Recommended Seats: USA
Recommended Car Seats
Types of Car Seats:
- Rear Facing Only Seats (Infant Seats)
- Convertible (rear facing and forward facing)
- Multimode (rear and forward facing, and booster)
- Combination Seats (forward facing harness to booster)
- High Back Boosters
- Backless Boosters
Choosing a car seat is tough! There are so many options, and one look at the car seat aisle can make your head swim with weight limits and bells and whistles. So how do you know what the best seat is for your child? The safest seat is the one that fits your child, fits your vehicle, and can be used correctly 100% of the time. It’s important to look at the height and weight limits printed on the box, but they often do not tell the whole story. It is also important to note things like the height of the shell, and height of the harness positions, which will factor into when the child will outgrow the seat. If you’re not sure which type your child should be in, start with our best practice guide through the four steps of car seat safety. If your child’s car seat isn’t on the list, don’t worry! That doesn’t mean it isn’t safe or isn’t recommended. All seats pass the same safety standards and are safe when used correctly. Our list is a short guide to seats that we find easy to use, long lasting, or fit a specific niche. Looking for a review of a seat that isn’t listed here? It might be in our review archive.
The car seats listed on this page are generally listed from least to most expensive, but prices do fluctuate often so click on the photo of the seat to check pricing. To take a more in-depth look at the seat, most have an accompanying review that is linked in the title. If you wish to select seats to compare, there is a link at the beginning of each section to a comparison page.If we have helped you select a seat, we’d ask you to consider purchasing your seat on Amazon.com using our affiliate link
If you are in Canada, we have a list of Recommended Seats for Canada, too.
Rear Facing Only Car Seats (also called infant seats)
Helpful Related Links:
Last modified at April 19, 2022 8:55 am.
Price Range Key: $= up to $99 • $$= $100-$199 • $$$= $200-$299 • $$$$= $300 and up
Cosco Light n Comfy Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 5.25" Height Limit: Up to 29" or head 1" below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-22 lbs Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Allows handle in any position, available with recommended front adjust harness, fits small infants well, lightweight, price, and 3 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Some models have a rear adjust harness, look for front adjust model. Some models do not have adjustable bases. | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Safety 1st OnBoard 35 LT Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 4.5" with insert Height Limit: Up to 32" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-35 lbs Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Fits small infants well, front adjust harness, lightweight, and price. Cons: Only two available recline positions and recline line is only on the restraint portion of the seat. Features: Large canopy. | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 6″ with insert Height Limit: Up to 32" or head 1" below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-35 lbs Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Fits small infants well, front adjust harness, large canopy, lightweight, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Must remember to remove infant insert at 12 pounds Features: Allows European routing for baseless installation | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Evenflo Essential LiteMax  Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 4" Height Limit: 17-32" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 3-35 lbs Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Fits small infants well, front adjust harness, lightweight, price, and 3 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Requires 1.5" clearance between vehicle seat and car seat. Features: Buckle tongue storage and lockoff. | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Chicco Keyfit 30 Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 6" with insert Height Limit: Up to 30" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-30 lbs Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Allows handle in any position, fits small infants well, and front adjust harness. Cons: Must remember to remove infant insert at 11 pounds and not as lightweight as other options. Features: Harness pads, lockoff, and premium lower anchor connectors. Zip model offers easy to remove cover. * Note: the Keyfit comes in a 22 lb version also. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco SnugRide SnugLock Series Read Platinum Review Read DLX Review Read SnugLock 35 Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 5" Height Limit: Up to 30" or 32" depending on model, or head 1" below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-30 or 35 lbs depending on model Expiration: 7 years Note: There is a SnugLock 30 version that has lower limits. | Pros: Allows handle in any position, fits small infants well, front adjust harness, large canopy, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Insert has specific weight requirements. Features: Adjustable base, and SnugLock lockoff. Other features vary by exact model. Some have premium lower anchor connectors, no rethread harness, and/or one button handles. Read the CSFTL reviews to determine which features are available. | Price Range: $$-$$ Buy Graco Snugride Snuglock Car Seats  |
