In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

Chicco KeyFit 35 Review

Not much to dislike in this higher-performing seat, with above-average results in all metrics and high stroller compatibility
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Chicco KeyFit 35 Review
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Price:  $270 List
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Manufacturer:   Chicco
By Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz  ⋅  Oct 20, 2023
75
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#2 of 14
  • Crash Test - 40% 7.6
  • Ease of Install - LATCH - 20% 7.0
  • Ease of Install - Belt - 10% 7.0
  • Ease of Install - w/o Base - 5% 6.8
  • Ease of Use - 15% 8.5
  • Comfort/Quality - 5% 7.5
  • Weight/Size - 5% 6.9

Our Verdict

The Chicco Keyfit 35 has long been a BabyGearLab favorite infant car seat, and this update is no different. While it dropped in ranking this go around, it is still a tester favorite. It brings a lot to the table with a higher overall score and pairs with some of the best stroller with the purchase of adapters. This seat is easy to use and offers nice comfort and quality for the price. It is easy to install in most methods, and the crash test analysis is slightly above the average for the group. While there are higher ranking seats in the review, and some with better crash test results, we like that this Chicco seat is easy to use, easy to find, and will likely work with whatever your chosen stroller might be.
REASONS TO BUY
Better performance across all metrics
Nice padding
Easy to buckle and tighten
REASONS TO AVOID
Non-rigid LATCH
Rougher headrest
Editor's Note: We purchased and tested 17 new infant car seats in this review update finalized on October 1, 2023. This update includes new crash testing and side-by-side comparisons. A follow-on update happened on the 20th to remove discontinued options from the competition.

Compare to Similar Products

 
chicco keyfit 35
This Product
Chicco KeyFit 35
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Car Seat with High Stroller Compatiblity
  Best Value Award
Best Crash Test on the Tightest Budget
 
Price $270 List
$229.99 at Amazon
$230 List
$208.65 at Amazon
$330 List$120 List
$83.99 at Amazon
$110 List
Overall Score Sort Icon
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Star Rating
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Bottom Line Great overall seat with high stroller compatibility and better than average results all aroundNot as comfy for little ones, but the crash test results are impressiveThe price is more than some better-scoring seats with higher crash test analysis scoresIf your budget is small, this seat has impressive crash test resultsHard to install and more challenging to use overshadows the better crash test analysis
Rating Categories Chicco KeyFit 35 Chicco KeyFit 30 Chicco Fit2 Graco SnugRide 35 L... Baby Trend EZ Flex-Loc
Crash Test (40%)
7.6
7.9
7.1
8.4
7.7
Ease of Install - LATCH (20%)
7.0
6.8
7.0
3.0
3.5
Ease of Install - Belt (10%)
7.0
6.8
6.8
3.5
2.5
Ease of Install - w/o Base (5%)
6.8
5.5
6.5
3.8
4.5
Ease of Use (15%)
8.5
8.0
9.0
5.5
3.5
Comfort/Quality (5%)
7.5
5.5
7.0
3.0
4.0
Weight/Size (5%)
6.9
7.2
5.8
8.5
7.9
Specs Chicco KeyFit 35 Chicco KeyFit 30 Chicco Fit2 Graco SnugRide 35 L... Baby Trend EZ Flex-Loc
Minimum Weight 4 lbs 4 lbs 4 lbs 4 lbs 4 lbs
Maximum Weight 35 lbs 30 lbs 35 lbs 35 lbs 30 lbs
Maximum Height 32 in 30 in 35 in 32 in 30 in
Measured Carrier-Only Weight 10.4 lb 9.8 lb 12.3 lb 7.6 lb 8.7 lb
Built in Lock Off Yes Yes Yes No No
Method To Adjust Harness Shoulder Height Non-rethread Rethread Non-rethread Rethread Rethread
Belt Routing Style European American European American American
Anti-rebound Bar Yes No Yes No No
Load Leg No No No No No
Shoulder Harness Positions 5 3 6 4 3
Crotch Strap Positions 1 1 2 2 1
Number of Recline Positions 6 5 6 4 4
Locking Handle Positions 3 3 3 4 4
Allowed Handle Positions For Auto Travel Any position Any position Stage 1: Any
Stage 2: Base Storage Position (behind the seat)
Any position Not listed
Level Indicator On Base Bubble, both sides Bubble, both sides Bubble, both sides needle, one side On Infant Seat, one side only
Level Indicator On Seat Line on Decal Line on Decal Line on Decal Line on Decal Hanging Indicator
Aircraft Certified Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Our Analysis and Test Results

