In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
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Car seat safety can create anxiety in any parent. Whether your fears are crash test performance or perfecting car seat installation, finding the right seat for your goals and budget is key.
Our favorite seat for most families is the Graco 4Ever DLX. This reasonably priced car seat has one of the best crash test analysis results, is easy to install, and is super easy to use. For exceptionally easy installation (LATCH and belt) and some of the best crash test results, the Nuna Rava Next is a standout. However, its higher price could make it a deal-breaker for many.
If you're ready to jump on the rotation bandwagon, the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 has some of the best crash test results in the group, is easy to use, and is one of the smaller rotating seats we've tested. If your budget is tighter, but you worry about crash test results, the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 costs less than the 4Ever but provides a similar crash test result. While somewhat harder to install, it offers a comfy seating area and quality materials at a budget-friendly price.
GearLab spends tens of thousands of dollars crash testing car seats at the same certified testing lab the US Government uses for its safety certification testing. We bought and crash-tested the top 24 convertible seats to find the best. We conduct side-by-side tests on each convertible car seat over several months to determine the best in crash test performance, installation, ease of use, quality, and more.
We've tested more than 200 car seats. If you are not sure which kind of car seat is right for you, check out our Best Car Seat Review. If your kid is graduating from a convertible seat, our booster seat review is perfect for the next stage of safety seats. Not ready for a convertible? Infant car seats is where you should look for the best options designed with little bodies in mind.
Editor's Note: This convertible car seat review was updated in September 2026, with 2 new seats from Nuna and 1 from Graco.
Quick Picks
Here's a quick list of our favorite Convertible Car Seat recommendations.
The Graco 4Ever DLX is a great all-around seat suitable for most families, regardless of your goals. We love the better crash test sensor results and believe the 4Ever potentially offers an additional margin of protection based on our analysis. It had one of the lowest G-forces recorded by the chest clip sensor (lower is better) and one of the best combined results for the HIC and the chest clip. The 4Ever is lighter than the average convertible seat, weighing 21.8 lbs, and is relatively short from front to back (25.3 inches), making it a contender for smaller car or longer legs. It is good-looking, easy to use, and straightforward to install. Plus, it's reasonably priced.
While the 4Ever is one of the best seats and a tester favorite, it isn't very narrow, and three across in one row might be harder. We measured it at 19.3 inches at its widest point, which is almost 3 inches wider than the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1. The SlimFit has a similar crash test analysis and a lower price, but it is more challenging to install. If you want something that offers more comfort and quality while remaining comparable to the 4Ever, the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 can save you money with very similar performance and features. Overall, the 4Ever is an impressive top scorer that offers a lot and will please most families.
The Nuna Rava Next is like a dream seat with better crash analysis results, an easy-to-install (though step-heavy) design, and features packed with comfort and quality, including exceptionally supportive padding, adjustable calf rest, and multiple inserts for little ones of different sizes. We love that this seat can remain rear-facing until 50 lbs, and think the easy headrest adjustment translates into a potentially better-fitting harness, which is crucial to car seat safety in a crash.
The real bummer, and maybe only downside, is the higher price. While it isn't the most expensive option, that title belongs to the Nuna Exec Next, the Rava is a couple of hundred dollars more than our favorite seat for most, the Graco Extend2Fit. While the ease of installing the Rava might justify the added expense for some, the price could be a deal-breaker for many who just don't have it in the budget. While we love this seat and think it is a solid choice for those with a higher budget, most families can save serious cash without compromising on better crash test results by looking elsewhere.
The Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 is an impressive convertible seat. It performed well in our commissioned crash tests, earning one of the highest analysis scores, thanks in part to one of the lowest HIC sensor readings. It offers a comfortable riding experience, with ample padding and a nap-worthy headrest that features a non-rethread harness with 10 height positions. Taller kiddos will appreciate the leg extension that offers more legroom than a standard seat. The Extend2Fit offers better crash-test results than our budget-friendly option, and with sales, you can often find it at a lower price than other award winners.
This Graco isn't as easy to install using the vehicle belt, which you'll have to do at some point. While not super challenging, the Graco 4Ever DLX is easier to install. The Extend2Fit is also not narrow (19 in), taking after the 4Ever, making the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 (at 16.5 inches) a better choice for limited space. Interestingly, the Graco Turn2Me is one of the narrowest Gracos in the bunch (18.4 in), and it is a cool rotating seat with impressive crash test analysis results. Overall, the Extend2Fit is an excellent car seat that works well for most families, but it is a real contender for those concerned with staying rear-facing longer and crash test results.
The Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 is a really cool rotating seat. As rotating seats become more popular, we can see who is doing this well, and Turn2Me is getting a lot right. This seat earned one of the highest crash test analysis scores, with one of the lowest HIC results we've ever seen (like golf, lower is better). Plus, its combined chest-clip and HIC-sensor results are outstanding. The vehicle belt installation was the easiest for this seat, with a clear belt pathway and visibility to the back panel and belt lock-off. This option is one of the smallest and lightest rotating seats we've tested, weighing 26.1 lbs, measuring only 18.4 inches wide, and 27.3 inches rear-facing in our tests. The weight and width are average but still small for this kind of seat, and the length is below average.
The Turn2Me shell has a lot going on, with so many stickers, warnings, and installation help that it ruins this seat's overall look and feel. While we understand that some warnings are necessary and installation help is appreciated, options like the Nuna Rava Next keep the stickers closer to the base, creating a more appealing overall look. The Turn2Me also offers adequate, but lackluster, padding. The headrest area is better than the seat bottom, but the back is very thin and disappointing. Alternatively, the Chicco Fit360 has better padding, softer fabric, and is much easier to install. These are minor trifles, really, and we are hard-pressed to find a reason to dismiss the Turn2Me if a rotating seat is your primary objective. As one tester said, “With crash test analysis this good, the Turn2Me rotating seat is a game changer.”