Britax B-Safe 35 Gen2 Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 4.5" with insert Height Limit: Up to 32" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-35 lbs Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Allows handle in any position, easily accessible belt path for baseless installation, fits small infants well, front adjust harness, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Must remember to change harness length and crotch buckle position at 11 pounds, and not as lightweight as other options. Features: Harness pads, lockoff, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Evenflo SecureMax Gold  Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 6" with insert Height Limit: 17-32" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-35 lbs Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Allows handle in any position, fits small infants well, front adjust harness, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Requires 1.5" clearance between vehicle seat and car seat, and load leg cannot be used in seating positions with store and go seating. Features: SensorSafe system, harness pads, load leg, lockoff, no-rethread harness, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Chicco KeyFit 35  Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 6" with insert Height Limit: less than 32" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-35 lbs Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Allows handle in any position, fits small infants well, front adjust harness. Cons: Must remember to remove infant insert at 11 pounds and not as lightweight as other options. Features: Allows European routing for baseless installation, anti-rebound bar on base, harness pads, lockoff, no-rethread harness, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Nuna Pipa Read CSFTL Review | Bottom Harness Slot: 6" with insert Height Limit: Up to 32" or head 1” below the top of the shell Weight Limit: 4-32 lbs Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Allows handle in any position, fits small infants well, front adjust harness, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Can be difficult to find locally and load leg cannot be used in seating positions with store and go seating. Features: Allows European routing for baseless installation, dream drape canopy, harness pads, load leg, lockoff, and rigid lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ |
Convertible and Multimode Car Seats
Helpful Related Links:
- Why Rear Facing: the Science Junkie’s Guide
- Rear Facing Myths Busted
- Choosing a convertible car seat for a newborn
- How much Headroom?
Convertible Car Seats (Rear and forward facing)
Last modified at April 19, 2022 8:55 am.
Price Range Key (Harnessed Seat): $= up to $99 • $$= $100-$199 • $$$= $200-$299 • $$$$= $300 and up
Cosco Scenera Next Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, 19-40″, or head 1" below the top of the 23″ shell Forward Facing Limits: 22-40 lbs, 29-43″, with 13" top harness slots Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Compact front to back, easy to install, lightweight, narrow, and price. Cons: Low harness height makes the seat outgrown forward facing before rear facing. Many children will outgrow the seat completely around age 3. Features: Optional cupholder. | Price Range: $ |
Evenflo Sonus Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, 19-40", or head 1" below the top of the 25" shell Forward Facing Limits: 22-50 lbs, 28-50", with 18" top harness slots, 2 year old age minimum Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Easy to install, fits average size newborns, lightweight, narrow, price, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat when rear facing, narrow set harness straps do not have strap covers and may irritate the child's neck, no infant body padding to help fit, and single required recline angle. Features: Dual cupholders. | Price Range: $-$$ Sonus 50 Buy at Amazon Sonus 65 Buy at Target |
Graco Contender and Admiral 65 Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, head 1" below the adjuster of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 20-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17.5" top harness slots Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Tall shell for rear facing, price (for a seat without a 40" rear facing height limit), and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Recline block to switch between rear and forward facing modes, harness can be difficult to tighten on the lower settings. Features: Dual lower anchor connector straps, no-rethread harness, and single cupholder. | Price Range: $$ Admiral Buy at Amazon Contender Buy at Target |
