Car Seats

Best Car Seats

Best Car Seats Under $250

You don’t have to compromise on safety to find a seat that fits your budget

By Jessica D’Argenio Waller, MS, CNS, LDN, CPST
Baby & Health Writer

October 10, 2025

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Graco SnugRide SnugFit DLX, Chicco NextFit Zip and UPPAbaby Alta V2 car seats. — A good car seat shouldn't cost a small fortune.

If there’s one thing that decades of child car seat testing have shown us, it’s that you don’t have to pay top dollar to get a safe, high-quality car seat. Many of the top-performing seats in CR’s car seat ratings cost less than $250, from infant car seats to convertible car seats to high-back booster seats you’ll use with your older child. (CR’s car seat ratings are free for everyone, and you can filter by price to shop within your budget.)

Parenting is expensive, to put it mildly, and widespread tariffs have resulted in prices rising even more for all the baby gear you need for your little one, including strollers, cribs, and, yes, car seats. Finding ways to save on these bigger purchases is even more of a priority than ever.

A good car seat should be simple to use and easy to install, and it should keep your child safe in the car—without costing a small fortune. Here are our Top Picks for wallet-friendly car seats that perform well in CR’s rigorous car seat testing.

Best Infant Car Seats Under $250

please click here<\/a>."},"expertRatings":{"isRecommended":true,"isBestseller":false,"isBestBuy":false,"isDontBuy":false},"isPublishable":true,"availabilityUpdDate":"2009-02-25T05:00:00.000Z","lastPublishedDate":"2025-10-22T15:16:37.115Z","firstPublishedDate":"2009-01-15T16:51:43.000Z","profileImage":{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"png","imageTypeId":1},"galleryImages":[{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-1","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-4","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-6","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-10","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-11","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-12","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-13","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-14","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-15","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-16","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"90201-infantcarseats-chicco-keyfit-d-9","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2}],"cuModelId":"99014854","cuGroupId":1451,"isModelRatingFromSurveyCategory":false,"isPublishedInPCR":true,"editorialAttributes":[{"name":"Additional Information","sortOrder":7}],"recommendationUpdateDate":"2009-01-15T16:51:43.000Z","bestBuyUpdateDate":"2020-03-10T14:13:07.000Z","scoreUpdateDate":"2024-12-19T14:58:11.000Z","overallScoreSortIndex":2,"walmartId":865223632,"modelLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/chicco-keyfit\/m90201\/","criteria":[{"attributeId":253,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":4,"name":"Ease of use","displayName":"Ease of use","description":"Includes the clarity of instructions, installing the seat, adjusting harness positions, placing a child in the seat, securing the harness, and removing the child.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":4143,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":5,"name":"Fit-to-vehicle LATCH","displayName":"Fit-to-vehicle LATCH","description":"A rating of how easy it is to securely and correctly install each seat using the LATCH system in a variety of vehicles and how well the seats fit each vehicle once installed.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":4144,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":6,"name":"Fit-to-vehicle belt","displayName":"Fit-to-vehicle belt","description":"A rating of how easy it is to securely and correctly install each seat using the vehicle belts in a variety of vehicles and how well the seats fit each vehicle once installed.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"}],"description":"The <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//chicco-keyfit//m90201//">Chicco KeyFit<\/a> excels in CR\u2019s tests and is priced well under $250. (We\u2019ve also tested the <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//chicco-keyfit-30//m90195//">KeyFit 30<\/a> and the <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//chicco-keyfit-35//m403644//">KeyFit 35<\/a>, now called the KeyFit Max, which are also CR Recommended models.) Our testers found that the KeyFit offers excellent crash protection and easily fits in most vehicles. It\u2019s also simple to install with either the lower anchors or a seat belt.<\/p>\nMore Features We Like<\/strong> \u2022 <\/strong>Easily clicks into the base or a coordinating Chicco stroller. \u2022 <\/strong>Easy-to-read level indicators on the base so you can check for proper installation. \u2022 <\/strong>A one-handed LATCH tension that\u2019s simple to adjust.<\/p>\nAdditional Specs<\/strong> \u2022 Dimensions: <\/strong>24x17x27 inches (HxWxL). \u2022 Weight: <\/strong>Base, 8 pounds; carrier, 9 pounds. \u2022 Age range\/weight limit: <\/strong>Newborn to up 30 pounds and up to 30 inches tall. \u2022 Notable:<\/strong> Verified by the Baby Safety Alliance and compatible with all Chicco strollers (except the Liteway Stroller).<\/p>","ratingsLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/infant-car-seat\/c28699\/"},{"_id":415807,"modelName":"LiteClik 30 R","slugName":"diono-liteclik-30-r-415807","slugModelName":"liteclik-30-r","defaultUpc":"677726565092","asin":"B0DGLY3MWH","overallScoreDescription":"Overall score is based on crash protection, scores for ease of use and fit to vehicle, in LATCH and belt modes, using the car seat with its base. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.","overallDisplayScore":81,"price":190,"priceDescription":"An approximate retail price.","brandId":169787,"brandName":"Diono","brandSlugName":"diono","productGroupTypeId":5,"productGroupTypeName":"CATEGORY","productGroupClassificationId":1,"productGroupClassificationName":"PRODUCTS","productGroupId":28699,"productGroupName":"Infant Car Seats","testStateId":1,"testStateName":"Tested","modelAvailabilityId":1,"modelAvailabilityName":"Available","productGroupHierarchy":{"franchiseId":28985,"franchiseName":"Babies & kids","franchiseSlugName":"babies-kids","franchiseCuGroupId":2301,"subFranchiseId":28986,"subFranchiseName":"Baby & toddler","subFranchiseSlugName":"baby-toddler","subFranchiseCuGroupId":2302,"superCategoryId":28987,"superCategoryName":"Car Seats","superCategorySlugName":"car-seats","superCategorySingularName":"Car Seat","superCategoryCuGroupId":2303,"categoryId":28699,"categoryName":"Infant Car Seats","categorySlugName":"infant-car-seat","categoryCuGroupId":1451},"expertReview":{"summary":"An infant car seat offered by Diono.