8 / 5)Durability: (4.5 / 5)Pricing: (4.3 / 5)Average: (4.4 / 5)
This seat is super simple to install and comes with built-in lock-offs and a push-button LATCH release.
The seat comes with three recline positions and a quick adjust harness that has 10 different height positions.
Once your child has grown out of the infant position, the infant pillow insert can be removed for optimal comfort.
The Britax Marathon Clicktight accommodates rear-facing children from 5 to 40 pounds and forward-facing at 20 to 65 pounds.
It comes with a one year warranty and should last up to seven years.
Pros
- One Year Warranty
- Easy to Install
- Special V-Shaped Tether Adds to Safety
Cons
- Not an All-in-One Option
- Crotch Area May Be Tight
- Clicktight System Can Easily Be Used Incorrectly
8.Peg Perego Primo Viaggio – Easiest Seat To Install
If you’re all about the imported goods, check out this Italian based car seat option. This seat can be used either rear or forward-facing and accommodates children up to 65 pounds.
- Made In Italy. Reversible-can be used rear facing for children 5 to 45 pound and forward facing for...
- Side impact protection protects child's head, neck and spine, easily adjusts to 10 different...
- Energy-absorbing foam, EPS throughout the seat protects child's head and torso from impact forces, a...
This seat is unique because its side-impact protection is also adjustable.
The seat is made of high-quality materials and offers extra safety features including both shock-absorbing foams as well as Polystyrene energy-absorbing foam.
We like Peg Perego Primo because it comes in seven different colors and has a sleek and chic design.
The back of the seat has a contoured steel backplate to minimize flexing and reduce forward movement.
Safety: (4.2 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.5 / 5)Durability: (4.7 / 5)Pricing: 
(3.9 / 5)Average: (4.3 / 5)
It also has a contoured base to provide extra stability in both rear and forward-facing positions.
The head panel along with the removable seat cushion are made out of breathable fabric that absorbs moisture. This will help keep your child cool and comfortable even on hot days.
The wide padded seat also includes a special infant insert to keep your newborn snug and safe at all times.
This seat is aircraft certified as well.
Pros
- Breathable Fabric
- Has Several Added Safety Features
- Encourages Extended Rear-Facing
- Seat Cushion is Machine-Washable
Cons
- Not Made in the USA
- The Seat is Taller Than Other Car Seats
9.Evenflo Symphony Elite All-in-One – Most Color Variety
Evenflo Symphony Elite is an all-in-one car seat so it’s definitely a one-and-done option. It can accommodate babies from infancy up until they reach 110 pounds.
These seats are also made in the United States so if you like to buy American, this is a good one for you.
This seat can rear-face up to 40 pounds, forward-face between 22-65 pounds, and be used as a booster between 40-110 pounds.
To install, this seat uses SureLATCH which clicks and pushes into place once installed. It’s also equipped with a foam liner around the head and neck area for added protection.
It has also been through several different safety tests on top of the regular federal standards.
Safety: (4.6 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.9 / 5)Durability: (4.8 / 5)Pricing: (4.9 / 5)Average: (4.8 / 5)
These tests include side-impact testing, aircraft certification, temperature testing, as well as Canadian safety standards.
The seat’s pad can be removed and put through the washing machine and the rest of the seat can be wiped clean with mild soap and warm water.
The car seat’s cup holder is expandable as well so you don’t need to worry about their water bottle not fitting.
The Symphony Elite is available in eight different color options.
Pros
- Plenty of Colors to Choose From
- Expandable Cup Holder
- Easy to Clean
- Exceeds Safety Standards
- All-In-One Option
Cons
- Harness Straps Have Been Known to Tear After a Few Years
10.Disney Baby Apt 50 – Lightest Convertible Seat On The Market
If you’re looking for a budget convertible car seat, this Disney Baby one is a good one to consider.
It comes in five different Disney themed designs which add the fun if you’re big Disney fans.
- Extended use lets kids ride longer: Rear facing 5 40 pounds and Forward facing 22 50 pounds
- Side Impact Protection
- Seat pad is machine washable and dryer safe
This seat encourages extended rear-facing and can accommodate rear-facing babies between 5 and 40 pounds.
It can also be flipped around into forward facing for children between 22 and 50 pounds.
This seat is side-impact tested and protected and uses a 5-point harness with up-front adjustment as well.
Safety: 
(3.8 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.8 / 5)Durability: (3.9 / 5)Pricing: 
(5.0 / 5)Average: (4.4 / 5)
There are six harness heights total and three different buckle locations too.