Graco Sequel and Sequence Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 4-40 lbs, head 1" below the adjuster of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 20-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17.5" top harness slots Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Tall shell for rear facing, fits average size newborns, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Harness can be difficult to tighten on the lower settings and heavy. Features: Dual cupholders, harness pads, no-rethread harness. | Price Range: $$ Sequence Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 4-50 lbs, head 1″ below the adjuster of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17.5" top harness slots Expiration: 10 years | Pros: 50 pound rear facing weight limit, compact front to back when extension panel is not used for older infants/children, fits average size newborns, price (for a 50 lb rear facing limit), tall shell for rear facing, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Can be bulky front to back with the extension panel in use, harness can be difficult to tighten on the lower settings, and heavy. Features: 3-position extension panel that provides 5” of extra legroom, dual cupholders, harness pads, and no-rethread harness. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Britax Emblem and Allegiance Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, up to 49", or head 1" below the top of the fully extended headrest Forward Facing Limits: 20-65 lbs, up to 49", with 16.75" top harness slots Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Compact front to back, easy to install, easy to remove cover for cleaning, fits average newborns, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Small interior doesn't provide much leg room for child. Features: Carry handle, EZ buckle holds the buckle forward when buckling/unbuckling, harness pads, lockoffs, no-rethread harness, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Allegiance Buy at Amazon Emblem Buy at Target |
Chicco Nextfit Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, up to 43" or 49" (depending on date of manufacture), head contained in the fully extended 26" headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17.5" top harness slots Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Compact front to back, easy to install, fits average size newborns, 2 position crotch buckle. Cons: Does not allow noodles to increase recline if needed and harness can be difficult to tighten on the lower settings. Features: Easy to remove cover on the Zip version, harness pads, lockoffs, no-rethread, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$-$$$$ Nextfit Zip Buy at Amazon |
Britax ClickTight Convertibles Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, or head 1" below the top of the fully extended 29" headrest Forward Facing Limits: 20-65 lbs, up to 49", with 18.65" top harness slots Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Compact front to back, easy to install, easy to remove cover for cleaning, fits average newborns, tall shell for rear facing, taller harness height than G4 models, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Heavy, short crotch buckle, and small interior doesn't provide much leg room for child. Features: Anti-rebound bar can be purchased separately if not included with your model, ClickTight installation, EZ buckle holds the buckle forward when buckling/unbuckling, harness pads, lockoffs, no-rethread harness, and side impact cushion technology (SICT) on the Advocate. | Price Range:: $$$-$$$$ Marathon Buy at Target Boulevard Buy at Target |
Clek Fllo Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 14-50 lbs, 25″ through 43″, sitting unassisted, with the head 1" below the top of the fully extended 26" headrest (*5-22 lbs. and 19-33" with the infant-thingy) Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, 30-49", with 17" top harness slots Expiration: 9 years | Pros: 50 pound rear facing weight limit, narrow, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not fit newborns and young infants without purchasing the infant-thingy separately, heavy, and can be difficult to find locally. Features: Dual length crotch strap, harness pads, lockoffs, optional anti-rebound bar, premium lower anchor connectors, and optional Q-tether (purchased separately). | Price Range: $$$$ |
Clek Foonf Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 14 to 50 lbs, 25" through 43″, or head 1" below the top of the fully extended 26" headrest (*5-22 lbs. and 19-33″ with the infant-thingy) Forward Facing Limits: 20-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17" top harness slots Expiration: 9 years | Pros: 50 pound rear facing weight limit, narrow, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not fit newborns and young infants without purchasing the infant-thingy separately, heavy, sits very high in the vehicle, and can be difficult to find locally. Features: Anti-rebound bar, dual length crotch strap, harness pads, lockoffs, premium lower anchor connectors, rigid lower anchor connectors for forward facing, and optional Q-tether (purchased separately). | Price Range: $$$$ Foonf Buy at Amazon |
Nuna Rava Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-50 lbs, up to 49", or head 1" below the top of the fully extended headrest Forward Facing Limits: 25-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17" top harness slots Expiration: 10 years | Pros: 50 pound rear facing weight limit, compact front to back when calf extension is not used for older infants/children, easy to install, fits average newborns, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Can be difficult to find locally, heavy, and must also lock the vehicle belt with the True Tension System. Features: Buckle tongue holders, calf extension adds 2” of leg support both rear facing and forward, flexible dual cupholders, harness pads, no-rethread harness, premium lower anchor connectors, and true tension installation. | Price Range:: $$$$ |
Multimode Car Seats (Rear and forward facing with an additional booster mode)
Last modified at April 18, 2022 12:51 pm.
