Are you seeking the best car seat for your little bundle of joy? We’ve looked at some things you’ll want to consider while shopping for this important purchase.
We have spent hours researching, evaluating, and asking other parents for their opinions and experience. We have also tested many seats with our own little ones.
These are the best infant car seats that meet our criteria of being safe, comfortable, easy to install, and suitable for a wide weight range. Keep reading to find the right fit for your precious cargo.
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Includes approved inserts
- Compatible with QuickClick system
- Features the safezone base
- Certified for use in airplanes
- Includes an anti-rebound bar
- Great for walking and errands
- One-hand adjustment
- Side impact protection
What Is an Infant Car Seat?
An infant car seat is designed to protect a young baby. They are always rear-facing. Car seats help prevent serious injuries and are required by law for the first several years of life (1).
The ones designed for infants usually have a weight limit. They may also have a height limit. They don’t offer much adjustability to the seat’s body, but you can customize strap placement.
They often feature a detachable base. This base affixes to the car seat through the LATCH system or with proper use of the seat belt (2). This allows you to remove your child from the car while keeping them in the car seat.
If you’re dealing with bad weather conditions, you’re running errands, or your baby often falls asleep in the vehicle, this can be a real asset. Many infant car seats are part of a travel system, which helps make it easier to get your new baby to more places.
Product Selection Criteria
Have a better idea about what you need in a car seat for your infant? Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping.
Safety Approval
In the U.S., car seats are put through rigorous testing. Always choose a car seat that’s been stamped with safety approval.
Click Connect
Check to see if there’s a visual cue for when your car seat is properly in place. This can help you know for sure it is at an appropriate angle.
Easy to Install
You want a car seat you can confidently take in and out. There’s always the possibility you’ll be using your car seat in a different vehicle. Ensure you can install it properly in any vehicle you’re using.
Easy to Clean
Your car seat will likely experience a multitude of dirty events. Whether you’re dealing with spit-up, formula, food, or an explosive diaper, you’ll probably need to clean your car seat often. Choose a car seat you can clean and sanitize easily.
Recalls
Recalls are generally voluntary and help protect your baby. If your seat has been recalled, turn it in, or pick up your replacement part.
Expiration Date
Expect to use your car seat for several years? Check your car seat’s expiration date. This way, you won’t overpay for something you won’t be able to use.
Budget-Friendly
Car seats can be reasonably priced. They can also be expensive. Know that all approved car seats are held to the same safety standards, and plan your budget beforehand.
Extra Features
Many car seats come with features like stroller compatibility, cup holders, and even approval for use on airplanes. Decide what’s important to you before you start shopping.
Product Reviews
These are the best infant car seats on the market.
Diono Radian 3RXT Convertible Car Seat
Best Infant Car Seat for Limited Space
If you have multiple children close in age, you know the struggle of finding car seats that will fit your space. This is especially true if you’re working with a smaller car or rear-facing car seat.
This model from Diono is designed to fit in tight spaces. It’s an excellent option for three across in a back seat, and you can use it with kids who are 5 to 120 pounds. It will grow with your child year after year.
We love that it’s available in multiple fun colors and is approved for airplane use. A 12-position headrest provides head support while the seat is reinforced for complete side impact protection.
This unit can fold flat for storage when needed and has an extra-long lifespan of 10 years.
What We Like
Capable of Sitting Three Across
Even car seats touting a small footprint can take up a tremendous amount of space. We love that bulky car seats help keep our kids safe. We don’t love the hassle that comes with installing three across.
Fortunately, Diono has made that a thing of the past. A narrow base helps you fit three seats across while keeping your kids safe.
Extremely Customizable
This unit gives you additional customization options besides the 12 headrest positions. The shoulder straps can be placed in five positions, and there are three buckle options. You can also adjust the incline angle, which is great for younger children who are still rear-facing.
SuperLATCH System for Easy Install
The SuperLATCH system is designed to make LATCH use easier. Even a space-saving unit like this can be difficult to install when you’re dealing with three across. The SuperLATCH system provides an audible click and gives you a visual confirmation that your seat is properly in place.