As one of the biggest baby brands in Europe, Chicco (kee-ko) is a company that provides various types of gear. They make gear that includes items for feeding, traveling, some parents' favorite strollers, and more. Founded by Pietro Catelli, Chicco offers products for children ages pre-birth to preschool. You can find their products in over 120 countries across the globe.

Performance Comparison


This is the Chicco Keyfit 35 crash test video from MGA Research commissioned by BabyGearLab.
Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

Crash Testing


The Keyfit earned a crash test analysis result that is just above the average for the group. While all seats in this review should be considered safe and meet federal guidelines, we seek standout options that excel in crash tests with lower sensor test results (lower is better) than the average seat.

HIC sensor results for the Keyfit 35 vs. those of the Clek Liing...
HIC sensor results for the Keyfit 35 vs. those of the Clek Liing, one of the highest performers in our tests.
The chest sensor results for the Keyfit 35 vs. the Clek Liing.
The chest sensor results for the Keyfit 35 vs. the Clek Liing.

The Keyfit 35 has better chest sensor results than the average but a higher HIC score. While both scores are better than much of the competition, they weren't quite low enough to run with the big dogs in our tests for truly excellent performance. However, this seat did offer significantly better-than-average sensor data, which it should be proud of. When combined with the other metric scores, it is a Chicco we think most families will be happy with.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 is easy to install using the latch method.
The Keyfit 35 is easy to install using the LATCH method.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Installation LATCH


This installation method ties in with the ease of installation using the vehicle belt, with both of them offering straightforward installation and features to make the process easier, like a center pull strap. This seat does have an anti-rebound bar but does not have a load leg.

Tighten the base installation on the Keyfit 35 includes pulling a center strap while placing pressure on the base.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Installation of this base isn't hard, with ample straps and push-style connectors. The base has a single tightening strap, and while the anti-rebound bar creates some resistance to be fully tightened, we found a good knee in the base that helps snug everything in place with the center strap pull.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 anti-rebound bar creates some resistance when...
The Keyfit 35 anti-rebound bar creates some resistance when installing the base, so you'll need more pressure to get a snug fit.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Overall, it is pretty straightforward, and the only thing that might be easier is rigid LATCH connectors. The base is very stable, with almost no movement in the test sedan and the compact SUV we used for installation.

Removing the base starts with a single-finger pull on the center lever, releasing the straps and getting them loose enough to unhook from the vehicle anchor points. Then you press on the connectors like you would a seat belt to remove the connectors.

chicco keyfit 35 - the lever to level the keyfit 35 is in the center of the base which...
The lever to level the Keyfit 35 is in the center of the base which is a much better location than those against the vehicle seat that are inaccessible during installation.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Recline Adjustment


This base has a level angle adjustment with five positions located in the center of the base. It is one of the easier Chicco adjustment methods and is intuitive.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 has bubble-level indicators on each side.
The Keyfit 35 has bubble-level indicators on each side.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The base has bubble indicators on both sides, so you can install the seat from either side of the car and still see what you are doing.

chicco keyfit 35 - installing the keyfit 35 using the vehicle belt is just as easy as...
Installing the Keyfit 35 using the vehicle belt is just as easy as installation using the LATCH connectors.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Installation - Belt


Installing the Keyfit 35 with the vehicle belt and forgoing the LATCH connectors is pretty easy, with this seat scoring above average in this metric and earning a similar result to its LATCH installation method.

Both the shoulder and lap portions of the vehicle belt go through...
Both the shoulder and lap portions of the vehicle belt go through the belt path on the Keyfit 35.
The shoulder portion of the vehicle belt slips into the belt...
The shoulder portion of the vehicle belt slips into the belt lock-off on the pathway of the Keyfit 35.

