Updated 20 August 2018 by Sam
After years and hundreds of hours of testing & reviewing, we have strong opinions about what makes the best convertible car seat: simply-safe adjust harness system, removable head/body pillow, installation features.
The Graco 4Ever All-in-One (On special until end August 2018) has all those features and beats it’s competition hands down. The all-in-one car seat is reliable and comfortable. It is also easy to install, reclines with much ease and is secure. In addition to all that, it is stylish and is side impact tested for occupant retention with the inbuilt 5-point harness. The incredible infant convertible car seat has the InRight latch system for an easy, one-second attachment thus providing you with a simple installation time.
Have a look at ALL of our in-depth & unbiased Buy Guides.
Current Top Rated Convertible Car Seats
Well-rounded, great value
✔ Available at an affordable price
✔ The canopy is large enough to cover the entire seating area
Our top pick
Well priced, convertible car seat
✔ It is easy to set up
✔ Maximum storage space
* On special until end August 2018
Reliable, effective, easy-to-use
✔ It is easy to manoeuvre
✔ It is easy to fold and stow
Having to decide on one product can be a bit overwhelming especially if you have a variety of great options. Choosing a convertible car seat for your child is no different. There are varieties of all-in-one car seats, from the sophisticated to simple ones, lightweight to bulky and modernized with technology seats.
We have compiled a list of the best convertible car seats. So, you can get yourself some coffee, relax and read this review and get to discover which convertible car seat is best. You will get to choose the one that perfectly suits you and your baby.
Best Convertible Car Seats Review Table
| Product Name | Features | Price | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Price |  | Graco 4Ever All-in-One | 9/10 | High | ||
| Check Price |  | Diono Radian R120 All-in-One | 9/10 | High | ||
| Check Price |  | Britax Marathon G4.1 | 9/10 | High | ||
| Check Price |  | Diono Radian R100 All-in-One | 9/10 | High | ||
| Check Price |  | Graco Extend2Fit | 9/10 | High | ||
| Check Price |  | Graco Milestone All-in-One | 9/10 | Low | ||
| Check Price |  | Evenflo Symphony Elite All-in-One | 8/10 | High | ||
| Check Price |  | Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 | 4/10 | Low | ||
| Check Price |  | Graco Contender 65 | 4/10 | Low | ||
Features: 9/10 Price: High |
#2: Diono Radian R120 All-in-One Features: 9/10 Price: High |
Features: 9/10 Price: High |
#4: Diono Radian R100 All-in-One Features: 9/10 Price: High |
Features: 9/10 Price: High |
#6: Graco Milestone All-in-One Features: 9/10 Price: Low |
#7: Evenflo Symphony Elite All-in-One Features: 8/10 Price: High |
#8: Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 Features: 4/10 Price: Low |
Features: 4/10 Price: Low |
What Are They?
What You MUST Know About These Seats?
There is no perfect product, and everyone has his/her definition of perfect. Every product has a con and a pro. So with that in mind, we have come up with a guide, top ten best convertible car seats. Our guidelines and reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can be sure to trust. Use our guide to discover which features are the most important for you to consider. We do also provide unbiased ratings to help you choose the best for your needs.
As its name suggests, it is a baby carrier that can convert into different set-ups. It can transition from rear-facing to forward-facing. Some convertible car seats are ‘3-in-1’.
It means they can switch from rear-facing to forward-facing with the 5-point harness and finally to the booster car seat. So it is one child car seat that can serve you from when you get out of the hospital till when your baby joins pre-school.
How Do They Work?
Convertible car seats convert from rear-facing to forward facing. They carry children from birth to between 40 and 80 Pounds and 40 to 57 inches tall. There are also 3-in-1 convertibles which go on to feature booster car seats.
These types of car seats go up to 120 pounds. They are usually installed rather than clicked, and most of them tend to be heavier than regular car seats, but they do help you save cash.
They also feature the side-impact protection system which helps in securing your little one in the case of a collision. They give you premium service till the end.
Why You Should Trust Us
As we mentioned, convertible car seats are fantastic. Who wouldn’t want a baby seat that can serve them till your little angel goes to pre-school? Plus they offer you the best baby seat service.
Therefore, we provide you with the best guide on the best convertible car seats on the market. Our guides are honest and sincere so you can wholeheartedly trust in them.
So, when writing this guide, we put into account the many features to look out for when comparing convertible car seats.