<\/p>","bottomLine":"The Diono LiteClik 30 R is a straightforward infant car seat with hardly any bells and whistles, but it works and is easy to use. You do need to attach the anti-rebound bar (ARB), but it is easy and doesn\u2019t require tools. The LiteClik 30 R excelled in our ease-of-use and fit-to-vehicle evaluations. <\/p>","highs":"<ul>\n<li>Excellent vehicle installation with lower anchors or seat belt<\/li>\n<li>Excellent ease-of-use<\/li>\n<li>Push-on LATCH connectors<\/li>\n<\/ul>","lows":"<ul>\n<li>Recline adjustment button is behind base (against seatback); also have to pull up button to pull down foot<\/li>\n<li>For some people, carrier release from base may be a little awkward\/challenging, since you have to pull the button out to release, rather than squeeze<\/li>\n<\/ul>","review":"Consumer Reports has developed a new crash test that offers consumers comparative performance information on which car seats could provide an additional margin of safety when compared with other models within the same ratings group that have been subjected to the same test protocol. Our Crash Protection Ratings are based on injury criteria measured on standardized child-size dummies, contact of the dummy\u2019s head with the back of a simulated front seat and a car seat\u2019s ability to remain intact during the course of testing. Consumer Reports\u2019 new crash tests are not designed to check whether a seat complies with current federal car seat safety standards. Rather, the purpose of our new tests is to differentiate the seats\u2019 performance on a scale that ranks the performance of tested seats ranging from \u201cbasic\u201d to \u201cbest.\u201d Our focus on providing an \u201cextra margin\u201d of safety, rather than on determining whether a seat is safe or not, is based on the fact that any car seat sold in the U.S. already must provide an essential level of safety under the government standards. The new test conditions were carefully designed to simulate the interior environment and forces encountered during a crash in contemporary vehicles. Changes from the way that convertible seats were rated previously include using a test bench that better simulates the vehicle seat design from a contemporary vehicle, with more representative cushion stiffness and seat geometry and incorporation of a \u201cblocker\u201d to simulate a front seatback. The new test also runs at a higher 35mph speed, with other representative dynamic characteristics that better simulate the behavior of contemporary vehicles during a crash.<\/p>"},"expertRatings":{"isRecommended":true,"isBestseller":false,"isBestBuy":false,"isDontBuy":false},"isPublishable":true,"availabilityUpdDate":"2024-10-07T14:00:21.000Z","lastPublishedDate":"2025-10-22T15:16:37.115Z","firstPublishedDate":"2024-12-19T19:13:24.000Z","profileImage":{"fileName":"415807-infant-car-seats-diono-liteclik-30-r-10041958","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"png","imageTypeId":1},"cuModelId":"11199038802","cuGroupId":1451,"isModelRatingFromSurveyCategory":false,"isPublishedInPCR":true,"editorialAttributes":[{"name":"Additional Information","sortOrder":7}],"recommendationUpdateDate":"2024-12-19T15:01:03.000Z","scoreUpdateDate":"2024-12-19T15:01:03.000Z","overallScoreSortIndex":15,"walmartId":9111901047,"modelLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/diono-liteclik-30-r\/m415807\/","criteria":[{"attributeId":253,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":4,"name":"Ease of use","displayName":"Ease of use","description":"Includes the clarity of instructions, installing the seat, adjusting harness positions, placing a child in the seat, securing the harness, and removing the child.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":4143,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":5,"name":"Fit-to-vehicle LATCH","displayName":"Fit-to-vehicle LATCH","description":"A rating of how easy it is to securely and correctly install each seat using the LATCH system in a variety of vehicles and how well the seats fit each vehicle once installed.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":4144,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":6,"name":"Fit-to-vehicle belt","displayName":"Fit-to-vehicle belt","description":"A rating of how easy it is to securely and correctly install each seat using the vehicle belts in a variety of vehicles and how well the seats fit each vehicle once installed.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"}],"description":"The under-$200 <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//diono-liteclik-30-r//m415807//">Diono LiteClick 30 R<\/a> performs very well in CR\u2019s crash testing and has excellent ratings for installation with the LATCH anchors or seat belt, or even without a base. Testers say it\u2019s a straightforward car seat without a lot of extra features, but its simplicity is what makes it very easy to use.\u00a0<\/p>\nMore Features We Like<\/strong><\/strong> \u2022 Push-on LATCH connectors are easy to attach and release. \u2022 UPF 50+ canopy blocks strong sunshine. \u2022 Newborn insert makes the seat suitable for babies as small as 4 pounds.<\/p>\nAdditional Specs<\/strong> \u2022 Dimensions: <\/strong>15x18x27 inches (HxWxL). \u2022 Weight: <\/strong>Base, 7 pounds; carrier, 9 pounds. \u2022 Age range\/weight limit: <\/strong>Newborn to up 30 pounds and up to 30 inches tall. \u2022 Notable: <\/strong>Compatible with the Diono Quantum 4 stroller to create a <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//strollers//best-stroller-and-car-seat-combinations-a7840266271//">travel system<\/a>.<\/p>","ratingsLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/infant-car-seat\/c28699\/"},{"_id":403646,"modelName":"SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX","slugName":"graco-snugride-snugfit-35-dlx-403646","slugModelName":"snugride-snugfit-35-dlx","defaultMpn":"2156211","defaultUpc":"47406181568","upcs":[{"upc":"47406173914","isDefault":false},{"upc":"47406181568","isDefault":false}],"mpns":[{"mpn":"2120493","isDefault":false},{"mpn":"2156211","isDefault":false}],"asin":"B09NPMF1NQ","overallScoreDescription":"Overall score is based on crash protection, scores for ease of use and fit to vehicle, in LATCH and belt modes, using the car seat with its base. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.","overallDisplayScore":79,"price":200,"priceDescription":"An approximate retail price.","brandId":158070,"brandName":"Graco","brandSlugName":"graco","productGroupTypeId":5,"productGroupTypeName":"CATEGORY","productGroupClassificationId":1,"productGroupClassificationName":"PRODUCTS","productGroupId":28699,"productGroupName":"Infant Car Seats","testStateId":1,"testStateName":"Tested","modelAvailabilityId":1,"modelAvailabilityName":"Available","productGroupHierarchy":{"franchiseId":28985,"franchiseName":"Babies & kids","franchiseSlugName":"babies-kids","franchiseCuGroupId":2301,"subFranchiseId":28986,"subFranchiseName":"Baby & toddler","subFranchiseSlugName":"baby-toddler","subFranchiseCuGroupId":2302,"superCategoryId":28987,"superCategoryName":"Car Seats","superCategorySlugName":"car-seats","superCategorySingularName":"Car Seat","superCategoryCuGroupId":2303,"categoryId":28699,"categoryName":"Infant Car Seats","categorySlugName":"infant-car-seat","categoryCuGroupId":1451},"expertReview":{"summary":"One of multiple models of infant seats offered by Graco<\/p>","bottomLine":"One of the easiest seats to install using either LATCH or the vehicle seat belt. This seat incorporates a belt tension device that helps provide a secure installation with little effort.  <\/p>","highs":"<ul><li>Belt tension device can help provide a secure installation  <\/li><li>Excellent Ease-of-Use and Fit-to-Vehicle scores<\/li><li>Handle can be in any locked position during travel<\/li><li>Push-on LATCH connectors<\/li><\/ul>","lows":"<ul><li>Crotch buckle position is difficult to change<\/li><li>Recline indicator is not intuitive  <\/li><\/ul>","review":"Consumer Reports has developed a new crash test that offers consumers comparative performance information on which car seats could provide an additional margin of safety when compared with other models within the same ratings group that have been subjected to the same test protocol. Our Crash Protection Ratings are based on injury criteria measured on standardized child-size dummies, contact of the dummy’s head with the back of a simulated front seat and a car seat’s ability to remain intact during the course of testing. Consumer Reports’ new crash tests are not designed to check whether a seat complies with current federal car seat safety standards. Rather, the purpose of our new tests is to differentiate the seats’ performance on a scale that ranks the performance of tested seats ranging from “basic” to “best.” Our focus on providing an “extra margin” of safety, rather than on determining whether a seat is safe or not, is based on the fact that any car seat sold in the U.S. already must provide an essential level of safety under the government standards. The new test conditions were carefully designed to simulate the interior environment and forces encountered during a crash in contemporary vehicles. Changes from the way that convertible seats were rated previously include using a test bench that better simulates the vehicle seat design from a contemporary vehicle, with more representative cushion stiffness and seat geometry and incorporation of a “blocker” to simulate a front seatback. The new test also runs at a higher 35mph speed, with other representative dynamic characteristics that better simulate the behavior of contemporary vehicles during a crash.  <\/p>"},"expertRatings":{"isRecommended":true,"isBestseller":false,"isBestBuy":false,"isDontBuy":false},"isPublishable":true,"availabilityUpdDate":"2021-05-05T14:18:59.000Z","lastPublishedDate":"2025-10-22T15:16:37.115Z","firstPublishedDate":"2022-01-11T17:14:54.000Z","profileImage":{"fileName":"403646-infant-car-seats-graco-snugride-snugfit-35-dlx-10025246","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"png","imageTypeId":1},"galleryImages":[{"fileName":"403646-infant-car-seats-graco-snugride-snugfit-35-dlx-10025247","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"403646-infant-car-seats-graco-snugride-snugfit-35-dlx-10025248","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2}],"cuModelId":"11199026641","cuGroupId":1451,"isModelRatingFromSurveyCategory":false,"isPublishedInPCR":true,"editorialAttributes":[{"name":"Additional Information","sortOrder":7}],"recommendationUpdateDate":"2022-01-10T16:54:18.000Z","bestBuyUpdateDate":"2021-12-16T20:21:31.000Z","scoreUpdateDate":"2024-12-19T14:58:11.000Z","overallScoreSortIndex":17,"walmartId":660813155,"modelLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/graco-snugride-snugfit-35-dlx\/m403646\/","criteria":[{"attributeId":253,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":4,"name":"Ease of use","displayName":"Ease of use","description":"Includes the clarity of instructions, installing the seat, adjusting harness positions, placing a child in the seat, securing the harness, and removing the child.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":4143,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":5,"name":"Fit-to-vehicle LATCH","displayName":"Fit-to-vehicle LATCH","description":"A rating of how easy it is to securely and correctly install each seat using the LATCH system in a variety of vehicles and how well the seats fit each vehicle once installed.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":4144,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":6,"name":"Fit-to-vehicle belt","displayName":"Fit-to-vehicle belt","description":"A rating of how easy it is to securely and correctly install each seat using the vehicle belts in a variety of vehicles and how well the seats fit each vehicle once installed.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"}],"description":"The <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//graco-snugride-snugfit-35-dlx//m403646//">Graco SnugRide SnugFit DLX<\/a> includes features like a belt tensioner and a no-rethread harness. It performs very well in CR\u2019s crash testing and ease-of-use assessments. (Looking for more savings? Graco\u2019s slightly less premium model, the <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//graco-snugride-snugfit-35-lx//m405270//">SnugRide SnugFit LX<\/a>, performs equally well and is about $20 cheaper.) Our testers say the DLX is \u201cone of the easiest seats to install,\u201d and can be attached with either the LATCH anchors or a vehicle seatbelt. The one-handed belt tension helps to easily secure the seat for a tight fit.\u00a0<\/p>\nMore Features We Like<\/strong><\/strong> \u2022 Has a seat belt tensioner and push-on LATCH connectors for easier installation. \u2022 Seat cover can be easily removed for cleaning. \u2022 Harness doesn\u2019t need to be rethreaded to adjust as your baby grows.<\/p>\nAdditional Specs<\/strong> \u2022 Dimensions:<\/strong> 26x18x28 inches (HxWxL). \u2022 Weight:<\/strong> Base, 7 pounds; carrier, 10 pounds. \u2022 Age range\/weight limit: <\/strong>Newborn to up 30 pounds and up to 32 inches tall. \u2022 Notable:<\/strong> Connects to multiple Graco strollers in one step to create a travel system.<\/p>","ratingsLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/infant-car-seat\/c28699\/"}]" hide-index />