This seat base has a color-coded belt path with a built-in- lock-off. Threading was effortless, with blue slots to guide your way. There is plenty of visibility to ensure the belt doesn't get twisted. There are indicators on the lock/off so you know when it is tight enough, and the straps tighten in intuitive directions. The slits in our tests seemed to encourage curling of the shoulder strap, but this didn't seem to affect the overall process. We didn't need much pulling or a knee in the base to get a good, snug fit in the sedan and the SUV.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 uses the european belt path that utilizes the shoulder...
The Keyfit 35 uses the European belt path that utilizes the shoulder portion of the vehicle belt around the backside of the carrier.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Installation - w/o the Base


While installation without the base is the worst installation method for the Keyfit 35, it still scored above average for this method, and it isn't hard, just less desirable than with the base options.

Installing the Keyfit 35 without the base is pretty straightforward and while we found it easier to get in the car for installation, we still think it isn't a problem compare to others.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

It features the European belt path of the vehicle belt over the carrier foot only, and it has a decal line on the seat to help find the right angle for installation.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit utilizes the european belt path, so the lap portion of...
The Keyfit utilizes the European belt path, so the lap portion of the vehicle belt goes across the foot area of the carrier and the shoulder position goes across the back.
Credit: Abriah Wofford


The pathway is not color-coded but also evident if you know what you are doing. We needed two hands to push the belt through on one side and catch it on the other; it requires a little wiggling to get it through, thanks to the poorly placed fabric design, but it isn't a problem. We had no trouble tightening the vehicle belt or getting a secure finished product.

chicco keyfit 35 - the features on the keyfit 35 work as they should and are easier to...
The features on the Keyfit 35 work as they should and are easier to use than much of the competition.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Ease of Use


This seat is one of the easiest options in the review to use, with a performance well above average and just below the high for the group. We think parents will enjoy the functionality that is straightforward and intuitive.

chicco keyfit 35 - the buckle and chest clip on the keyfit 35 are both easy to use and...
The buckle and chest clip on the Keyfit 35 are both easy to use and while the padding on the straps can get in the way somewhat, they are still easy to access and adjust.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Buckle


This seat has a square buckle with red indented button. It's somewhat flush for better access with longer nails. It is slightly textured to help prevent slipping. The shoulder strap prongs do not pop out when you press the button, and you must pull them out yourself. The chest clip is the average clip with a center-round button to push. It moves smoothly and should be usable even with a spit-up on it. It's nothing fancy, but in fairness, it doesn't need to be to get the job done.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 harness release with the push of a button and tightens...
The Keyfit 35 harness release with the push of a button and tightens with the pull of the strap.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Harness Tightening/Loosening


The standard tightening strap and release button on this Chicco are similar to other seats from this brand. The strap moves smoothly without too much force, and the button presses easily to release without a hiccup. The shoulder strap padding can get in the way, but it's fine if you plan ahead.

The Keyfit 35 harness height adjustment is a no-rethread style you operate from the back by pinching adjustment together and sliding it up and down.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Harness Adjustment


The harness height adjustment is a non-rethread style adjustment with five settings. We prefer this style because it is a quicker adjustment you might be able to do with your baby in the seat when you realize there is a need. It is accomplished with a pinch of buttons to move the assembly. This assembly moved smoother than most competitors, and the pinch didn't require significant finger strength.

chicco keyfit 35 - the carrier release lever on the keyfit 35 is on the carrier which...
The carrier release lever on the Keyfit 35 is on the carrier which helps make it easier to lift the carrier out with two hands.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Carrier to Base Connection


Attaching the carrier to the base is better than average, and we didn't see a way you could do it wrong, and we didn't have to jostle it around to hear the comforting click as it connected. Releasing the carrier includes pulling up on the lever at the back, which is wide enough to use your thumb. The back of the canopy can get in the way of reaching and properly grasping the lever, which is a bummer.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 handle rotates on a pivot point and moves by pressing...
The Keyfit 35 handle rotates on a pivot point and moves by pressing down on buttons located on each side.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Handle


The handle has three positions, and all three are acceptable while driving. It does collide with an open canopy, and we are disappointed because it didn't in the past, and we find this design frustrating.

