Best Infant Car Seats | Crash Tested

The Best Infant Car Seats

Full results from testing 15 top products are in our Product Comparison Table and Analysis & Test Results sections.

Passenger Weight: 4-32 lbs | Carrier Weight: 8.5 lbs

The Nuna Pipa RX is an impressive seat that performs far better than its closest competitor. The Nuna earned the best crash-test rating in the group, with sensor data from the HIC and chest clip sensors that were much lower (lower is better) in our commissioned crash tests than in any seat we've ever tested. Where some, like the Clek Liing, have good results, the Nuna was the best. The Nuna is a lightweight seat at 8.5 lbs. While not the lightest, which is closer to 6.5 lbs, it is the lightest high-ranking option. The rigid LATCH connectors and built-in lock-off make achieving a secure, snug fit a breeze. Even installing without the base, the process was straightforward and felt stable with the European belt path. Our tester reports, “I found the Pipa RX is exceptionally easy to install in any installation method.”

The Nuna is one of the most expensive infant car seats we tested. This higher price could make it out of reach for many. If you want a more budget-friendly option with strong crash-test results, the Britax Willow S can save you a couple of hundred dollars without sacrificing much. The Joie Rue is also a compelling choice with crash results above the average. The Nuna also has a rethread harness system. While it isn't hard to use, it is a disappointment, given the price. This means that parents must remove the baby from the carrier and the carrier from the car to make the adjustment, and we worry it will be skipped because life is busy. Overall, the Nuna is a standout seat that knocked it out of the park. Our tester reports, “I love this seat, and it is the one I'd choose for those looking for the best crash test results.”

Read more: Nuna Pipa RX review

Passenger Weight: 4-30 lbs | Carrier Weight: 10.2 lbs

The Romer Juni comes from the Britax lineage and offers a sleek look, a unique open-base design, and multiple safety features, including a load leg and an anti-rebound bar. We love the impressive crash test results, which mostly mirror the best in the bunch, with one of the lowest chest-sensor forces recorded. We think this seat is easy to install using the LATCH connectors or the vehicle belt, and the padding and fabric feel good. It also boasts the absolute best in canopy coverage. One tester said, “This canopy is crazy good, it covers everything!”

The Juni is on the heavier side, and while it is average for the group, 10+ lbs is still a lot as your baby grows. If you pair this with a stroller, you might be fine, but Romer is still relatively new in the US, so it might be hard to find a compatible stroller outside its lineup. If you want a stroller-compatible option, the Chicco Keyfit 30 works with a variety of favorite strollers with the purchase of an adapter. Or, the Evenflo Shyft has stroller parts for an all-in-one design, perfect for urbanites. The Juni also has a handle release design that sticks and is harder to slide, but this isn't a deal breaker. One tester said, “I think it could be challenging if you have hand or finger dexterity problems.” Overall, the Romer is one we'd recommend to a friend because of its better crash-test analysis and easier LATCH installation.

Read more: Romer Juni review

Passenger Weight: 4-30 lbs | Carrier Weight: 9.7 lbs

The Britax Willow S is a reasonably priced infant car seat with a lightweight carrier that weighs 9.7 lbs, which is below the average of 10.1 lbs. This sleek-looking option recorded lower sensor forces on both the head and chest sensors in our crash tests (lower is better). While not the lowest for either sensor, together they produced some of the lowest combined results, yielding a better analysis and indicating an additional margin of protection. The fabric felt soft and smooth compared to some less skin-friendly competitors with padding on the shoulder straps and the crotch strap. It is easy to install using most methods, making it a potential choice for those who worry about budget installation. Our tester says, “I think the ClickTight lock-off helped secure the base to the strap, with little tightening concerns.”

The Willow S handle feels like cheap plastic with rough edges that make it harder to hold. Alternatively, the Nuna Pipa RX features a thin metal handle that helps reduce overall weight. The leather center grip makes it easier to hold. Our tester reports, “The grip on the Nuna was one of my favorites; I really appreciate how it feels and works.” The Willow also had a disappointingly small infant insert. It is easily compressible and not as supportive as some others. However, you aren't going to use it for very long anyway. The Evenflo Shyft DualRide is designed for infants as small as 3 lbs, making it a potential choice for smaller babies, especially those wanting to stroll with their infant seat. These negatives are minor and easy to ignore, in our opinion, making the Willow S one of the best seats in the group and perfect for those with smaller budgets who want the best crash test results in this price range.

Read more: Britax Willow S review

Passenger Weight: 4-30 lbs | Carrier Weight: 7.1 lbs

The Joie Rue is a standout seat at a low price, with excellent chest sensor crash results. With an above-average crash analysis and a really straightforward LATCH installation, it is easy to see why the Rue is such a standout. This seat has features that function well with little effort. It has a lightweight carrier, suitable for parents who plan to carry little ones in the seat, weighing 3 lbs, below the average. Our tester said, “At around 7 lbs, this would be a great choice to carry a baby from place to place.” The comfort and quality imply a higher price, and we think most parents will love what it offers as much as the money they save.

The Rue is more complicated to install with the vehicle belt than the LATCH. If your car has LATCH anchors in your chosen position, then it's no big deal. However, if you need to install the seat with your car's belt, you might look elsewhere, like the Britax Willow or the Romer Juni. It also has a smaller canopy, but it isn't a deal-breaker if you don't pair it with a stroller. As our tester noted, “I'm not sure how much this matters, because it doesn't seem to pair with many strollers at this time.” This inexpensive infant seat has much to love, so we recommend it to those with a smaller budget who still want good crash test results and a simple installation.

