by Joshua Thomas
The convertible car seat is a special type of seat for children. It is built in such a way that it provides a lot of security and comfort to your child.
Indeed, you will find a lot of comfy padding in the convertible car seat that makes a long journey in the vehicle much more enjoyable, especially for young children.
But one of the best things about the convertible car seat is that it can quickly and easily be converted from rear-facing for younger children to front-facing for older ones.
If you are fresh on the market for such a car accessory, then our review below showcases some of the best convertible car seats that money can buy. Without any further ado, let's get to it!
Contents
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Graco Extend2Fit 1963212 (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 1948314 |
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 | 3. Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 CC138EXO |
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 | 4. Evenflo Symphony Elite 34611709 |
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 | 5. Evenflo Tribute LX |
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 | 6. Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 1999656 |
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 | 7. Disney Baby Apt 50 CC171CLJ |
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The Graco Extend2Fit is a popular and versatile convertible car seat. What makes this model unique when compared to the competition is its ease of use. If you have never installed a convertible car seat before, then you will have no problem with this unit. It is extremely easy to install as well as use.
When it comes to comfort, you get plenty with this unit. It has thick padding that is made from a durable and long-lasting material. The sides are reinforced for impacts, and you get no less than 10 adjustable settings.
This convertible car seat has been tested in crash tests to ensure maximum safety. In fact, it meets all US safety standards for a car seat.
The only caveats we have with this unit is that due to the build construction material used, it is difficult to wash. Also, the maximum height capacity of 40 inches could have been better.
Other than those, we recommend this model as one of the best rear-facing convertible car seats on the market.
Pros
Cons
This model is designed for those who need a versatile weight capacity. Indeed, the minimum weight capacity of this unit is 4 lbs only and its maximum 120 lbs.
With such a diverse range of weight capacities, this convertible car seat will have no problem accommodating any child of any weight.
Furthermore, what we like about this unit is that it has one of the best maximum height capacities of 52 inches. It can accommodate a tall child.
Another big advantage of this convertible car seat is its built construction. The seat is durable and long-lasting.
You can install this convertible car seat both as a rear seat or as a forward seat depending on your need. It has multiple adjustments, as well as several belt positions for more safety and comfort.
It is made from premium grade in high-quality materials that will last a very long time. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a car seat for heavy-duty and daily use.
However, we take issue with this model as for the price; the padding is quite thin. It does not affect its comfort, but it could have been thicker.
Also, it is very expensive. But if the price is not an issue, then this model is one of the most comfortable convertible car seats on the market with a superior weight capacity.
Pros
Cons
Those looking for a feature-rich and competitively priced convertible car seat will appreciate this offering by Safety 1st. Indeed, based on the features that it contains, this model is one of the best convertible car seats on the market for the price.
It has multiple headrests as well as back adjustments for more comfort. Additionally, its maximum weight capacity of 100 lbs makes it a superior product when compared to the competition.
The padding in this convertible car seat is thick, you can quickly and easily change it from a rear-facing to a forward-facing seat.
For safety, the sides of this seat are reinforced for impacts. It also contains 2 cupholders for more convenience. Cleaning this car seat is not a problem as it is made from a breathable and yet easy to wash material.
The only problem with this model is that it is a bit more difficult to install than others. However, it does come with a detailed instructions manual that will show you how to do it.
Pros
Cons
This Evenflo Symphony convertible car seat has thick padding that makes it comfortable. It is an ideal choice especially for those who make long trips in the vehicle. This unit is also built for safety as it has reinforced sides as well as meets all US safety standards.
Installation of this model is very easy and straightforward to do. In fact, the manufacturer claims that it can be installed in as little as 60 seconds.
As most convertible car seats, it comes as a two-piece, a base, and a carrier. Removing the carrier from the base is very easy and can be done with the push of a button.
Moreover, this unit has multiple headrests as well as reclining adjustments for even more comfort.
To the side, you will find expandable
The only disadvantages we can note with this product is that the maximum height capacity of 37 inches is a bit low. So, this model is not ideal for tall children. The harness straps are also not very heavy-duty and may start showing damage with daily use.