The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 is a great seat with better crash test analysis results and a reasonable price. The SlimFit was easy to install using LATCH, has better push-style connectors, and didn't require towels in our tests. It is significantly lighter than the competition, with a measured weight of 18.5 lbs, which is 7 lbs lighter than the average seat. The SlimFit has a non-rethread harness headrest adjustment with 10 positions and a crotch strap with 3 positions, providing enough variation for most kids to find a good fit. The headrest adjustment assembly moved smoothly up and down, even with a child in the seat. We think it is easy to use and provides enough features to keep kids comfortable, so that you won't get complaints.
All of the Graco seats performed well and were almost in a class of their own. If you want slightly better crash test scores than the SlimFit or an overall better result, the Graco 4Ever is worth considering. If you hope for something similar to the SlimFit but want more comfort or quality, then the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 might be a better choice. If you hope to put three car seats in a row and the average width of the SlimFit won't do, the SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is the narrowest in the review, measuring 16.5 inches, but it is harder to install than other Gracos. While belt installation for the SlimFit could be easier, the LATCH installation was much easier. If you want an easy-to-install option using the vehicle belt, the Graco Turn2Me is a standout for straightforward belt installation without compromising on crash test analysis results. We think you'll be pleased with whichever seat you choose, but if you want a high-scoring seat at a lower price, we believe the SlimFit is the best fit.
The Chicco Fit 360 is a good-looking rotating seat that only needs to be installed once for rear- or forward-facing use. This seat is one of the easiest to install, no matter which method you choose, making it a shoo-in for those with installation anxiety. As our primary tester said, “This would be the seat I'd choose for my kid based on installation alone; nothing could be easier.” We also felt the Chicco was easy to use during testing, with a harness height adjustment offering 15 positions over a 10-inch range. It is non-rethread so that you can make adjustments on the fly with a toddler in the seat. We were impressed with the padding and fabric used on the Fit360, which are thicker in the back and bottom than those of many competitors, and it looks as comfy as a recliner.
The Fit 360 is heavy and long, even compared to other rotating seats. If space is limited and rotation is a must, we think the Graco Turn2Me could be a literal better fit with a length of only 27.3 inches compared to the Fit360's 32.3 inches. The Graco is also only 26.1 lbs compared to the Chicco's 32.4 lbs. The Fit360 is spendy; the Turn2Me can save you money and sports one of the highest crash-test analysis scores. The Chicco has slightly below-average crash test analysis results that are neither a pro nor a con in our minds, as it has passed the federal standard and is considered safe. We think the Fit360 is a cool seat and the perfect choice for those who are worried about installation. Since improper installation increases the risk of injury or death in an accident, this alone could be a reason to choose the Chicco over harder-to-install competitors despite the uninspiring crash test results.
The Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is the narrowest seat you've all been asking for. This Graco claims to be suitable for three seats in the back seat, and we suspect they might be right. At 16.5 inches wide, it is the narrowest in this review. If narrow is your goal, you'll be excited to know you don't have to sacrifice good crash test results, as it also earned one of the top combined sensor data in our commissioned tests. With a lighter-weight, narrow design and better fabric and padding than some other Gracos, it is easy to see why this SlimFit is an award winner.
The SlimFit 3 LX is harder to install than all the other Gracos and many other brand competitors, regardless of your chosen method or direction. While not prohibitively impossible, it does take more care and thought to get it done right. If installation is a concern, the Graco 4Ever DLX is easier to install, costs a wee bit more, but has even better crash analysis results. It is wider, so it might be a no-go if going bigger means sacrificing the space you need. Ultimately, the LX is not a favorite seat, but it might be just what some cars or families need to fit their brood, and we see a place for it amongst the award winners.
The Nuna Exec Next is the bell of the ball, and she knows it. This flashy convertible seat (can a car seat be flashy?) has all the bells and whistles, including a unique leg lounger, ultra-supportive padding, a movable headrest with a non-rethread harness, and removable cup holders. We love that it can remain rear-facing longer than the average seat and that it can be used in booster mode to help prolong the lifespan. It has nice leatherette accents and an attention to detail we don't see in lower-priced car seats.
Speaking of price, this one is a doozy. The Exec Next sports a price tag suitable for a king, and you might just need to be one to afford it. At more than double the price compared to some other award winners, it could be hard to justify for most parents, and honestly, we don't think the value is there. While the Exec has some nice features and a leg rest, the Nuna Rava Next offers slightly better crash analysis results and similar functionality, and it can save you more than a hundred dollars. Several award winners have better crash analysis results and cost less than half, like the Graco 4Ever DLX and the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1. It all makes it hard to justify the added cost you'd incur buying the Exec. However, if money is no object, you won't be disappointed. The Nuna Exec Next is an awesome car seat. In our fantasy world where we are all gazilliionaires, it is the seat we'd buy. It offers supreme comfort and quality, paired with better-than-average crash results. What's not to love? (Oh, the price). While we think relatively few people will find it worth the money, and we admit we would not recommend it to a friend due to that very high price, for those who are fortunate to be able to afford the cost, it is not bling — the Exec Next is a terrific car seat that offers real value in exchange for its expense.
The Lumn earned better-than-average crash test analysis results, but some less expensive seats performed better. Credit: MGA Research
Product Comparison Table
We've crash-tested more than 100 safety seats in our time, providing results to help parents make informed purchases. Credit: Natalie Kafader
How We Tested
We take convertible car seat testing very seriously because the stakes are so high. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that “car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13.”
The EasyTurn has a crash test analysis that is just below the average. Credit: MGA Research
Our testing process begins with buying two units of each car seat. We send one to the same certified crash testing lab used by NHTSA for crash testing, and we share the crash test analysis results with you to help you make an informed decision. Our tests are somewhat faster than the federal guidelines to help differentiate between safe but average seats and those that might offer an additional margin of safety. We also use a more modern sled to better align with late-model vehicle seat designs. Then, we buy a second unit of each car seat to put through our rigorous hands-on testing process at GearLab. Combining unbiased crash testing and hands-on use allows us to evaluate car seat performance from a safety and daily use perspective.