Price Range Key (Harnessed Seat): $= up to $99 • $$= $100-$199 • $$$= $200-$299 • $$$$= $300 and up
Century Drive On  Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs or head 1" below the top of the fully extended headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, less than 49″, with 16" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57″, with 18" top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 7 years in harness mode, 10 years in booster mode | Pros: Fits newborns well, lightweight, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Single required rear facing recline line and lower height limits for booster mode. Features: Harness pads, hideaway harness in booster mode, dual cupholders, and no-rethread harness. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon |
Graco TrioGrow SnugLock  Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, head 1" below the top of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57", with 18" top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Easy to install, fits newborns well, compact, tall shell for rear facing, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode and booster not as tall as other options. Features: Can use lower anchors in booster mode, dual cupholders, harness pads, hideaway harness for switching to booster mode, no re-thread harness, RapidRemove cover (on LX model), and premium lower anchor connectors (on LX model). | Price Range: $$-$$$ Buy at Amazon |
Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 4-50 lbs, head 1" below the top of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, up to 49", with 17.5" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57", with 18.5" top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: 50 pound rear facing weight limit, compact front to back when extension panel is not used for older infants/children, fits average size newborns, tall shell for rear facing, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Can be bulky front to back with the extension panel in use, does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode and booster not as tall as other options. Features: 3-position extension panel that provides 5" of extra leg room, can use lower anchors in booster mode, dual cupholders, harness pads, hideaway harness for switching to booster mode, no re-thread harness, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco SlimFit3 LX and True3Fit LX Read CSFTL Review | Rear Facing Limits: 5-40 lbs, up to 49", head 1" below the top of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, up to 49", with 16.75" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57", with 18.5" top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Easy to install, fits newborns well, narrow, tall shell for rear facing, and 3 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode and booster not as tall as other options. Features: Three-across friendly, can use lower anchors and tether in booster mode, dual cupholders (optional), harness pads, lockoff for forward facing installation, hideaway harness for switching to booster mode, no re-thread harness, RapidRemove cover, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco 4Ever DLX Read CSFTL Review | Rear-Facing Limits: 4-40 lbs, head 1" below the top of the headrest Forward Facing Limits: 22-65 lbs, up to 49", with 18" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57" with 19" top belt guide (backless: 40-120 lbs; 43-57") Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Easy to install, fits newborns well, compact, tall shell for rear facing, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Cannot use lower anchors in backless booster mode, does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode, heavy, and will most likely expire before child is ready to safely travel without booster. Features: Can use lower anchors in high back booster mode, converts to a backless booster, dual cupholders, harness pads, lockoff for forward facing installation, hideaway harness for switching to booster mode, no re-thread harness, RapidRemove cover, and premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Combination Seats (Forward facing only, 5 point harness, convert to belt positioning booster)
Related Helpful Links:
- Harness or Booster: when to make the switch
- Forward Facing: the Hows and the Whys
- Converting a Convertible: Going from Rear Facing to Forward Facing
Last modified at April 19, 2022 8:59 am.
Price Range Key (Harnessed Seat): $= up to $99 • $$= $100-$199 • $$$= $200-$299 • $$$$= $300 and up
Cosco Finale Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 30-65 lbs, 32-49", with 16.75" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-52", with 18.25" top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Lightweight, narrow, and price. Cons: Does not convert to backless, often provides poor belt fit in booster mode, short lived in booster mode, shorter top harness slot height. Features: Ability to attach single cupholder and upgraded version offers more padded cover | Price Range: $ Finale DX Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Evenflo Maestro Sport Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 22-50 lbs, 28-50", with 18.5" top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-110 lbs, 44-57", with 19″ top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Easy to install, lightweight, price, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Booster function is outgrown in height very quickly after the harness is outgrown by height, does not convert to backless, harness must be fully removed when switching to booster mode, lower weight limit than other combination seats, and narrow set harness straps may dig into child's neck. Features: Allows use of lower anchors in high back booster mode and dual cupholders. | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Harmony Defender Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 22-65 lbs, 27-57", with 18.5″ top harness slots Booster Limits: 30-110 lbs, 34-57", with 20″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Narrow, price, shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Can be difficult to find locally, does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode, harness must be fully removed when switching to booster mode, only allows 2” of overhang in harness mode when seat is tethered, and requires assembly. Features: Allows use of lower anchors in high back booster mode, ability to attach single cupholder, and harness pads. | Price Range: $ |
