12 Best Convertible Car Seats for Infants (2024)

As a new mom, you want the safest car seat for your baby, but having multiple car seats can be expensive. 

You can look for the best convertible car seats for infants that has an infant insert, offers extended rear-facing, and will grow with your baby.

That way, you can feel secure in the knowledge that your baby is safe in a seat you can use for years.

Our Favorites

nuna car seat

Best for Infants
Nuna Exec

diono car seats

Best for 3-Across
Diono Radian 3QXT+

nuna car seat

Best Rotating
Nuna Revv

Best Convertible Car Seats for Infants

1. Nuna Exec Convertible Infant Car Seat

nuna car seat

The Nuna Exec is the best newborn to toddler car seat because the Merino wool and GOTS organic cotton inserts are flame-retardant-free. This means your baby’s sensitive skin will be safe and protected.

The no-rethread, 5-point harness is easy for busy moms to adjust, especially when dealing with a tiny newborn.

The spring-touch shoulder belt guides give you peace of mind that you are securing the straps correctly as your child grows.

The adjustable, anti-rebound panel gives your baby extra legroom for extended rear-facing, and the Exec is an all-in-one car seat which is an improvement from the previous Rava model.

This infant convertible car seat is a great investment but is quite cumbersome to move.

What We Liked

  • Lightest Nuna convertible car seat
  • All-steel frame and reinforced belt path for superior protection
  • Dual flip-open cup holders
  • Easy to install for moms
  • GREENGUARD GOLD certified

What Can Be Improved

  • Strap covers when rear-facing come off and can get lost
  • The booster function is not long-lasting
  • Trickier to keep clean than other seats

Infant Insert: Yes, 5-11 lbs
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124 cm)
Child Weight: 5 -120 lbs (2.3-54.4 kg)
Dimensions: 22.5 L x 18.5 W x 26-33 H in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7.5 in

2. Diono Radian 3QXT+ All in One Convertible Newborn Car Seat

diono car seats

The Diono Radian 3QXT+ is an ideal convertible infant car seat because the memory foam base, mesh panels, and premium fabrics keep your baby comfortable and cool. 

An upgrade from the past version is the SAFE+ 2-in-1 anti-rebound panel that provides added protection and stability when rear-facing.

You can also have your baby rear-facing up to 50 lbs which makes this a great transitional car seat for newborns.

The seat has a large weight range making it a fantastic newborn to toddler car seat as your child grows. 

Try and install this seat once because it is heavy to move.

What We Liked

  • 2 XL cupholders
  • It is easy to assemble
  • The superLATCH connectors make installation easy
  • The machine washable cover makes cleaning easy
  • The narrow design makes this perfect for 3-across installation

What Can Be Improved

  • Adjusting the passenger seat can be awkward
  • The angle adjustor has a learning curve
  • The seat cover can be tricky to put back on

Infant Insert: Yes, 4-11 lbs
Child Height: Up to 57 in (145cm)
Child Weight: 4-120 lbs (1.8-54 kg)
Dimensions: 28.5 H x 17 W x 11.5 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7.5 in

3. Nuna Revv Rotating Convertible Car Seat

nuna car seat

The Nuna Revv is the best convertible newborn car seat for grandparents and new moms who want to venture out with their newborns.

The integrated rebound bar doubles as a handy carry handle, but this newborn convertible car seat is still quite heavy at 32 lbs.

What makes the Revv special for newborns is the swivel feature, an improvement from the prior Nuna convertible model options. It makes strapping in sleeping or squirming newborns a breeze.

As a new mom, you want to use your new car seat safely, and the Revv’s ten-position, bubble-free recline makes sure you get it right every time.

What We Liked

  • Ventilation panels in the shell to keep your baby cool
  • The magnetic buckle holder is convenient
  • Triple-layer side impact protection
  • The head support is also easily adjusted with one hand
  • Perfect for grandparents with different age grandkids

What Can Be Improved

  • The crotch buckle cover moves and doesn’t stay in the seat
  • Bulky to move around
  • Tends to rattle when driving without your baby in the seat

Infant Insert: Yes, 5-11 lbs
Child Height: Up to 43 in (109 cm)
Child Weight: 5-40 lbs (2.3-18 kg)
Dimensions: 21.5-22.5 L x 18.5 W x 22.5-29.5 H in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 6.5 in

4. Baby Jogger City Turn Rotating Convertible Car Seat

rotating car seat

The City Turn convertible car seat for newborns is ideal for moms’ recovering from childbirth because the 180-degree swiveling seat makes it easier to get your baby into and out of the seat.