Canopy


The canopy has an odd design that allows it to sort of fold in itself, which could lead parents to think it is smaller than it is. As little ones grow, you might have to tuck the extra fabric on the canopy out of the way of curious hands. With the canopy fully closed, the handle is hard to get past it. When open, it rubs less.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 base has a manual stow pocket on the forward facing...
The Keyfit 35 base has a manual stow pocket on the forward facing surface of the base.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

LATCH and Manual Storage


The manual storage has its own pocket on the base on the forward-facing end. It keeps it free of messes and is handy for use, but it means you won't have it if you travel without the base. The LATCH connectors have their own cubbies with a friction fit instead of doors. You do need all the webbing you can get to turn the connector to push it in. The area is somewhat tight thanks to the anti-rebound bar, but it works and keeps the connectors contained.

The LATCH connectors tuck into small cubbies on the vehicle seat-facing portion of the car seat base.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 has adequate padding, but we do wish the fabric was...
The Keyfit 35 has adequate padding, but we do wish the fabric was softer and more skin-friendly.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Comfort/Quality


Often, you get what you pay for; in quality, we typically see this theory shine through. The Keyfit is a more reasonably priced option, and the equality is somewhat better than you'd expect in this range, which is a nice plus, but it isn't as nice as some other seats with similar pricing.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 has thick eps foam for help with impact absorption.
The Keyfit 35 has thick EPS foam for help with impact absorption.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Fabric and Padding


The fabric is slightly rougher when we rub it on our cheeks. While it isn't the roughest, it isn't as skin-friendly as you might want for a newborn. It has more head padding than much of the competition, and there is more comfort padding in the bottom seat area than some. It might look average, but it offers more than the other car seats, and the subtle differences matter. The crotch and shoulder straps also have some light padding.

chicco keyfit 35 - the canopy on the keyfit 35 is an average offering with no standout...
The canopy on the Keyfit 35 is an average offering with no standout features.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Handle and Canopy


The canopy is only average in size with a UPF 50+ rating. The material feels lighter, which could keep little ones cooler over the heavier material that feels like a heat trap. The handle is round, making it easier and more comfortable to grip. The center has a rubberized feeling cover for comfort on your hands and the inside of your arm where you might carry this.

Shell


The outer shell on the Keyfit 35 is smooth and won't be a problem to wipe clean. The handle and belt guide are pretty low, so there is less chance for gunk to find its way back there with few exposed areas with crevasses.

chicco keyfit 35 - the keyfit 35 carrier is about average for weight with a goldilocks...
The Keyfit 35 carrier is about average for weight with a Goldilocks not too heavy and not too light approach.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Weight/Size


The Keyfit 35 has an average weight compared to the rest of our test seats. With a carrier weight of 10.4 lbs, it is neither heavy nor lightweight and could be a potential contender for those who plan to carry their little one in the carrier regularly. If this weight feels like too much, the highest is closer to 17 lbs, and the lowest is closer to 8.

Should You Buy the Keyfit 35?


Once upon a time, we thought we loved the Chicco Keyfit 30, but then along came the Keyfit 35. Fickle friends? We might be, but you'll forgive us, given all the Keyfit 35 brings to the table. The Keyfit 35 is definitely a seat we would recommend to a friend. We think there is much to love about this seat, with slightly better-than-average crash test results and relatively easy LATCH installation. It is also highly compatible with a variety of different strollers (assuming they accept infant car seats with adapters).

What Other Infant Car Seat Should You Consider?


While the Chicco Keyfit 35 is a good seat, no question, it isn't the best seat, and the recent cost hike is a disappointment given how it fares next to the competition. If you want the best all-around seat, our favorite is the Clek Liing, which earned top marks in our crash test analysis metric and LATCH installation tests. The Liing is a high-quality seat that has an impressive overall score and includes fool-proof rigid LATCH connector installation with load leg. If you like the Keyfit 35 but the price is somewhat higher than you want to go, the Chicco Keyfit 30 has a similar overall performance and higher crash test rating with a somewhat lower price. While it isn't a perfect seat, it gets you similar stroller compatibility to the Keyfit 35 while keeping some money in your pocket.

Manufacturer Video



Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz