Best Convertible Car Seats of 2025 | Crash Tested

Our Picks of Convertible Car Seats

Best Convertible and Crash Testing

Graco 4Ever DLX

$330 at Amazon

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 in the chest clip sensor (lower is better) and one of the best combined results for the HIC and chest clip. The 4Ever is lighter than the average convertible seat, weighing 21.8 lbs in our tests, and relatively short from front to back (25.3 inches), making it a contender if you have a smaller car or longer legs. This seat is good-looking, easy to use, and offers straightforward installation. Plus, it comes at a reasonable price, below the average for the group.

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 19.3 inches at its widest point; it 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 provides more comfort and quality but is otherwise 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 make most families happy. As one tester said, “This is hands down the seat I'd choose for my kid.”

Read more: Graco 4Ever DLX review

Best for Easy Installation

Romer Veni

Read the Review

The Romer Veni is a tester favorite with the easiest installation that pairs an effective lockoff with straightforward instructions. Whether you use the LATCH connectors or the vehicle belt, the Veni makes installation virtually foolproof. Any parent with lingering fears about obtaining a safe and “by the book” installation will be enthralled by this choice. We think the Veni is also a standout for comfort and quality, with a more supportive cushion than most seats, softer fabric, and a useful infant insert that doesn't feel like an afterthought. The Romer is also relatively narrow with a width of 17.2 inches, making the heft of almost 28 lbs more palatable. As one tester said, “Being able to have more room next to the seat is important if you have multiple kids or passengers.”

The Romer has above-average crash test analysis results, but only just above average. While we wish the sensor data were better overall, the chest clip result was on par with some of the best, and the HIC was still in the brag-worthy adjacent territory. However, if the best crash test results are your goal, then the Graco 4Ever DLX or the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 are excellent alternatives. The Romer is also not as easy to use as some competitors. While not frustratingly hard, we think there is room for improvement compared to the competition. Both Gracos were also easier to use. Overall, the Romer is a good choice for anyone looking for quality, comfort, and the easiest installation in the convertible seat world.

Read more: Romer Veni review

Best Value for Crash Test Analysis

Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1

$279 at Amazon

The Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 is an impressive convertible seat. It features push-style LATCH connectors that are easy to use compared to the competition. The Extend2Fit performed well in our commissioned crash tests, earning one of the highest analysis scores thanks in part to one of the lowest sensor readings for the HIC sensor. It offers a comfortable riding experience for little ones with ample padding and a nap-worthy headrest that includes a non-rethread harness height adjustment with 10 height options. Taller kiddos will appreciate the leg extension that offers more legroom than a standard seat. One kid tester remarked, “I could really nap in this seat.” The Extend2Fit offers better crash test results than our budget-friendly option, and with sales, you can often find it for a cheaper price than other award winners in this lineup.

This Graco isn't as easy to install using the vehicle belt, which you'll likely have to do at some point. While not super challenging, if this is going to be your main installation type, the Graco 4Ever DLX might be a better choice. The Extend2Fit is also not narrow (19 in), taking after the 4Ever, making the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 at 16.5 in, a better Graco 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 is a real contender for those concerned with staying rear-facing longer and crash test results.

Read more: Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 review

Rotating and Impressive Crash on a Budget

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1

$400 at Amazon

The Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 is a really cool rotating seat. As more rotating seats become popular, we get a clearer idea of 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, with a weight of 26.1 lbs, a width of only 18.4 inches, and a rear-facing length of 27.3 inches 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, and there are so many stickers, warnings, and installation help that it ruins this seat's overall look and feel. While we understand some warnings are necessary, and installation help is appreciated, options like the Nuna Rava keep the stickers closer to the base, creating an overall more appealing look. The Turn2Me also offers lackluster padding that is adequate but nothing to write home about. The headrest area is better than deep in 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.”

Read more: Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 review

Best on a Tighter Budget

Graco SlimFit 3-in-1

Check price at Amazon

The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 is a great seat with better crash test analysis results and a reasonable price tag. 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 possible positions and a crotch strap with three positions, creating enough variation for most kids. 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 for comfort that you won't get complaints from toddlers on longer rides.

