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Best Infant Car Seats 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: April 11th, 2024

👶Choosing the best infant car seat can feel like navigating a maze with so many brands and models on the market. We get how crucial it is for parents to find a car seat that ensures their baby's safety and comfort while being practical and easy to use.

To simplify your decision, we’ve curated a list of the top infant car seats for 2024, based on expert reviews, safety testing, and parent feedback. Whether you prioritize overall performance, budget, or specific features like stroller compatibility, we've got you covered with our comprehensive guide.

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Overall Best: Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX

Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat, Maison

The Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX stands out as our top pick for 2024. This car seat excels in ease of installation, thanks to its intuitive LATCH system and clear instructions, making it a favorite among parents and safety experts alike. One of its standout features is the anti-rebound bar, which provides extra stability in the event of a collision. Priced at around $184, it offers a great balance of affordability and premium safety features. Our research reveals that this seat not only performs exceptionally well in crash tests but is also easier to manage than many higher-priced alternatives. If you’re looking for a car seat that combines convenience, safety, and value, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX is an excellent choice.

Lowest at Amazon

$183.99 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$54.98 at ecrater-USA

More Answers

Still curious about the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX provide good head support for newborns?

If you're thinking about getting the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX for your newborn, it's understandable that head support would be a top concern. From what we've gathered, this car seat is often praised for how it supports babies' heads. The manufacturer highlights that the seat is designed with a special headrest to keep newborns secure and comfy. The SnugLock technology they mention aims for easy, secure installation, and the headrest is adjustable. This means you can tweak it as your little one grows, making sure that it still fits just right and provides the support needed. Based on our research, many parents have indeed felt their babies are well-supported in this car seat, especially in the head area. However, like with most car seats, some adjustments might be necessary as your child gets bigger. On a side note, the seat works with the [Graco ClickConnect system](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGraco%2BClickConnect%2Bsystem%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), letting you seamlessly switch from the car seat to a [Graco stroller](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGraco%2Bstroller%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). This seems to be a handy feature for a lot of parents, though if you're using a stroller from another brand, it might be good to check compatibility just in case. So, if you're mainly focused on head support, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX seems well-equipped for that. Just remember installing it correctly and using it as directed will make a big difference in how it performs. Overall, this car seat tends to get solid feedback for safety and comfort, making it a strong option to consider for your newborn.

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How heavy is the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat?

The Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat itself weighs about 10 pounds, which is pretty manageable for most parents. It's designed for babies between 4 and 35 pounds, and up to 32 inches tall. But keep in mind, the time your child can use this seat depends on how quickly they grow. Our research shows some parents found their kids outgrew the seat in comfort sooner than expected, especially if their little ones are on the larger side. As for installation, many folks find it pretty straightforward due to the SnugLock system. You can use either the LATCH system or a seatbelt, and our data indicates a lot of people appreciate this flexibility. One thing to watch out for is that newborns might feel a bit snug in it. Some parents mentioned adding extra head support for comfort, especially when using it for very small infants. As your baby grows, you might consider planning for a convertible car seat sooner if your child is growing quickly. This helps ensure they stay safe and comfortable as they start to exceed the infant car seat's size limits. So, it's a good idea to think about your child's growth rate when deciding on this seat.

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How easy is it to install the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat?

If you're wondering how easy it is to install the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX Infant Car Seat, it seems like they've got you covered. The manufacturer mentions it comes with SnugLock technology, letting you secure the seat in your car quickly using either a seatbelt or the LATCH system. Supposedly, you can have it all set up in under a minute, which is pretty handy when you're in the whirlwind of parenthood. There's also this InRight LATCH system that our research points out; it makes a click sound that confirms the seat is locked in place, which is comforting to know. Plus, it has a front-adjust No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System, which is great for adjusting as your little one grows. According to our findings, many parents really appreciate how easy it is to install and remove this model. It's also lightweight, making it easier for those who move it between cars or need to carry it around. If you have a [Graco stroller](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dgraco%2Bstroller%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), it integrates nicely for a full travel system too. A small heads-up, though: Some parents have commented that the head support for newborns could use a little extra padding. So, if you're expecting a smaller baby, you might want to keep that in mind. Despite this minor point, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX is solid on safety and user-friendliness. The Anti-Rebound Bar is a nice touch for extra safety, limiting seat movement during impact. All in all, it seems like a strong choice if you're looking for a safety-conscious, easy-to-use car seat.

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Runner-up: Chicco KeyFit 30

As our runner-up, the Chicco KeyFit 30 offers exceptional ease of use and reliability. Its easy installation process, backed by the ReclineSure leveling foot and RideRight bubble levels, ensures a secure fit in any car. With a maximum weight limit of 30 pounds, this seat is suitable for growing infants and accommodates newborns and smaller babies comfortably. Parents appreciate its versatility and robust safety features. Although it's slightly heavier than some of its competitors, the Chicco KeyFit 30’s reputation for safety and convenience makes it a top contender in the infant car seat market.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$159.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat, Studio

For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX is our top recommendation. This model strikes a perfect balance between cost and safety, offering impressive crash test results and a lightweight carrier that's easy to handle. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in more expensive models, its affordability does not compromise on essential safety aspects. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious parents wanting a reliable car seat without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$95.99 at Amazon

Best for Quality & Comfort: UPPAbaby Mesa Max

UPPAbaby Mesa Max Infant Car Seat/Base with Load Leg and Robust Infant Insert Included/Innovative Safety Features + Simple Installation/Direct Stroller Attachment/Greyson (Charcoal Mélange)

When it comes to quality and comfort, the UPPAbaby Mesa Max is hard to beat. This car seat boasts superior materials, including skin-friendly fabric and extra padding, ensuring that your baby rides in ultimate comfort. The adjustable headrest and advanced side-impact protection enhance its appeal, making it perfect for longer trips and frequent use. Although it comes with a higher price tag, its premium features justify the investment for parents who prioritize quality and comfort for their little ones.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$429.99 at Amazon

Best for Stroller Compatibility: Chicco KeyFit 35

Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat and Base, Rear-Facing Seat for Infants 4-35 lbs, Includes Infant Head and Body Support, Compatible with Chicco Strollers, Baby Travel Gear | Onyx/Black

Ideal for parents who need a car seat that easily clicks into a variety of strollers, the Chicco KeyFit 35 is a standout for stroller compatibility. It supports infants up to 35 pounds, features a simple installation process, and has received positive reviews for its better-than-average crash test results. Its seamless integration with numerous strollers makes it a versatile favorite for on-the-go families who need a reliable and convenient car seat solution.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$206.99 at Amazon

Best for Installation without the Base: Doona

DOONA Car Seat & Stroller, Nitro Black - All-in-One Travel System

For urban parents or those who frequently use taxis and rideshare services, the Doona car seat is an excellent choice. This innovative model combines a car seat and stroller in one, offering unbeatable convenience and portability. It’s designed for easy installation without a base, making it perfect for quick transitions between car and stroller mode. Though it’s on the heavier side, its unique design and functionality make it a top pick for parents with a mobile lifestyle.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$550.00 at Amazon

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