Best All-in-One Car Seats Under $250

rear-facing mode for longer<\/a>, which is the safest way for young children to ride. Harness storage pockets on the side panels of the Extend2Fit can make it easier to get your child into the seat without having to move straps out of the way. When forward-facing, the Graco Extend2Fit is easy to secure with either the vehicle seat belt or the lower anchors. However, when rear-facing, you may need to use a rolled towel wedged underneath the car seat to achieve the proper recline for a newborn to 3-month-old on some vehicle seats. <\/p>This seat may be a good choice for: <\/strong><\/p><ul><li>Families who want to purchase an all-in-one car seat (as opposed to using an <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//infant-car-seat//c28699///">infant seat<\/a> for the first year and then switching to a <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//harnessed-car-seat//c34825//#categories=200941\">convertible seat<\/a>)<\/li><li>Anyone who needs a simple and straightforward installation process, thanks to the push-on LATCH connectors <\/li><li>Families who need a seat that\u2019s easy to move between cars<\/li><li>Cars with a small back seat  <\/li><\/ul>","highs":"<ul><li>Excellent crash protection<\/li><li>Kids can stay rear-facing up to 50 lbs.<\/li><li>Included Extend2Fit leg extension panel may prolong rear-facing use<\/li><li>Push-on LATCH connectors<\/li><li>Recline level bubble indicator<\/li><li>Belt routing is easy for booster use<\/li><li>Harness stores within the seat for booster use<\/li><li>Excellent belt fit in booster mode<\/li><li>No-rethread harness for easy height adjustments <\/li><li>Seat cover is machine-washable<\/li><\/ul>","lows":"<ul><li>Recline for 0- to 3-month-old babies may require a rolled towel on some vehicle seats<\/li><li>Very easy to confuse the recline adjustment lever with the Extend2Fit panel adjustment<\/li><li>Removing and replacing the seat cover for cleaning is difficult<\/li><\/ul>","review":"Ease of use: <\/strong>The Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 all-in-one car seat scored in the middle of our ratings for ease of use. Assembly is minimal, and the headrest, harness, and crotch strap are easy to adjust. The labels and manual are easy to follow, but there\u2019s a recline indicator level only on one side of the car seat, which can make checking the recline level for your infant tricky. The LATCH and seat belt installations weren\u2019t as streamlined as other models in our tests. Our testers also noted that the Extend2fit leg extension panel needs to be extended to have access to the forward buckle slot.<\/p>Fit-to-vehicle LATCH: <\/strong>Installing the seat rear-facing with LATCH wasn\u2019t intuitive, though the labels and manual do offer diagrams and explanations on the process. <\/p>Fit-to-vehicle belt: <\/strong>For forward-facing installation with a seat belt, our testers found removing the seat pad first made a big difference in routing the belt properly, though the manual doesn\u2019t mention this step. There\u2019s no lock-off or seat belt tensioner included to get a tighter fit. <\/p>Booster Fit: <\/strong>We found this was one of the best seats for positioning the lap and shoulder belt for booster-aged kids. <\/p>Crash protection:<\/strong> In CR\u2019s crash test protocol, this seat performed well and did not exhibit significant structural integrity issues.<\/p>Additional Information<\/strong><\/p>Good to know: <\/strong>All child car seats sold in the United States are required to meet government safety standards. <\/p>About our testing: <\/strong>Consumer Reports\u2019 child car seat tests are not designed to test compliance with federal standards. Rather, we evaluate car seat performance under conditions designed by our experts that go beyond the required federal safety standards. Consumer Reports\u2019 independent car seat crash test program has been carefully designed to simulate the forces encountered during a crash, while replicating some of the real-world factors that might impact a car seat\u2019s performance. Our testing aims to determine which car seats could provide an extra level of safety when compared to other models in the same category. <\/p>Basic, Better, or Best: <\/strong>CR rates the child car seats we crash test on a scale of Basic, Better, and Best, based on the additional margin of safety they may provide. Read about <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//how-we-test///">how we test car seats<\/a> to learn more about our crash test protocol.<\/p>"},"expertRatings":{"isRecommended":true,"isBestseller":false,"isBestBuy":false,"isDontBuy":false},"isPublishable":true,"availabilityUpdDate":"2019-09-05T14:22:07.000Z","lastPublishedDate":"2025-10-23T14:49:45.352Z","firstPublishedDate":"2021-03-08T21:07:42.000Z","profileImage":{"fileName":"399639-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-extend2fit-3-in-1-10046556","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"png","imageTypeId":1},"galleryImages":[{"fileName":"399639-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-extend2fit-3-in-1-10046559","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"399639-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-extend2fit-3-in-1-10046557","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"399639-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-extend2fit-3-in-1-10046558","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2}],"cuModelId":"11199022634","cuGroupId":35145,"isModelRatingFromSurveyCategory":false,"isPublishedInPCR":true,"recommendationUpdateDate":"2021-03-08T20:24:57.000Z","bestBuyUpdateDate":"2021-03-08T20:24:57.000Z","scoreUpdateDate":"2025-09-11T14:05:51.000Z","overallScoreSortIndex":10,"walmartId":863217289,"modelLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/graco-extend2fit-3-in-1\/m399639\/","criteria":[{"attributeId":253,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":2,"name":"Ease of use","displayName":"Ease of use","description":"Our judgment of how easy each seat is to use including the clarity of labels and instructions, adjustments of clips and buckles, the transition of the seat between modes and installation features such as LATCH connections, belt paths, top tethers and booster guides.