The seat’s pad is machine washable and dryer safe which makes this one really convenient.
These are perfect for air travel as they’re super lightweight and are aircraft approved. Disney Baby car seats are made by the Cosco brand. They’re completely American made as well.
Pros
- Fun Design
- Super Lightweight
- The Seat Pad is Machine Washable and Dryer Safe
- Encourages Extended Rear-Facing
Cons
- Not The Safest Option on Our List.
- Harness Straps Have Loosened on Their Own
11. Evenflo Triumph LX – Super Budget-Friendly
Evenflo boasts optimal safety and comfort with this car seat. It comes equipped with Comfort tech padding, which is three layers of soft cushion.
- This Convertible Car Seat helps protect rear facing infants from 5-40 pounds and forward facing...
- Evenflo's proprietary e3 Side Impact Protection significantly reduces side impact crash forces up to...
- Quick Connector Latch System allows you to quickly and safely move this convertible car seat around...
Evenflo Triumph LX also has an easily slidable harness to help give an accurate fit with every ride.
It comes equipped with a quick connector latch system that allows you to quickly and safely transport the seat to and from different vehicles.
This seat is unique because it comes with side knobs on the bottom to tighten the harness. This makes buckling and tightening super easy as you can do so with one hand.
Safety: (4.2 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.8 / 5)Durability: (4.7 / 5)Pricing: (4.3 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
It also has an up-front adjustment if you want to change the recline position of the car seat. If you are looking for the best convertible car seat for tall babies then look no further then Evenflo Triumph LX!
It also comes with two cup holders to help fulfill all of your child’s drinking and snacking needs.
The headrest is adjustable and the pillow it comes with is also removable once your child doesn’t need it anymore.
The walls of the seat are deep and have been side impact tested. Your child can rear-face in this seat from 5 to 40 pounds and forward face from 22 to 65 pounds.
These are also certified for aircraft use so you don’t need to worry about purchasing another seat for traveling.
Pros
- Unique Harness Tightener Makes Getting Baby in Easier
- Reclinable Seat
- Easy to Install and Uninstall
- Aircraft Certified
Cons
- The Seat May Be Hard to Angle When Installing
- Harness Adjusters May Be Hard to Turn
12.Safety 1st Grow & Go – Best Convertible Car Seat With Cup Holder
Another all-in-one option on our list is this Grow & Go seat by Safety 1st. It allows extended rear-facing from 5 to 40 pounds.
- Built to grow with your child, this Safety 1st car seat supports infants from 5 pounds to toddlers...
- An adjustable 3 position recline makes it easy to get a good fit for the seat in your car ,...
- Harness holders keep the harness open, making it easier to get into and out of the seat; Front seat...
Forward-facing from 22 to 65 pounds, and belt-positioning booster mode from 40 to 100 pounds.
The convenient thing about this seat is that it doesn’t take up too much room when it’s rear facing as other car seats do.
The company boasts that parents will have an extra 7 inches of leg space when this is used in rear-facing mode.
This seat comes with special Air Protect technology in the headrest area that offers added protection to the most vulnerable part of the body.
Safety: (5.0 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (5.0 / 5)Durability: (4.4 / 5)Pricing: (4.3 / 5)Average: (4.7 / 5)
The seat also has a quick fit harness and comes with harness holders to keep straps out of the way when getting in and out of the seat.
The Quickfit harness is nice because it allows you to adjust the height of both the headrest and harness with one hand.
The seat’s cover is machine-washable and dryer safe and it can be detached and reattached via the snap buttons it comes with.
These buttons make taking off and putting back on much easier and less of a hassle.
Pros
- Grows With Your Child
- Added Air Protect Technology
- Lots of Padding for a More Comfortable Ride
- Easy to Remove the Cover to Clean It
- Doesn’t Take Much Space
- Grows With Your Child
Cons
- Your Baby May Get Warm if They’re Prone to Sweating
13.Safety 1st Guide 65 – Super Compact
If you need something compact, this is definitely one to consider. Guide 65 is designed to be compact and space-saving for smaller cars.
- Perfect for smaller cars or for extra space in your larger vehicle, this LATCH equipped Safety 1st...
- Adjust the 5 point harness from the front of the seat
- Side impact protection built into this infant car seat keeps your little one extra secure
This seat is really nice because you can fit three across in most vehicles.
This seat can be used both rear and forward facing. It will accommodate a rear-facing child up to 40 pounds and forward-facing between 22 and 65 pounds.
The seat offers side impact protection in both modes and comfortable fabric to ensure your child feels good while in the car.