We tested each seat in multiple cars and some were harder than others to install. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Our convertible car seat testing is divided across six rating metrics:
Crash Tests (35% of overall score weighting)
Ease Of Installation - LATCH (20% weighting)
Ease Of Installation - Vehicle Belt (15% weighting)
Ease Of Use (15% weighting)
Comfort/Quality (10% weighting)
Weight/Size (5% weighting)
We've tested more than 200 convertible car seats, including the seats shown here. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Over the last several years, we've purchased more than 105 convertible car seat models (two of each). We conduct a multi-point performance analysis to score and rank crash test results and other functional metrics, such as ease of use and installation (LATCH and belt). We've probably installed more car seats than anyone on the planet. Our testing includes multiple testers installing the car seats in multiple vehicle types. We install them facing forward and facing back using the LATCH and vehicle belt.
Not all of the car seats passed the wiggle test for stable installation in our tests. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Convertible car seats undergo more than 45 individual tests to evaluate their performance. The most important rating is the crash test analysis score based on the crash test results from MGA. To reach our conclusions, we use the head and chest sensor data recorded by the crash test dummies in each seat. Our reviews also rely on extensive product research and observations from multiple testers to compare each product side by side.
Infant car seats are designed with little bodies in mind and are our preferred safety seats for younger babies. Credit: Abriah Wofford
We suggest keeping your baby in their infant car seat until they are 9-12 months old or until their height starts to reach the infant seat's maximum length (always rely on the manufacturer's limitations of your infant seat to guide you). You should check weight capacity, too, but more often than not, the height limit will force the switch to a convertible seat.
This chart shows a comparison of the HIC (head) sensor results from one of the lowest-scoring options in the group (black line) to the sensor results of one of the best-performing options in the group (green line). Lower sensor results are better and indicate fewer G-forces on the crash test dummy. Credit: BabyGearLab Staff, MGA Research
Why Trust GearLab
Our in-house convertible car seat test protocol development was led by Certified Passenger Safety Technician, Bob Wofford. Bob helped create our original in-house testing protocol. We also consulted with experts at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding their protocols and crash test results. Last but not least, we consulted and contracted with MGA Research, the same national testing facility that has the compliance contract for FMVSS 213 assessing the safety of car seats in the US. Jessica Riconscente also contributed with hands-on testing. As a Senior Review Analyst, she led the charge for all car seat updates, testing, and installation for more than 60 seats across categories. Editor-in-Chief, Wendy Schmitz, is a mother of 2 and has researched, analyzed, and written about car seats since 2014. Our panel of experts also includes Dr. Juliet Spurrier is a board-certified pediatrician , mother, and founder of BabyGearLab with a background in urgent pediatric care.
We work with MGA Research for all our crash testing needs. This facility is the same certified testing lab the US Government (NHTSA) relies on. Credit: MGA Research
Analysis and Test Results
We include the details you need to make an informed decision about which convertible car seat is best for your child, goals, and budget by assessing crash test results, installation methods, ease of use, and more.
We test each seat with kid testers to get feedback on ease of use and comfort. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We installed each seat in every configuration following manufacturer guidelines. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Most seats have some kind of indicator to help with proper installation angles. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Rear-Facing Until at Least Age 2
Experts agree that children should remain rear-facing until at least two years old. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and NHTSA recommendkeeping your baby rear-facing as long as your chosen car seat allows, and at least until age 2. The Graco Extend2Fit, Nuna Rava Next, UPPAbay Rove, Nuna Exec Next, and the Romer Veni are top-scoring car seats that can remain rear-facing until the passenger weighs 50 lbs, but there are others (see our specs table). So, no matter how tempted you are to turn your little one around, we encourage you to retain the potential safety benefit of facing backward and resist the urge until you reach the limits outlined in your car seat's safety manual.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
This group offers budget-friendly options, including winners and higher-ranking seats, to meet your needs and safety goals. It was refreshing to see so many reasonably priced options perform well, with standout crash-test analysis results. While it might feel like a Graco party (we were surprised, too), the company really seems to have nailed the sweet spot of better crash test results and a reasonable price tag that most parents crave.
The Graco 4Ever is a great all-around seat at a reasonable price. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Graco SlimFit is a similar option to the Graco 4Ever, but it has a more budget-friendly price. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Turn2Me is one of our favorite rotating seats, and it is also one of the cheapest. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Graco 4Ever DXL (above left) is an impressive all-around seat we think parents will appreciate. However, if this is a little over budget, the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 and the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 (above middle) are budget-savvy choices with similar test results and lower list prices. If you want a rotating seat, the Graco Turn2Me (above right) had impressive crash test results, and while it is more expensive than the other Gracos, it is one of the least costly rotating seats in the review. It's a Graco love fest of reasonably priced car seats with better crash-test analysis results.
We tested each and every convertible car seat in this review by commissioning crash testing from MGA Research so we can compare the results apples-to-apples. The Nuna Revv is shown here and did not perform as well as many competitors. Credit: GearLab & MGA Research
Crash Test Performance
BabyGearLab contracts with the same crash test facility that NHTSA uses to perform our convertible seat crash tests. We purchase and send each seat to MGA, where we pay for complete crash tests. We have MGA test the seats at a higher speed and with a slightly firmer sled than required by the FMVSS 213a safety standard. We deliberately chose this to better mimic late-model vehicles and to see if higher speeds would help differentiate the seats from one another. All seats in this review are assumed to meet federal guidelines and should be considered safe. Based on test results, those we identify as better than average may offer an additional margin of safety compared to the average seat.
Crash Test Analysis Results
Product
HIC
Chest Clip
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1
9.0
8.4
Graco 4Ever DLX
8.4
9.0
UPPAbaby Rove
8.7
8.6
Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1
8.8
8.2
Nuna Rava
8.8
8.2
Nuna Rava Next
9.0
7.8
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1
8.4
8.4
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1
8.5
8.2
Joie Saffron SI
8.1
8.4
Nuna Exec Next
8.6
7.8
Baby Jogger City Turn
8.7
7.6
Chicco OneFit LX
8.1
7.6
Romer Veni
7.9
7.8
Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
6.7
8.4
Clek Fllo
8.1
7.0
Evenflo Revolve360 Slim
8.7
6.0
Britax Poplar S
7.2
7.4
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
7.4
7.2
Graco Easy Turn 360 2-in-1
7.3
7.2
Chicco Fit 360
7.7
6.4
Britax One4Life ClickTight
7.6
5.8
Clek Foonf
5.9
7.4
Cybex Callisto G 360
7.5
5.6
Nuna Revv
4.0
7.6
After receiving the crash test data we commissioned, we analyzed the sensor data from each car seat's crash dummy to determine how it compares to the competition.