Read more: Joie Rue review

Passenger Weight: 4-35 lbs | Carrier Weight: 7.6 lbs

The Graco SnugRide Lite LX is a very inexpensive infant car seat with impressive crash test results and a lighter carrier weight (super light, in fact, at 7.6 lbs in our tests). We won't lie; there isn't much to be excited about with this seat. Our award winners are usually standouts across multiple metrics and high scorers overall. That is not the case with the Lite LX. But it performed well in our commissioned crash testing, which is worthy of praise. When combined with the ridiculously budget-friendly price, it is hard not to give this seat a nod, recognizing that some families need a cheaper seat that doesn't sacrifice potential safety. Our tester said, “I think this could be a good seat for those who need a second seat or a lighter option for travel.”

No matter what method we tried, the Lite LX is harder to install than most. It is more challenging to use, and there aren't many comfort features or padding. Overall, it performed poorly across all tests except weight and crash testing. However, our tester states, “I think it still deserves an award because it fills an important niche for affordable infant car seats with better crash test results.” Overall, it isn't the seat for everyone, and there are reasonably priced seats like the Joie Rue or the Britax Willow S that provide better performance in almost every metric. Still, we think it could suit some on the tightest budgets looking for better crash test results. The Britax offers a slightly higher crash analysis score and is much easier to install and use. Alternatively, the Rue has a similar crash test result and a comparable price to the Graco.

Read more: Graco SnugRide Lite LX review

Passenger Weight: 3-35 lbs | Carrier Weight: 20.1 lbs w/ stroller frame

The Evenflo Shyft Dualride is a cool, relatively unique car seat with a stroller frame you can attach or detach as needed. This style of infant car seat fills a niche (in our opinion) for parents living in urban areas who need an easy-to-use solution for getting from A to B on public transportation. While the Doona car seat was the OG (to our knowledge) to do this, its crash-test results from our commissioned tests have never impressed us. The crash test analysis for the Shyft was much better, and it can be used without the stroller frame, unlike the Doon, making it more versatile. As our tester noted, “I love that I can stroll straight out of the Uber without messing with getting a stroller out of the back or trunk.” In our tests, the Shyft was easy to install, easy to use, and comfy.

This car seat is more expensive, which might be palatable since it also doubles as a stroller, but if you don't need the stroller, something like the Britax Willow S could be a better fit and cost much less. It also doesn't have the best crash test results. While better than the Doona, it was still only about average. If the best crash test analysis is a priority, we prefer the Nuna Pipa RX. The Shyft is also heavy, which isn't surprising given the stroller's components, but if you use just the carrier, it is closer to average, weighing 10.5 lbs in our tests. Our tester shared, “I would not want to carry this car seat and stroller attachment up several flights of stairs, so it is something to consider if you live in a walk-up.” While this car seat is not the right option for most families, we do think it is an excellent choice for those who might otherwise decide to skip a car seat on public transportation legally and need an easy get-around choice for city life.

Read more: Evenflo Shyft Dualride review

Passenger Weight: lbs | Carrier Weight: lbs

The Chicco Keyfit 30 is a popular car seat, both because of the Chicco name and its impressively high compatibility with lots of award-winning strollers. This seat performed admirably well in crash testing with better-than-average sensor readings and installation test results. It is reasonably priced, super easy to use, and weighs just 9.8 lbs (below the average).

This seat isn't easy to install without the base and might be a bad choice if you plan to install it this way regularly. The Britax Willow S is far easier to install without the base, but finding a compatible stroller might be more challenging. The KeyFit 30 also doesn't have the best crash test results ( though they are good). If your goal is the best crash test results, then the Nuna Pipa should be top of your list. It is also lightweight and works with many popular strollers with an adapter. Overall, we like the Keyfit 30 and what it offers. It's a great basic seat that gets the job done with high potential for stroller pairing.

Read more: Chicco Keyfit 30 review

Product Comparison Table

Displaying 1 - 15 (scroll right to see all products)