Safety: (4.5 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.8 / 5)Durability: (4.3 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
The seat uses a 5-point harness with up-front adjustment, five different harness heights, and three different buckle locations.
It also uses EPP energy-absorbing foam, multi-adjustable head support, and lumbar pillows too. On top of that, it also has anti-rebound bolsters too.
These seats are made in the USA with premium fabrics and removable inserts. The seat pad is hand washable and this seat is also certified for air travel as well.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Certified For Air Travel
- Can Fit Three Across
- Compact Design is Great for Small Vehicles
Cons
- Difficult to Initially Install
14.Safety 1st Alpha Omega Elite – Moveable Armrests For Added Comfort
This all-in-one seat will have your child feeling like royalty as they ride in this seat. This is an extended-use car seat that can be used front infancy up to 100 pounds.
- Designed to be a constant travel companion as your child grows, this Safety 1st car seat supports 5...
- Easily adjust the height from the front of this LATCH-equipped seat in one easy step with the...
- Keep your little one extra secure with this seat's built-in side-impact protection
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The seats rear-facing ability caps out at 35 pounds and forward-faces from 22 to 50 pounds.
The belt-positioning booster can be used on children who are between 40 and 100 pounds.
The seat comes with moveable armrests for added comfort and is sure to make your child feel like a total boss.
Safety: (4.6 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.3 / 5)Durability: (4.8 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.6 / 5)
In terms of safety, this car seat is side-impact tested and protected and has a Quick fit harness system to adjust the harness height from the front super easily.
This seat comes with three reclining positions and uses a 5-point harness with up-front adjustment.
This seat is also LATCH equipped for easier installation and added safety.
The cup holder is removable for easy washing and added convenience.
Pros
- Strong and Durable
- Easy to Install
- Makes the Child Feel Like a Grown Up
- Extended-Use Seat
- Moveable Armrests
Cons
- A Bit on the Heavier Side
- Not the Best Infant Seat
15.CYBEX Sirona M SensorSafe 2.0 – Special SensorSafe Technology
If you want a car seat with a futuristic design, consider this CYBEX seat. This seat can accommodate children up to 65 pounds.
- 2018 Best of Baby Tech Award Winner for Baby Safety
- 2018 Best Convertible Car Seat - the BUMP Best of Baby Awards
- 2018 "Best in Show" - JPMA Innovation Awards
The seat’s rear-facing ability is to be used up until your child hits 40 pounds and then they can be switched to forward-facing
The seat also comes with unique SensorSafe technology that you can access right from your phone.
SensorSafe is a monitor that can help keep track of your child’s wellbeing while you’re driving.
Safety: (5.0 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.5 / 5)Durability: (4.5 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.6 / 5)
It’s integrated right into the chest clip and will send an alert to either your phone or vehicle when an issue arises.
This can really come in handy if you have a chronically ill child or to give you a reminder that you left your child in the car.
The seat comes with adjustable linear side impact protection and has an adjustable headrest that has 12 different height positions.
The harness doesn’t need rethreading either because it’s integrated with the headrest to adjust together.
The seat has a removable newborn inlay so once your child grows out of that you can easily take it out.
Pros
- Futuristic Design
- Sensor-Safe Technology Gives Peace of Mind
- Removable Newborn Inlay
- Encourages Extended Rear Facing
- Adjustable Headrest and Non-Rethreading Harness
Cons
- Magnetic Strap Feature Isn’t Always Noticeable
- The Phone App is a Bit Flawed. Relies on Phone Proximity.
16.Evenflo Sonus – Comes With Air Ventilation
This is another budget convertible car seat to consider. It offers a compact design for a compact price as well. This seat can fit three across in most standard vehicles.
- Zip-off padding is soft and machine washable for comfort and convenience
- Remarkably easy installation with a 9-position ReclineSure leveling system, SuperCinch LATCH...
- Superior DuoGuard protection with a deep rigid shell and EPS energy-absorbing foam, plus a...
This seat can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing modes. You have the ability to rear face with this one up to 40 pounds and forward-face up to 50 pounds.
It comes with a wider seat base to fit a wider range of children as well.
It has up-front harness adjustment to get an accurate and snug fit.
Safety: (4.7 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.5 / 5)Durability: (4.6 / 5)Pricing: (5.0 / 5)Average: (4.7 / 5)
The cool thing about this seat is that it comes with air vents. This will provide constant airflow to your child to keep them comfy and prevent them from overheating on long rides.
It has five different shoulder strap positions to ensure that the seat grows with your child and the seat has been rollover tested for added safety.
This seat is also approved for aircraft travel too.
