Should I Get an Infant Seat or All-in-One Convertible Seat?

While both can be used from birth, each has unique advantages tailored to different stages of your child's growth and your family's lifestyle.  

In this article, we’ll get into all the details, uncovering the features, benefits, and considerations that set these two types of car seats apart, helping you make an informed decision in your baby’s car seat journey. 

Let’s start by breaking down the pros and cons of these bonafide baby rides!

Infant Car Seat Pros & Cons 

 PROS: 

• Portability: Infant car seats are designed to be easily moved in and out of the car, allowing you to get where you need to go without having to constantly wake your baby by putting them in and out of the seat. 
   
• Lightweight Design: These seats are generally lighter than all-in-one convertible car seats, making them easier to transport. 
   
• Convenience: The detachable base stays in the car, so you can quickly click the seat in and out. 

• Newborn Fit: Specifically designed to support newborns, offering a snug fit and proper recline. 
   
• Travel System Compatibility: Many infant car seats can be attached to a compatible stroller, creating a seamless travel system for mobility. For more information on travel systems, check out our Top Travel Systems of the Year article. 
   

CONS: 

• Short Lifespan: Babies outgrow infant car seats faster, typically within 9 months to 2 years, necessitating an upgrade to a convertible car seat. 
   
• Cost: While initially more economical, the need to purchase subsequent seats (convertible car seat and booster seat) can increase overall expenses. 
   
• Limited Use Outside the Car: While travel systems are great for running quick errands during those first few months, it’s important to remember these seats are primarily designed for travel, not for prolonged sitting or use outside the vehicle (no longer than two hours in a 24-hour period). 
  
  

While infant car seats are convenient and portable (with travel system compatibility), they have a much more limited range of use. Once your child reaches the maximum height or weight capacity, transitioning to a convertible or all-in-one car seat becomes necessary. These seats offer the flexibility of both rear-facing and forward-facing modes, accommodating your growing child's needs over time. 

The key distinction between a convertible car seat and an all-in-one convertible car seat is that the latter includes the booster seat stage, streamlining the transition through each phase of your child’s growth without the need for additional purchases. 

For more information, check out our Top Convertible Car Seats and Top Booster Seats articles. 
 

All-in-One Convertible Car Seat Pros & Cons

 PROS: 

• Long-Term Use: Designed to grow with your child from infancy until they are able to use a regular seat belt. 
   
• Cost-Effective: Buying one seat for all stages can save money over time. 
   
• Time Saver: No need to research multiple car seat models throughout the years. 
   
• Extended Utility: Many models safely seat children up to 10 years old. 
   
• Eco-Friendly: Results in less waste compared to buying multiple seats. 
  
  

CONS: 

• Initial Cost: Higher upfront investment compared to an infant car seat. 
   
• Bulkiness: Can be much more difficult to transfer between vehicles due to size and weight. 
   
• Not Travel System-Friendly: Because these seats are bigger and bulkier, they are not designed to be used with strollers as part of a travel system. 
   
• Wear and Tear: Long-term use can lead to accumulation of stains and wear, even with washable covers.
  
  

Infant Car Seats: Unique Features   

Infant car seats offer a couple of unique features designed for newborn convenience and safety that you won’t find in all-in-one car seats. 

They come with detachable bases for seamless transitions between car and stroller (aka travel system), and carry handles for easy transport. Lightweight designs make them portable, and many include a canopy for protection against the elements.  

Additionally, some models are equipped with a load leg, offering extra stability and safety in collisions, catering specifically to the early, delicate stages of a baby's life! 

For more information on how a load leg protects your child, check out our Infant Car Seats 101: What Is A Load Leg? article. 

Q & A 

Q: How long can you use each seat? 

Infant car seats typically support babies from birth up to 30 to 40 lbs. (depending on the model). All-in-one car seats, designed for longevity, can be adjusted and have different modes to accommodate a child from infancy through to the point they no longer need a booster. 

Q: Who should use an all-in-one? 

All-in-one car seats are ideal for parents looking for a long-term solution and aiming to avoid the need for multiple purchases as their child grows. They're suitable from infancy through booster-age, offering a practical choice for families prioritizing convenience and extended use. 

Q: What if I plan to have multiple children? 

For families expecting to grow, investing in an infant car seat may make sense. It ensures compatibility with a travel system for convenience with newborns and can be reused for subsequent children (provided it hasn't expired). Transitioning your first child to an all-in-one or convertible car seat as they grow allows for continued, adaptable use through their car seat years. 

For information about car seat lifespans, check out our When Does My Car Seat Expire? article. 

Q: What else should I consider? 

You should take into account lifestyle factors such as travel habits, vehicle size, and budget. Additionally, think about the convenience of moving a sleeping baby in an infant seat versus the longer-term use and cost-effectiveness of an all-in-one. Safety features, ease of installation, and how the seat fits in your vehicle are also crucial considerations. 

As you shop, you may come across some terms you’re unfamiliar with. Read our Car Seat Terms Explained article to learn all the lingo!  

A Matter of Choice 

Deciding between an infant car seat and an all-in-one convertible seat is more than just a consideration of the seat’s safety features — it's about matching your lifestyle, planning for the future, and ensuring ease and comfort for you and your little one.  

Whether you value the portability and convenience of an infant seat or the long-term value and adaptability of an all-in-one, there is no wrong choice. 

Remember, it's not just about the destination but making sure the ride is safe, comfortable, and tailored to your growing family's needs. 

To learn more about the best car seat choices, check out our Top Infant Car Seats and Top All-in-One Convertible Car Seats articles in our Learning Centre.