Pros
Cons
The Evenflo Tribute LX mixes 2 very important aspects in a convertible car seat. The first one is its comfort, with thick and soft padding and the second is durability. It is made from a polyester material that is durable and long-lasting.
Moreover, it has been extensively tested in crash situations for safety. The side is reinforced against impacts, and it meets or exceeds all US safety standards for a car seat.
The material used on this convertible car seat is also very easy to clean. Simply remove it and wash it with basic mild soap and water and you are good to go. It will dry easily on low heat in around 15 minutes. Very convenient!
However, a small disadvantage we can note here is that the material used attracts dirt quite easily. You will need frequent cleaning with this convertible car seat, especially if used daily.
Pros
Cons
This convertible car seat by Graco is built for safety. Not only does it have a reinforced side for impacts, but this unit is also fully crash tested to meet the US standard FMVSS 213. This means that in the event of an impact, your child will be safer than when compared to other models.
Also, it has an excellent built construction made from high-quality materials that ensure that it is durable and long-lasting.
Installation is extremely easy by absolute beginners, and it even comes with a detailed instruction manual that will show you how to do it. You get to cupholders for convenience as well as multiple headrest and back adjustments depending on your need.
The only real problem we have with this Graco convertible car seat is that the latch is a bit short. This can be a problem for a big child. But other than this, this top-rated convertible car seat works as intended.
Pros
Cons
If you are the proud parent of a girl, then the Disney Baby Apt 50 is made for you. This is a pink-colored convertible car seat that is comfortable as well as highly affordable. In fact, when it comes to price, this model is by far the best convertible car seat that you can get.
One of the biggest advantages of this convertible car seat is that it is machine washable. Simply remove the cover and wash it and you're good to go.
It also has multiple harness points as well as 3 buckle locations so that you can find the best position depending on your child's height.
Additionally, it still has features like 2 cup holders to the side for more versatility and convenience. The comfort level is okay, but not the best padding we have seen.
For the price, this model is okay. The main disadvantage here is that it does not have the best padding out there, and the maximum weight capacity of 50 lbs is subpar.
However, for the price of this is understandable, and it still does a great job as a convertible car seat.
Pros
Cons
If you are fresh on the market for a convertible car seat, then you have probably noticed that infant and convertible car seats are used interchangeably.
However, there is a difference, and knowing them will help you make a better purchase decision.
Infant Car Seat
The infant car seat, as its name suggests, is intended for infants and toddlers.
This type of car seat is usually rear-facing, which means that when installing at the rear of your vehicle, the child is facing away from the driver.
Many experts agree that for infants, this type of rear-facing configuration is safer. One of the demarking factors about the infant car seat is that it comes in 2 pieces. A base and a carrier.
You normally clip that carrier to the base, which remains fixed, and it can easily be removed or mounted depending on your need.
The biggest advantage of the infant car seat is that you don't need to disturb a sleeping baby. You can simply lift the carrier along with the baby.
Also, you can use the carrier with on a stroller which is quite practical.
Convertible Car Seat
The convertible car seat is a little bit different as it is a permanent seat for your vehicle. This type of seat usually comes as a one-piece and requires permanent installation on your vehicle's seat.
One of the biggest advantages of the convertible car seat is its versatility and ease of use. Indeed, this car seat can be used both as a front-facing as well as a rear-facing seat. And you can change its position in a matter of seconds. Pretty neat!
When your child grows a little bit older, you will not have to purchase a new seat with the convertible car seat. This is not the case with the infant car seat.
Before finding the best convertible car seat for your child, there are some important factors to consider. Here they are:
First and foremost, you need to ensure that the convertible car seat is compatible with your vehicle. Not all are.
For example, some convertible car seats are too long for the seat, which makes them unsafe. For safety reasons, the convertible car seat cannot be longer than the seat holding the base.
In addition, most convertible car seats have belt slits to pass and harness the seatbelts. Check if the positions of those slits are in suitable locations in order to safely attach your child to the seat.
One of the biggest advantages of the convertible car seat is that it offers you with a wide range of weight and height.
This allows you to use the same seat for many years to come as it can easily adapt to changes in weight and height.
Before you order a convertible car seat, ensure that it fits the range of your child height and weight.