Graco Tranzitions and Wayz Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 22-65 lbs, 27-49″, with 18.25″ top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 38-57", with 19.5″ top belt guide (backless: 40-100 lbs, 40-57″) Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Lightweight, narrow, price, shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode, harness must be fully removed when switching to booster mode, and high, narrow belt path can make installation a challenge in some vehicles. Features: Allows use of lower anchors in high back booster mode and harness pads and dual cupholders (not usable in very narrow mode). | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco Atlas Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limit: 22-65 lbs, 27-49", with 18.25″ top harness slots High Back Booster: 40-100 lbs, 38-57″, with 20″ top guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Inexpensive, easy to install, lightweight, easy to convert between harnessed and booster mode, can use LATCH in high back booster mode Cons: Does not convert to backless | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon |
Graco Nautilus Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 22-65 lbs, 27-49", with 18.25″ top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 38-57", with 19.5″ top belt guide (backless: 40-100 lbs, 40-57″) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Easy to install, shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless, and 3 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Can cause head slump in some models, does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode, harness must be fully removed when switching to booster mode, not easily switched from high back to backless modes. Features: Allows use of lower anchors in high back booster mode, available with safety surround on some models, harness pads, no-rethread harness, single cupholder, and 1 recline position. | Price Range: $$-$$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Chicco MyFit Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 25-65 lbs, <54", with 19.5″ top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 38-57", with 20″ top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Allows up to 3" of overhang, high harness slots, well padded, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Complicated steps to convert from booster to harness, does not become backless and headrest can make a rattling noise. Features: Allows use of lower anchors in high back booster mode, dual "cupfolders" that fold in for more space in tight installs, hideaway harness when switching to booster mode, LE model includes SuperCinch® LATCH Tightener, lockoff, no-rethread harness, premium lower anchor connectors, and 4 recline positions. | Price Range: $$-$$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Britax Grow With You (Regular, ClickTight, and ClickTight Plus) Read CSFTL Review | Harness Limits: 25-65 lbs, 34-49", with 20″ top harness slots Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs, 44-63", with 22″ top belt guide (does not become backless) Expiration: 9 years | Pros: Highest harness slots available, and 2 crotch buckle positions. Cons: Does not allow the seat to overhang the vehicle seat in booster mode, does not become backless, seat is large and heavy, and using the booster with smaller children may result in the seat belt not moving properly in the seat belt guide. Features: Allows use of lower anchors in high back booster mode, dual cupholders, EZ buckle holds the buckle forward when buckling/unbuckling, hideaway harness when switching to booster mode, lockoff (on CT and CT Plus versions), no-rethread harness, premium lower anchor connectors, and 1 recline position. | Price Range: $$$-$$$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
High Back Boosters
Related Helpful Links:
- Boosters are for (very) Big Kids
- Booster Seats: the Science Junkie’s Guide
- Proper Booster Fit
- Booster Seat Myths
- High Back Boosters for Big Kids (and their younger siblings)
Last modified at April 21, 2022 7:14 am.
Price Range Key (High Back Booster): $= up to $49 • $$= $50-$99 • $$$= $100-$140 • $$$$= $150 and up
Cosco Pronto Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57″, with 23″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Converts to backless, price, and 23" top shoulder belt guide. Cons: 40lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat, can be difficult to find locally, lacks padding, requires vehicle head support, and no shoulder belt guide when used backless. Features: Single cupholder. | Price Range: $ |
Safety 1st Store 'N Go Sport Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57″, with 23″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Converts to backless, price, and 23" top shoulder belt guide. Cons: 40lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat, lacks padding, requires vehicle head support, and no shoulder belt guide when used backless. Features: Single cupholder and storage drawer. | Price Range: $ |
Graco TurboBooster Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57″, with 19.5″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 10 years Note: Verify limits on product labeling as limits on previous models may differ. | Pros: Converts to backless, does not require vehicle head support, price, and shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless. Cons: Does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat, lacks padding, and requires assembly, specifically screws in the armrests. Features: Dual cupholders. | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco Turbobooster LX (previously Graco Affix) Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs, 43-57″, with 20.5" top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 10 years Note: Verify limits on product labeling as limits on previous models may differ. | Pros: Converts to backless, does not require vehicle head support, and shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless. Cons: Does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat, lower anchors can limit three across seating, and wider seat make it a less viable option for three across seating. Features: Dual cupholders and lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Diono Cambria Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs, 38-63″, with 21″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Converts to backless, deep head support and seating area, shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless, and wide seating area is comfortable for bigger kids. Cons: 40 lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat, can be difficult to find locally, does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat, lacks padding, and requires a vehicle head restraint. Features: Dual cupholders and lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon |
Diono Monterey XT  Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs, 38-63", with 22″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Converts to backless, deep head/torso support and seating area, shoulder belt guide to help with seat belt fit when used backless, and wide seating area is comfortable for bigger kids. Cons: 40 lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat, can be difficult to find locally, does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat, and requires a vehicle head restraint. Features: Adjustable width back support, dual cupholders, and lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon |
Britax Skyline Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs, 44-63″, with 23″ top belt guide (backless: 40-120lbs, 46-63") Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Cupholders can be removed for more room, and does not require vehicle head support. Cons: Does not have the Britax SecureGuard clip, 40 lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat and does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat. Features: Premium lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon |
Britax Highpoint Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs, 44-63″, with 23″ top belt guide (backless: 40-120lbs, 46-63") Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Cupholders can be removed for more room, and does not require vehicle head support. Cons: 40 lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat and does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat. Features: Premium lower anchor connectors, and optional SecureGuard clip. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Peg Perego Viaggio HBB 120 Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs, 39-57", with 19″ top belt guide (backless: same limits) Expiration: 7 years | Pros: Converts to backless, deep head support, and narrow. Cons: 40 lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat and does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat, and requires vehicle head support. Features: Rigid lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$$$ Buy at Amazon |
Nuna Aace Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-110 lbs, 38-60″, with 21″ top belt guide (backless: 50-110 lbs, 38-60") Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Converts to backless, deep head/torso support, well padded, and does not require vehicle headrest. Cons: 40 lb minimum does not allow small but appropriately mature 6-7 year olds to use the seat, backless booster has a 50 lb minimum, and can be difficult to find locally. Features: Ability to attach single cupholder, adjustable length leg support, and lower anchor connectors with guides. | Price Range: $$$$ |
Ride Safer Delight (previously Ride Safer Travel Vest) Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: Size small: 30-60 lbs and 35-50″ Size large: 50-80 lbs and 45-57″ Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Does not take up any more space than the child's body, lightweight, and portable. Cons: Can be tricky to thread seat belt through guides and must be ordered online. Features: Version 2 and Delight have tethers that can be used with lap only belts and extra connector can be bought to make a tether anchor in some vehicles. | Price Range: $$$-$$$$ Buy at Amazon |
Backless Boosters
Related Helpful Links:
- Boosters are for (very) Big Kids
- Booster Seats: the Science Junkie’s Guide
- Proper Booster Fit
- Booster Seat Myths
- Comparison of Backless Boosters Under $20
Last modified at April 21, 2022 7:15 am.
Price Range Key (Backless Booster): $= up to $24 • $$= $25-$49 • $$$= $50-$99 • $$$$= $100 and up
Cosco Rise Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limit: 40–100 lbs and 43-57″ Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Lightweight, narrow, and price. Cons: Lacks padding. | Price Range: $ |
Harmony Youth Booster Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 30-100 lbs and 34-57″ Expiration: 6 years | Pros: Lightweight, narrow, price, and shoulder belt guide to assist with seat belt fit. Cons: Lacks padding, shallow seating area, and short armrests can be difficult to route seat belt under. | Price Range: $ |
Graco TurboBooster Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-110 lbs and 43-57” Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Lightweight, price, and shoulder belt guide to assist with seat belt fit. Cons: Does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat and lacks padding. Features: Dual cupholders. | Price Range: $ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco TurboBooster LX (previously Graco Affix) Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-100 lbs and 43-57" Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Lightweight and shoulder belt guide to assist with seat belt fit. Cons: Does not allow the booster to overhang the vehicle seat and lower anchors can limit three across seating. Features: Dual cupholders and lower anchor connectors. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Chicco GoFit  Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-110 lbs and 38-57" Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Allows up to 2" of overhang which will help in three across seating, easy to carry, and lightweight. Cons:Does not have LATCH so must be buckled in when unoccupied . Features: Dual flexible cupholders. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Graco RightGuide Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 50-120 lbs and 43-60" Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Lightweight, fits in a backpack, consistent vehicle seat belt fit, great option for three across. Cons: Not very padded. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Target |
Diono Solana 2 Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs and up to 63" Expiration: 8 years | Pros: Wider seating area fits bigger children well, two cupholders, extra padding, lower anchors, and shoulder belt guide to assist with seat belt fit. Cons: Too wide for three across. | Price Range: $$ Buy at Amazon Buy at Target |
Clek Olli Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: 40-120 lbs and 40-57″ Expiration: 9 years | Pros: High armrests are easy to route seat belt under and wide seating area is comfortable for bigger kids. Cons: Can be difficult to find locally, no shoulder belt guide available, rigid lower anchors may not sit nicely in some vehicle seats and can limit three across seating. Features: No numb-bum padding, rigid lower anchor connectors, and stain resistant Crypton fabric. | Price Range: $$$ Buy at Amazon |
Ride Safer Delight (previously Ride Safer Travel Vest) Read CSFTL Review | Booster Limits: Size small: 30-60 lbs and 35-50″ Size large: 50-80 lbs and 45-57″ Expiration: 10 years | Pros: Does not take up any more space than the child's body, lightweight, and portable. Cons: Can be tricky to thread seat belt through guides and must be ordered online. Features: Version 2 and Delight have tethers that can be used with lap only belts and extra connector can be bought to make a tether anchor in some vehicles. | Price Range: $$$$ Buy at Amazon |
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