7 Best High Back Booster Seats of 2023: Reviews, Buying Guide and FAQs

by Joshua Thomas

If your child travels frequently, then you need the best protection you can get. The high back booster seat is a special type of seed that does exactly that.

Not only does it protect your child's neck and body during travel, but it is also extremely comfortable.

Best, installation is safe and secure. Most high back booster seats have a very durable build construction so they will last a long time even if used every day.

If you are fresh on the market for such a seat, then our high back booster seat review below will guide you in the right direction.

Summary of 7 Best High Back Booster Seats

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
Evenflo Big Kid 31911718

1. Evenflo Big Kid 31911718 (Best Overall)

  • Affordable and excellent value
  • Adjustments can easily be made
  • Practical belt buckle guides
  • Equipped with 2 armrests and cupholders
Graco Affix 1893803

2. Graco Affix 1893803

  • Durable and long-lasting build construction
  • Thick and energy-absorbing padding
  • The headrest can easily be adjusted
  • The side is protected against impacts
Britax Frontier E9LY76L

3. Britax Frontier E9LY76L

  • Superior impact protection
  • 9 flexible adjustment settings
  • Dual buckle system for safety
Graco 1963975

4. Graco 1963975

  • Affordable and great value
  • Comfortable padding that is also thick
  • Equipped with many accessories
Chicco KidFit

5. Chicco KidFit

  • Modern and aesthetically pleasing
  • Easy to install by beginners
  • Comfortable and easy to adjust
Graco TurboBooster 1965983

6. Graco TurboBooster 1965983

  • Easy to install
  • Competitively priced
  • Flexible storage compartments
Evenflo Maestro 31011703

7. Evenflo Maestro 31011703

  • Superior build construction. Durable and long-lasting
  • Padding is thick and comfortable
  • 5 points harness system
Clek Oobr OB11U1-BK2B

8. Clek Oobr OB11U1-BK2B

  • Comfortable seat for long travels
  • Equipped with an easy to use recliner system
  • Superior latch system for better safety
Diono Cambria 31010

9. Diono Cambria 31010

  • Extra reinforcements and protection to the side
  • Cost-effective pricing
  • 6 headrest adjustments for flexibility
KidsEmbrace 4601SPD

10. KidsEmbrace 4601SPD

  • Quality superhero printing on the seat
  • Very affordable pricing. Great value
  • Can easily be changed from backless to high back

Top 7 Best High Back Booster Seats

Top High Back Booster Seats of 2023 by Editors' Picks
Top High Back Booster Seats of 2023 by Editors' Picks

1. Evenflo Big Kid 31911718 - Best Overall

Evenflo Big Kid 31911718
Evenflo Big Kid 31911718
  • Weight Capacity: 30 - 110 lbs

The problem with most high back booster seats is that they tend to be expensive and outside the budget of many people. This is not an issue with the Evenflo Big Kid 31911718. It is one of the best high back booster seats that you can get based on price alone.

The entire seat is covered with energy-absorbing foam that not only provides comfort but also protects the user during an impact. The headrest is also plush and comfy. Since this is a 2-in-1 seat, you can quickly change it from a high back booster design to a backless seat.

But best, we like the fact that you can easily adjust the height of the back seat based on the height of your child. This makes it quite versatile. When it comes to seatbelt safety, no problem. This seat has belt guides so you can easily buckle your child.

Furthermore, it contains 2 handy elastic cup holders to the sides. If a liquid spill on the seat covers, they can easily be removed and are machine washable. There are also 2 hand rests to the sides for maximum comfort.

The only issues we take with it is that the build quality is not the best we have seen. For the price, it is understandable. Also, the bottom lumbar padding is not very thick and could have been better.

Notes: This seat is only intended for children that are at least 40 inches in height. If not, it will be uncomfortable and cannot be used.

Pros

  • Affordable and value for money
  • Very easy to adjust
  • Belt buckle guides
  • 2 elastic cup holders and armrest

Cons

  • Padding on the lower back is thin
  • Not the most durable

2. Highback Booster Seat with Latch System

Graco Affix 1893803
Graco Affix 1893803
  • Weight Capacity: 30 - 100 lbs
  • Material: Plastic

The Graco Affix 1893803 a popular high back booster seat with a rich feature-set. Above all, this model has an exceptional build construction that makes it very durable and long-lasting. If you're looking for a high back booster seat that will last a long time, this is the model to get!