Pros
- Super Compact Design Fits Three Across
- Has an Air Ventilation System
- Approved for Air Travel
- Lightweight Design
- Affordable Car Seat
Cons
- Crotch Buckle Might Pinch. There Isn’t Any Padding
- The Seat is Long When Rear Facing
17.Evenflo SureRide DLX – Super Comfortable
Comfort is key when it comes to a successful car ride.
- 2 Seats in 1: Two Modes of Harness use - Rear-Facing and Forward-Facing
- e3 Expanded Zone of Protection: 3 layers of energy-absorbing foam provide superior protection and...
- Up-Front Harness Adjust: Central, front access to harness adjuster provides an easy way to adjust...
This is a really good option to consider if comfort is high on your must-have list. It’s made of premium soft fabric that is machine-washable as well.
The seat can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing mode.
This is good if you want something that will last a while. It has six harness adjustment ranges which also helps for growing with your child.
Safety: (4.4 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.5 / 5)Durability: (4.6 / 5)Pricing: (4.3 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
This car seat can be used in rear-facing mode until your child reaches 40 pounds and up to 40 inches tall.
You can then change to forward-facing mode until 65 pounds and roughly 54 inches.
The cupholder folds down as well so you can make more space for passengers if needed.
The seat is side-impact tested and its structural integrity has been tested on energy levels 2 times the federal standards.
It’s also gone through Evenflo-specific temperature testing and is approved for air travel as well.
Pros
- Encourages Extended Rear-Facing
- Air Travel Approved
- Super Comfortable
- Slim Design
- Easy to Install
Cons
- Can Be Hard to Adjust After Awhile
18.Maxi-Cosi Vello 65 – Built For Safety
One of our favorite things about Maxi-Cosi car seats is the brand’s dedication to making safe car seats.
- With added safety features for peace of mind, this comfy, LATCH-equipped Maxi Cosi car seat...
- The five-point harness adjusts easily from the front of the seat and includes One-Hand Harness...
- Built for safety, this seat includes the innovative FlexTech system for multi-directional energy...
This seat, in particular, is equipped with an innovative FlexTech system which gives multi-directional energy management along with side-impact protection.
It uses a five-point harness and is LATCH equipped as well so you know your child will be safe and secure.
This Maxi-Cosi seat can be both rear and forward-faced. Its rear-facing ability can be used for children up to 40 pounds and then forward-facing from 22-65 pounds.
Safety: (5.0 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.3 / 5)Durability: (4.9 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.7 / 5)
It meets or exceeds all federal, ASTM, and JPMA safety standards and also comes with a one-year limited warranty.
The seat comes with a bonus accessory pack that has a soft touch cup holder and a dual-compartment container perfect for snacks.
It’s also super easy to clean with its removable seat pad that is both machine-washable and dryer-safe.
Pros
- Comes With Snack and Cup Holders
- FlexTech System for Added Safety
- Encourages Extended Rear-Facing
- Super Comfortable
Cons
- Bulkier Than Other Seats
19. Safety 1st Complete Air 65 – Premium Side-Impact Protection
If you’re looking for something that can grow with your child and is still budget-friendly, this may be one to consider.
- 2-IN-1 CONVERTIBLE CAR SEAT – With two modes of use, this seat grows with you child. Use it as a...
- SUPERIOR SIDE IMPACT PROTECTION – Designed by car seat safety experts, the patented Air Protect...
- A CUSTOM FIT AS THEY GROW – A 5-point harness with up front adjustment combined with multiple...
This 2-in-1 car seat can be used in rear-facing mode until your child reaches 40 pounds and forward-facing mode until they reach 65 pounds.
It’s designed by car seat safety experts, so you know you’re getting a quality seat with this brand.
Not to mention they’re fairly inexpensive too.
Safety: (5.0 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.8 / 5)Durability: (5.0 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.8 / 5)
This seat comes with the patented Air Protect advanced cushioning system to ensure your child has proper protection at the head and neck.
This type of side-impact protection is far superior to others.
The five-point harness has an upfront harness adjuster and the seat has several different height and buckle options so your child is sure to have a snug and comfortable fit while riding in it.
The harness is a Quickfit harness which means the harness adjusts automatically when you adjust the headrest.
This seat comes equipped with LATCH technology as well to make installation super quick and easy.
Pros
- Can Withstand a Car Accident
- Patented Head Protection
- Easy to Clean
- Easy to Install
Cons
- Rear-Facing Mode May Sit Awkwardly
20.Safety 1st Continuum 3-in-1 – All-in-One Seat
If you’re into one-and-done shopping, consider this convertible seat. It can be used rear-facing, forward-facing, or as a belt-positioning booster.