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	#1 Compare: Nuna Pipa RX	#2 Compare: Romer Juni	#3 Compare: Clek Liing	#4 Compare: Britax Willow S	#5 Compare: Evenflo Shyft DualRide	#6 Compare: Joie Rue	#7 Compare: Chicco KeyFit 30	#8 Compare: Chicco Keyfit Max ClearTex	#9 Compare: UPPAbaby Aria	#10 Compare: Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Nido	#11 Compare: UPPAbaby Mesa v3	#12 Compare: Graco Premier SnugRide SnugFit XT	#13 Compare: Baby Jogger City GO2	#14 Compare: Graco SnugRide Lite LX	#15 Compare: Doona
Awards	Best Overall Infant Car Seat	Best Infant Seat For LATCH Installation		Best Budget-friendly Infant Seat	Best for Urban Families	Best Budget Easy Install Choice	Best for Pairing with a Stroller							Best Crash Test on the Tightest Budget
Price	$550 List	$500 List	$500 List Check Price at Amazon	$280 List Check Amazon (on sale!)	$600 List Check Amazon (on sale!)	$170 List Check Price at Amazon	$230 List	$250 List Check Price at Amazon	$500 List Check Amazon (on sale!)	$350 List Check Price at Amazon	$350 List Check Price at Amazon	$450 List Check Amazon (on sale!)	$450 List Check Amazon (on sale!)	$150 List Check Price at Amazon	$650 List Check Price at Amazon
Overall Score	87	82	75	73	73	71	69	66	66	64	64	64	62	55	53
Star Rating	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5	1 2 3 4 5
Bottom Line	An excellent seat with impressive crash test results, but the price is high, and the harness is a hassle	Easy to install seat with better crash test results and a reasonable price, but some of the features are finicky	If your budget allows, this seat has impressive crash test analysis and is easy to install	An above-average seat with a below-average price that performed better in our crash test analysis than most competitors	A good option for those who need strolling capabilities, but there are lighter seats with better crash test results	A compelling infant seat with a low price, better crash test results, and an easy LATCH install	Impressive crash test results but it isn't the most comfortable for a baby	With average crash test analysis and a loose belt lock-off, this seat is okay, but not a standout	Lightweight carrier with some interesting features, but nothing about this seat is a standout	Better scores in crash tests with lots of comfort padding, but the headrest fabric and LATCH are a disappointment for the price	A more expensive seat with below-average crash test analysis and a loose lock-off that makes installation with a belt challenging	The overall lower ease of use and installation of this seat takes away from the better crash test analysis	Generally average or below average results for a seat that costs more than better-performing options	Better crash scores make this wallet-friendly seat a good buy despite its hiccups in comfort and ease of install	While it might fill a niche for urban dwellers, its poor performance overall makes it an unlikely contender for most families
Pros	Great crash test results, lightweight carrier, easy to install, huge canopy	Easy install, impressive crash analysis, fantastic canopy	Better crash test analysis, load leg, great LATCH system, color indicators, easy to install	Better crash test analysis, easy to install w/out the base, lighter weight, reasonable price	Strolling capable, easy to install	Better crash tests, lightweight, easy LATCH, inexpensive	Higher crash scores, easy to use, good handle grip	Padding under chest strap, 5 headrest slots, intuitive carrier release	Featherweight, great canopy coverage, cool LATCH	Better crash test results, lots of padding, canopy/handle perfection, easy belt threading	Self-ratcheting LATCH straps, impressive canopy, 25 headrest adjustments, comfy	Better crash test analysis, comfortable handle, huge canopy	Integrated tensioner/lock-off, easy-to-adjust shoulder straps, comfortable	Budget-friendly, better crash test result, lighter weight	Integrated stroller, stable install without base, urban-friendly
Cons	Rethread harness adjustment, expensive	Harness hard to tighten, finicky handle, rethread is a pain, stupid $$	Expensive, heavy base, harder buckle operation	Disappointing handle, harder belt install, thin insert padding	Expensive, heavy, learning curve for adjustments	Canopy/handle collision, basic padding, hard belt install	Minimal padding, small canopy, poor stability without base	Canopy/handle collision, loose belt lock-off, only 1 crotch strap position	Weird tension system, hard to level, challenging install	Harder to install LATCH, difficult buckle, itchy fabric headrest/insert	Disappointing crash test analysis, loose belt lock-off, spendy	Canopy/handle collision, tricky LATCH storage, harder belt lock-off	Below-average crash test analysis, tensioner/anti-rebound bar doesn't work in all cars, expensive for average performance	Hard to loosen, poor install stability, no comfort padding	Expensive, big & heavy, disappointing crash test results
Rating Categories	Nuna Pipa RX	Romer Juni	Clek Liing	Britax Willow S	Evenflo Shyft DualRide	Joie Rue	Chicco KeyFit 30	Chicco Keyfit Max Cl...	UPPAbaby Aria	Peg Perego Primo Via...	UPPAbaby Mesa v3	Graco Premier SnugRi...	Baby Jogger City GO2	Graco SnugRide Lite LX	Doona
Crash Test (40%)	9.0	8.8	7.5	7.8	6.8	7.2	6.9	6.9	6.7	7.3	5.1	7.6	6.0	7.4	4.6
Ease of Install - LATCH (20%)	8.5	9.3	9.0	7.0	7.5	8.7	6.8	6.5	5.0	5.8	7.5	6.0	6.0	3.0	6.0
Ease of Install - Belt (10%)	8.5	8.5	8.3	7.5	8.5	4.0	6.8	4.0	5.0	5.5	4.0	4.0	4.3	3.5	6.0
Ease of Install - w/o Base (5%)	9.0	6.5	7.8	7.5	6.5	6.5	5.5	6.5	6.5	7.0	7.5	5.0	5.5	3.8	7.3
Ease of Use (15%)	8.3	6.0	5.5	7.0	8.0	7.0	8.0	7.7	8.3	5.5	8.7	5.3	8.0	5.5	5.5
Comfort/Quality (5%)	9.8	7.6	6.0	6.1	8.2	6.8	5.5	7.7	8.7	4.5	8.6	7.1	7.0	3.0	5.5
Weight/Size (5%)	7.5	6.6	6.4	6.9	6.4	8.2	6.8	6.1	8.5	6.4	6.2	7.0	6.4	7.9	3.0
Specifications	Nuna Pipa RX	Romer Juni	Clek Liing	Britax Willow S	Evenflo Shyft DualRide	Joie Rue	Chicco KeyFit 30	Chicco Keyfit Max Cl...	UPPAbaby Aria	Peg Perego Primo Via...	UPPAbaby Mesa v3	Graco Premier SnugRi...	Baby Jogger City GO2	Graco SnugRide Lite LX	Doona
Minimum Weight	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	3 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs	4 lbs
Maximum Weight	32 lbs	30 lbs	30 lbs	30 lbs	35 lbs	30 lbs	30 lbs	30 lbs	30 lbs	35 lbs	30 lbs	35 lbs	35 lbs	35 lbs	35 lbs
Maximum Height	32 in	32 in	32 in	32 in	32 in	< 30 in	30 in	32 in	30 in	32 in	32 in	32 in	32 in	32 in	32 in
Measured Carrier-Only Weight	8.5 lb	10.2 lb	10.5 lb	9.7 lb	20.1 lb	7.1 lb	9.8 lb	11.1 lb	6.5 lb	10.6 lb	10.9 lb	9.5 lb	10.5 lb	7.6 lb	17.2 lb
Built in Lock Off	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Method To Adjust Harness Shoulder Height	Rethread	Rethread	Rethread	Rethread	Non-rethread	Rethread	Rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Non-rethread	Rethread	Rethread
Belt Routing Style	Both	Both, European listed first	European	Both	Both, European preferred	Both, European Preferred	American	Both, American listed first	Both, European Preferred	European	Both, European listed first	American	European	American	European
Anti-rebound Bar	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No	No
Load Leg	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No	No
Shoulder Harness Positions	3	4	3	4	8	3	3	5	Many micro adjustments	5	25	6	17	4	3
Crotch Strap Positions	2	3	1	3	3	2	1	1	1	1	2	2	2	2	1
Number of Recline Positions	4	4	7	4	5	4	5	6	4	Infinite	4	5	4	4	Infinite
Locking Handle Positions	3	3	3	3	3	4	3	3	5	5	4	4	4	4	3
Allowed Handle Positions For Auto Travel	3	Recommends carry position for more room, but any locked position	Upright Position	All	3	Recommends carry position for more room	Any position	Any as long as it's locked	5, though it's required to leave the handle in the most upright position.	Position C for base Install (even with the top of the seat), Position A for Seat Only Install (all the way forward)	4 (rebound position) recommended or 3 (carry position)	4	Any position	Any position	Position C (all the way forward)
Level Indicator On Base	Number Slide	Dial, both sides	Bubble, in middle	Dial, both sides	Bubble, in middle	Bubble, one sides	Bubble, both sides	Bubble, Both sides	Bubble, Both sides	Bubble, in middle	Dial, both sides	Bubble, one sides	Bubble, both sides	needle, one side	Needle, both sides
Level Indicator On Seat	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal	Line on Decal
Aircraft Certified	Yes	Yes, without the base	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes, without the base	Yes	Yes, without the base	Yes	Yes	Yes, without the base	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