More Money Doesn't Equal Safer
While you might think a more expensive seat would be safer, our test results show that's not necessarily true. The Cybex Callisto G 360 and the Nuna Revv are examples. The Cybex Callisto G 360 and the Nuna Revv have prices well over the average, but did not perform as well in crash tests as the cheaper contenders. Alternatively, many reasonably priced options performed very well in our crash testing, proving that price doesn't indicate potential safety.
So, what is the most critical information from crash impact tests when analyzing results?
The risk of head injury related to the HIC sensor result
The risk of chest injury related to the chest clip (g clip) sensor result
Where do we get our crash test data?
We pay MGA to perform crash tests on each seat in our review. We purchase and send the seats directly to MGA, and they supply us with the sensor data after testing. We do not use data from other companies, such as Consumer Reports, because they conduct different tests, and their results do not allow for a side-by-side comparison of crash test results.
An analysis of auto crash injuries for children shows that head and chest injuries are the two most significant risks of fatal or severe injuries. That is why we use sensor data from these locations.
All of the Products We Tested Provide a Basic, Safe Level of Protection
All of the convertible car seats we test are assumed to have passed the federal minimum safety standards. Therefore, every seat has at least the basic level of crash safety protection required by US Federal law. Our primary focus for crash analysis scores is identifying seats whose crash test performance exceeds the federal requirements by performing well in our hotter tests. These car seats can be considered as providing a potential additional level of protection based on the data from their crash test sensors.
The Joie Saffron has pop-out impact absorbers on the sides of the shell. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Additional Safety Features
Some seats have features that manufacturers claim improve the seat's safety. Our crash test score analysis did not consider these features or claims. Because manufacturers do not publish comparison test data to analyze, it is impossible to determine their efficacy. We understand parents are curious about side impact protection (SIP) or an anti-rebound bar (ARB), and these features could factor into your decision-making process. Still, we encourage you to proceed cautiously when deciding solely based on these features. There is no way to tell what each manufacturer means when they use terminology that lacks an agreed-upon meaning (like SIP). This lack of information makes it impossible to compare seats with similar-sounding claims, especially without a universally agreed-upon language to describe what the claims genuinely mean.
The Nuna Rava Next has a side impact protection device that pops out from the side of the shell. Credit: Matt Lighthart
In the rear-facing position on the Exec Next, the leg lounger serves somewhat as a pseudo-anti-rebound device. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Britax Poplar S has an anti-rebound bar. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We can confirm that our crash test results indicate that anti-rebound bars on infant car seats often, but not always, improve the crash test dummy sensors' results compared to not using the anti-rebound bar. We like them as a safety feature, but we feel actual crash-test data is more critical than the stated features or claims.
Safety Reminder
How well a seat performs in a crash test environment means little if you don't install the seat according to the manufacturer's instructions. Poor installation or a poorly fitted harness can potentially result in injury or death in an accident.
The Baby Jogger City Turn earned impressive results for crash testing and is a higher-ranking revolving seat. Credit: GearLab & MGA Research
Best Seats Based on Crash Test Analysis
We rated each seat compared to the competition using the crash test report analysis. The scoring helps quantify convertible car seats that offer a potential additional margin of protection beyond the basic level of protection found in all seats.
The Turn2Me earned some of the best crash test analysis results in the group. Credit: MGA Research
The Graco 4Ever DLX and the UPPAbaby Rove earned our best crash test rating thanks to excellent Chest Clip (g) and HIC scores. The Graco Turn2Me had even lower (better) HIC sensor results and a similar chest clip result, making it a standout in crash tests for rotating seats. The Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1, Nuna Rava Next, Graco SlimFit 3-in-1, Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 have similar analysis results, just slightly lower than the 4Ever and Turn2Me. Overall, we were really impressed with the Graco seats in this review, particularly in the crash test analysis. The Joie Saffron SI, Baby Jogger City Turn, and the Nuna Exec Next also impress with scores just a wee bit under the top performers.
The seat that recorded the highest g-force measurements in our crash testing (lower is better, so these are below-average performers) is the Nuna Revv. Also coming in below average but slightly better than that lot are the Britax One4Life ClickTight, Clek Foonf, and the Cybex Callisto G 360.
The Callisto is ridiculously easy to install using LATCH. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) installation method should make it easier to install car seats correctly and reduce opportunities for error. For this reason, we recommend using the LATCH method whenever possible to increase the chances of correct seat installation. All convertible car seats have LATCH connectors, and most vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2002, have anchors on the left and right sides of the back seat. So, the good news is you should be able to utilize the LATCH method until your child outgrows the LATCH connectors' weight limit (please see your safety seat user manual).
Installing any seat using the LATCH system should be straightforward and easier than the belt, while our tests reveal this is not always the case, the Extend2Fit is one of the easier options to install using LATCH. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Our tests showed that some seats are easier to install with LATCH than with the vehicle belt. However, surprisingly, several seats are easier to install using the vehicle belt, not the LATCH. The main problem? It can be challenging to tighten the LATCH straps securely enough to keep the convertible car seat from wiggling.
The push-style LATCH connector on the 4Ever is much easier to use than the hook-style connectors found on some competitors. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Hook-style LATCH connectors, like the one shown here on the Britax One4Life, are harder to use than push-style connectors, especially when trying to remove them from the car anchor points. Credit: Abriah Wofford
There are three main types of LATCH connectors: push-style (above left), hook-style (above right), and rigid LATCH (video below). We typically see hook-style connectors on less expensive seats, and we were surprised to find them on some of the more expensive options, such as the Britax lineup and the Romer Veni (which have the same parent company). While each style is considered equally safe, the hooks tend to be harder to remove, as you must loosen the LATCH strap to push the clip forward and unhook it from the anchor point. Alternatively, push connectors have a button that releases the connector, much like a seatbelt.