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 a better overall result, then the Graco 4Ever is one to consider. 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 fit. More than one tester remarked, “This is a super comfy seat.” If you hope to put three car seats in a row and the average width of the SlimFit just won't do, the SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is the narrowest in the review with a measurement of 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 no matter which seat you go for, but if you want a high scorer with a lower price, we believe the SlimFit is the best fit.

Read more: Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 review

Best Narrow Convertible Seat

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1

$300 at Amazon

The Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is the narrowest seat you've all been asking for. This Graco boasts being suitable for three seats in the back seat, and we suspect they might be right. As one tester said, “Everyone is looking for a seat they can use with three seats or multiple seats and older passengers. It's nice to find one with good crash results.” With a width of 16.5 inches, 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 worry, 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.

Read more: Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 review

Favorite Installation for Rotation

Chicco Fit 360

$440 at Amazon

The Chicco Fit 360 is a good-looking rotating seat that only needs to be installed once for use rear or forward-facing. 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 that has 15 possible positions over a 10-inch range. It is non-rethread, so 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, as it is thicker in the back and bottom than many competitors, and it looks as comfy as a La-Z-Boy 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 about $50 on average, and it 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 worried about the 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.

Read more: Chicco Fit 360 review

Specifications	Romer Veni	Nuna RAVA	Chicco Fit 360	Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1	Graco 4Ever DLX	Graco SlimFit 3-in-1	Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1	Britax Poplar S	Baby Jogger City Turn	Joie Saffron SI	Chicco NextFit Zip	Evenflo Gold Revolve360	Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1	Nuna Revv	Britax One4Life ClickTight	Peg Perego Primo Viaggio	Clek Foonf	Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One	Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One	Clek Fllo	Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
Awards	Best for Easy Installation		Favorite Installation for Rotation	Rotating and Impressive Crash on a Budget	Best Convertible and Crash Testing	Best on a Tighter Budget	Best Value for Crash Test Analysis						Best Narrow Convertible Seat
Min/Max Rear Facing Passenger Weight	5-50 lb	5-50 lb	4-40 lb	4-40 lb	4-40 lb	5-40 lb	4-50 lb	5-50 lb	4-50 lb	4-40 lb	5-40 lb	4-40 lb	5-40 lb	5-40 lb	5-50 lb	5-45 lb	14-50 lb	4-40 lb	5-40 lb	14-50 lb	4-50 lb
Min/Max Forward Facing Passenger Weight	22-65 lb	25-65 lb	26.5-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22 - 65 lb	30-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	26.5-65 lb	25-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb	22-65 lb
Rear Facing Maximum Height	Top of head is at least 1 in below the headrest edge	49 in	43 in	49 in	Top of head must be at least 1 in below handle	Top of head must be at least 1 in below handle	Top of head must be at least 1 in below handle	49 in	Top of head must be 1 in below the headrest/harness adjustment lever	43 in	43 in	40 in	Top of head is at least 1 in below the headrest handle	49 in	Top of head must be 1 in below the top edge of headrest	Top of head is at least 1 in below the headrest edge	43 in	40 in	40 in	43 in	44 in
Forward Facing Maximum Height	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	49 in	57 in
Weight	27.9 lb	26.4 lb	32.4 lb	26.1 lb	21.8 lb	18.5 lb	20.5 lb	26.1 lb	27.5 lb	22.4 lb	25.8 lb	29.4 lb	19.5 lb	29.2 lb	28.1 lb	21.5 lb	33.7 lb	16.6 lb	13.4 lb	26.0 lb	26.5 lb
Harness Type	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Rethread	Non-rethread	Semi-rethread	Rethread	Rethread
Anti-rebound Device	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes
Measured Minimum Rear Facing Length	27 in	28 in	32 in	27 in	25 in	28 in	26 in	27 in	28 in	29 in	27 in	29 in	28 in	31 in	28 in	29 in	29 in	30 in	30 in	30 in	32 in
Measured Minimum Seat Width	17 in	19 in	19 in	18 in	19 in	19 in	19 in	17 in	19 in	19 in	19 in	20 in	17 in	19 in	19 in	19 in	17 in	19 in	19 in	17 in	17 in
Headrest/Shoulder Harness Positions	13	10	15	10	10	10	10	14	10	10	9	14	10	10	15	10	5	5	5	5	5
Crotch Strap Positions	3	2	2	2	2	3	2	2	2	2	2	3	3	2	3	1	2	3	3	2	3
Number Of Recline positions	6	10	6	4	6	4	6	6	3	3	9	4	4	10	9	2	3	3	3	1	1
Head Support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Infant Positioning Insert	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Rear Facing Level Indicator On Seat	Ball Indicator, both sides	None	Level indicator, both sides	Level indicator, both sides	Bubble, one side	Bead, one side	Bubble, one side	Bead Indicator	Bubble, both sides	Line on Decal, both sides	Bubble, both sides	Bubble, both sides	Ball Indicator, both sides	None	Dial, both sides	Line on decal, both sides	Line on decal, both sides	Line on decal, both sides	Line on decal, both sides	Line on decal, both sides	None
Booster Mode Available	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Foam Type	IsoEnergy energy-absorbing foam	EPO	EPP	EPP	Not mentioned	EPS	Not mentioned	EPP	EPP	Not mentioned	EPS	Not mentioned	EPS	EPP	Not mentioned	EPS & EPP	EPP	Not mentioned	EPS	EPP	Not mentioned
Seat Lifespan	10 year	10 years	8 year	10 year	10 years	10 years	10 years	10 years	10 years	10 year	8 years	10 years	10 year	10 years	10 years	10 years	9 years	10 years	10 years	9 years	10 years
Onboard Manual Storage	Yes, in a pocket behind the cover	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes, pouch on the backrest	Yes	Yes	Yes, on the base in the back	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Aircraft Certified	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	Yes	Only in forward facing mode	No	Yes	No	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	No	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	Yes	Yes	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode	Yes	Yes in harness mode, No in booster mode
Warranty	1 year limited	2 year limited	Not mentioned	1 year	1 year limited	1 year limited	1 year limited	1 year	1 year limited	1 year limited	Not mentioned on website	90 day limited	1 year limited	2 year limited	1 year limited	2 year limited	1 + 2 year limited	1 year limited	90 day limited	1 + 2 year limited	1 year limited