- Extended Use 3-in-1 Car Seat: Rear-facing 5-40 pounds, Forward-facing harness 22-50 pounds, and...
- Side Impact Protection
- Harness holders: with the harness held back, it's easy to get your child in and out of the seat
With this seat, your child can rear-face up to 40 pounds, forward-face up to 50 pounds, and use booster mode up to 80 pounds.
The seat meets or exceeds all federal, ASTM, and JPMA safety standards and comes with side-impact protection.
It comes with convenient harness holders to keep the straps out of the way when getting your child in and out of the seat.
Safety: (4.5 / 5)Ease of Cleaning: (4.3 / 5)Durability: (4.7 / 5)Pricing: (4.5 / 5)Average: (4.5 / 5)
The seat pad is removable and can be thrown in both the washing machine and the dryer. The cupholder is also removable and dishwasher-safe too.
This seat is equipped with a Quickfit harness, so you don’t need to worry about rethreading the harness straps.
They’ll automatically adjust as you adjust the seat’s headrest.
It has three different recline positions to safely fit the back seat and keep your child more comfortable too.
Pros
- Comfortable
- One-Stop-Shop
- Removable Cupholder
- Different Recline Positions Ensure Proper Fit
Cons
- Hard to Install
Buyer’s Guide
Now that you have some general information on convertible car seats, it’s almost time to shop.
Before we set you free to roam, there are a few key features we want you to look out for when choosing the best convertible car seat for your child.
Practically every brand is going to boast this comfort feature and that safety add-on, but how do you know which ones are actually legitimate? Consider these features when making your decision.
Safety
Most car seat brands take safety very seriously when they design their car seats. After all, the whole point of child safety seats is to keep kids safe during car rides.
Lots of brands are going to boast that their seats are the safest, and they may even have their own added safety features.
Before choosing a convertible car seat for your child, check out all of their safety features. Make sure they come with adequate side-impact protection and the harness feels secure.
A good indicator that the car seat is safe is if it has LATCH technology, so be on the lookout for that too.
Ease of Cleaning
How easy the seat is to clean should also play a major role in your decision.
You can choose the safest, most durable car seat on the market but if it’s a major hassle to clean, you’re just going to be frustrated.
A lot of car seats come with removable pads and covers that are machine-washable.
This is great for convenience but keep in mind that just because it can go in the washing machine, doesn’t mean it’s dryer-safe.
If convenience is what you want, try finding a car seat that can be thrown in the dryer rather than hang drying. This will really come in handy if you’re constantly on the go.
You may also find that some car seats come with detachable cupholders as well. They’re usually dishwasher safe for more added convenience.
Durability
God forbid you ever get into an accident, but it does happen. Finding a durable car seat is going to ensure your child is as safe as possible in case this were to happen.
Many car seats are made with steel or other metal frames to guarantee durability.
Pricing
We know how expensive raising kids can be and car seats certainly don’t help on that front.
It can be difficult choosing a seat, especially when the prices range from as low as $50 to as high as $400.
Contrary to what you may think, expensive car seats aren’t always the best. You can get a great quality seat without having to take out a small loan.
The key is in the features. Price is important, but it should be the last thing you look at before making a decision.
You may even find that some of the higher end car seats have the exact same features as more budget-friendly options.
Ability to Grow
When shopping for a convertible car seat, take note of the weight limit it goes up to. You’ll find that most convertible car seats can hold as little as 5 pounds up to at least 65 pounds.
If you’re all about practicality like most parents are, some convertible car seats can hold up to 120 pounds.
This is super convenient if you only want to make a one and done purchase.
Some seats may also come with extendable footrests and adjustable headrests too. These are a good feature to accommodate taller children.
Comfort level
Another major thing to keep in mind is how comfortable the car seat is. Safety features and the convenience factor are important for the sake of parents, but these mean nothing if your child hates their seat.
Consider finding a seat that comes with memory foam padding or another body shaping cushion.
Not only are these more comfortable, but an ergonomic design will be much more supportive.
In addition to that, the extra padding also adds to the safety effectiveness of a particular seat. No bubble wrap required.
Size/Bulkiness
This one is mainly for the parents. The size and bulkiness of a car seat can prove to be inconvenient in the installation process if it’s a bigger, wider seat.
It can also prove to be disappointing if you’re a family of multiples and need to fit three across in the back seat.
When shopping around, take note of the weight and dimensions. If you aren’t good with technical stuff, you can always do a quick search to see if the company promises the ability to fit three across.