This infant to toddler car seat offers extended rear-facing up to 50 lbs, and because the seat swivels closer to you, your back won’t suffer as your child grows.

The fabrics feature COOLMAX moisture-wicking material that will stop your newborn from overheating.

The no-rethread harness is convenient for adjusting the straps as your baby grows, but the buckle cover comes off easily, which is annoying.

What We Liked

  • The fabric is fade and wrinkle-resistant
  • Integrated RAPIDLOCK belt-tensioning technology
  • Push button LATCH for quick and secure installation
  • 10-position headrest and 5-position recline
  • Colored belt paths and dual bubble level indicators

What Can Be Improved

  • The buckle can be tricky
  • It is bulky and heavy
  • Only rotates when rear-facing

Infant Insert: Yes, 4-15 lbs
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124.5 cm)
Child Weight: 4-65 lbs (1.8-29.4 kg)
Dimensions: 23.5 H x 19 W x 21.75 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 6 in

5. Nuna Rava Convertible Newborn to Toddler Car Seat

nuna car seat

The Nuna Rava is a popular infant car seat that converts to toddler forward-facing mode.

It offers 2 inches of extra legroom and extra forward-facing leg support, which is a change since the last version.

The knit fabric is a polyester/bamboo blend that is naturally flame-resistant, which means this convertible car seat for newborn babies is chemical-free.

With extended rear-facing up to 50 lbs, this is an infant or convertible car seat that grows with your child, keeping them safe at every stage.

The push-style latch connectors are quick and easy for busy moms to install, but this seat is heavy to move.

What We Liked

  • Greenguard Gold certification means that no nasty surprises are touching your baby’s skin
  • The EPP foam is naturally flame resistant and free of chemicals
  • Easy to recline
  • No-rethread harness seat for easy adjustment
  • Additional side impact protection on both sides of the Rava shell near the head

What Can Be Improved

  • Low weight limit
  • The buckle can be stiff
  • The fabric can get hot

Infant Insert: Yes, 4-11 lbs
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124.5 cm)
Child Weight: 5-65 lbs (2.3-29.5 kg)
Dimensions: 28 H x 19.9 W x 22 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7 in

6. Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Convertible Infant to Toddler Car Seat

diono car seat

The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ has a large weight and height limit and offers extended rear-facing up to 50 lbs.

The narrow, low profile with shallow sides makes this one of the best transitional car seat for newborns because you can easily get your baby in and out of the seat and they can climb in independently as they grow.

It has an easy-adjust 12-position headrest and 6 layers of side impact protection compared to the previous version.

The seat belt can be difficult to tighten when rear-facing in this convertible car seat for infant babies.

The 3RXT Safe+ has a machine washable cover that is free of dangerous flame-retardant chemicals.

What We Liked

  • Fantastic safety features
  • Narrow but spacious
  • Good value for money
  • Luxurious fabric and design
  • The design considers modern, compact cars

What Can Be Improved

  • Passenger leg room in the front is limited
  • The open back is unattractive
  • The seat is heavy

Infant Insert: Yes, but no weight guidelines
Child Height: Up to 57 in (145 cm)
Child Weight: 4-120 lbs (1.8-54.4 kg)
Dimensions: 28 H x 17 W x 16 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 8 in

7. Peg Perego Kinetic Rotational Infant Car Seat

peg peregeo convertible seat

If you want to put your infant in a convertible car seat, then the luxurious Peg Perego Kinetic is a great option.

The tri-stage cushion offers extra support and comfort for your newborn and the anti-rebound bar spacer gives your baby an extra 2 inches of legroom when rear-facing.

The no-rethread harness and soft straps are safe and comfortable and easy to adjust on a small baby.

This seat has adjustable side impact protection, which is an upgrade from the earlier model.

Something to keep in mind is the chest clip button can be difficult to open, which can be frustrating with a sleeping newborn.

What We Liked

  • Looks and feels luxurious
  • Rear-facing up to 45 lbs
  • EasyTight LATCH for simple installation
  • 6 positions of recline to suit your growing child
  • The fabric cleans well

What Can Be Improved

  • Recline mechanism gets stuck easily
  • The lever to release the harness strap is hidden
  • The cupholder placement is inconvenient

Infant Insert: Yes, 4-11 lbs
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124.5cm)
Child Weight: 5-65 lbs (2.3-29.5 kg)
Dimensions: 25.75 H x 18.75 W x 26.25 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7.5 in

8. Britax Advocate Clicktight Convertible Newborn Car Seat

britax car seat

The Britax Advocate is one of the best infant convertible car seat options because it’s easy for moms to use. It has clear installation indicators, so you are always sure your baby is safe.

The fabrics are safe for your baby and contain no fire-retardant chemicals, which is what you want in car seats that go from infant to toddler.

Newborns need to be at the correct angle to keep their airways open, and the Advocate has easy-read level indicators to help you find the best seat angle.

Car seats that grow with babies, like the Advocate, are often heavy and bulky.

What We Liked

  • External bolsters for maximum side-impact protection
  • The tonal color palette and ribbed textures make this a stylish seat
  • 7-position quick-push recline feature
  • Easy for moms to install safely and confidently
  • 14-position quick-adjust harness and headrest

What Can Be Improved

  • Straps don’t fit right in the extended rear-facing position
  • Easy click system breaks down quickly
  • Some recalls were made on this model

Infant Insert: Yes, but no weight guidelines
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124.5 cm)
Child Weight: 5-65 lbs (2.3-29.4 kg)
Dimensions: 23.5 H x 20.5 W x 23 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7.5 in

9. Clek Foonf Convertible Car Seat for Newborns

clek foonf

The Clek Foonf is for babies weighing 14 lbs – 65 lbs unless you buy the Infant Thingy, which is an insert that makes this a car seat from infant to toddler.

The Foonf is one of the best-rated convertible car seat for infants because it offers extended rear-facing up to 50 lbs. It also has deep side wings, which offer side impact protection and comfortable naps.

The anti-rebound bar offers added safety while the adjustable, structural headrest grows with your child.

The smooth recline feature keeps your baby safe and comfortable while they sleep.

What We Liked

  • Easy access to the belt path when rear-facing
  • The streamlined design is ideal for 3 across
  • Rigid LATCH installation is quick and easy
  • New fabrics that are free from halogenated flame retardants 
  • The 5-point harness is the safest for your growing baby

What Can Be Improved

  • Doesn’t have a no-rethread harness
  • It is high on the base when rear-facing
  • The seat sits high on the base when rear-facing

Infant Insert: Yes, 5-22 lbs
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124.5cm)
Child Weight: 5-65 lbs (2.4-29.5)(With the Infant Thingy)
Dimensions: 28 H x 17 W x 16 L in
Expiration Date: 9 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 10 in

10. Britax One4Life Clicktight All-in-One Newborn Convertible Car Seat

britax car seat

If you are looking for the best car seat for infant to toddler then try the Britax One4Life.

The SafeWash fabric is naturally flame-resistant and ideal for sensitive newborn skin, and the cover is removable and machine washable for longevity.

The quick-adjust, 15-position harness and the headrest are easy and convenient for new moms, and the superior comfort and padding mean your newborn will be comfortable and safe.

The seat is easy to clean, and you can get into the nooks and crannies, which is perfect as your baby grows.

This seat is heavy so try to install it once and not move it from car to car.

What We Liked

  • Convenient built-in storage for the harness in booster mode
  • Color-coded belt paths for a safe install every time
  • The V-shaped tether is a unique safety feature
  • Extended rear-facing up to 50 lbs
  • This birth-to-booster option is a good investment

What Can Be Improved

  • The headrest could be more secure
  • The seat is heavy to move
  • No backless booster option

Infant Insert: Yes, 5-20 lbs
Child Height: Up to 49 in (124.5 cm)
Child Weight: 5-120 lbs (2.3-54.4 kg)
Dimensions: 20.5 H x 19.5 W x 25 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7 in

11. Cybex Sirona M Convertible Car Seat for Newborns

cybex sirona convrtible seat

The Cybex Sirona M is one of the best convertible car seat options because the SensorSafe technology puts your mind at ease, particularly if you are a new mom. 

The last thing you want to be doing is fighting with straps, so the integrated headrest and harness system makes adjusting the fit quick and easy.

The magnetic buckle holders make putting your baby into the Sirona M simple, particularly if they are sleeping.

To keep them safe and comfortable, you can use the one-hand recline and choose from 10 recline angles. The recline indicator can be difficult to find.

What We Liked

  • Linear side impact protection for 25% force reduction
  • 12-position headrest grows with your baby
  • Rubber tips on cup holder for better grip
  • Allows forward-facing recline options
  • Plush infant insert

What Can Be Improved

  • Recline positions for rear-facing and forward-facing are not labeled on the seat
  • Difficult to install with the seat belt
  • The seat may be too long for short/shallow car seats

Infant Insert: Yes, 5-11 lbs
Child Height: Up to 57 in (145 cm)
Child Weight: 4-65 lbs (1.8-29.5)
Dimensions: 25 H x 20 W x 21.5 L in
Expiration Date: 8 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 7.5 in

12. Maxi Cosi Pria Max All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

best maxi cosi seat

With infant body support for car seat use, the Pria Max is the best infant to toddler car seat for families wanting an investment seat.

The ClipQuick one-hand magnetic chest clip is ideal for busy moms, and the Out-of-the-Way spring-assist harness makes getting your newborn into the seat a breeze.

The PureCosi fabrics are flame-retardant-free, so you know your baby’s skin is safe from harmful chemicals.

The soft-to-touch cushions and plush padding cradle your newborn and are gentle on their sensitive bodies.

This seat is very big and bulky in your car so check the size of your back seat before purchasing.

What We Liked

  • Machine washable for easy cleaning
  • Removable cupholders
  • Baby-to-booster seat
  • QuickFit shoulder harness automatically raises the headrest height
  • G-cell side impact protection

What Can Be Improved

  • Hard to tighten
  • Difficult to put the cover back on
  • Not as durable as it could be

Infant Insert: Yes, no weight limit when rear-facing only
Child Height: Up to 52 in (132.1 cm)
Child Weight: 4-100 lbs (1.8-45.4 kg)
Dimensions: 25.25 H x 24 W x 19.88 L in
Expiration Date: 10 years from the manufacturing date
Lowest Harness Position: 6.5 in

Convertible Car Seat vs. Infant Car Seat 

The difference between an infant car seat and a convertible car seat is that the infant car seat is rear-facing only and usually has a low weight limit of 35 lbs and a height limit of 32 inches. 

Convertible seats can be used into toddlerhood and beyond and often have a weight limit of 65 lbs – 120 lbs.

An infant can go straight into a convertible seat with an infant insert that accommodates a newborn weight of 4 lbs. 

Infant convertible car seats work well for families wanting a seat that grows with their child.

Convertible car seats are not usually stroller compatible.

FAQ

Can I skip the infant car seat? 

Yes, you can choose a convertible car seat with an infant insert.

Is an infant car seat safer than a convertible? 

No, there is no difference in safety as long as the convertible seat is installed correctly and works for the baby’s height and weight.

Can a newborn fit in a convertible car seat? 

Yes, a newborn can fit in a convertible car seat with an insert.

Can I put my 1-month-old in a convertible car seat? 

Yes, you can put your 1-month-old in a rear-facing convertible car seat so long as they meet the height and weight limit.

Can I put my 2-month-old in a convertible car seat?

Yes, you can put your 2-month-old in a rear-facing convertible car seat so long as they meet the height and weight limit.

Can I put my 3-month-old in a convertible car seat? 

Yes, you can put your 3-month-old in a rear-facing convertible car seat so long as they meet the height and weight limit.

Can I put my 4-month-old in a convertible car seat? 

Yes, you can put your 4-month-old in a rear-facing convertible car seat so long as they meet the height and weight limit.

What is the difference between a convertible car seat and an infant car seat? 

An infant car seat is rear-facing only stroller compatible and is only suitable up to 35 lbs. A convertible car seat is rear and forward-facing, stays in the car and can go up to 120 lbs.

Are convertible car seats safe for newborns? 

Yes, convertible car seats are safe for newborns when used with an insert and installed correctly and rear-facing.

What type of car seat should newborns ride in? 

Newborns should ride rear-facing so an infant or convertible car seat are acceptable.

Can you leave the hospital with a convertible car seat? 

Yes, you can leave the hospital with a rear-facing convertible car seat that has an infant insert.

Caitlin van Wyk

Caitlin van Wyk is a Parenting Writer and mother of two. With a background in psychology and teaching, she is passionate about offering support and educational content for parents as they navigate the highs and lows of raising kids. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Psychology from the University of South Africa. Caitlin also has a Level 5 TEFL Certificate and enjoys helping people get better at English. This experience lets her connect with people from different cultures, which adds depth to her writing. She managed Glengarry Holiday Farm for 10 years, emphasizing the importance of good communication and strong relationships in business and content creation.

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