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.”

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 testing 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.

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)

Over the last several years, we've purchased more than 100 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 like 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.

The convertible car seats are subjected to 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 intense product research and observations from multiple testers to compare each product side-by-side.

We suggest you keep your baby in their infant car seat until they are 9-12 months old or as their height starts to push 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.

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 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) experts about their protocol 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 seat 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. Wendy Schmitz is a mother of 2 and has researched, analyzed, and written about car seats for over 10 years. 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.

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.

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What's the Best Value?

This group has budget-friendly options with winners and lower-priced seats to meet your needs and safety goals. It was refreshing to see so many reasonably priced options perform so well with standout crash test analysis results. Our Editor's Choice winner is a great value, even if it is somewhat more expensive than some, as it is still about three hundred dollars less than the most expensive selections.

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The Graco 4Ever DXL (above left) is an impressive all-around seat we think parents will appreciate. However, if this is a little out of budget, the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1 and the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 (above right) are budget-savvy choices with similar test results and a lower list prices. If it is a rotating seat you want, the Graco Turn2Me had impressive crash test results, and while it is more expensive than the other Gracos, it is one of the least expensive rotating seats in the review. It's a Graco love-fest of reasonably priced car seats with better crash test analysis.

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 them to complete crash tests. MGA tests the seats using a faster speed and a slightly firmer sled than the FMVSS 213 safety standard. We chose this on purpose to mimic late-model vehicles better and to see if faster speeds helped differentiate the seats from one another. All seats in this review are assumed to have passed the federal guidelines and should be considered safe. Based on test results, those we identify as better than average are options that potentially offer an additional margin of safety over the average seat.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 testing data is more critical than stated features or claims.

Related: How to Avoid Infant Car Seat Installation Mistakes

Best Seats Based on Crash Test Analysis

We rated each seat compared to the competition using crash test report analysis. The scoring helps quantify convertible car seats that offer a potential additional margin of protection over and above the basic level of protection found in all seats.