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How We Tested

An infant car seat is must-have baby gear for every parent. Yet not all car seats are the same, and our extensive testing (INCLUDING CRASH TESTING) reveals critical differences between competing seats.

To help you find the right seat for you and your baby, we perform an extensive and scientific battery of 61 individual tests on every infant car seat, and combine those test results with the detailed results from our crash testing of each seat. To evaluate the seats in this review, we performed a total of 1037 individual tests. This comprehensive analysis puts BabyGearLab in a unique position to help you select the right seat for your needs and budget.

Our infant car seat testing has seven rating metrics:

• Crash tests (40% of overall score weighting)
• Ease of Installation - LATCH tests (20% weighting)
• Ease of Install - Vehicle Belt tests (10% weighting)
• Ease of Install -w/o the Base tests (5% weighting)
• Ease of Use tests (15% weighting)
• Comfort/Quality tests (5% weighting)
• Weight/Size tests (5% weighting)

For our crash testing, we rely on MGA Research, the national testing laboratory that holds the compliance contract for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash testing protocol used to assess the safety of every car seat sold in the US. Every product in our review has been crash-tested to a higher standard than the federal safety standards. We specifically chose to run the testing faster and on a more modern sled to put the car seats through a more stressful experience. For transparency, we include test results for each seat so you can make the best decision for your family.

The safety of each car seat depends on other factors, such as how easy it is to install and use the safety harness. So, we extensively test those factors in our seat comparison. A NHTSA study showed that 79% of infant seats exhibited critical misuse, either in the installation of the seat or the restraint of the infant. A study of 267 families by Portland's top Children's Hospital shows that “95% of parents made at least one error in either the positioning of the infant or installation of the car safety seat.” These kinds of mistakes could increase your infant's risk of injury in a crash. Our companion article, How to Avoid Infant Car Seat Installation Mistakes, is intended to help you know the most common mistakes to ensure your baby's car seat is installed and used safely.

Why Trust GearLab

Our infant car seat testing protocol was developed by an expert panel including Dr. Juliet Spurrier, Board-Certified Pediatrician. Dr. Spurrier's background in urgent care pediatrics influenced her concerns about crash-related injuries and the common safety risks posed by improperly installed car seats. To that end, our testing includes a comprehensive 360-degree assessment of the factors that impact safety and practical day-to-day use. Our seat installation and ease-of-use tests were developed by Certified Passenger Safety Technician and Senior Review Analyst, Bob Wofford. Those tests are designed to assess the difficulty of car seat installation to ensure maximum safety potential. We consulted with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) experts and the crash-testing experts at MGA Research to develop our testing protocol and analytical methods for crash-testing data. Senior Review Editor Wendy Schmitz, mother of two, has been a lead analyst of our infant car seat test results since 2014. Wendy has examined, compared, and rated the detailed results of more than 200 car seats.

Analysis and Test Results

We conduct side-by-side testing and analysis over several months on every car seat in this review, including in-house day-to-day functionality, crash testing, and real-world use to help you find the right fit for your family.