The Clek Foonf offers a rigid LATCH connection in the forward-facing configuration only. Credit: Abriah Wofford
One of the most straightforward LATCH connection types is the rigid LATCH, like those seen on the forward-facing Clek Foonf. This design is virtually foolproof, with not much to do other than make the connection and slide the seat back. We see this style of LATCH more often on infant car seats and some booster seats.
The Fit360 has an easy-to-use lockoff that makes installation a breeze. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The LeverLock on the Fit 360 is easy to open and close. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Best Seats For LATCH Installation
Top-performing seats for LATCH installation include those with push-style connectors, easy-to-pull straps, and usually include lock-off mechanisms or tensioners. The easiest seat to install using LATCH is the Chicco Fit360. This seat has a one-time installation base with easy-to-use LATCH connectors and a locking mechanism that snugs the seat into a very stable, no-muss, no-fuss final fit. The Romer Veni also has top honors with an ultra-easy-to-use lockoff that mimics the Britax ClickTight, where the seat bottom pushes down to tighten the LATCH strap and secure the seat to snuggle to the vehicle seat. Despite the LATCH connectors being hooks, we still thought this option excelled at being virtually foolproof. Also easy to install with LATCH connectors are the Nuna Revv, and the Cybex Callisto G 360. Seats coming in close behind top-performers include the Nuna Exec Next, Baby Jogger City Turn, Nuna Rava Next, Graco 4Ever DLX, Graco SlimFit 3-in-1, Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1, and the Britax Poplar S. The hardest to install using LATCH are the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One, Evenflo Revolve360 Slim, and the Clek Fllo. The Evenflo, in particular, seems to have a design flaw in which the connection piece collides with a plastic part on the base, preventing us from tightening it enough. While this could be partially due to the vehicles we tested them in, we've never had this problem before, and think it could be a real problem for many.
Center Seat Issues
The safest spot to install your car seat is in the center of the vehicle's rear seat — studies of injury data show a 43% lower risk of injury if the car seat is in the center of the back seat. If you combine this statistic with the idea that LATCH connectors should be the easiest and safest way to install a car seat, it seems like a natural conclusion to install your car seat in the center using LATCH anchor points. What's the problem? Most vehicles do not offer LATCH anchors in the center location. Even if the inner LATCH anchors in the side positions are close enough, most vehicle and seat manuals do not allow the use of these LATCH anchors for center-position installation.
What is the best alternative if your vehicle doesn't allow the LATCH method in the center? Should you use the center seat with a vehicle belt or the LATCH system on a side seat? One of the most critical aspects of seat installation is ensuring the car seat is securely and tightly anchored to the vehicle.
The questions on center seat installation include:
Should you install the seat with the vehicle belt?
Is the seat as secure when anchored to the center seat with a vehicle belt as it is in the side position using LATCH?
Using the vehicle belt to install a car seat is a perfectly safe and acceptable installation method (and potentially the only possibility for center seats), assuming you can ensure that the installation is secure and tight. Most convertible car seats will require installation using the vehicle belt at some point when your child exceeds the safe weight limit for LATCH installation. Use the center seat with the vehicle belt if you can get a tight fit (and we did with many seats). However, if obtaining a secure fit in the center seat is challenging, you should move your safety seat to a side location. It is far more critical that the installation is correct than the seat's location. If you have two children, you may not have a choice, as many cars don't have enough room for a side and center installation simultaneously, and/or little ones often fight if they can reach each other. What if your vehicle doesn't have LATCH anchors for the center seat, but you prefer to install it there? Our ease-of-installation vehicle belt tests can help you identify car seats that are easier to install with this method. Also, you should locate an installation professional for assistance using the vehicle belt if you feel unsure.
Have trouble finding the center seat belt?
Some SUVs, trucks, and wagons have a center seatbelt in the ceiling.
The Baby Jogger City Turn belt installation includes a belt lock-off that requires rethreading and keeping the belt flat on both passes. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Install — Vehicle Belt
No matter where or how you plan to install your new car seat, you must use the vehicle belt at some point. LATCH connectors have weight restrictions that most children will outgrow before they outgrow their convertible car seat. Most LATCH connections have weight limits of about 40-50 lbs before the seat must be installed using the vehicle belt only. Given that many products have a weight limit of 50-80 lbs in the forward-facing configuration, most children will need to use the vehicle belt installation method at some point.
Don't despair! We will tell you which seats are easiest to install using the vehicle belt and provide information on correct installation and where to get help if you are unsure about anything or if something doesn't seem right.
Find a Child Car Seat Inspector
A fantastic FREE resource in the US can help you learn how to install any seat in any car. Certified Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technicians are available by appointment or on-call. We highly recommend this service, even if you feel like you have installation dialed in. It's free, so even if your installation alone was perfect, you've lost nothing but a little time and perhaps gained some peace of mind.
The Rava Next has two different lock-offs, one for forward and one for rear-facing installation. Credit: Matt Lighthart
A lockoff can help you get the seat tightly secured to the vehicle belt, like the seat bottom lockoff on the Romer Veni. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The UPPAbaby Rove has a tensioner and a lock-off; both work together to make installation easier. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Benefit of the Seat Belt Lockoff
Some seats are easier to install with a seat belt than competitors' seats, thanks to a useful belt lock-off. This feature is a game-changer for installing seats with a vehicle belt, and we believe you'll feel significantly more comfortable installing a seat using the belt if it has a lockoff.
The Chicco Fit360 has a cool LeverLock belt lock-off that was super easy to use. Credit: Matt Lighthart
In this review, most seats have a belt lock-off located on the seat. Most of these seats rank higher overall and have better vehicle belt installation scores. In the past, many seats failed to offer a lock-off or had an external metal plate to apply. No more! It seems the industry has finally caught on that installation is important and lock-offs are key to getting it right.
Our favorite lock-offs can be found on the Romer Veni, Nuna Exec Next, Cybex Callisto G 360, Chicco Fit360, and the Nuna Revv, which earned some of the highest scores for belt installation, and each has a useful belt lock-off. The Britax Poplar S, Nuna Rava Next, and the Baby Jogger City Turn are also easy and have a lockoff.
If the Peg Perego had a true lock-off and not just a belt containment clasp, it wouldn't have been able to slide on the belt as much as it did in our tests. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Coincidence? We think not.