The Graco 4Ever DLX 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 crash test standout for rotating seats. The Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1, Nuna Rava, 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 when it came to crash test analysis. The Chicco NextFit Zip, Joie Saffron SI, and the Baby Jogger City Turn also impress with scores just a wee bit under the top performers. The seats that clocked the highest g-force measurements in our crash testing (lower is what you want, so these are below-average performers) are the Evenflo Gold Revolve360, Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+, and the Nuna Revv. Also coming in below average but slightly better than that lot are the Britax One4Life ClickTight, and the Clek Foonf.

Ease of Install Using LATCH

Studies show that more than 7 out of 10 car seats are installed incorrectly or the harness is not fitted correctly . As a result of these statistics, we feel ease of installation and ease of use are critical when choosing a car seat. Both can potentially impact overall safety, and we take this very seriously.

The Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) installation method should make it easier to install car seats correctly with fewer opportunities to make mistakes. For this reason, we recommend using the LATCH method whenever possible to increase the chances of correct seat installation. All convertible car seats have the LATCH connectors, and most vehicles manufactured after September 1, 2002, offer the 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).

Our tests showed that some seats are easier to install using LATCH instead of 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 adequately to secure the convertible car seat without too much resulting wiggle.

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There are three main types of LATCH connectors: push-style (above left), hook-style (above right), and rigid LATCH (video below). We typically see the hook-style connectors on less expensive seats, and we were surprised to find them on some of the more expensive options like the Britax lineup and the Romer Veni. 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.

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.

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Best Seats For LATCH Installation

Top-performing seats for LATCH installation include those with push-style connectors, easy-to-pull straps, and often include lock-off mechanisms. 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 final fit that is no muss, no fuss. The Romer Veni also has top honors with an ultra-easy to use lockoff mimicking 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 using LATCH connectors are the Nuna Revv and the Evenflo Gold Revolve360. Seats coming in close behind top-performers include the Baby Jogger City Turn, Nuna RAVA, 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, Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+, Clek Fllo, and the Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One.

Ease of Install — Vehicle Belt

No matter how or where you hope to install your new car seat, you must install it using 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 use weight limits of about 40 - 50 lbs of child weight before the seat requires installation using the vehicle belt only. Given that many of the products have a weight limit of 50-80 lbs in the forward-facing configuration, it is clear that most children will utilize the vehicle belt installation method at some point.

Don't despair! We will tell you which seats are the easiest to install using the vehicle belt and provide information on the correct installation and where to get help if you are unsure about anything or if something doesn't seem right.

The Benefit of the Seat Belt Lockoff

Some seats are easier to install using a seat belt than competitors, 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.

In this review, several seats have a belt lock-off located on the seat. Most of these seats ranked higher overall and have better vehicle belt installation scores. The Romer Veni, Chicco Fit360, Evenflo Gold Revolve360, and the Nuna Revv scored the highest for belt installation, and each has a useful belt lockoff. The Britax Poplar S, Nuna RAVA, and the Baby Jogger City Turn are also easy and have a lockoff.

Coincidence? We think not.

Some lockoffs work a little better than others, but even those that are challenging still 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 seats lacking a lock-off typically didn't perform as well and included the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+, Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible, Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One, and the Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One. 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.

Ease of Use

Convertible car seats have standard designs and appear to be similar beyond cosmetics. However, in reality, they diverge in ease of use, with some being significantly easier to use than others, thanks to thoughtful additional features or improved functionality of features over the basic offerings. It is clear that some manufacturers spend more time developing functional design choices to make everyday life easier.

Ease of use includes the functionality of standard features, including harness adjustment and chest clips, ease of tightening or loosening the harness, fabric cover removal 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.

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 Fit360 is one of the best in the group. The Joie Saffron has a magnetic chest clip we really loved.

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 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 it felt too tight or too loose. The Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One was the hardest.

Adjusting the Harness

There are primarily 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 (video above). The more intricate design includes removing the shoulder straps from a splitter plate on the back and physically moving the straps from one slot height on the seatback to thread 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 for access, and 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 possible error or avoidance of change when you need to rethread the straps. Alternatively, the non-rethread method adjusts quickly with your little one in the seat as soon as you notice a need.