We performed our tests under the supervision and guidance of a National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) certified Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technician. We conducted comprehensive testing using crash test data to determine each seat's performance in terms of the measured impact forces. While each product meets the minimum safety guidelines required by the federal government, they are not all easy to use or install, nor do they all have impressive crash-test results.

What's the Best Value?

We know value is essential, and baby gear can be expensive, but we don't think an infant car seat is where you should cut costs. We believe you should always buy the highest-ranking seat you can afford, with the crash test analysis and features that matter to you. However, we also know that everyone has a different budget, and some are tighter than others.

The Britax Willow S is a high-ranking choice with better crash test analysis results and a lower-than-average price. While not the cheapest, it provides a well-performing seat at a very reasonable price. Newcomer Joie Rue is a very budget-friendly seat with an impressive crash-test analysis and is easy to install using the LATCH connectors. Proper installation can impact safety, making this seat an even more compelling buy. The Graco SnugRide Lite LX is also worth considering if you have the smallest budget but don't want to sacrifice better crash results. This Graco didn't perform well across most tests, but it has a super low list price and one of the better crash-test results. So, while it isn't a tester favorite, you won't be compromising on crash testing results by choosing it, and it is often on sale for less than a hundred dollars (what?!).

Crash Impact Tests and Ratings

A key part of our testing is analyzing the crash test sensor results we commission. We purchase two copies of each car seat we review. We keep one for in-house testing of most metrics and send the second seat to MGA for sled crash testing.

We commission MGA to run independent, third-party testing using a “hotter” crash sled testing than NHTSA for the US Federal requirements. Our tests use a more modern sled that better simulates the padding density of late-model vehicles. And we run our tests slightly faster to increase the demand on the seats. We then use the test results to analyze and rank each seat against the competition. Because our tests surpass the federal requirements, we expect some seats to fall outside the federal standards. This should not be considered a failure or unsafe result, and we do not treat it as such. Alternatively, this is normal and to be expected, given that our testing is faster than the FMVSS 213a standard. All seats that pass the federal guidelines are considered safe and compliant under the NHTSA safety standard.

Our testing is designed to allow us to identify crash test performances where test data suggests the seat may provide a higher margin of safety. Our crash test analysis scoring reflects our opinions on crash test performance based on the actual crash test dummy sensor measurements. Our analysis focuses on the options that provide an additional margin of safety relative to the competition based on analysis of the crash test sensor data. For example, if a seat's sensors measure significantly lower impact forces (better) in the head sensors of the crash test dummy, resulting in a lower Head Injury Criteria (HIC) score, we believe the seat offers a higher margin of protection than competitors with higher (more g-forces) HIC scores.

We analyzed each car seat's crash-sled test data to determine its performance relative to competitors and the federal safety standard. We included graphs comparing the crash test data in each product review and summarized them below.

Crash Test Analysis Performance Ratings

Product	Chest Clip	HIC
Nuna Pipa RX	9.0	9.0
Romer Juni	8.6	9.0
Britax Willow S	7.6	7.9
Graco Premier Snugride Snugfit 35 XT	8.2	6.9
Clek Liing	7.0	8.0
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX	6.7	8.0
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35 Nido	7.2	7.4
Joie Rue	6.5	7.9
Chicco KeyFit 30	6.7	7.0
Chicco Keyfit Max ClearTex	6.7	7.0
Evenflo Shyft Dualride	5.7	7.9
Uppababy Aria	7.1	6.3
Baby Jogger City GO 2	4.6	7.3
UPPAbaby Mesa v3	4.8	5.3
Doona	5.2	4.0

So, what matters most when analyzing crash impact test results?

• Risk of a head injury (HIC score)
• Risk of a chest injury (G clip score)

Analysis of child auto crash injuries shows that head and chest injuries present the two highest risks for serious or fatal injury. So, we look at sensor data from these locations. The crash test data for HIC scores under the federal guidelines require results below the NHTSA maximum of 1000 for HIC and 60 for the chest clip. Because our test is more stressful than the NHTSA test, we expect to see values outside this limit, and the seat would still be considered safe. We focused on examining how large a margin of protection each product offers below the federal maximum sensor scores. Those seats with lower results (lower is better) from the dummy's sensors received higher crash-test analysis scores. Those with better-than-average results for the group we considered provided an additional margin of protection.

Additional Crash Safety Features

Some of the car seats in this review have features that could affect their overall safety. We didn't factor these features or claims into our analysis, as little to no real-world test data is available to support or analyze the claims related to these features. While you might be intrigued by a product that brags about side impact protection (SIP) or an anti-rebound bar, we recommend avoiding choosing solely on these features or claims and focusing more on the crash test analysis scores. Substantial information about the efficacy of these claims is surprisingly lacking (if intriguing). Also, there are no agreed-upon definitions for most of the terms used in the safety seat industry, nor are there universally accepted tests to evaluate any claims or features. We feel it is wiser to stick to crash-test data analysis when comparing potential safety, rather than buying into unsupported or unexplained claims.

Anecdotally, in our tests, those with a load leg or anti-rebound bar generally had lower G forces recorded by their HIC and chest clip sensors. However, the Graco SnugRide Lite 35 LX has some of the best crash-test results and has neither a load leg nor an anti-rebound bar. This result shows that there is more going on here than the apparent safety features highlighted by the manufacturer. However, if the crash test results are relatively equal between two potential seats, that would be the moment to consider additional safety features to sway your decision.