Some lockoffs work slightly better than others, but even the challenging ones provide a more secure installation in our tests than seats without a lockoff. We found that options with a lockoff were as secure when installed with a belt as with the LATCH (some even more so). This fact can be a relief when you need to install the seat with a belt, which is highly likely given the weight limitations of LATCH systems.
The design of the Fllo lock-offs hurt its overall score for installation using the vehicle belt. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The seats lacking a lock-off typically didn't perform as well, including the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One. The Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 and the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 also lack lockoffs, but were marginally easier to install and got close to the average. Interestingly, the Clek Foonf and the Clek Fllo both have lock-offs but were challenging to install despite this, and didn't score well for this installation method.
Adjusting the Nuna Rava Next's shoulder straps is easy to do with a little one in the seat, thanks to the squeeze adjustment lever at the top. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Ease of Use
Convertible car seats have standard designs and appear to be similar beyond cosmetics. However, in reality, they differ in ease of use, with some significantly easier to use than others, thanks to thoughtful additional features or improved functionality beyond the basics. It is clear that some manufacturers spend more time developing functional design choices to make everyday life easier.
Ease of Use
Product
Buckle
Harness
Adjustments
Cleaning
Chicco Fit 360
9.0
9.0
9.0
5.5
Chicco OneFit LX
5.5
9.0
7.0
9.0
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1
5.5
7.0
7.0
9.0
Graco Easy Turn 360 2-in-1
5.5
8.0
5.5
8.0
Cybex Callisto G 360
7.0
7.0
7.0
5.5
Joie Saffron SI
7.0
5.5
7.0
7.0
Nuna Rava Next
7.0
7.0
5.5
7.0
Nuna Rava
7.0
7.0
7.0
5.5
Graco 4Ever DLX
5.5
9.0
7.0
4.0
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1
5.5
5.5
9.0
5.5
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1
5.5
4.0
7.0
9.0
Romer Veni
5.5
7.0
7.0
5.5
Nuna Exec Next
7.0
5.5
7.0
5.5
Britax Poplar S
7.0
7.0
7.0
4.0
Nuna Revv
5.5
5.5
7.0
7.0
Evenflo Revolve360 Slim
5.5
5.5
9.0
4.0
Baby Jogger City Turn
5.5
4.0
9.0
5.5
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
4.0
7.0
4.0
9.0
UPPAbaby Rove
5.5
5.5
5.5
7.0
Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1
5.5
4.0
7.0
5.5
Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
5.5
2.0
4.0
9.0
Britax One4Life ClickTight
4.0
4.0
7.0
4.0
Clek Foonf
5.5
7.0
2.0
2.0
Clek Fllo
5.5
7.0
2.0
2.0
Ease of use includes standard features such as harness adjustment and chest clips, ease of tightening or loosening the harness, removal of the fabric cover for cleaning, and more. If your chosen seat is challenging, you may inadvertently avoid using it as the manufacturer advised, or you could become chronically frustrated.
The Nuna Exec Next chest clip is super easy to close and open. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Joie Saffron has a unique magnetic chest clip that helps it close quickly with less chance of pinching. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Buckles and Chest Clips
The buckles and chest clips in this group are largely average. While some have prongs that pop out somewhat independently, and others have chest clips that slide apart more smoothly, none were that challenging or impossible to use. The Chicco Fit 360 is one of the best in the group. The Joie Saffron has a magnetic chest clip that we really loved. We also really liked the stick-and-button lock design of the Nuna Rava Next and Nuna Exec Next because it was easy to slide together, and the raised release buttons are easy to press by darn near anyone.
The Graco 4Ever has an easy-to-use harness including tightening, loosening, height adjustment, and more. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Harness Tightening and Loosening
Each seat has a harness-tightening strap and a harness-release button to loosen the straps and help your child remove the harness. Some of these were harder to pull, and the buttons varied in style and ease of use. The Graco 4Ever DLX, Chicco OneFit LX, and the Chicco Fit360 have some of the group's best tightening and release mechanisms. The Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is hard to tighten incrementally and often feels either too tight or too loose. The Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One was the hardest.
The harness height adjustment on the Graco SlimFit is a non-rethread style with a headrest assembly that moves smoothly up and down. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Adjusting the Harness
There are two methods for adjusting the harness height on convertible car seats. The simplest method is a non-rethread style that involves moving the headrest/harness shoulder-strap assembly up and down (see video above). The more intricate design involves removing the shoulder straps from a splitter plate on the back, physically moving them from one slot height on the seatback to another, and threading them through different slots. While this method isn't particularly hard or frustrating, it takes more time and requires you to remove your child from the seat to access it. If the car seat is forward-facing, you may need to remove the convertible seat from the car to reach the seat splitter plate. There is more room for error or for avoiding change when you need to rethread the straps, which makes it less than ideal when a properly fitted harness is critical to safety. Alternatively, the non-rethread method adjusts quickly with your little one in the seat whenever you notice a need.
The Chicco Fit360 has an easy-to-adjust harness height/headrest assembly. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We prefer the non-rethread style because it is simple, and we think busy parents are more likely to keep the harness properly fitted if they can do it quickly without removing their child from the seat. We worry parents will put off adjusting the harness with the rethread style because it requires an empty seat and more effort. Since injuries can occur when a harness isn't properly adjusted, we prefer non-rethread assemblies. The Chicco Fit360, Baby Jogger City Turn, Evenflo Revolve360 Slim, and the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 are the easiest options in the group to adjust. The Clek Fllo and the Clek Foonf require rethreading of the straps. We think this design is acceptable for cheaper seats, but less palatable on seats like the Cleks, which have a higher price.