Safety of Convertible Car Seats
First of all, we examined the safety features which allow you to be certain that your little angel can be protected from harm as you travel. Features such as the Simply-Safe Adjust Harness System come in handy when it comes to protecting your kid.
Comfort
Secondly, we looked into the comfort features like the removable head/body pillow supports and plush inserts.
Installation
Last but not least we considered the installation features. Installing and using these seats should be easy. So, we looked into features such as the InRight latch system and recline positions.
Other Considerations
Other things considered are the convenience features like the integrated cup holders, the price and brand of the seat and how easy it is to fold the stroller for transportation and storage.
If you are looking for top-rated convertible car seats with great features, then you will want to check out our best convertible car seats guide.
You can also view our guide on How to Choose Convertible Car Seats.
The Best 10 Convertible Car Seats in 2018 Reviewed
#01. Graco 4-Ever All-in-One
The incredible infant convertible car seat has the InRight latch system for an easy, one-second attachment thus providing you with a simple installation time.
It also has the Simply-Safe Adjust Harness which has the one-hand, no re-thread harness that automatically adjusts the headrests height and harness. It gives your child the best protection services and keeps him snug.
We Like
The all-in-one car seat is reliable and comfortable. It is also easy to install, reclines with much ease and is secure. In addition to all that, it is stylish and is side impact tested for occupant retention with the inbuilt 5-point harness.
We Don’t Like
It is a fantastic seat, but it does have some problems. It is heavy; the straps are quite loose, and it has minimal breathability capacity.
Despite these issues, however, the seat reclines with ease and is reliable.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
During the time of writing this review, there were a total of 1210 customer reviews and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Conclusion
It is perfect for your growing family and ensures your kids are always snug and safe. It is an incredible place, one that you should be sure to purchase.
View the Graco 4-Ever All-in-One Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Reliable
Versatile
Reclines well
InRight latch system
Convenient
Sturdy
CONS
Bulky
Loose straps
Minimal breathability capacity
#02. Diono Radian R120 All-in-One
It has the full steel frame that gives you that durability touch, thus making it one of the safest equivalent positions in the baby seat market.
It also boasts of the tethering capability that helps reduce seat rotation in the event of an accident. It also has the body/head support for added comfort.
We Like
We like that it is of excellent quality. It is also snug, secure and easy to install.
We Don’t Like
It is bulky, and the arm rests don’t stay in the open position. However, it is durable, compact and sturdy.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
During the time of writing, there were 125 customer reviews and a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating.
Conclusion
Sometimes choosing a convertible seat for your child can be confusing. With this seat, you don’t have to worry anymore.
View the Diono Radian R120 All-in-One Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Versatile
Secure and sturdy
Easy to install
Durable with the steel frame
Convenient
High quality
Compact
Cosy
CONS
Armrests don’t stay in an open position
Cumbersome
#03. Britax Marathon G4.1
The seat has the quick-adjust, two-buckle positions and ten-position harness that allow you to easily move the harness upwards and push the buckle outwards for a comfy, secure fit as your toddler grows.
Product Specs
- SafeCell Impact Protection is a safety system including a steel frame, energy-absorbing base and patented V-shaped tether.
- Side Protection, formed by a deep energy-absorbing shell, shields your child from the most severe type of collision
- 3 Recline Positions for your child’s comfort and safety.
- Quick-Adjust 10-Position Harness and 2-Position Buckle allow you to move the harness upward and buckle outward for a comfy, secure fit as your baby grows
- Easy-on/off Lower Anchors lock into place with a click and are easily released with the push of a button.
We Like
We like that it is straightforward, cute, and durable and has the impressive side impact protection system.
We Don’t Like
The canopy is terrible, and the crotch buckle is impossible to access. However, it is durable and cozy.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
During the time of writing this review, there was a total of 423 customer reviews and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Conclusion
It adheres to the equivalent combination of safety, comfort, and ease of assembly. It is the ultimate safety hero for your child.
View the Britax Marathon G4.1 Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Straightforward
Cozy with the soft pads
Durable and cute print
Side impact protection
Easy to install
CONS
The sun visor is flimsy
Crotch buckle is hard to access
#04. Diono Radian R100 All-in-One
The top-rated convertible car seat enables you to have a worry-free time. It has the expandable sides and longer seat bottom that offers better leg support. It helps keep your child as cozy as she should be.
It also assists in maintaining a custom fit throughout your baby’s physical development. In addition to this unusual feature, it has the rear-facing tether capability that reduces seat rotation during an impact.