Best Rated Seats in our Crash Test Analysis

Analyzing crash test results, we rate each option on a 1-10 scale to identify the seats that, in our opinion, offer an extra margin of safety, over and beyond the required protection for all safety seats. These seats have the lowest sensor data (lower is better) compared to the competition. We take the two sensor data results and score them, combining them to give an overall picture and final analysis score. The higher the score, the better the sensor data is, and the fewer forces potentially put on the safety seat passenger.

The top performer in this metric is the Nuna Pipa RX, which recorded lower forces in the dummy sensors than any infant seat we've tested. The Romer Juni is hot on its heels with the same chest clip results and an almost as low HIC. The Britax Willow S, Graco Premier Snugride Snugfit 35 XT, and the Clek Liing come in close behind with impressive results for both the HIC and chest clip sensors. The Graco SnugRide Lite LX, the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35 Nido, and the Joie Rue also earned better-than-average crash test analysis scores. Of these top-scoring options, seven have a load leg and/or anti-rebound bar. The lowest scoring options are the Doona and the UPPAbaby Mesa v3.

Ease of Install with LATCH System

The easiest way to install a car seat, and therefore, the method we recommend is the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system. The good news is that your infant car seat and vehicle are likely LATCH-compatible on the left or right side of the back seat. Nearly every car seat and most vehicles manufactured since September 1, 2002, have the LATCH system. According to NHTSA, over 60% of parents place their infant car seats on the left or right side. Most choose to install the car seat on the passenger side so the driver can more easily see their baby while driving. The middle position is also popular but often lacks LATCH anchors, making it unsuitable. The LATCH system should make correctly installing a car seat easier by reducing the chances of mistakes.

During testing, we found that some options are significantly easier to install using the LATCH method than with other installation types. Part of what makes one seat easier with LATCH is the connector type. Lower-cost seats typically use clips, but the easiest-to-use options have click-inpush-button-style connectors (both are safe but vary in ease of use).

Tightening and Loosening LATCH Straps

LATCH connectors are only the first part of the infant car seat installation equation. Whether the straps on the connectors are easy to tighten and loosen can significantly affect how easy or difficult a seat is to install. The rigid LATCH connectors, like those found on the Nuna Pipa RX, Romer Juni, and the Clek Liing, require no tightening and eliminate strap pulling altogether. Other great options include the self-retracting straps on UPPAbaby seats and the Supercinch center straps on Chicco car seats. If you have any strength or movement limitations, rigid LATCH connectors can be a godsend.

Best Rated Seats for LATCH Installation

Some of the easiest seats to install using the LATCH are those with rigid LATCH systems. Because the connectors are stiff and push-in to attach without tightening, it's almost impossible to do it wrong once they are connected to the anchors. It is also great for those who are differently abled and might be unable to pull straps effectively. The Romer Juni and Clek Liing both have rigid LATCH connectors, earning the highest scores. They were followed closely by the Nuna Pipa RX, which features rigid LATCH systems that retract into the base when you snug it to the vehicle seat. The Joie Rue is also a high scorer with push LATCH connectors and a useful tensioner. It is followed closely by the Evenflo Shyft Dualride, which features a large lock-off that requires less force to push down and relies on greater leverage. The most challenging option to install using LATCH is the Graco SnugRide Lite LX, which has clip-style connectors, no built-in lock-off, and a manual pull tightening strap.

Ease of Install with Seat Belt

If you'd like to use your car seat in the center of your back seat, which is considered the safest location for a car seat, then you'll need to master seatbelt installation in most vehicles. Our tests give you the information to determine which contenders are easier than others.

A Seat Belt Lockoff is Key

Some options are significantly more straightforward to install using a vehicle belt than others, and the “lockoff” feature is usually the common denominator. More seats than ever include a base with a vehicle belt lockoff. A lockoff prevents the base from sliding up and down or twisting on the seatbelt. Good lock-offs create a more secure-feeling seatbelt installation than a LATCH installation. If your car lacks LATCH connection points or you want to install the seat in the middle vehicle seat, you will probably need to install the car seat using the vehicle belt. A lockoff or tensioner will make this much easier and feel more stable.

Best Rated Seats for Seat Belt Installation

Most bases without a lockoff performed poorly in our tests. In general, they feel less secure because they often slide on the shoulder portion of the vehicle belt, resulting in the seat tilting, and feelings of instability. The top performers for installing a car seat with the vehicle belt are the Romer Juni, Nuna Pipa RX, Evenflo Shyft Dualride, and the Clek Liing. The Britax Willow S is almost as easy with a great lockoff. The hardest to install using the vehicle belt are the Graco SnugRide Lite LX, Chicco Keyfit Max ClearTex, and the UPPAbaby Mesa v3. The Graco lacks a lock-off, while the Mesa and Chicco easily slide on the belt, even with their lock-offs. Almost as challenging are the Joie Rue and the Graco Premier Snugride Snugfit 35 XT, and the Baby Jogger City GO 2.

Ease of Install w/o the Base

You might wonder, why do I care about installing the seat without the base?

The answer is simple: taxis, Uber, buses, and airplanes. This installation method is a helpful solution for any parent who frequently uses public transportation. It can also be useful if you have multiple cars but don't want to move the base for a quick trip.

In our opinion, if you don't expect to take your infant on public transportation very often (or ever), then you can probably safely ignore this section and move on to Ease of Use. However, if you think you will travel with your baby or need to install the carrier in a car that isn't your own, this section might be essential to your buying choice.