If you still aren’t sure, it wouldn’t hurt to call the manufacturer and ask.
Extra Features
Another thing to consider is what all the car seat comes with. Are there cupholders? Does it come with a snack compartment?
What about harness holders? All of these things will add to the convenience factor of convertible car seats.
Cupholders
With cup holders especially, keep in mind where they are on the car seat. Some protrude out of the side and that can be inconvenient if the backseat of your car is narrow.
This can make shutting the car door difficult.
If this is the case, check out if the cupholder is removable. In many cases, it will be but it’s worth making sure before buying and being disappointed.
Snack Compartments
Other car seats may also come with a snack compartment. These are basically cupholders but have a split down the middle to conveniently hold snacks.
While it isn’t recommended to let your children eat in the car, nobody is perfect. As long as you drive responsibly and act quickly when you suspect your child is having issues, you shouldn’t have a problem.
Harness Holders
Most convertible car seats will come with harness holders. These are a convenience item that will help make getting your child in and out of their car seat much easier.
Harness holders are located on the sides of the car seat near the top and are meant to hold the straps out of the way.
These prevent the inconvenience of having to reach under your child to yank the straps free in case they sit on them. It also helps prevent the clips from getting snagged on your child’s clothing.
Harness Pads
The harness can get really uncomfortable, especially if your child is wearing a shirt that doesn’t cover their entire chest.
To help with this, see if a seat comes with harness pads for the straps. Not only will this help with comfort, but it can also help reduce bruising if you get into an accident.
If a seat comes with harness pads, they’re regulated and considered safe.
It’s important not to buy any extra pads or accessories that didn’t come with the seat. Unregulated products can cause suffocation and other concerns.
Unregulated harness pads can actually cause your child to slip out of their seat in a crash, which will cause more injury than necessary.
Amazon’s Top Selling Convertible Car Seat
- Dual comfort breathable and moisture wicking fabrics provide your child the comfort they deserve by...
- Spacious design with deep side walls for full head, torso, and pelvic side impact protection
- 2 layers of side impact protection, formed by a deep foam lined shell and quick adjust head...
- Built to Grow: The 3 in 1 Car Seat Built to Grow for Extended Use Through 3 Stages: Rear Facing 5 40...
- Side Impact Protection: The Grow and Gos Side Impact Protection Helps Keep Your Child Safe
- Easy In, Easy Out: Harness Holders Keep the Harness in an Open Position So Its Easy to Get Your...
- Three seats in one: 5 Point harnessed car seat, high back belt positioning booster seat and backless...
- Converts from 5 Point harnessed car seat (22 to 65 pounds) to highback belt positioning booster (30...
- Simply Safe Adjust Harness System adjusts the height of Your harness and headrest, in one motion, to...
Added Safety
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, added safety features should always be taken into consideration.
Some companies have patented technology that they use to exceed federal and other safety standards.
First and foremost, all car seats should offer side-impact protection. This is what protects your baby’s head and neck in the event of an accident. They’ll also come with LATCH technology to help keep the seat more secure.
In addition to that, manufacturers may design their car seats with these extra safety features:
- Multi-Recline: Depending on the weight restrictions, a convertible car seat should come with a certain number of recline positions. Infants obviously need to be on a less-upright angle than a booster kid, so this is a major safety feature to look out for.
- Breathable Fabric: Not only will breathable fabric make your child more comfortable, but it will also keep them from overheating on warm days too.
- Lateral Headrests: All convertible car seats will come with some form of lateral headrests. However, the larger they are, the more protection they provide. These are going to help keep your child’s head from being thrust to the side in an accident.
- Removable Pillow: Infants need extra support in the car. If you plan on doing a one and done shopping trip, make sure the seat you choose comes with proper infant support.
- Head Impact Protection: Some manufacturers have extra technology incorporated into the headrest to add more protection to the head and neck. This is certainly worth looking for if you want to ensure you’re getting the safest seat possible.
- EPS Foam: EPS stands for Expanded Polystyrene. This foam is rigid, closed-celled, and tough (source). Check and see if the car seat uses EPS foam in the base because this foam really helps with shock absorption.
Recent Recalls
Last but not least, take note of any recent recalls of a car seat or a car seat manufacturer. This is essential in ensuring absolute safety for your child.
If a seat has been recalled recently, this doesn’t necessarily mean it should be out of the running though.
In those cases, take some time to find out why it was recalled and how the situation was handled. How recent is the recall? Was it a faulty part? Did the manufacturer fix the issue?
Take a minute to see how the manufacturer responded to the situation. Were they quick about catching the problem?