We Like
The baby seat is flexible, safe, and comfortable and has the 5-point harness. It also has great buckles, anchor clips and is a solid fit for you and your loved ones.
We Don’t Like
The seat is cumbersome and quite hard to install. In spite of these issues though, it is cozy and fantastic buckles that help you adjust the straps quickly.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there were 674 customer reviews and a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating.
Conclusion
The Diono Radian R100 All-in-One Convertible Car Seat has great features, and it will give you the best services for you and your child.
View the Diono Radian R100 All-in-One Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Buckles are fantastic
Awesome anchor clips
Cozy
Safe
5-point harness
Solid fit
CONS
Bulky
Impossible to install
#05.Graco Extend2Fit
Have you been up and down searching for that perfect seat for your little monster? Well, look no further. This seat gives you what you need on a silver platter. It has the fuss free harness storage that holds the buckles out of the way, making it easy for your kid to get in and out of the seat.
It also has the three-position extension panel that adjusts to provide 5-inch additional leg room, thus allowing your baby to securely and cozily ride the rear-facing longer.
We Like
The all-in-one car seat is budget-friendly and compact. It also has the double head pads that are awesome. You will get the best service out of this fantastic position.
We Don’t Like
The seat’s recliner isn’t smooth, and it is quite tricky to get by how to tighten the straps.
Despite these issues, however, it is affordable, compact and versatile.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there were 810 customer reviews and a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating.
Conclusion
The Gotham-seat design is beautiful and saves you money. You can’t go wrong with this seat. Purchase it and enjoy its benefits.
View the Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat comprehensive review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Budget-friendly
Compact
Head pads are incredible
Versatile
Easy to install
Quick to assemble
CONS
Recliner isn’t smooth
Unreliable straps
#06. Graco Milestone All-in-One
It has a washable seat cover that is accessible without removing the harness. The plush inserts keep your infant comfortable in the rear-facing mode. The steel-reinforced frame provides you with strength and durability for years of smart utility.
Product Specs
- 3-in-1 convertible car seat transforms from a rear-facing infant car seat from 5 – 40 pounds, to a forward-facing car seat from 20 – 65 pounds, to a belt-positioning booster 30 – 100 pounds
- Simply Safe Adjust Harness System adjusts the height of your harness and headrest, in one motion, to ensure that your child is always properly secured.
- 4-position recline helps keep your growing child comfy, in rear- and forward-facing modes
- Graco’s exclusive InRight LATCH attachment provides an easy, one-second attachment with an audio click cue to help ensure secure installation.In addition to meeting or exceeding all applicable US safety standards, the Milestone car seat has been side impact tested for occupant retention solely with the built-in 5-point harness system
- Height: head must be at least 1″ below handle
We Like
It is lightweight, washable and classy. It has an extra storage space that is awesome.
We Don’t Like
It has an unsafe harness latch and the loose straps. However, the seat is cozy and lightweight.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there were 219 customer reviews and a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Conclusion
For a worry-free time and comfort of your baby, try out this seat and enjoy its numerous benefits.
View the Graco Milestone All-in-One Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Great cup holders
Straightforward
Lightweight
Extra storage compartment
Headrests are fantastic
Washable
CONS
Loose straps
Unsafe harness latch
#07. Evenflo Symphony Elite All-in-One
It has the buckle pockets that help in protecting your little one against hot buckle burns with the patented anchor system known as Sure LATCH that automatically tightens to secure the car seat correctly.
It also has the Evenflo Proprietary E3 Side Impact Protection that significantly reduces side impact crash forces through the expanded zone of protection.
Product Specs
- This All-In-One Convertible Car Seat fitting children from 5-110 lbs. is the only car seat you’ll ever need providing rear-facing, forward facing and booster capabilities
- The Symphony Elite helps protect rear facing infants from 5-40 lbs., forward facing toddlers from 22-65 lbs. and high back booster mode supports children 40-110 lbs.