For those living in urban areas who frequently travel by taxi or services like Uber, learning to install your seat without the base is critical. Also, for traveling on airplanes, the FAA recommends using an approved car seat, calling it the safest way for babies to fly. If you use an infant seat on a plane, you'll likely want to install it without the base to avoid carrying the base through the airport.

There are two belt paths for installing a carrier without the base: European and American. Every seat uses at least one way, and some offer a choice between the two without impacting overall safety.

The American pathway threads the seatbelt across the leg portion of the carrier through the designated pathway. This path is straightforward and creates a secure attachment that meets US safety regulations. This style does not use the shoulder strap on the vehicle belt, even if it is there.

The European path also routes the vehicle belt across the lower part of the carrier and wraps the shoulder portion of the strap around the carrier's back under a retention clip. We feel the European belt path offers a more secure feeling connection with less movement than the American method, thanks to the shoulder belt holding the back snug to the vehicle seat. However, the American path is more straightforward and quicker to perform. Most of the options in this review utilize the European belt path. It has been more of an even split in prior years, and we like the trend toward the European method.

Best Rated Seats for Installation Without the Base

The carrier easiest to install without the base is the Nuna Pipa RX. This lighter-weight option can be installed with the American or European belt path and feels stable and snug when finished. The Clek Liing and the Britax Willow S follow close behind, making them serious considerations for lifestyles where installing without the base is a regular occurrence. The Willow supports both belt paths, while the Clek is European-only. The Clek is the heaviest of the three, so it could be more challenging to carry. The hardest to install without the base in our tests is the Graco SnugRide Lite LX. This is a bummer for the Lite LX since it does well in crash testing and is lightweight, making it otherwise ideal for travel.

Ease of Use

At first glance, the infant seats seem similar and function virtually identically. Not so. The contenders in this review differ in our ease-of-use testing. Buckles, harness adjustments, handles, and carrier release mechanisms can be frustrating, straightforward, or somewhere in between.

Buckle Release Buttons

It might seem like all buckle buttons are the same, but they aren't (trust us, we've pressed hundreds). Some are harder to press, giving thumbs a workout; some are flush and better for longer nails; others are shaped strangely and not as easy to press from all angles. While it might seem minor, it is the part of the car seat you'll use every day multiple times a day. The easiest to use are the Baby Jogger City GO 2, UPPAbaby Aria, and Chicco Keyfit 30. The harder options that hurt our thumbs are the Peg Perego, the Doona, and the Clek Liing.

Adjusting the Harness as Your Baby Grows

Depending on the seat design, shoulder strap height can be adjusted in two ways. One involves detaching the shoulder straps from a splitter plate on the back and rethreading them through a higher slot before sliding them back on the splitter (below left). The other method is more straightforward and includes disengaging the height adjustment assembly (usually with a button or lever) and sliding it up or down (below right) with no rethreading necessary.

The latter can occur immediately with your baby in the seat when you notice a need. It is a swift and effective adjustment method. The former typically requires an empty carrier and can be challenging to thread and adjust, depending on the straps, slots, or padding. Often, you have to do it outside of the car. We feel parents are more likely to maintain a correctly fitted harness if it is straightforward, quick, and immediate when needed (i.e., when you first put your baby in the seat). Making immediate changes when needed is better than waiting for a more convenient moment, which may never come. For these reasons, we believe non-rethread harnesses are better and theoretically safer for little ones. Non-rethread harness styles can operate from the front or back, depending on the design.

Some of the best in this group were the Peg Perego Nido, UPPAbaby Aria, Evenflo Shyft, the Chicco Keyfit Max, and the Baby Jogger City GO 2. The hardest or most time-consuming were the rethread harnesses. These include: Romer Juni, Chicco Keyfit 30, Clek Liing, Doona, Graco SnugRide Lite LX, Britax Willow S, and the Nuna Pipa RX. While this kind of harness height adjustment might feel acceptable in a lower-priced seat like the Britax, it feels like a disappointment in the most expensive options like the Clek and the Nuna. This adjustment isn't an everyday event and might only happen 2-3 times during your baby's time in the infant seat. So, while it comes up infrequently, it is something to be aware of.

Carrier to Base Attachment

Over the years, we've noticed that connecting the carrier to the base has become easier and with fewer opportunities for doing it incorrectly. The Doona's heft and bulk made it harder to connect, and it wasn't our favorite.

The Evenflo Shyft DualRide was a similar experience with the stroller frame attached. The heft and bulk make it harder to lift and get in the car door. The Peg Perego Nido has a release button that is harder to use, but putting the carrier in place was simple. The most straightforward connection is the Britax Willow S, with a carrier that falls into place with little effort, followed by the Joie Rue, Chicco Keyfit Max, and the UPPAbaby Mesa v3.

Handles

Most of the handles in this review are similar and unremarkable. They operate by simultaneously pressing buttons on the side pivot points and rotating the handle to the desired position. The importance of handles depends on how often you plan to carry your little one for extended periods. If you only use it to go in and out of the car and attach it to a stroller or go inside, the handle is less likely to be a concern. However, having the canopy move because the handle is in the way or being unable to grab the handle because the canopy is in the way can be frustrating, no matter how often you have to use it.

Our favorite handles are the UPPAbaby options, with the Clek Liing close behind. The worst handle/canopy seats are the Graco and Chicco Keyfit seats. The Britax Willow S splits the difference, being an uninspired plastic handle but with a smooth operation that works well with the canopy open. The Nuna Pipa RX has a large canopy with an extension for more coverage and privacy. The handle works well when it's open and can be used with the canopy open. The slide mechanism on the Romer Juni is somewhat unique, replacing the side buttons, but it was challenging to slide and move the handle, and we worry that people with any hand dexterity or strength issues might struggle to operate it smoothly and without frustration.

LATCH Storage

LATCH storage can impede your ability to connect the seat carrier to the base. Designs that limit or prohibit efficient and correct seat installation lost points in our testing. Many of the cheaper options in this review have straps that can hinder a carrier connection. The best LATCH storage is really the rigid LATCH that doesn't require stowing like those we saw on the Nuna Pipa RX, Romer Juni, and the Clek Liing. We also like the self-retracting LATCH connectors on the UPPAbaby Aria and the UPPAbaby Mesa v3. The hardest options were hard to fit into their compartments or to put in and remove, like the Graco SnugRide Lite LX.

Best Rated Seats for Ease of Use

The highest-ranking seats for ease of use are the UPPAbaby Mesa v3, with a close second tie between the UPPAbaby Aria and the Nuna Pipa RX. The Chicco Keyfit Max ClearTex, Chicco Keyfit 30, and Baby Jogger City GO 2 were also easy to use. The Evenflo Shyft is almost as easy to use, which is impressive given the extra stroller parts. The Graco Premier Snugride Snugfit 35 XT is the hardest to use.

Comfort/Quality

We compare the materials and how well they are assembled and work together for comfort and quality. We consider details such as padding, fabric, and canopies, and how these translate to comfort, use, and potential longevity.

All seats share common features, such as dense foam for impact protection and a hard plastic shell. However, some have thicker padding or softer fabrics. Overall, the seats with superior comfort and attention to detail are top performers for comfort and quality. Significant differences exist between the seats, from almost no padding and just a fabric cover to significant headrest assemblies with ample padding suitable for napping.

Best Rated Seats for Comfort and Quality

The best for comfort and quality is the Nuna Pipa RX. This seat is exceptional, with attention to detail, softer materials, and ample padding that keeps little ones cozier than others. The UPPAbaby Aria and UPPAbaby Mesa v3 rank second, with quality materials and an uncluttered appearance. The Evenflo Shyft DualRide also scores fairly well, but it isn't as impressive as the Pipa. The most disappointing seat in terms of comfort and quality is the Graco SnugRide Lite LX. This seat has almost no padding for comfort, and many of the features lack thoughtful design and high-quality materials, in our opinion. However, you get what you pay for in this metric, with Graco having a remarkably low price even before sales. Many of the highest-end seats scores were lower than expected, largely due to fabric that isn't very soft.

Weight

While we measure the weight of both the car seat base and the “carrier” (i.e., the detachable car seat part you carry), we consider the carrier weight the most important. If a carrier is too heavy, carrying it for a long time will be challenging.

Some of the bases are seriously heavy, but we only factored in the weight of the carrier in our scoring because the base usually stays in the car. Yet many parents will carry the car seat at some point each day. Even if you travel, the car seat's base weight won't necessarily matter, since most car seats can be installed using the seat belt (without requiring the base).

Best Rated Seats for Weight

The highest-scoring seat in this group is the UPPAbaby Aria, weighing only 6.5 lbs in our tests. The Joie Rue weighs only 7.1 lbs, and the Graco SnugRide Lite LX is the next lightest at 7.6 lbs, but it lacks many of the comfort and quality features that contribute to weight. It also offers impressive crash test results, but remember that installation is challenging, so you are making a significant trade-off for a lighter-weight carrier. The Rue might be better with easier installation without the base and similar crash results. The Nuna Pipa RX is the highest-ranking lightweight seat, weighing 8.5 lbs. The average weight is closer to 10 lbs, and the heaviest are the Doona, which weighs over 17 lbs, and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, which weighs over 20 lbs with the stroller frame connected.

How to Pick the Best Infant Car Seat

Choosing an infant car seat is important and shouldn't be left to chance or to what's available at your local store. Because it is a safety concern, we recommend you consider it thoughtfully before buying.

Where Will You Use Your Infant Car Seat?

Will your seat be used primarily in one car? Do you live in the city and will be carrying it or using it on public transportation? Will it be installed in a center seat using the seat belt or a side seat using the LATCH system? Finding the easiest one to install using the belt rather than the LATCH is important, as many injury reports are related to poor installation.

How Easy is the Infant Car Seat to Use?

How easy a car seat is to use also impacts overall safety. If the harness is difficult to adjust or clip, it could end up being used in a way other than intended, which has been shown in studies to impact overall safety. We encourage parents to look for seats that are easy to use and that they feel comfortable with.

Check Crash Test Results

We bet you thought crash test results were the most important thing. While they do matter, some studies indicate that many injuries from real-life crashes result from a poorly installed seat or incorrectly used safety harness. For this reason, we recommend checking out the installation method you'll most likely use and how easy the seat is to use, then using crash-test analysis results to zero in on your final choice.

Creating a Travel System?

We don't think you should adjust your chosen safety seat based on its compatibility with a stroller. If the stroller you like is incompatible with your preferred seat, we believe you should still go with the best car seat and wait to buy a stroller or use a wearable baby carrier instead. We don't think you should compromise safety for convenience.

Conclusion

The market for infant car seats is vast, and with so many options making so many claims, it can be hard to know which one is the best. Every family has a unique lifestyle, with specific goals and budgets that can influence the seat you choose. Because we understand every family is different, our review provides the details you need to make the best buying decision for your baby. With our details and analysis of the MGA crash test data, we believe you can find the best infant car seat for your needs and budget in our lineup of popular car seats.