Did they offer free replacements? How did they help concerned parents? A manufacturer’s demeanor in these situations can tell you a lot about a company as well.
These questions will help you make an informed decision.
What Are Convertible Car Seats?
One of the main points of a convertible car seat is to grow with your child.
These seats are considered convertible because they can convert one of three ways: infant seat-convertible car seat, infant seat-booster seat, and convertible car seat-booster seat.
In hindsight, you could purchase a convertible car seat and bypass the idea of the infant carrier altogether.
Benefits of Convertible Car Seats
These car seats are required for any type of car travel with older babies and toddlers. But what people don’t know is that convertible car seats offer so many other benefits besides your child’s general safety.
They’re the Only Seat You’ll Need to Buy!
Because these seats have the ability to grow with your child, they’re potentially the only seat you’ll ever need to buy.
Convertible car seats come with both rear-facing and forward-facing abilities and typically can hold as little as 5 pounds.
This means you can bypass an infant carrier and only spend money on one seat for the duration of your child’s car seat days.
The only downside to this is that convertible car seats are bulkier and they need to stay in the car. You won’t be able to carry your infant around in them.
Added Comfort Features
We’ve found that convertible car seats also tend to be comfier and have more padding than infant carriers.
This really comes in handy to prevent unnecessary meltdowns when your baby can’t get comfy.
Most convertible car seats have memory foam padding or other body forming material. These comfort features can also provide extra safety as well.
For example, Maxi-Cosi convertible car seats come equipped with special air technology in the headrest to provide extra support to the head and neck.
This not only gives extra safety in a crash, but it gives your child extra comfort where it’s most needed.
Convertible Seats Are Safer
A recent study done by Consumer Reports found that the longer shells and the shape of convertible car seats provided more protection to an infant than infant carriers
Their test comprised of 30 different infant carriers and 25 different convertible car seats.
16 of the 30 infant carriers they tested showed the dummy suffering a head blow to the back headrest. This is opposed to only one of the 25 convertible car seat tests showing the same results.
We aren’t saying that infant carriers aren’t safe, because they absolutely are. But what if you have a tall baby?
Most infant seats only have weight restrictions so you can only go off of whether or not your child’s head surpasses the back of their carrier.
LATCH Technology
If you’ve already started your hunt for a convertible car seat, you’ve probably seen the terms “LATCH system” and “LATCH technology” being bounced around.
It’s marketed as an easier way to install car seats, but more than that it’s safer too.
What is LATCH and Why is it Important?
LATCH, or Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, was originally developed to make installing your child’s car seat safer and easier.
It doesn’t require the use of the car’s seatbelt as it uses anchors in your car to keep the seat in place.
It includes built-in straps and hooks on the safety seat that you hook to anchors provided in your car.
Is My Car LATCH Compatible?
LATCH technology can be found in all cars and car seats manufactured after Sept. 1, 2002.
Where is the LATCH Equipment?
If your car is LATCH compatible, you will find two LATCH anchors on the rear of your back seat. These can be found right where the rear of the seat meets the back cushion.
You will also find a top tether strap either on the rear shelf in your car or right behind the seat if you have an SUV.
Some points can also be found on the ceiling, floor, or underneath the seat.
The LATCH equipment on your child’s car seat can be found in two spots as well. The lower anchors will have two straps and are located at the base of the seat. The top tether comes right from the top of the seat.
How to Install LATCH?
You can always find detailed instructions on how to install the seat’s LATCH system in the instruction manual, but here is a quick rundown.
- Attach the hooks from the base of the car seat onto their own lower anchor on the car’s back seat.
- Tighten and adjust the straps, push down, and push back on the seat in order to get a secure hold.
- Hook the top tether to the corresponding spot in your car.
- Do a final check. You shouldn’t be able to move the seat left or right more than an inch
How To Properly Install a Convertible Car Seat?
If you plan on purchasing a convertible car seat, it’s important to know how to properly install it.
When installed properly, car seats can reduce the chance of death in infants under one-year-old by 70 percent and toddlers aged one to four by 54 percent (source).
There are a few different ways you can install a car seat depending on what it comes with.
Most car seats will come with belt paths that you can feed your car’s seatbelt through and buckle on the other side.
They may also come with the LATCH system in which you use hooks and anchors to secure it to your car.
It’s important to note that not all cars are LATCH compatible so using your car’s seatbelt completely safe.
If you still aren’t sure about whether or not you have a properly installed car seat, you can always go to your nearest inspection station.
At these stations, you’ll have a certified car seat technician check your car seat to make sure it’s installed properly.