- Easy to install in vehicles in only 60 seconds using Evenflo’s exclusive, auto-retracting Sure LATCH connectors with no pulling necessary
- The 5-point Infinite Slide harness easily slides to adjust for an accurate fit every time which means easy in and out for your child.Evenflo’s proprietary e3 Side Impact Protection significantly reduces side impact crash forces up to 50% through 3 layers of expanded zone protection
- Dimensions(inches): 19.5 High x 21.5 Wide x 28 Long
- Sure latch connectors just click, click, push for super-fast, super-snug installation in less than 60 seconds
- E3 side impact protection significantly reduces side impact crash forces up to 50% through an expanded zone of protection and 3 layers of superior protection
- An all in one car seat fitting children from 5 to 110pounds the only car seat you will ever need
- Infinite slide harness easily slides for an accurate fit every time no reworking the harness as child grows
- Up-front multi-position recline for child’s comfort while asleep or awake
We Like
It is budget friendly, comfortable and straightforward to buckle and configure. It has deep cup holders too.
We Don’t Like
It is cumbersome, and the rear-side doesn’t recline far enough. However, it is easy to install and use.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
During the time of writing this review, there was a total of 924 customer reviews and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Conclusion
The impressive child-carrier embodies the Evenflo passion for providing you and your loved one with a secure and cozy travel system.
View the Evenflo Symphony Elite All-in-One Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Ease to use
Comfortable
Budget-friendly
Easy to buckle and adjust
Integrated cup holders
Stylish
Fresh and sturdy
CONS
Heavy
Rear-side doesn’t recline well
#08. Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1
It is the ultimate champion for security. It has the quick-fit harness that offers additional convenience in both stages by letting you adjust the height of both the headrest and harness in one easy step.
It also boasts of the side-impact protection that helps keep your baby safe and sound.
Product Specs
- BUILT TO GROW: The 3-in-1 car seat built to GROW for extended use through 3 stages: Rear-facing 5-40 pounds, Forward-facing 22-65 pounds, and Belt-positioning booster 40-100 pounds
- SIDE IMPACT PROTECTION: The Grow and Go’s side impact protection helps keep your child safe
- EASY IN, EASY OUT: Harness holders keep the harness in an open position so it’s easy to get your child in and out of the seat
- QUICKFIT HARNESS: With the QuickFit Harness you can easily adjust both the harness and headrest in one simple step
- WASH AND DRY: Machine washable and dryer safe seat pad features snaps that make it simple to take off of the seat; no fuss for truly easy cleaning
We Like
It is comfortable, secure and sturdy. It has the safe-impact protection system and impressive headrests.
We Don’t Like
No product is 100% perfect, and this seat is no exception. It doesn’t tighten well enough and difficult to use. However, the position is secure, comfortable and has adjustable headrests.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there were 877 customer reviews and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Conclusion
The Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is an exceptional, quality luxury item that has a lot to offer regarding innovative safety features. You should get it to have the best times.
View the Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Adjustable headrests
Comfortable
Sturdy with the safe impact protection system
CONS
Doesn’t tighten well enough
Arduous to use
#09. Graco Contender 65
The infant convertible car seat is side-impact tested in addition to meeting all the Federal Safety Standards, for occupant retention solely with the inbuilt 5-point harness system.
It also has the one-hand, eight-position, adjustable headrest that easily adapts to your growing toddler’s needs thus assisting in keeping him safe as you go on your trips and travels.
We Like
The seat is affordable, cozy, secure, washable and convenient. It has the incredible cup holders that help keep your drinks at bay thus allowing you to quench your thirst whenever you need to do so.
We Don’t Like
The infant convertible car seat is cumbersome, and the straps don’t tighten well enough. Despite these issues, however, it is easy to clean, safe and has these first-class cup holders.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there were 1005 customer reviews and a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating.
Conclusion
It supports your child by keeping him cozy on all your travel expeditions. It’s time you enjoy your vacations by investing in this seat for your lovely family.
View the Graco Contender 65 Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Fantastic cup holders
Comfortable
Washable with removable seat cover
Great price
Convenient
Straightforward
Solid fit
CONS
Heavy
Straps don’t tighten quickly
#10. RECARO ProRIDE
Out Of Stock Alert!
The toddler carrier has the incredible headrest that has a fantastic design to protect and offer the comfortable automotive PUR foam. It also has the expandable polystyrene foam that absorbs external forces.
In addition to these features, the position has the unique Dual-Air-Flow Comfort System that combines with the Cool Mesh system to provide your kid with superior breathability capability, and the crisp shell vents allow air in and out of the seat to keep him fresh.