Moreover, what demarks this top-rated high back booster seat from the rest is its thick padding and side protection. The padding would make it very comfortable, and the side protection will protect the user against an impact.

Also, this high back booster seat is adaptive because it provides multiple levels of adjustments. You can easily adjust the headrest to multiple positions to make it more comfortable to sit on.

You can easily convert this seat from a backless booster to a high back booster in a matter of seconds. It is quite versatile. It also has belt guides to the side that will allow you to quickly and easily fasten the seatbelt in an efficient and safe manner.

However, nothing is perfect. The position of the belt guides makes it that the seatbelts can easily get tangled and are somewhat hard to pull.

Also, the headrest adjustment system is quite flimsy, and sometimes it does not lock in position. You will have to double-check every time you make an adjustment to the headrest.

Pros

  • Excellent built construction. Durable and long-lasting
  • Thick and protective energy-absorbing foam
  • The headrest can easily be adjusted
  • Side protection against impacts

Cons

  • Headrest adjustment system sometimes does not lock
  • The seatbelt easily gets tangled

3. Britax Frontier ClickTight Harness

Britax Frontier E9LY76L
Britax Frontier E9LY76L
  • Weight Capacity: 25 - 120 lbs

The point of every high back booster seat is to provide comfort to your child as well as protection. The Britax Frontier E9LY76L is literally a champion when it comes to the latter. Indeed, this model is built in such a way that it will provide absolute protection against impacts and shocks.

It also has a very versatile weight capacity range of 25 lbs to 120 lbs. Your child regardless of his or her weight, will always remain safe.

Not only does this model has one of the best-built construction we have seen, but it is also very comfortable as well. There are 2 safety buckles inbuilt on the seat, and they are very easy to snap. Even your child can do it as it is extremely easy to use.

Moreover, this model is extremely flexible when it comes to adjustments because it offers you no less than 9 adjustment settings. You can adjust the headrest as well as change the seat from a high back to a backless booster seat.

Of course, you get all the other practical accessories like cupholders and storage compartments with this high back booster seat. The Britax Frontier E9LY76L is easily one of the safest high back booster seats on the market.

The only problem we have with this model is its steep price. Other than that, it is simply perfect!

Pros

  • Offers superior protection against impacts
  • Dual buckle system build right in the seat
  • 9 flexible adjustment settings
  • Versatile weight capacity of 25 - 120 lbs

Cons

  • Costly

4. Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat

Graco 1963975
Graco 1963975
  • Weight Capacity: 30 - 100 lbs
  • Material: Plastic

Not everyone can afford a high back booster seat that cost hundreds of dollars. And this is where models like the Graco 1963975 proved to be a lifesaver. Indeed, this model is very affordable and yet remains a quality high back booster seat.

For one, the padding is quite thick, which makes it very comfortable. Any child from the age of 4 years old to 10 years old weighing between 30 lbs to 100 lbs can use this high back booster seat.

Moreover, the headrest is adjustable, and you can quickly and easily convert into a backless booster if you want. The buckle system is easy to use, and even your child can self-buckle it. You get comfortable armrests, and integrated cupholder as well as a storage compartment with this seat.

The built construction is not the best we have seen, but for the price of this is fully understandable. All in all, this model is one of the best high back booster seats when it comes to price. If you are on a low budget, this model right now!

Notes: The tallest height that this high back booster seat can accommodate is 57 inches

Pros

  • Affordable and great value
  • Thick padding for comfort
  • Contains cupholders, armrests, and storage compartments

Cons

  • Not the best build construction quality

5. Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Car Seat

Chicco KidFit
Chicco KidFit
  • Weight Capacity: 30 - 110 lbs

The Chicco KidFit is a popular high back booster seat that is built around ease-of-use. This model is very easy to install. You can mount or unmount it from your vehicle's seat in a matter of seconds. Also, this seat is very aesthetically pleasing and looks modern.

At the bottom center of the seat, you will find a SuperCinch latch so that you can securely install it on your seat.