What We Don't Like
This Unit Is Heavy
There is nothing lightweight about this car seat. It is designed around a steel alloy frame to provide your child with a safe place while in the car. However, that frame comes at a cost because this car seat is heavier than usual.
This seat is heavy along the upper portion and cannot sit upright on its own. Be aware of that when swapping out seats or changing your vehicle. At nearly 30 pounds, if you plan to fly with this car seat, you’ll want to have a travel plan in place.
There Are No Armrests or Sides
No armrests and low sides help give this car seat its streamlined look and narrow base. However, it can mean your child is less supported when in the car, especially while front-facing and sleeping. It also means there will be fewer barriers between your children during journeys.
Product Specs
| Weight | 28 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.14 inches by 16.93 inches by 28.35 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 5 pounds |
| Child Weight Maximum | 120 pounds when used as a booster seat |
| Extra Features | SuperLATCH system, airplane approved, adjustable settings |
Our Ratings
Safety 1st 35 LT Car Seat
Best Infant Car Seat for Small Babies
This cozy, ultra-padded infant seat is equipped with the LATCH system for easy installation. It’s suitable for children who weigh between 4 and 35 pounds. The included head and body inserts can be used for small babies, like preemies, who need additional support.
This unit comes with an adjustable harness to keep up with your quickly growing child. You can adjust it to four heights to accommodate your little one as they grow. The harness is easy and quick to adjust with a single pull.
Though this unit is not part of a travel system, it is QuickClick compatible, so you can use it with any QuickClick stroller system.
What We Like
Lightweight and Easy to Carry
We love how easy this car seat is to get in and out of the car. It features ultra-lightweight materials and cutting-edge engineering.
It’s not too heavy, making it a great choice for an infant seat. Even when not using a compatible stroller, getting in and out of the house and other destinations is not difficult.
Includes Approved Inserts for Your Newborn
Small babies can shift around a lot in car seats and sometimes need more support. Having approved inserts can help make your baby more comfortable. We love that this car seat comes with inserts designed to keep small infants safe and cozy.
LATCH Compatible
You can install this car seat using a seat belt or the LATCH system. Not all vehicles are equipped with LATCH tether points (especially older models). The car seat will keep your child safe whether you use the LATCH attachment system or the seat belt.
Whenever possible, I like to use the LATCH system. I find it keeps the seat in place better and creates more stability. Whether you choose to use the LATCH system or the seatbelt, remember to use only one at a time.
Compatible With QuickClick System
This seat is designed to snap securely into compatible strollers. Unlike travel system sets, you can choose your preferred stroller. If the selected stroller is also part of the QuickClick system, it will easily work with this car seat.
What We Don't Like
The Canopy Is Hard to Move
Both the canopy and the handle can be resistant to being moved. Even when depressing the lock mechanism, getting the canopy and handle to the desired position can be hard. This can make getting your infant situated in the car or stroller more challenging than necessary.
Harness Buckle Is Large
This car seat features a five-point harness. The buckle designed to sit between the thighs is large. This can cause the buckle to press uncomfortably into a child’s inner thighs when they’re in the car seat.
It’s possible this discomfort could build an early dislike for both car seats and travel. If your child objects to the car seat’s buckle, you may want to consider another option.
Product Specs
| Weight | 15 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.8 inches by 18 inches by 30.5 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 4 pounds |
| Child Weight Maximum | 35 pounds |
| Extra Features | LATCH system, QuickClick system, ASTM International and Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association approved, infant inserts |
Our Ratings
Evenflo Symphony DLX Convertible Car Seat
Best One-Time Purchase
This car seat from Evenflo can be the only one you ever need to purchase for your child. It’s suitable for babies weighing as little as 5 pounds, and you can safely use it until your child is 110 pounds.
This convertible car seat is made to be used as a rear-facing unit for children up to 40 pounds. Once your child is older and larger, you can safely use the unit in a forward-facing position.
This seat features the LATCH system and is designed for easy, one-hand use. It has a five-point safety harness and is double tested for structural integrity. It’s easy to transfer this single-unit car seat between vehicles.