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 correctly adjusted to fit, we prefer non-rethread assemblies. The Chicco Fit360, Baby Jogger City Turn, and the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 are the easiest options in the group to adjust. The Clek Fllo, Clek Foonf, and the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ all require rethreading of the straps. We think this design is acceptable for cheaper seats, but is less palatable on seats like the Cleks, which have a higher premium price.

LATCH Storage

LATCH storage is arguably less important for convertible seats than infant carriers since they do not impact 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 can't contribute to potential injuries floating loose. Some options have designated pockets for LATCH clips, while the most common storage method includes attaching the clips to designated 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.

Fabric Removal and Cleaning

Kids' car seats undergo significant messes 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 like handwashing methods over spot cleaning only, but because there is a high potential for throw-up, spit-up, and poopy blowouts, it is ideal to have a machine-washable cover you can remove quickly.

Most of the seats are some variation or combination of snaps, elastic loops, and tucking in of fabric. None are overly challenging, but certainly, some are better than others. The easiest to remove include the Graco Turn2Me, 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. Probably the most straightforward and unique cover is on the Chicco NextFit Zip, which has a cover that zips all the way around for easy removal for machine washing. If your little one is prone to messes or you like things extraordinarily clean, then a zip-off cover might be a top priority.

Overall Ease of Use

Ease of use can make or break your daily routine and includes the components you are most likely to deal with daily.

The easiest seats to use are the Nuna Rava, and the Chicco Fit360. Nuna seems to think of everything and understands that a real parent will be using this seat, and they might even like you. Close behind these two are the Chicco NextFit Zip, Graco 4Ever DLX, and the Graco Turn2Me.

The most challenging seats were the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One, and the Maxi-Cosi Pria All-in-One. While we prefer a seat that is easy to use, we can almost forgive the Safety 1st since it has a price tag under two hundred dollars. The same cannot be said of the Maxi-Cosi.

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 baby's potential comfort, parent use, and durability.

All convertible car seats have similarities, like a plastic shell, impact foam, comfort padding, and a fabric cover. However, some provide thicker 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. 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 offer support instead of flattening under pressure. The Nuna Revv is above average with nice microform and soft fabric. The Chicco Fit360 is a comfy seat that little ones want to nap in.

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 upper limit of the infant seat. 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 Nuna Rava also provides a nice insert with a padded block that goes below the softer top to help prop up smaller bodies. Both the Clek Fllo and the Clek Foonf lack an infant insert and provide nothing for smaller passengers. In addition, they have dense supportive foam that offers almost no comfort or give under little bodies.

Shell

Our favorite car seat shells have easy-to-clean, self-contained exteriors with a minimal amount of stickers and clutter that create a sleek-looking seat. Our favorites include the Romer Veni, Nuna seats, 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 the design allows you to swivel the seat, which feels like it could get gunked up over time. While the Graco seats were better, they have a lot of stickers that prevent them from blending 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, Evenflo Gold Revolve360, and Nuna Revv. These seats are followed closely by the Graco Extend2Fit 3 in 1, Nuna RAVA, Chicco Fit360, and the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 , and the Joie Saffron. The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 and Britax Polar S also performed well here. The lowest for this metric is the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+, and both Clek* seats. Kid testers disliked the dense seating on the Clek, with significant complaints about hardness and discomfort, while the Diono materials felt lower quality.

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

While the weight of a convertible seat is likely not as important as 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 the convertible seats is those that have a base and a seat that is separate. Most of these are of a rotating variety.

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 Clek Foonf at almost 34 lbs. The average is closer to 26 lbs, with several top-scoring Graco seats coming in closer to 20 lbs.

Width Size

How wide a seat is could be important to you if you need to fit multiple people or car seats across a back row in your vehicle.

We also 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 Clek options are next at 16.9 inches, and the widest is the Evenflo Gold Revolve360, at 19.6 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 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.

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 are all different in how easy they are to install with each method. The ability to install a car seat correctly can impact its overall ability to perform during an accident, so you want to pick one you feel confident you can install correctly for maximum safety.

How Easy is it to Use?

Being able to use the seat's features correctly can impact the passenger's safety. Studies show that injuries in an accident can be related to incorrectly 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 and use seats on your shortlist, we think the last step is crash test analysis. While crash test performance is important, studies indicate that many injuries happen during 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.

Conclusion