Product Specs
- Full Body, Racing-Inspired Side Impact Protection designed to protect each of the 5 vulnerable areas of a child in a side impact crash (head, face, neck, torso, pelvis)
- Racing-Inspired Safety Stripe System to alert parents that a twist could occur, or has begun, thus preventing a safety hazard
- EasyAdjust head rest with protective and comfortable PUR foam
- EasyAdjust no re-thread 5-point harness
- Rear-facing: 5 to 40 pounds, under 22.5 inches seated height; Forward-facing: 20- 65 pounds and under 49 inches
We Like
It has the Dual-Air Flow Comfort System for ease of breathing and keeps the infant cool. It’s also secure, reclines with ease and is straightforward.
We Don’t Like
The duo stroller’s front tire wheel wobbles, and it is also cumbersome.
It is arduous to install, the latch is overly broad, and it has no integrated cup holders. Despite these issues though, the seat is comfortable, breathable and durable with the assistance of the steel frame.
Testimonial & Customer Reviews
At the time of writing, there were 148 customer reviews and a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating.
Conclusion
The top-rated convertible car seat lets you and your family have fun as you travel. It also offers your new travel companions with safety that you demand and gives them the superior comfort they deserve.
View the RECARO ProRIDE Convertible Car Seat full review.
The Pros Vs Cons
PROS
Dual-Air Flow Comfort System
Steel frame for durability and strength
Comfortable
Secure and simple
Reclines perfectly
Versatile
Convenient
CONS
Latch is large
Strenuous to install
No cup holders
Choose The Perfect Convertible Car Seat in 2018
Video Review
Convertible Car Seat FAQ’s
Q: What Are The Basic Guidelines For Proper Safety Seat Use?
A: Install the security seat so that it does not move more than an inch to the front or sides of your car.
- You need to also thread the straps below your kid’s shoulders on a rear-facing seat and through the top-strap in forward-facing convertible seats. Belts SHOULD be above your infant’s shoulders in the positions that only face forward, such as the combo-seats.
- Another critical factor is that your harness should not only be snug but also tight enough.
- You need to ensure that the top of the harness clip should be at the armpit base.
- Also, place any coats on top of the seat’s harness.
- Another factor is that you need to restrain your kids in the rear seat, more so if your vehicle possesses a passenger airbag. You must never put a rear-facing safety seat in front of a passenger airbag.
- Finally, use a top tether with forward-facing safety seats, attached to a designated tether anchor. It can reduce the forward motion of your baby ’s head in a crash by several crucial inches.
Q. Is It Secure For A Baby To Travel In The Front Seat?
A: No. It is more secure for your little angel to travel while in the rear seat. The most sheltered spot for your baby should is in the backseat. Thus, if you have the option, place your infant in the back position.
It is safe to put him or her in the middle spot of your back seat, away from the vehicle’s airbags. If the middle of the back position has a three-point seat belt, then that is the safest place to place a child restraint. It is always the furthest place away from the sides of your car.
However, if it only consists of a lap-only belt, check out the infant’s seat instructions to see you can fit it with a lap-only belt. If not, then you need to secure the seat on either side of the rear seat using the lap and a diagonal belt.
Q: What Is A LATCH?
A: The LATCH refers to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It is an ‘Infant Car Seat Installation System,’ where you attach the lower hooks between the bottom of the back of the seat and the seat itself. The tether piece is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip that secures forward facing baby car seats and eliminates chances of excessive movement of the infant’s head in crashes.
Convertible Car Seat Summary
Convertible car seats are the best choices for you and your growing family. They can convert from rear-facing to forward-facing and sometimes, booster seats. They serve you from when you get out of the hospital with your child till when your child joins pre-school. The Federal Bureau of Standards and most governmental institutions recommend that you should have a baby car seat with you when taking him/her home from the hospital. Some hospitals don’t let you go without making sure you have bought your child a car seat, and it is installed correctly.
So, to come up with the best convertible car seats 2018, we did consider the safety and installation features carefully. We also examined the comfort features, convenience features, and other additional unique features.
Our Top Recommendations in 2018
The Graco 4Ever All-in-One Convertible Car Seat is our top best convertible seat. It has the InRight latch system for easy and simple attachment. We’ve also done a complete review on it. Check out the Graco 4Ever All-in-One Convertible Car Seat now!
Our second favorite seat is the Diono Radian R100 All-in-One Convertible Car Seat. It has the unique tether capability that minimizes seat rotation during an accident. However, we’ve done an in-depth review of it. Check out the Diono Radian R100 All-in-One Convertible Car Seat now!
View More Car Seat Reviews
We’ve reviewed more convertible car seats than the ones mentioned here. Have a look at all our Britax Convertible Car Seat review or Top Child Car Seats reviews.