The EasyTurn LATCH connectors can be stored in a back pocket that is easy to access, and everything fits without effort. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The LX LATCH storage is oddly placed and hard to use if your hands are large or you lack the patience to cram it all into the cubby. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Nuna Rava Next LATCH connectors strap-fit in the tensioner pocket; It is a tight fit and not the easiest to access. Credit: Matt Lighthart
LATCH Storage
LATCH storage is arguably less critical for convertible seats than for infant carriers, since it does not affect installation or inhibit connection between the seat and base. However, it is still helpful if the straps aren't readily accessible to your child and cannot contribute to potential injuries if left loose. Some options have designated pockets for LATCH clips, while the most common storage method is to attach the clips to specific points on the shell. Most of the competition was easy enough, and nothing was impossible. However, we didn't care for the under-seat storage on the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 because the cubby is small and takes significant effort to fit the connectors and straps inside. The pocket on the Nuna Rava Next and Nuna Exec Next is also small, and getting the connectors and the strap inside was more challenging. It is also located behind the tensioner and under the seat padding, so the entire process is really involved. We suspect many parents will avoid using it until they no longer need the LATCH connectors. The Baby Jogger City Turn was the worst performer because the cubby is small, requires the connectors to be clipped in place, and does not provide enough space for the hands to disengage the connectors for removal.
The Chicco NextFit Zip has a cover that unzips for quick and easy removal for cleaning. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Fabric Removal and Cleaning
Kids' car seats get messy and require frequent cleaning (whether you like it or not). We tested how challenging it is to remove the fabric covers for washing. We prefer machine-washable covers that are easy to remove and replace. We prefer handwashing over spot cleaning only, but because there is a high risk of throw-up, spit-up, and poopy blowouts, it is ideal to have a machine-washable cover you can remove quickly.
Removing the cover on the Britax Poplar S is a convoluted process that took more than 17 minutes to put back on. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Most of the seats use some variation or combination of snaps, elastic loops, and fabric tucking. None are overly challenging, but certainly, some are better than others. The easiest to remove include the Graco Turn2Me, Chicco OneFit LX, Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1, Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible, and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One. The Clek seats don't have removable covers and are spot clean only. We suspect you'll likely require a steam cleaner for bigger messes, making this design choice a mistake in our opinion, given how often you might need to clean the seat. The hardest covers to remove include the Britax Poplar S and the Evenflo Revolve360 Slim.
The Chicco Fit 360 is a rotating seat that has easy-to-use features. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Overall Ease of Use
Ease of use can make or break your daily routine and includes the components you are most likely to interact with each day.
The easiest seats to use are the Chicco Fit360 and the Chicco OneFit LX. Close behind these two are the Graco 4Ever DLX, Joie Saffron SI, and the Graco Turn2Me.
Key Features
Belt Lock Off
Non-Rethread Harness
Anti-Rebound Device
Booster Mode
Romer Veni
✖
Nuna Exec Next
Nuna Rava Next
✖
✖
Graco 4Ever DLX
✖
Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1
✖
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1
✖
✖
Chicco Fit 360
✖
✖
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1
✖
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1
✖
✖
The most challenging seats were the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One, the Clek Fllo, Clek Foonf, and the Britax One4Life ClickTight. While we can almost forgive the Safety 1st for being harder to use because it is cheaper, the same cannot be said for the Clek, which has above-average pricing.
The Romer Veni has better padding and fabric than most contenders. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Comfort/Quality
For comfort and quality, we review the materials and overall construction. We analyze the padding, fabric, and foam, and how well they come together compared to the competition. We consider how each seat's design contributes to a child's potential comfort, parent use, and durability.
Quality/Comfort
Product
Seat
Shell
Insert
Chicco Fit 360
7.0
9.0
9.0
Nuna Rava
7.0
9.0
9.0
Romer Veni
9.0
9.0
7.0
Nuna Revv
8.0
9.0
7.0
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1
7.0
7.0
9.0
Chicco OneFit LX
7.0
7.0
9.0
Joie Saffron SI
7.0
9.0
7.0
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1
7.0
7.0
7.0
Britax Poplar S
7.0
7.0
7.0
Nuna Exec Next
8.0
4.0
8.0
UPPAbaby Rove
7.0
7.0
5.5
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1
7.0
7.0
5.5
Graco Easy Turn 360 2-in-1
5.5
8.0
5.5
Nuna Rava Next
8.0
4.0
7.0
Britax One4Life ClickTight
5.5
5.5
7.0
Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
5.5
5.5
7.0
Cybex Callisto G 360
7.0
5.5
5.5
Evenflo Revolve360 Slim
5.5
5.5
7.0
Baby Jogger City Turn
7.0
4.0
7.0
Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1
8.0
5.5
4.0
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
5.5
5.5
4.0
Graco 4Ever DLX
4.0
5.5
5.5
Clek Foonf
4.0
5.5
2.0
Clek Fllo
4.0
5.5
2.0
All convertible car seats share common features, such as a plastic shell, impact foam, comfort padding, and a fabric cover. However, some provide thicker or more supportive padding, softer or more durable fabric, or foam that doesn't off-gas. Because this is somewhat subjective, we compare the seats side by side and rank them.
Seat/Insert
While most babies and toddlers typically don't complain about comfort, some seats are uncomfortable (and trust us, you'll hear about it). We look at things like the fabric and its softness, as well as padding and whether it is supportive or too squishy. While many of the seats have thicker headrests, some lack suitable padding in the back and seat bottom. The Romer Veni is an impressive choice, with more padding than most, and some of it is dense enough to provide support rather than flattening under pressure. The Nuna Rava Next and the Nuna Exec Next were some of the most impressive, with the Rava featuring a calf rest and the Exec a leg lounger. The padding on both is dense, supportive, and comfortable. The Chicco Fit360 is a comfy seat that little ones want to nap in. Below-average seats for padding and fabric include the Graco 4Ever DLX, Clek Foonf, and Clek Fllo.
Most infant inserts were just fluffy padding, and they didn't provide firm support. This is part of why we recommend using an infant car seat for babies and switching to a convertible seat when your baby reaches the infant seat's upper weight limit. Both the Nuna Exec Next and the Nuna Rava Next have better infant inserts, with the Exec offering additional wedge support for little ones under 11 lbs. The Chicco Fit360 has one of our favorite infant inserts, with a firm base that sits deep in the seat and attaches to the crotch strap to help keep it in place. The Chicco OneFit LX is also very good, as the padding is thick and doesn't instantly squash under pressure. Both Cleks lack an infant insert and provide nothing for smaller passengers. In addition, they have dense, supportive foam that offers almost no comfort or give for small bodies.