What We Like
Takes Your Child From Infancy Through Childhood
You can use this seat to bring your precious little one home from the hospital — and later home from preschool, kindergarten, or grade school. We love not having to learn how to use multiple seats. The money savings are significant as well.
You can adjust the straps, the incline angle, and the headrest height as your child grows to offer the best fit possible.
One Piece
There’s no need to drag an additional base around or worry about having one in each vehicle. This unit is a single, self-contained car seat your child can continue to use for years to come.
Great Safety Features
This car seat offers extra side impact protection. This can reduce side impact forces by up to 50% and, in turn, keeps your infant safe in the event of an accident.
In addition to the side impact protection, this unit has a harness that offers infinite slide ability. This helps give you an accurate and custom fit every time. The five-point harness is rated to protect your growing child.
What We Don't Like
Oversized
This seat is large and may not be suitable for a smaller car. It offers multiple recline positions, so it takes up even more room when rear-facing.
You’ll likely want your young child in a more reclined position. This increases the depth needed to use the car seat easily. Ensure your back seat can accommodate the car seat in the configuration you need while allowing space for people in the front.
Product Specs
| Weight | Not specified |
| Dimensions | 21 inches by 21 inches by 25.5 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 5 pounds |
| Child Weight | 110 pounds |
| Extra Features | LATCH system, adjustable harness and headrest, side-impact protection, integrated cup holders |
Our Ratings
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat
Easiest to Install
This infant-only car seat is straightforward to install. It includes features like a sure leveling foot and a bubble level, so you’ll know when your seat is installed correctly. There’s a LATCH system integrated with an easy-to-reach cinch to create a tight fit every time.
Though this is for the car seat only, it is made to work with Chicco strollers that are sold separately. The car seat has an insert for newborns and can be used with babies as small as 4 pounds.
The carry handle offers two preset positions and includes a comfortable grip. It’s available in multiple colors and will suit children up to 30 pounds.
What We Like
Super Cinch LATCH System
The LATCH system on this unit is designed to keep installation fast and simple. You can keep the strap long while fastening the LATCH clips. This lets you see what you’re doing more easily and gives you space to work.
Once the LATCH system is ready to go, a midpoint cinch lets you get the tight, custom installation you’re looking for.
Easy to Install Correctly
A lot of thought has gone into making this unit easy to install. A spring-loaded leveling foot lets you get the perfect car seat angle. The base slides into this foot during installation.
To confirm your unit is installed correctly, two bubble levels are built into the car seat. When the bubble is in the designated space, you know you’ve installed it correctly — no second-guessing necessary.
Travel System Compatible
Though this unit is sold alone (with just the car seat and the base), you can purchase the KeyFit stroller separately to have an easy-to-use travel system. It’s a lightweight stroller model that can make for a good travel system even when space is limited.
What We Don't Like
The Sunshade Doesn’t Stay Put
The sunshade doesn’t always stay where you’ve positioned it. This means you may need to rely on backup sun protection when your child is buckled in. The sunshade may also get in the way when the car seat is being moved from one location to the next.
Uncomfortable Fabric Choice
The material used on the seat is easy to clean. However, it isn’t breathable, which means your little one may get sweaty and uncomfortable, even on short journeys.
Product Specs
| Weight | 17 pounds |
| Dimensions | 27.5 inches by 17 inches by 24 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 4 pounds |
| Child Weight Maximum | 30 pounds |
| Extra Features | LATCH system, Super Cinch LATCH fastening, travel system compatible, leveling foot, bubble levels |
Our Ratings
Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
Best Infant Car Seat for Travel
This Evenflo seat offers a unique design for a travel system car seat. You can use the accompanying base in the car and the stroller.
The base is equipped with its own carrying handle to help make transferring a little easier. Installation takes moments, and the guesswork that goes with getting the right angle is a thing of the past.
This unit is safe for children who weigh between 4 and 35 pounds and are 32 inches or less in height. This car seat is available in multiple colors.
What We Like
Features the SafeZone Base
The SafeZone base allows you to more easily get your baby’s car seat where you need it. Instead of worrying about slipping the unit back in the base, you have a one-piece car seat. This is an excellent feature if you frequently need to move the car seat from one vehicle to another.
