Graco SnugRide 30

The Graco SnugRide 30 infant car seat is one of the most popular infant car seats on the market. It has very good safety ratings, and it costs less than some of its main competitors. As its name suggests, the SnugRide 30 accommodates babies up to 30 pounds and 30 inches tall. Reviewers say the car seat is light and easy to carry, and it's compatible with a number of travel systems. The Graco SnugRide 30 snaps easily into its base, according to reviews, and it's not a struggle to get a baby in and out of the seat. A wide assortment of colors and designs is another plus.

However, many experts prefer the Chicco KeyFit 30 (*Est. $200) overall. Although it is more expensive, the Chicco car seat gets better ratings for ease of use, and one tester says it fits small newborns better than the Graco SnugRide 30. In addition, the Graco SnugRide 30 does not install well using a vehicle's seat belt, according to a recent independent test. One interesting and common complaint -- there is a large, non-removable warning label where the baby's head rests. Parents say this is unattractive and they are worried it will be uncomfortable. Overall, reviewers prefer the Chicco KeyFit 30, but the Graco SnugRide 30 is a good alternative for parents on a budget.

ConsumerReports.org is the best source of information on the Graco SnugRide 30. It is one of the only independent sources that evaluates car seats on issues such as crash protection and fit to vehicle. Babble.com and Parents.com don't subject infant seats to crash tests, but the parenting sites have good information on ease of use and other considerations. ToysRUs.com is a good source for user reviews.