10 Best Car Seats 2025 in the United States

The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Baby Car Seat is designed to grow with your child, supporting rear-facing use from 4 to 50 pounds and forward-facing up to 65 pounds. A standout feature is its adjustable extension panel, which adds up to 5 inches of extra legroom, allowing kids to stay in the safer rear-facing position longer. Safety is a priority here, with rigorous crash testing covering frontal, side, rear, and rollover impacts. The 5-point harness system adjusts easily with the No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System, which moves the harness and headrest together for a proper fit as your child grows.

Comfort is addressed through six recline positions and 10 headrest heights, helping to keep your child cozy and well-supported during trips. Installation is straightforward thanks to the push-button InRight LATCH system that provides a secure, audible click, while harness storage pockets make it easier to get your child in and out without hassle. The car seat weighs about 19 pounds, which is on the heavier side and could be less convenient if you frequently move it between vehicles. Additionally, while it offers plenty of recline options, its dimensions might be bulky for smaller cars.

This car seat is well suited for parents seeking a long-lasting, safety-focused option with good comfort and easy adjustments, especially if the plan is to keep the child rear-facing as long as possible.

The Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat stands out as a versatile and long-lasting option for parents, catering to children from infancy to toddler age and beyond, up to 120 pounds. Its 4-in-1 design allows it to transition seamlessly through different stages: rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster modes. This adaptability means the car seat can be used for up to 10 years, offering great value for money.

Safety is a key feature, with the Safeguard Plus system providing enhanced protection in various types of crashes including frontal, side, rear, and rollover. This is further supported by its 5-point harness system, ensuring a secure fit for your child. Installation is relatively straightforward, thanks to the InRight LATCH system and integrated belt lock-off, though some users might find the initial setup a bit heavy due to its 27.2-pound weight.

Comfort is well-addressed with a 6-position recline and a headrest that adjusts easily across 10 positions. The car seat cover is also designed with convenience in mind, being machine washable and removable within 60 seconds without uninstalling the seat. However, the bulkiness of the seat may not suit all vehicle types, and its large dimensions (20 x 21.5 x 24 inches) might be a tight fit in smaller cars. Additionally, while the polyester material is durable, some may prefer a more luxurious fabric. The Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat is a reliable, safe, and convenient choice for parents looking for a long-term car seat solution, especially those who prioritize the ease of transition through different car seat stages.

The Doona Car Seat & Stroller is a unique all-in-one travel system that effectively combines a car seat and a stroller, making it ideal for busy parents on the go. One of its standout features is the effortless transition from car seat to stroller with just a click, allowing you to move easily without waking a sleeping baby. This can be a game-changer for parents who frequently travel or run errands.

In terms of safety, the Doona boasts impressive features such as three-layer side impact protection, an anti-rebound bar, and a five-point harness, ensuring your baby is secure during rides. It's also certified for air travel, which is a significant advantage for families who fly. The ergonomic design promotes proper support for your newborn's back and neck, which is crucial for developing infants.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The weight limit of 35 lbs means it is only suitable for rear-facing use, and while this is standard, it may require transitioning to a different seat as your child grows. The total weight of 17.2 lbs for the car seat and stroller combination might be heavier than some lightweight options, which could be a factor if you're lifting it often. Installation is designed to be straightforward with its LATCH system, and the materials are washable, which helps meet the needs of busy parents. Yet, some users might find the learning curve with any new system a bit challenging at first.

The Doona Car Seat & Stroller represents an excellent choice for parents seeking convenience, safety, and functionality in a travel system. It's particularly beneficial for city dwellers or those who need to frequently switch between driving and walking, though it's essential to consider the weight and growth limits for your child's needs.