Certified for Use in Airplanes
If you plan on traveling with a young child, you may want to bring your car seat along. Having their usual car seat can also give your child something comforting in a new experience.
Not all seats are approved for use in an airplane. Additional standards and safety testing are applied to ones approved for flights. Purchasing a unit you can use in cars and planes can keep you from needing to make an additional purchase.
Includes an Anti-Rebound Bar
The anti-rebound bar functions as an additional holding point when the seat is latched into its base. It sits at the back of the base near your baby’s feet.
While the additional handle space can be helpful, the intended purpose is more significant than convenience. This bar helps absorb and dissipate any impact the car seat experiences during a crash, protecting your little one.
What We Don't Like
Car Seat Is Heavy and Bulky
Though the attached base and rebound bar can be convenient and safe, it adds a lot of weight and bulk. This can make short trips where you’re carrying the car seat more uncomfortable and difficult. If you don’t need the base and aren’t planning on using the stroller, you may want to detach it.
Removing the Base From the Car Seat Is Hard
Though it’s designed to stay together and function as a single-piece unit, the bulk of the combined seat and base may be problematic.
Unfortunately, the base doesn’t unlock easily from the car seat. This can make detaching frustrating and time-consuming, especially with a baby in the mix.
Product Specs
| Weight | 20 pounds |
| Dimensions | 31.4 inches by 16.7 inches by 17.7 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 4 pounds |
| Child Weight Maximum | 35 pounds |
| Extra Features | LATCH system, anti-rebound bar, airplane-approved, travel system |
Our Ratings
Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System
Best for Active Moms and Babies
This travel system and infant car seat are a great choice for the mom who wants to be active. The car seat is suitable for infants who weigh up to 30 pounds, and the accompanying stroller is a three-wheel jogging stroller.
This seat is suitable for babies who weigh at least 4 pounds. It features a five-point safety harness and has a level indicator to help you identify when the unit is installed correctly. The seat is for use with children who are less than 30 inches in height.
This top-rated system features infant head support. It also offers a preset base height adjustment with a simple push-button operation.
The car seat requires a base, which is included with this travel system, and additional bases can be purchased separately.
What We Like
Great for Walking and Errands
This product is an excellent option if you are frequently on the go. The stroller is narrow, and real rubber wheels allow you to travel easily. The car seat is easy to remove from the base and snaps quickly and securely onto the stroller.
One-Hand Adjustment
The five-point safety harness is designed for quick and easy adjustment. This helps you create the perfect fit each time you fasten your baby in. The unit also features a push-button, height-adjustable base with four presets for the best car seat installation.
Side Impact Protection
This top-rated seat features EPS energy-absorbing foam in its construction. This foam helps absorb side impacts and reduces transfer to your child in the event of an accident.
What We Don't Like
This Unit Is Heavy
The car seat and the stroller are heavy. If you think you’ll be carrying the infant seat or lifting the stroller in and out of vehicles or up stairs often, you may want to consider a different option.
Car Seat Can Be Awkward to Carry
It features a triangular grasp on the middle of the handle. This can be a great feature if you plan to hold it by the grasp. However, if you put your arm through the handle and support the seat with your arm instead, it can be awkward.
Product Specs
| Weight | 15.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.5 inches by 26 inches by 25 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 4 pounds |
| Child Weight Maximum | 30 pounds |
| Extra Features | LATCH system, side-impact protection, travel system |
Our Ratings
Safety 1st Grow and Go Convertible Car Seat
Easiest to Fasten
This car seat was designed to carry and protect newborns weighing as little as 5 pounds and children who weigh up to 100 pounds. The seat features three recline positions to ensure your child is comfortable. It can also help you get a great fit for your car.
You can remove the padding in this seat without disassembling the harness. Two integrated cup holders help keep items and drinks within your child’s reach.
It has a harness-holding feature that helps get resistant children quickly into place. The unit is designed to have a small footprint, even when rear-facing. The car seat is available in multiple colorways and meets all ASTM and JPMA safety standards.