Helpful Words to Know When Shopping
During your shopping experience and as you read our reviews, you’ll probably come across a few unfamiliar terms especially if you’re a first-time parent.
Use this glossary as a reference if there is anything you aren’t sure the meaning of and how it applies to certain car seats.
LATCH System
It is an acronym that stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. LATCH is used for rear and forward facing seat positions. It typically isn’t used for boosters. LATCH equipped seats will come with two lower anchors and one top tether. This helps make the car seat extra secure (source).
Belt Path
The belt path refers to the opening where the car’s seat belt should be fed through and buckled. Depending on whether you’re rear or front-facing, the seat will have a separate belt path.
Anchors
Anchors refer to the two straps on the lower part of the car seat. These hook to the anchors in your car’s back seat. Not all cars will have anchor capability. These are to be used in place of your vehicles regular seat belt.
Tether
The tether is located at the top of your child’s convertible car seat. It looks like a strap with a hook at the end. This will be hooked to the back of your car’s back seat.
Seat hooks are usually located right behind the back seat’s headrest. These tethers are typically used while forward-facing and should be used in addition to your vehicle’s seat belt.
Recalls
Just like when food or baby toys get recalled, car seats can too. It’s important to know this so be sure to register your car seat when you buy it so you’ll be informed.
Registration
When you buy a car seat, it should come with a registration card. This is something that you mail to the company (postage is free) so you’ll know when any important information about the seat is released.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best convertible car seat brands?
There isn’t really one “best” brand when it comes to convertible car seats. Our favorites are Maxi-Cosi, Safety 1st, and Evenflo. Each has their own reasons for being a favorite.
What is the best convertible car seat(safest)?
The Britax Marathon Clicktight Convertible Car Seat is the safest convertible car seat.
What is the most affordable convertible car seat?
The Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat is the most affordable convertible
What is next after convertible car seats?
After your child grows out of a convertible car seat, they may need a booster seat still. There are a few different types of booster seats: backless, high-back, harness, and belt-positioning. Most booster seats will be belt-positioning boosters, but the design will vary.
Your child will typically graduate to a booster seat once they reach four-years-old or they’re at least 4 feet and 9 inches tall.
Does more expensive mean a safer seat?
Not always. While higher end seats may boast added safety features, many budget-friendly brands have similar or even the same type of technology incorporated into their seats. A car seat’s price is important, but it should be the last thing you consider when choosing a seat for your child.
Should I buy the car seat before the baby is born?
Yes! It’s better to be prepared with the car seat already installed than frantically trying to get it ready when the baby is born. The first few days of parenthood are a blur and the hospital won’t let you leave without a properly installed car seat anyways.
What If The Convertible Car Seat Won’t Fit in my car?
Chances are this won’t be the case. Car seats are designed to fit in virtually any back seat. While it may require some adjusting of the front seats depending on size, your convertible car seat should fit.
What if my child’s legs are squished when doing extended rear-facing?
Most car seats are actually made with a specific design to give the child more leg room while rear-facing. With guidelines changing to keeping kids rear-facing until at least age 2, car seat manufacturers are constantly upgrading their products to accommodate.
How do I know how safe a certain seat is?
All car seats have to undergo testing before they’re allowed to be sold on the market. When you’re shopping, the safety standards of any particular seat are typically easy to find. Some car seat manufacturers actually put their seats through additional tests to ensure it’s completely safe for babies and small children.
What does NHTSA Ease of Use mean?
This is a rating system done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to determine how easy the seat is based on four evaluations. These are evaluation of instructions, evaluation on labels, vehicle installation features, and securing the child.
What are the weight and height limits for rear, forward, and booster mode?
These will vary depending on the seat, so be sure to take note of what the manufacturer recommends. However, a good rule of thumb is rear-facing until age 2, forward-facing until at least age 5, and booster seat from age 5 until the seat belt can sit correctly across your child’s body.
Which Convertible Car Seat To Choose?
We went over a pretty hefty amount of information here for you but we hope that it was helpful in some way.
Buying a car seat takes a lot of deliberation and can quite possibly be one of the most stressful decisions parents have to make.
How are you supposed to choose the safest seat for your baby when there are so many to choose from?
Our favorite is the Chicco NextFit Zip convertible car seat. We like this one for its different color options available as well as its number of safety features. The detachable and dishwasher-safe cup holder is also a plus.
So what are your thoughts on convertible car seats? Will you be bypassing the infant carrier? Which one of these convertible seats is your favorite? Let us know! You might want to check our character car seats post as well.
Last update on 2020-04-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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