Infant Car Seats: Reviews

Updated July 2012

Infant car seats are designed for newborns (up to about 30 pounds and up to about 32 inches tall), and they double as carriers. This type of car seat comes in two parts: the car seat itself and the base unit, which stays in the car at all times. The seat itself can snap out of the base and double as a carrier, so you don't have to wake a sleeping baby.

Chicco KeyFit 30

Best infant car seat

*Est. $200

Estimated Price

The Chicco KeyFit 30 is praised more often than any other car seat by both parents and safety experts. In a recent independent test, the KeyFit 30 earns the top rating for infant car seats with a capacity over 22 pounds. It scores a very good rating for crash protection, along with excellent marks for ease of use and fit to vehicle. Parents appreciate the quick harness adjustments, easy-to-carry handle and extra storage compartment in the base. Unlike most standard infant car seats, the Chicco KeyFit 30 can accommodate larger babies up to 30 pounds and 30 inches tall, allowing the seat to be used longer and infants to stay rear-facing longer (the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children stay rear-facing until the age of two).

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Safety 1st OnBoard 35 Air

Best car seat for heavier babies

*Est. $160

Estimated Price

The Safety 1st OnBoard 35 Air holds babies up to 35 pounds and 32 inches tall. The OnBoard 35 Air car seat gets excellent ratings in independent crash tests and positive remarks from owners. Parents appreciate the lightweight design -- instead of EPS foam padding, the Safety 1st OnBoard 35 Air uses air-filled wings for side-impact protection. Parents say the OnBoard 35 Air is roomy and comfortable, with padding that goes all the way down the back of the seat. It includes an infant pad for a better newborn fit. There are some downsides: The seat does not come with many of the extras found in more expensive seats, such as harness covers or cold weather boots. Parents also report that the fabric may pill over time, and there are a few complaints of broken sun shades.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Safety 1st Comfy Carry Elite

Car seat less than $100

*Est. $80

Estimated Price

If you want a basic, inexpensive car seat that works for babies up to 22 pounds, reviews point to the Safety 1st Comfy Carry Elite. The seat can accommodate newborns as little as 4 pounds, and it has a maximum height limit of 29 inches tall. This Safety 1st car seat performs just as well as larger and more expensive seats in independent tests, and it receives an excellent rating for crash protection. Weighing in at 6 pounds, the Safety 1st Comfy Carry Elite is several pounds lighter than the car seats discussed above. You won't be able to use it as long, but it is easier to carry. In addition to the excellent safety rating and affordable price tag, parents appreciate the subdued colors. However, we did see reports that the handle feels flimsy.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

COMPARE PRODUCTS

See a side-by-side comparison of key features, product specs, and prices.