And when it comes to adjustments, you get 2 main positions. A high back mode and a backless mode depending on your need. It is padded with a thick foam, which makes it quite comfortable to sit on.

As almost all top-rated high back booster seats in this review, this unit comes with many accessories like to cupholders and ability to make advanced adjustments.

The only major problem with this model is the buckle system is not the easiest for a child to buckle themselves. Additionally, it may not be universally compatible with every vehicle. The seatbelt anchors may be too short or too long, depending on your vehicle.

Pros

  • Easy to install by beginners
  • Modern and aesthetically pleasing
  • It is comfortable to sit on and can be easily adjusted

Cons

  • Not universally compatible with every vehicle seat
  • Hard for a child to buckle themselves

6. Graco TurboBooster LX Highback Booster Seat

Graco TurboBooster 1965983
Graco TurboBooster 1965983
  • Weight Capacity: 30 - 100 lbs
  • Material: Plastic

In terms of looks, the Graco TurboBooster 1965983 is pretty average. However, where this model really shines is in the price department. Indeed, it is one of the most affordable models that you will find in this review and an ideal solution for those with a small budget.

Despite being more affordable, it still offers plenty of features like storage compartments to the side as well as comfortable padded hand rest. The overall padding over the seat is quite good and comfortable as well.

You will have no problem passing the seatbelt in this high back booster seat because it has seatbelt guides at the top. The only problem with it is that it has a limited number of guides.

The installation itself is quite straightforward. You can fully mount this seat in your vehicle very quickly, even if you have never installed a high back booster seat before.

Bottom line is this. If you are on a budget and still need a relatively good quality seat that is easy to install, then this model by Graco is highly recommended.

Pros

  • Very cost-effective pricing
  • Installation is easy by beginners
  • Comfortable hand rest and flexible storage compartments

Cons

  • Number of seatbelt guides are limited

7. Evenflo Maestro 31011703

Evenflo Maestro 31011703
Evenflo Maestro 31011703
  • Weight Capacity: 22 - 110 lbs

Some people demand the best of the best, regardless of price. This is where models like the Evenflo Maestro 31011703 come into play.

Despite being the most expensive model that you will find in this review, it is also one of the best that you can purchase. The build construction is simply superb, and it is built to last a long time. This model is also extremely comfortable because it has thick padding.

You will be able to quickly and easily change this booster seat from a high back to a backless design in a matter of seconds. Furthermore, there are 5 harness points where you can easily attach your child. The manufacturer made it this way to provide extended use when your child grows in height.

This model can protect children anywhere from 22 lbs to 110 lbs, which is a versatile and flexible range. Moreover, the latch system at the back of the seat makes it easy to install and even easier to remove when transferring to another vehicle.

At the end of the day, this model remains one of the best high back booster seats with harness despite its high price.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting design
  • Thick and comfortable padding
  • Very easy to install
  • 5 points harness for more long-term flexibility

Cons

  • Most expensive seat in this review

How to Buy the Best High Back Booster Seat

How To Buy The Best High Back Booster Seat
How To Buy The Best High Back Booster Seat

1. Weight Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a high back booster seat is weight capacity. It is essentially how much weight the seat can carry and still comply with the safety standards set by the manufacturer.

Most top-rated high back booster seats will have a weight capacity range of at least from 30 lbs to 100 lbs. Additionally, keep in mind that the weight capacity of a high back booster varies depending on the age and height of the child.

There will basically be 2 weight capacities ranges to consider. Remember that the high back booster seat can be rearranged to be used in a high back mode and backless booster mode. Each has different weight capacities.

2. Solid Frame

Most high back booster seats have a solid metal frame that gives it its shape and durability during an impact.

This solid metal frame is then coated with a thick layer of plastic, which in turn has a soft foam on top for comfort.

So, if you want to get a high back booster seat that can resist any type of impact, then you must also consider the frame inside.

Moreover, a model that comes with a metal frame will also result in a seat that is more durable and last longer.

3. Adjustable Back and Headrest

By having the possibility to adjust the back and headrest of the high back booster, you make it more flexible and comfortable to your child.

Additionally, a model that comes with an adjustable headdress will be safer because it allows you to make specific adjustments based on the height of your child.

