“Based on almost 1,000 individual car seat installations and nearly 130 crash tests, CR’s infant car seat ratings represent a comprehensive and rigorous program that allows us to make distinctions between car seat models and offer clear recommendations,” says Michael Bloch, who oversees child seat testing at Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center. “They show the importance of buying based on test results rather than brand name or marketing slogan.”
The infant car seats listed below performed well in our crash tests. Just as important, they also scored highly in our ease-of-use and fit-to-vehicle evaluations, which improves the likelihood that you’ll be able to install and use them correctly—because the safest car seat is the one that fits your vehicle and your child properly every single time.
Car seats are evaluated for their crash protection on a scale of Basic, Better, and Best. See our comprehensive car seat buying guide for more information, plus a breakdown of other car seat types, including all-in-one car seats and convertible car seats, plus how to know when it’s time to switch.
Or you can use our Car Seat Finder. Answer a few questions, and we’ll provide options for car seats that fit your lifestyle, vehicle(s), and budget.