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":3298,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":3,"name":"Forward facing fit-to-vehicle","displayName":"Forward facing fit-to-vehicle","description":"A rating of how compatible, easy and secure a child car seat can be correctly installed in the forward-facing direction. This rating is a combination of the LATCH system and belt ratings that are available individually on the model page.\n","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":3297,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":4,"name":"Rear facing fit-to-vehicle","displayName":"Rear facing fit-to-vehicle","description":"A rating of how compatible, easy and secure a child car seat can be correctly installed in the rear-facing direction. This rating is a combination of LATCH system and belt ratings that are available individually on the model page.\n\n","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"}],"description":"The <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//graco-extend2fit-3-in-1//m399639//">Graco Extend2Fit\u00a03-in-1<\/a> all-in-one car seat is designed for all stages of use, converting from a rear-facing harnessed infant seat to a forward-facing harnessed seat and highback booster, and accommodating children from 4 to 100 pounds. The Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 stands out to CR\u2019s testers for its potential to keep children rear-facing in vehicles for longer\u2014up to 50 pounds\u2014which is the safest way for young children to ride. The included leg extension panel slides out from under the seat to provide additional legroom in rear-facing mode.\u00a0<\/p>\nMore Features We Like<\/strong><\/strong> \u2022 No-rethread harness for easy height adjustments. \u2022 Installs easily both rear-facing and forward-facing with LATCH or seat belt. \u2022 Kids can stay rear-facing up to 50 pounds.<\/p>\nAdditional Specs<\/strong> \u2022 Dimensions: <\/strong>25x19x21 inches (HxWxL). \u2022 Weight:<\/strong> 22 pounds.\u00a0 \u2022 Car seat weight limits:<\/strong> Rear-facing, 4 to 50 pounds; forward-facing, 26.5 to 65 pounds; booster, 40 to 100 pounds. \u2022 Notable: <\/strong>Has two cup holders for snacks and drinks.<\/p>","ratingsLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/harnessed-car-seat\/c34825\/"},{"_id":400778,"modelName":"SlimFit 3 in 1","slugName":"graco-slimfit-3-in-1-400778","slugModelName":"slimfit-3-in-1","defaultUpc":"047406142842","upcs":[{"upc":"47406142842","isDefault":false},{"upc":"47406140527","isDefault":false},{"upc":"47406143702","isDefault":false},{"upc":"47406176199","isDefault":false}],"mpns":[{"mpn":"1999656","isDefault":false},{"mpn":"1980623","isDefault":false},{"mpn":"2001876","isDefault":false},{"mpn":"2136871","isDefault":false}],"asin":"B01N3MYVZM","overallScoreDescription":"Overall score is a combination of crash protection, belt fit, ease-of-use and fit-to-vehicle scores in both harnessed and booster modes. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.","overallDisplayScore":71,"price":240,"priceDescription":"An approximate retail price.","brandId":158070,"brandName":"Graco","brandSlugName":"graco","productGroupTypeId":6,"productGroupTypeName":"SUBCATEGORY","productGroupClassificationId":1,"productGroupClassificationName":"PRODUCTS","productGroupId":200939,"productGroupName":"All-In-One Car Seats","testStateId":1,"testStateName":"Tested","modelAvailabilityId":1,"modelAvailabilityName":"Available","productGroupHierarchy":{"franchiseId":28985,"franchiseName":"Babies & kids","franchiseSlugName":"babies-kids","franchiseCuGroupId":2301,"subFranchiseId":28986,"subFranchiseName":"Baby & toddler","subFranchiseSlugName":"baby-toddler","subFranchiseCuGroupId":2302,"superCategoryId":28987,"superCategoryName":"Car Seats","superCategorySlugName":"car-seats","superCategorySingularName":"Car Seat","superCategoryCuGroupId":2303,"categoryId":34825,"categoryName":"Harnessed Car Seats","categorySlugName":"harnessed-car-seat","categoryCuGroupId":30271,"subCategoryId":200939,"subCategoryName":"All-In-One Car Seats","subCategorySlugName":"all-in-one-carseats","subCategoryCuGroupId":35145},"expertReview":{"summary":"The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 is a narrow all-in-one car seat that transitions from harnessed mode (rear-facing and forward-facing) to booster mode, growing with your child from infancy to the big-kid years. The SlimFit 3-in-1 accommodates children weighing from 5 lbs to 100 lbs. This all-in-one car seat offers several helpful features, like a no-rethread harness, push-on LATCH connectors, and a washable seat cover pad. <\/p>  <\/p>","bottomLine":"The Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 all-in-one car seat performed well in our fit-to-vehicle, booster fit, and ease-of-use evaluations. Its narrow design and rotating cupholders facilitate fitting three car seats across the back seat, making it a good choice for smaller cars. Based on CR\u2019s independent crash test results, we would not recommend using the seat past 52 lbs in harnessed mode. See the \u201cDetailed Test Results\u201d section for how it performed in our crash testing. <\/p>This seat may be a good choice for: <\/strong><\/p><ul><li>Families who want to purchase an all-in-one car seat (as opposed to using an <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//infant-car-seat//c28699///">infant seat<\/a> for the first year and then switching to a <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//harnessed-car-seat//c34825//#categories=200941\">convertible seat<\/a>)<\/li><li>Anyone who needs a simple and straightforward installation process, thanks to the push-on LATCH connectors<\/li><li>Families who need a seat that\u2019s easy to move between multiple cars<\/li><li>Families who need to fit three car seats across the back seat<\/li><li>Cars with a small backseat<\/li><\/ul>","highs":"<ul><li>Excellent rear-facing and forward-facing LATCH installation<\/li><li>At 19 lbs., it\u2019s lighter than several other models we tested, making it more portable<\/li><li>Narrow width and rotating cupholders to facilitate 3-across car-seat installations <\/li><li>Push-on LATCH connectors<\/li><li>Recline level bubble indicator<\/li><li>Excellent belt fit in booster mode<\/li><li>Harness stores within seat for booster use<\/li><\/ul>","lows":"<ul><li>In CR\u2019s crash testing, we found structural issues using the heaviest crash test dummy (see Detailed Test Results) <\/li><li>Doesn\u2019t convert to a backless booster<\/li><\/ul>","review":"Ease of use: <\/strong>Our testers found this seat easy to use, with clear labeling and instructions, excellent LATCH installation and easy harness adjustments, along with easy chest clip and buckle use.<\/p>Fit-to-vehicle LATCH: <\/strong>This seat scored very highly for LATCH installation in both rear-facing and forward-facing modes in CR\u2019s tests. <\/p>Fit-to-vehicle belt: <\/strong>The Graco SlimFit scored well for secure seat belt installation in rear-facing mode, but performed less well in forward-facing mode.<\/p>Booster fit: <\/strong>This seat does an excellent job of positioning the lap and shoulder belts for booster-aged kids. The SlimFit\u2019s shell shape prevents interference with the vehicle head restraints in many seating positions, which should make it compatible with more vehicles.<\/p>Crash protection: <\/strong>As part of Consumer Reports\u2019 <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//car-seats//how-consumer-reports-tests-child-car-seats///">car seat evaluation program<\/a>, CR conducts its own simulated frontal crash tests. In 2 of 2 tests using the Hybrid III weighted 6-year-old crash test dummy (62 lbs.) with the seat installed forward-facing using the lap-and-shoulder belt and top tether, the shoulder belt tore into the shell, resulting in very sharp, jagged edges at the crack location. The sharp edges of the cracked shell could cause injury to the child. <\/p>Additional Information<\/strong><\/p>Good to know: <\/strong>All child car seats sold in the United States are required to meet government safety standards. <\/p>About our testing: <\/strong>Consumer Reports\u2019 child car seat tests are not designed to test compliance with federal standards. Rather, we evaluate car seat performance under conditions designed by our experts that go beyond the required federal safety standards. Consumer Reports\u2019 independent car seat crash test program has been carefully designed to simulate the forces encountered during a crash, while replicating some of the real-world factors that might impact a car seat\u2019s performance. Our testing aims to determine which car seats could provide an extra level of safety when compared to other models in the same category. <\/p>Basic, Better, or Best: <\/strong>CR rates the child car seats we crash test on a scale of Basic, Better, and Best, based on the additional margin of safety they may provide. Read about <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//how-we-test///">how we test car seats<\/a> to learn more about our crash test protocol.<\/p>"},"expertRatings":{"isRecommended":true,"isBestseller":false,"isBestBuy":false,"isDontBuy":false},"isPublishable":true,"availabilityUpdDate":"2020-02-27T15:31:01.000Z","lastPublishedDate":"2025-10-23T14:49:45.352Z","firstPublishedDate":"2021-03-08T21:07:42.000Z","profileImage":{"fileName":"400778-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-slimfit-3-in-1-10046560","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"png","imageTypeId":1},"galleryImages":[{"fileName":"400778-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-slimfit-3-in-1-10046564","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"400778-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-slimfit-3-in-1-10046563","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"400778-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-slimfit-3-in-1-10046562","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"400778-all-in-one-car-seats-graco-slimfit-3-in-1-10046561","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2}],"cuModelId":"11199023773","cuGroupId":35145,"isModelRatingFromSurveyCategory":false,"isPublishedInPCR":true,"editorialAttributes":[{"name":"Additional Information","sortOrder":7}],"recommendationUpdateDate":"2021-03-08T20:28:42.000Z","bestBuyUpdateDate":"2021-03-08T20:28:42.000Z","scoreUpdateDate":"2025-09-11T14:05:51.000Z","overallScoreSortIndex":13,"defaultMpn":null,"walmartId":55047788,"modelLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/graco-slimfit-3-in-1\/m400778\/","criteria":[{"attributeId":253,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":2,"name":"Ease of use","displayName":"Ease of use","description":"Our judgment of how easy each seat is to use including the clarity of labels and instructions, adjustments of clips and buckles, the transition of the seat between modes and installation features such as LATCH connections, belt paths, top tethers and booster guides.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":3298,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":3,"name":"Forward facing fit-to-vehicle","displayName":"Forward facing fit-to-vehicle","description":"A rating of how compatible, easy and secure a child car seat can be correctly installed in the forward-facing direction. This rating is a combination of the LATCH system and belt ratings that are available individually on the model page.\n","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":3297,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":4,"name":"Rear facing fit-to-vehicle","displayName":"Rear facing fit-to-vehicle","description":"A rating of how compatible, easy and secure a child car seat can be correctly installed in the rear-facing direction. This rating is a combination of LATCH system and belt ratings that are available individually on the model page.\n\n","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":5,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"}],"description":"The <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//graco-slimfit-3-in-1//m400778//">Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 car seat<\/a> fits well in small cars, thanks to its slim profile. Our testers ranked it highly for ease of use and noted that it has very clear labels and instructions, making installation easy for other caregivers. Adjusting the harness is simple and doesn\u2019t require rethreading, and the cup holders rotate so you can save even more space (ideal if you\u2019re lining up <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//best-cars-to-fit-three-child-car-seats-across-second-row-a2654045254//">three car seats in a row<\/a>).<\/p>\nMore Features We Like<\/strong><\/strong> \u2022 <\/strong>Offers 10 headrest positions and four recline positions to grow with your child. \u2022 <\/strong>Has push-on LATCH connectors to get a quick and secure installation. \u2022 <\/strong>The seat weighs less than 20 pounds, making it more portable than other all-in-ones we\u2019ve tested.<\/p>\nAdditional Specs<\/strong> \u2022 Dimensions:<\/strong> 26x20x22 inches (HxWxL). \u2022 Weight:<\/strong> 20 pounds. \u2022 Car seat weight limits: <\/strong>Rear-racing, 5 to 40 pounds; forward-facing, 26.5 to 65 pounds; booster, 40 to 100 pounds.\u00a0 \u2022 Notable: <\/strong>Includes a baby insert, and the seat cover is easy to access without removing the harness.<\/p>","ratingsLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/harnessed-car-seat\/c34825\/"},{"_id":416894,"modelName":"All4Stages Slim","slugName":"evenflo-all4stages-slim-416894","slugModelName":"all4stages-slim","defaultUpc":"032884204380","asin":"B0DPGJ7PBX","overallScoreDescription":"Overall score is a combination of crash protection, belt fit, ease-of-use and fit-to-vehicle scores in both harnessed and booster modes. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.","overallDisplayScore":69,"price":210,"priceDescription":"An approximate retail price.","brandId":158052,"brandName":"Evenflo","brandSlugName":"evenflo","productGroupTypeId":6,"productGroupTypeName":"SUBCATEGORY","productGroupClassificationId":1,"productGroupClassificationName":"PRODUCTS","productGroupId":200939,"productGroupName":"All-In-One Car Seats","testStateId":1,"testStateName":"Tested","modelAvailabilityId":1,"modelAvailabilityName":"Available","productGroupHierarchy":{"franchiseId":28985,"franchiseName":"Babies & kids","franchiseSlugName":"babies-kids","franchiseCuGroupId":2301,"subFranchiseId":28986,"subFranchiseName":"Baby & toddler","subFranchiseSlugName":"baby-toddler","subFranchiseCuGroupId":2302,"superCategoryId":28987,"superCategoryName":"Car Seats","superCategorySlugName":"car-seats","superCategorySingularName":"Car Seat","superCategoryCuGroupId":2303,"categoryId":34825,"categoryName":"Harnessed Car Seats","categorySlugName":"harnessed-car-seat","categoryCuGroupId":30271,"subCategoryId":200939,"subCategoryName":"All-In-One Car Seats","subCategorySlugName":"all-in-one-carseats","subCategoryCuGroupId":35145},"expertReview":{"summary":"The Evenflo All4Stages Slim is a narrow, all-in-one car seat that transitions all the way from a rear-facing infant car seat to a front-facing backless booster seat. The seat has 12 height adjustment levels to grow with your child, and it can be used from 4 lbs to 120 lbs. While the All4Stages is a fairly no-frills car seat, it still offers some parent-friendly features, like a no-rethread harness and the ability to store the harness with the seat when converting to booster mode. The seat cover can be machine-washed and dried.<\/p>  <\/p>","bottomLine":"The Evenflo All4Stages Slim is an all-in-one car seat that can accommodate children from 4 to 120 lbs. and transitions from rear-facing to front-facing mode to grow with your child. This all-in-one provides a great balance of price and just enough ease-of-use features. It\u2019s not fancy and lacks some of the premium features, high-end fabrics, and finishes that some pricier car seats offer, but it\u2019s generally very simple to use and install. CR\u2019s testers note that achieving a proper recline with the Evenflo All4Stages Slim is the most challenging part of installing the seat, and in the upper recline positions, you might need to remove your vehicle\u2019s head restraint to get a better, more secure fit.<\/p>This seat may be a good choice for: <\/strong><\/p><ul><li>Families who want to purchase an all-in-one car seat (as opposed to using an <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//infant-car-seat//c28699///">infant seat<\/a> for the first year and then switching to a <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//harnessed-car-seat//c34825//#categories=200941\">convertible seat<\/a>)<\/li><li>Anyone who needs a simple and straightforward installation process, thanks to the push-on LATCH connectors<\/li><li>Families who need a seat that\u2019s easy to move between multiple cars<\/li><li>Families who need to fit  three car seats across the back seat<\/li><li>Cars with a small back seat<\/li><li>Parents of preemies over 4 lbs  <\/li><\/ul>","highs":"<ul><li>Narrow width (17 inches) makes 3-across car-seat installations possible<\/li><li>Lightweight for an all-in-one, making it easier to move between cars as needed<\/li><li>Harness can be adjusted without rethreading<\/li><li>Harness stores within seat for booster use<\/li><li>Push-on LATCH connectors<\/li><li>Recline level bubble indicator<\/li><li>Seat cover can be removed for machine-washing and drying<\/li><\/ul>","lows":"<ul><li>May need to use the included body pillow pads for appropriate recline in rear-facing mode<\/li><li>Recline angle may be overly upright for some infants when using the recline line <\/li><li>Must partially remove the car seat cover to route the seat belt strap when rear-facing<\/li><\/ul>","review":"Ease of use: <\/strong>The Evenflo All4Stages Slim all-in-one car seat was fairly easy to use and scored well in CR\u2019s ease of use tests. There\u2019s not much assembly needed; the headrest, harness, and crotch strap are easy to adjust, and the labels and manual are easy to follow. There was some difficulty in routing the seat belt when used in the rear-facing position, and this model is overall not as feature-rich as others we\u2019ve tested, making it a more streamlined choice.<\/p>Fit-to-vehicle LATCH: <\/strong>The forward-facing installation with the LATCH attachments took some effort to adjust, and it wasn\u2019t compatible with the back seat head restraints in several of our tests.<\/p>Fit-to-vehicle belt: <\/strong>Installing the car seat in forward-facing position with the seat belt took CR\u2019s testers multiple efforts to get a secure fit, and you may need to remove the back seat head restraint to get a better fit. In rear-facing position, you have to partially remove the car seat cover to effectively route the seat belt strap, which is tedious, and the cupholder positions also make the seat belt routing slightly difficult.