Not all models have an adjustable back and headrest, so we recommend firsthand that you check if your model of choice has this functionality. It should be easy to adjust, and you don't need special tools to do so.

4. Side Protection

In case of an impact to the side of the vehicle, it is important that your high back booster seat is protected. Ensure that the model has reinforcement to the side of the seat for additional protection.

It could be anything from a metal frame protecting the interior of the sides or soft padding and foam reinforcements added by the manufacturer.

5. Accessible Harness Adjuster

Most high back booster seats can be installed in 2 modes. A backless booster seat mode and a high back seat mode.

Whenever you change between those 2 modes, you do so by snapping or releasing a harness on the high back booster seat.

So, if you frequently change the mode of your booster seat, then you must make sure that your chosen model has an accessible and easy to use harness adjuster.

6. Seat Belt Guides

The seatbelt remains the best safety accessory to use for your child in a car. Therefore, you must ensure that the seatbelt is easily accessible despite having a high back booster seat installed.

Check if the manufacturer makes any provision for passing the seatbelt through seatbelt guides. The high back booster seat must never get in the way or make it difficult for you to harness your child with the seatbelt.

7. Easy to Install

Check if the manufacturer makes any mention on how easy their high back booster seat is to install. You should be able to securely install or remove the seat in a matter of minutes, if not seconds.

More importantly, the seat much comes with an instructions manual that will show you exactly how to do it. This is important, especially if you have never installed a high back booster seat in your vehicle before.

Read More: 10 Best Convertible Car Seats

Buy on Walmart

Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Car Seat - Gravity, Grey , 16.5x18.75x32.75 - Walmart Link

Britax Skyline 2-Stage Belt-Positioning Booster Car Seat, Dusk - Highback and Backless - Walmart Link

Diono Cambria 2 Latch, 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Seat with XL Space and Room to - Walmart Link

Graco TurboBooster Grow High Back Booster Seat, Featuring RightGuide Seat Belt Trainer, - Walmart Link

Evenflo Big Kid AMP High Back Booster Car Seat, Static Black - Walmart Link

Graco TurboBooster LX Highback Booster Seat with Latch System, Seaton - Walmart Link

Clek Oobr High Back Booster Car Seat with Rigid Latch, Carbon (OB11U2-JBB) - Walmart Link

Peg Perego Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120, Licorice - Walmart Link

UPPAbaby ALTA Booster Seat, Jake (Black Melange) - Walmart Link

KidsEmbrace High-Back Booster Car Seat, Marvel Spider-Man - Walmart Link

mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat, - Adjustable Narrow, Foldable Booster - Walmart Link

Safety 1st Grand Booster Car Seat, Black Sparrow - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Car Seat - Gravity, Grey , 16.5x18.75x32.75 - eBay Link

Britax Skyline 2-Stage Belt-Positioning Booster Car Seat, Dusk - Highback and Backless - eBay Link

Diono Cambria 2 Latch, 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Seat with XL Space and Room to - eBay Link

Graco TurboBooster Grow High Back Booster Seat, Featuring RightGuide Seat Belt Trainer, - eBay Link

Evenflo Big Kid AMP High Back Booster Car Seat, Static Black - eBay Link

Graco TurboBooster LX Highback Booster Seat with Latch System, Seaton - eBay Link

Clek Oobr High Back Booster Car Seat with Rigid Latch, Carbon (OB11U2-JBB) - eBay Link

Peg Perego Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120, Licorice - eBay Link

UPPAbaby ALTA Booster Seat, Jake (Black Melange) - eBay Link

KidsEmbrace High-Back Booster Car Seat, Marvel Spider-Man - eBay Link

mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat, - Adjustable Narrow, Foldable Booster - eBay Link

Safety 1st Grand Booster Car Seat, Black Sparrow - eBay Link

Conclusion for High Back Booster Seat Buyers

As we have seen, the high back booster seat is not only comfortable for your child, but it also makes traveling in any type of vehicle safer.

This type of seat is usually made from heavy-duty and durable material. It will not only last a long time but can also be easily cleaned. In addition to that, most models have extra features like cupholders and cushions for comfort.

If you normally travel long distances with your child on board, then you absolutely must get a model from our high back booster seat review above!

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.

Leave a Reply