What We Like
Features a Harness Holder
Each side of the car seat is equipped with a small harness holder. Before putting your child in the seat, pull the harness to the appropriate side and slide it into place. Fasten as usual, without needing to pull the harness out from underneath them or struggle for cooperation.
Takes Up Less Space
Finding car seats that work well in a limited space — especially when rear-facing — can be challenging. This seat allows front seat users up to 7 inches more space to increase comfort and usability.
QuickFit Harness
The QuickFit harness is designed to make harness adjustments fast and painless. You can adjust the headrest and the harness together at once.
You may not need this feature until your child is older. However, it can be used throughout the life of the seat, even when in booster mode.
What We Don't Like
Can Be Difficult to Tighten During Installation
Getting this seat installed tightly can be challenging, especially when in rear-facing mode. You’ll want to dedicate extra time to ensure the installation is correct.
Can Be Noisy
If you do a lot of driving without your child, you might notice the headrest rattles. If you find the noise to be a problem, you may want to consider another model.
Product Specs
| Weight | 18.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 24 inches by 19 inches by 23.75 inches |
| Child Weight Minimum | 5 pounds |
| Child Weight Maximum | 100 pounds |
| Extra Features | LATCH system, QuickFit harness system, ASTM and JPMA approved, harness holders, integrated cup holders |
Our Ratings
| Product | Award | Weight | Dimensions | Min. Weight | Max. Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diono Radian 3RXT | Best for Limited Space | 28 lbs | 16.14″ x 16.93″ x 28.35″ | 5 lbs | 120 lbs |
| Safety 1st 35 LT | Great for Small Babies | 15 lbs | 15.8″ x 18″ x 30.5″ | 4 lbs | 35 lbs |
| Evenflo Symphony LX | Best One-Time Purchase | N/A | 21″ x 21″ x 25.5″ | 5 lbs | 110 lbs |
| Chicco KeyFit 30 | Easiest to Install | 17 lbs | 27.5″ x 17″ x 24″ | 4 lbs | 30 lbs |
| Evenflo Pivot Modular | Best for Travel | 20 lbs | 31.4″x 16.7″ x 17.7″ | 4 lbs | 35 lbs |
| Baby Trend Expedition | For Active Moms & Babies | 15.5 lbs | 16.5″ x 26″ x 25″ | 4 lbs | 30 lbs |
| Safety 1st Grow & Go | Easiest to Fasten | 18.7 lbs | 24″ x 19″ x 23.75″ | 5 lbs | 100 lbs |
FAQs
What is the Safest Infant Car Seat?
The safest infant car seat is one that meets all federal safety standards, fits your specific vehicle correctly, and is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Look for car seats with high safety ratings and features like side impact protection and a 5-point harness.
Is it Better to Get an Infant Car Seat or an All-In-One?
Whether to get an infant car seat or an all-in-one depends on your preference for convenience versus longevity.
Infant car seats are portable and can be easily clicked in and out of the car and a stroller, but they are quickly outgrown. All-in-ones adjust to fit your child as they grow, lasting several years.
What is the Easiest Infant Seat to Install?
The easiest infant seat to install typically has a base with clear belt paths, level indicators, and premium LATCH connectors. Some even come with self-ratcheting or push-button LATCH systems to ensure a tight and secure fit with minimal effort.
Does it Matter Which Side an Infant Car Seat is On?
While any back seat position can be safe for an infant car seat as long as it’s installed correctly, the middle of the back seat is often considered the safest spot because it’s the furthest from side impact.
However, if the middle seat doesn’t allow for a proper install, either side can be used.
How Long Can Babies Stay In an Infant Car Seat?
Babies typically stay in an infant car seat until they reach the seat’s maximum weight or height limit, which usually occurs around 9-12 months. Always transition to a larger seat before they exceed these limits for safety.
How Long Can You Use an Infant Car Seat Before It Expires?
Infant car seats generally have a lifespan of about six to seven years from the manufacture date. Check the seat’s specific expiration date, usually found on the seat itself or in the user manual, and never use a car seat past this date for safety reasons.