<\/p>Booster fit: <\/strong>Overall, this seat\u2019s ability to correctly position the lap and shoulder belts is very good, but in some seating positions the shoulder belt lays further out on the shoulder of our test dummy (designed to reflect the size and weight of an average six-year old) even with the shoulder belt guide in its highest position. <\/p>Crash protection: <\/strong>In CR\u2019s crash test protocol, this seat had average performance and did not exhibit significant structural integrity issues.<\/p>Additional Information<\/strong><\/p>Good to know: <\/strong>All child car seats sold in the United States are required to meet government safety standards. <\/p>About our testing: <\/strong>Consumer Reports\u2019 child car seat tests are not designed to test compliance with federal standards. Rather, we evaluate car seat performance under conditions designed by our experts that go beyond the required federal safety standards. Consumer Reports\u2019 independent car seat crash test program has been carefully designed to simulate the forces encountered during a crash, while replicating some of the real-world factors that might impact a car seat\u2019s performance. Our testing aims to determine which car seats could provide an extra level of safety when compared to other models in the same category. <\/p>Basic, Better, or Best: <\/strong>CR rates the child car seats we crash test on a scale of Basic, Better, and Best, based on the additional margin of safety they may provide. Read about <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//how-we-test///">how we test car seats<\/a> to learn more about our crash test protocol.<\/p>"},"expertRatings":{"isRecommended":false,"isBestseller":false,"isBestBuy":false,"isDontBuy":false},"isPublishable":true,"availabilityUpdDate":"2025-03-07T15:44:54.000Z","lastPublishedDate":"2025-10-23T14:49:45.352Z","firstPublishedDate":"2025-10-10T18:22:51.000Z","profileImage":{"fileName":"416894-all-in-one-car-seats-evenflo-all4stages-slim-10046591","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"png","imageTypeId":1},"galleryImages":[{"fileName":"416894-all-in-one-car-seats-evenflo-all4stages-slim-10046592","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"416894-all-in-one-car-seats-evenflo-all4stages-slim-10046594","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2},{"fileName":"416894-all-in-one-car-seats-evenflo-all4stages-slim-10046593","relativePath":"\/prod\/products\/cr\/models\/","cloudFrontDomain":"https:\/\/crdms.images.consumerreports.org","fileFormat":"jpg","imageTypeId":2}],"cuModelId":"11199039889","cuGroupId":35145,"isModelRatingFromSurveyCategory":false,"isPublishedInPCR":true,"recommendationUpdateDate":"2025-09-11T13:50:37.000Z","bestBuyUpdateDate":"2025-09-11T14:05:50.000Z","scoreUpdateDate":"2025-09-11T14:05:51.000Z","overallScoreSortIndex":16,"walmartId":7763109099,"modelLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/evenflo-all4stages-slim\/m416894\/","criteria":[{"attributeId":253,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":2,"name":"Ease of use","displayName":"Ease of use","description":"Our judgment of how easy each seat is to use including the clarity of labels and instructions, adjustments of clips and buckles, the transition of the seat between modes and installation features such as LATCH connections, belt paths, top tethers and booster guides.","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":3298,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":3,"name":"Forward facing fit-to-vehicle","displayName":"Forward facing fit-to-vehicle","description":"A rating of how compatible, easy and secure a child car seat can be correctly installed in the forward-facing direction. This rating is a combination of the LATCH system and belt ratings that are available individually on the model page.\n","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"},{"attributeId":3297,"attributeTypeId":1,"attributeTypeName":"TEST_RESULT","sortOrder":4,"name":"Rear facing fit-to-vehicle","displayName":"Rear facing fit-to-vehicle","description":"A rating of how compatible, easy and secure a child car seat can be correctly installed in the rear-facing direction. This rating is a combination of LATCH system and belt ratings that are available individually on the model page.\n\n","attributeDataTypeId":3,"attributeDataTypeName":"numeric-rating-score","isProductGroupMainAttribute":true,"isAttributeArchived":false,"isFilterSuppressed":false,"value":4,"ratingsBlobScale":"5pt"}],"description":"The <a href=https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/car-seats/best-car-seats-under-250-dollars-a5564081421/"https:////www.consumerreports.org//babies-kids//car-seats//evenflo-all4stages-slim//m416894//">Evenflo All4Stages Slim<\/a> is an all-in-one car seat that can accommodate children from 4 to 120 pounds and transitions from rear-facing to front-facing mode to grow with your child. This all-in-one provides a great balance of price and just enough ease-of-use features. It\u2019s not fancy and lacks some of the premium features, high-end fabrics, and finishes that some pricier car seats offer, but it\u2019s generally very simple to use and install. CR members can also save an additional 15 percent on Evenflo products sitewide with our member-exclusive promo code.\u00a0<\/p>\nMore Features We Like<\/strong><\/strong> \u2022<\/strong> Narrow width (17 inches) makes three-across car-seat installations possible. \u2022<\/strong> Lightweight for an all-in-one, making it easier to move between cars as needed. \u2022<\/strong> Harness can be adjusted without rethreading.<\/p>\nAdditional Specs<\/strong> \u2022 Dimensions: <\/strong>25x17x22 inches (HxWxL). \u2022 Weight:<\/strong> 24 pounds. \u2022 Car seat weight limits: <\/strong>Rear-racing, 4 to 40 pounds; forward-facing, 30 to 65 pounds; booster, 40 to 120 pounds. \u2022 Notable: <\/strong>Can be used as a high-back booster up to 120 pounds.<\/p>","ratingsLink":"\/babies-kids\/car-seats\/harnessed-car-seat\/c34825\/"}]" hide-index />

Best Convertible Car Seats Under $250

Best Booster Car Seats Under $250

Jessica D’Argenio Waller, MS, CNS, LDN, CPST

Jessica D’Argenio Waller is a baby and health writer and editor at Consumer Reports, covering a range of topics, from strollers to infant formula to safe sleep practices. Before joining CR in 2025, she was editorial director at Motherly. Jessica is a licensed and board-certified nutritionist and a certified child passenger safety technician, a mom of two, and an avid runner and home cook.

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