The Joie Saffron has wrap-around fabric, giving it a luxurious look. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Shell
Our favorite car seat shells feature easy-to-clean, self-contained exteriors with minimal stickers and clutter, creating a sleek-looking seat. Our favorites include the Romer Veni, Nuna Rava Next, Nuna Exec Next, Nuna Revv, Chicco Fit360, and the Joie Saffron SI. The Joie is one of the only options we've seen that wraps the fabric almost entirely around the shell, creating a very polished fit and finish. The lowest-scoring shell is the Baby Jogger City Turn because its design allows you to swivel the seat, which could get gunked up over time. While the Graco seats were better, they have a lot of stickers that make them hard to blend into the background and could be hard to keep clean.
Overall Comfort and Quality
The best seats for comfort and quality are the Romer Veni, Nuna Exec Next, and the Nuna Revv. These seats are closely followed by the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1, Nuna Rava Next, Chicco Fit360, Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1, Chicco OneFit LX, and the Joie Saffron. The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 and Britax Polar S also performed well here. The lowest-scoring seats for this metric are both Clek* seats. Kid testers disliked the dense seating on the Clek, with significant complaints about hardness and discomfort, so, despite good quality, comfort fell short. The Graco 4Ever DLX didn't perform well here either, but given the high crash test analysis score and lower price, we consider it an acceptable trade-off.
Each seat in our convertible car seat review was weighed for an apples-to-apples comparison. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Weight/Size
We measure the weight and width of each car seat we test, including the forward-facing and rear-facing configuration weight and the width at the widest point (which can vary).
Weight & Size
Product
Weight
Size
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1
8.5
8.2
Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1
8.3
7.6
Graco 4Ever DLX
8.1
7.7
Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
9.4
6.4
Britax Poplar S
7.4
8.2
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1
8.6
6.9
Romer Veni
7.2
8.0
Clek Fllo
7.5
7.4
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
8.1
6.7
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1
7.4
7.4
Joie Saffron SI
8.0
6.6
Nuna Exec Next
7.4
7.0
Nuna Rava
7.4
6.9
Nuna Rava Next
7.4
6.7
Baby Jogger City Turn
7.2
6.8
Clek Foonf
6.3
7.6
Evenflo Revolve360 Slim
6.9
6.9
UPPAbaby Rove
7.5
6.3
Graco Easy Turn 360 2-in-1
7.5
6.3
Britax One4Life ClickTight
7.1
6.6
Chicco OneFit LX
7.4
6.2
Nuna Revv
7.0
6.2
Cybex Callisto G 360
6.0
6.6
Chicco Fit 360
6.5
5.7
The Cybex is one of the heaviest in the group. Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Rove has an average weight for the group. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Weight
While the weight of a convertible seat is likely less important than the carrier weight of an infant seat, it can be a consideration if you travel frequently or use public transportation and need to carry it. A relatively new phenomenon in convertible seats is a two-part design with a base and a separate seat. Most of these are rotating, but both components are required for installation, so all it really buys you is an opportunity to carry two different parts one at a time.
If your seat will remain in your car most of the time, then how much it weighs might be less of a concern. The Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One at 13.4.4 lbs is the lightest option, while the heaviest is the Cybex Callisto G 360 at a whopping 35.8 lbs, and the Clek Foonf at almost 34 lbs. The average is closer to 26 lbs, while several top-scoring Graco seats are closer to 20 lbs.
We measured every seat in this review (Clek Foonf shown here) at its widest point so parents with space limitations can compare the options. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Width Size
How wide a seat is can be important if you need to fit multiple people or car seats across a back row in your vehicle.
We measured the widest point on each seat for comparison. The Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is the narrowest seat at 16.5 inches. We've had many requests for this seat, as many parents hope to use it in the same row as other car seats or passengers. The narrowest rotating seat is the Graco Easy Turn 360 2-in-1 at 16.9 inches. The Clek options are next at 16.9 inches, and the widest is the Cybex Callisto G 360, at 19.5 inches. Also, measuring wide at 19.4 is the Britax One4Life ClickTight, and at 19.3 are the Baby Jogger City Turn and the Graco 4Ever DLX. The UPPAbaby Rove is also a larger option, measuring 19.2 inches wide. The Britax Poplar S is a respectable 17 inches. While the Clek seats are narrower than the Poplar, they didn't perform well overall, and we wouldn't choose them over the LX or the Poplar S.
The second-narrowest rotating seat is the Evenflo Revolve360 Slim 2-in-1, with a width of 17.1 inches. In fairness, however, it is also one of the longest seats at 30.5 inches, which could be a deal-breaker in smaller cars or for taller parents sitting in the front seat.
Finding the best convertible car seat requires some thoughtful consideration of installation method, ease of use, and crash test performance. Credit: Natalie Kafader
How to Pick the Best Convertible Car Seat
When choosing a convertible car seat for your child, we believe it should be viewed through a safety lens. Safety includes how easy it is to install, how easy it is to use features like the harness, and how well it performs during crash testing.
Installation Method
Each seat has two different installation methods; you'll likely use both at some point, as the LATCH method will become obsolete when your child reaches a certain weight (see your manual). However, they differ in how easy they are to install using each method. The ability to install a car seat correctly can affect its performance in an accident, so you want to pick one you feel confident you can install correctly for maximum safety.
Is it Easy to Use?
Using the seat's features correctly can affect passenger safety. Studies show that injuries in accidents can be related to improperly adjusted harnesses or inappropriate use of other features. You want to find a seat that is easy to use and adjust.
Crash Test Analysis
Once you have a few easy-to-install, easy-to-use seats on your shortlist, we think the final consideration is crash-test analysis. While crash-test performance is important, studies indicate that many injuries occur in real-world accidents due to incorrect installation or a poorly fitted harness. However, this doesn't mean you should ignore crash testing; the analysis results can provide valuable information to help you settle on the perfect seat.
We tested lots of popular seats for our convertible car seat update. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Conclusion
Selecting the best convertible car seat for your growing baby doesn't have to be confusing or frustrating. Our testing details provide the information and crash-test analysis you need to find the best seat for your goals and budget. Whether your goal is to find the seat with the best crash test results or the option with the easiest installation and impressive crash test results, we provide the details to narrow the field and find the best seat for your child.