Most quality convertible car seats will provide you with a maximum weight capacity of at least 40 lbs and a maximum height of 49 inches. Those values are more than enough for the average child.
The whole point of the convertible car seat is safety. Therefore, you need to check what the manufacturer mentions about safety. Especially about the standards that it meets or exceeds.
The base must be easy to install on the car seat and mounted in such a way that it does not vibrate or move around. It needs to be safe and secure to the seat.
When it comes to the carrier, you should be able to quickly and easily change the position of the carrier, as well as remove it from the base in a matter of seconds. This is very important, especially in case of an emergency.
If you have never installed a convertible car seat in your vehicle before, then you need to go with a model that comes with a detailed installation manual.
This will help you not only install the convertible car seat better, but also use it more safely.
Nevertheless, the convertible car seat is not very difficult to install or use. It comes as a two-piece, a carrier, and a base.
Basically, here is how it is installed:
The base of the convertible car seat is installed in a permanent way on the vehicles seat. Then, the carrier is fixed on the base.
You can choose whether you want the carrier to be rear-facing or front-facing. For small children, it is always recommended to use a rear-facing setup.
Comfort is dictated by 2 things in a convertible car seat. The material used in the built construction as well as the level of padding available.
Most manufacturers use fabric or soft polyester material on the surface for maximum comfort. You must ensure that the convertible car seat is as comfortable as possible.
Additionally, it should also be easy to clean with basic substances. You don't want a convertible car seat that stains easily and difficult to clean.
And for even more comfort, make sure that the seat has several recliner levels as well adjustable headrest and back positions.
One of the biggest advantages of the convertible car seat is convenience.
With the convertible car seat, you can conveniently change the position of the seat, whether you want a rear-facing or front-facing one.
Also, you should be able to quickly and easily remove the carrier from the base whenever you want.
This will prove beneficial, especially if your child is sleeping. As it makes it more convenient to simply remove the carrier along with the child without waking her up.
You need to choose a convertible car seat depending on your lifestyle. If, for example, you travel a lot, then you need a convertible car seat that is as comfortable and secure as possible.
If you frequently remove the carrier from the base, then you need a model that is lightweight and easy to install.
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat, Ride Rear Facing Longer with Extend2Fit, Spire - Walmart Link
Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Car Seat -Slim & Comfy Design Saves Space in Your Back Seat, Darcie, - Walmart Link
Graco TriRide 3 in 1 Car Seat | 3 Modes of Use from Rear Facing to Highback Booster Car - Walmart Link
Baby Trend Trooper 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Moondust (CV01C87B) - Walmart Link
Baby Trend Cover Me 4 in 1 Convertible Car Seat, Scooter - Walmart Link
Safety 1st Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat, Chambers - Walmart Link
Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Harvest Moon - Walmart Link
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat, Ride Rear Facing Longer with Extend2Fit, Spire - eBay Link
Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Car Seat -Slim & Comfy Design Saves Space in Your Back Seat, Darcie, - eBay Link
Graco TriRide 3 in 1 Car Seat | 3 Modes of Use from Rear Facing to Highback Booster Car - eBay Link
Baby Trend Trooper 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Moondust (CV01C87B) - eBay Link
Baby Trend Cover Me 4 in 1 Convertible Car Seat, Scooter - eBay Link
Safety 1st Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat, Chambers - eBay Link
Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Harvest Moon - eBay Link
The convertible car seat is safe and easy to use seat for young children. Not only does it make long journeys in the vehicle more comfortable, but it also adds an extra layer of security in case of impacts.
Moreover, one of the biggest advantages of the convertible car seat is that it can quickly and easily be converted from a rear-facing seat to a front-facing seat. This means that you will not have to purchase a new seat again, which makes it value for money.
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About Joshua Thomas
Joshua Thomas just simply loves cars and willing to work on them whenever there's chance... sometimes for free.
He started CarCareTotal back in 2017 from the advices of total strangers who witnessed his amazing skills in car repairs here and there.
His goal with this creation is to help car owners better learn how to maintain and repair their cars; as such, the site would cover alot of areas: troubleshooting, product recommendations, tips & tricks.
Joshua received Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at San Diego State University.
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