Parenting Pod is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat Review (by a CPST)

Just like most first-time expecting parents out there, I started my car seat search knowing very little about car seats. I was not yet a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) and was more concerned if I liked the color of the car seat than its safety features.

Luckily, with the little research I completed, I ended up with one of the most versatile and easy-to-use car seats: the Chicco KeyFit 30. This seat is by far one of my favorite seats to work with as a CPST. I typically recommend it for inexperienced parents, families with multiple children, and those with smaller vehicles. In addition to its versatile nature, it is also budget-friendly. Let’s dive in to see if the KeyFit 30 is right for you!

Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat
User-friendly. Easy to use use. Manual is easy to understand. Low harness slots allow for a good fit. Infant insert. Budget-friendly while delivering what you need without the extra frills or unnecessary features.

What Are Its Age and Weight Requirements?

For the use of this rear-facing only seat, the child must meet the following criteria:

  • Birth to 2 years of age
  • Weight: 4-30 lbs (2-13.5 kg)
  • Height: 30 inches (73 cm) or less
  • The child’s head is no less than 1 inch below the top of the headrest.

If your child meets or exceeds ANY of the above criteria, they have officially outgrown the seat, and a different child restraint option should be used. The newborn positioner should only be used for infants who weigh between 4 and 11 pounds (2 and 5 kg). This seat should never be used forward-facing.

What Are the Chicco KeyFit 30’s Most Important Features?

While the base model of the KeyFit 30 has been described as a basic, no-fuss car seat, it still has plenty of important and favorable features.

Infant Inserts

chicco keyfit 30 infant insert

The KeyFit 30 comes with two inserts for newborn positioning and head support. The newborn positioner (the insert the baby sits on) is optional but is typically needed for babies in the 4- to 11-pound range for proper fit. The insert must be removed once the child weighs 11 pounds.
While the appearance of the head supports may vary depending upon the color or trim level you select, the insert itself is optional at any weight. It can be used at any weight so long as the harness straps are in the two lowest slots. Chicco does not permit the harness straps and the head support to be routed through the same slots. In my experience, once your child reaches the top harness slot, the head support insert is no longer necessary.

Recline Foot

chicco keyfit 30 recline foot

You can adjust the recline of the base with the press of a button. The KeyFit 30’s multiple recline levels make this seat quite versatile in many vehicles.

Recline Angle Indicator

chicco keyfit 30 recline angle indicator


The recline indicator located on the base features a bubble that must be positioned between two arrows for the proper recline angle. This indicator is typically easy to read and position in a vehicle. For installation in baseless mode, the recline indicator is a red line on the side of the carrier. This red line must be level to the ground when installed without a base.
It is important to note that while an installation is correct when the bubble is located anywhere between the two arrows, smaller infants and those without head control will most likely benefit from maximizing the recline potential to assist with proper positioning and airway support. A bubble that is closer to the front vehicle seat will indicate the carrier is more upright compared to a bubble located more toward the back of the vehicle seat, which will indicate it is more reclined.

Lockoff

chicco keyfit 30 lockoff

The KeyFit 30 base can be secured to the vehicle seat by using a seatbelt or lower anchor connectors. If the seatbelt is the preferred installation method, the KeyFit 30’s base comes equipped with an easy-to-use lock-off. Instead of locking the vehicle seat belt, the caregiver routes the seatbelt as indicated on the base and slides it into the lock-off that is clearly labeled on the side of the base.

Lower Anchor (LATCH) Connectors

chicco keyfit 30 anchor connectors

The lower anchor connectors are extremely easy to use and one of the best designed, in my opinion. Looking somewhat like a stapler, these connectors are rigid enough to help you snap onto your lower anchor bars (even if they are deep in your seat) and are simple to remove with just a press of the button. Storage for the connectors, should you choose to install with the vehicle seat belt, is also clearly labeled on the base.

Carrier Handle Position

The KeyFit 30’s handle is permitted to be in any locked position while in the vehicle. The handle must be in the “carry” position when removing the carrier from the vehicle. It can be adjusted by pushing the two orange buttons on the sides of the carrier. The handle typically moves easily around the carrier’s canopy without getting caught.

What are the Downsides?

The KeyFit 30 has very few true downsides. However, some features should be considered before purchase to determine if it is a dealbreaker for your family’s needs or lifestyle.

Potential Downsides:

  • Coarse fabric
  • Heavier carrier
  • Challenging baseless install
  • No color-coded belt path
  • Rethread harness
  • Smaller canopy

Many of these potential issues are discussed below in detail, but here are the highlights.

  • The fabric isn’t the softest but is easy to clean and stain-resistant.
  • The carrier is on the heavier end of the spectrum of seats on the market.
  • While the baseless install process is not significantly difficult, some parents may struggle with achieving the correct recline (especially without a rolled towel) and the appropriate level of tightness.
  • Unlike other seats on the market, the base does not have a color-coded belt path for the vehicle seat belt installation, leading to some confusion in the installation process.
  • The harness is a rethread harness that adds extra (though infrequent) work for the parents versus a non-rethread harness.
  • The canopy does not cover the entirety of the child’s legs and can be a dealbreaker for those who need the added sun protection.

Let’s take a deep dive into the KeyFit 30!

Chicco KeyFit 30 vs KeyFit 30 ClearTex vs KeyFit 30 Zip vs KeyFit 30 Zip Air

chicco car seat families

Chicco has four “families” of infant seats, including the original Chicco KeyFit, KeyFit 30, KeyFit 35, and Fit2. Within these “families” are different models such as the Fit2 and the Fit2 Air, the KeyFit 30, the KeyFit 30 ClearTex, KeyFit 30 Zip, and the KeyFit 30 Zip Air, the KeyFit 35, KeyFit 35 ClearTex, and the KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex. There are no additional models of the original KeyFit.

Most of the offerings within the KeyFit 30 models remain the same as the original KeyFit 30. The price markup is minimal between the models as well.

The KeyFit 30 family ranges from $219.99 MSRP for the basic model to $249.99 MSRP for the KeyFit 30 Zip Air. Across the models, the weight and height ranges remain the same; all models use the Supercinch LATCH system, bubble levels, and contain a lock-off on the base. The same base is used for all models and weighs 7 lbs. The install remains simple, with all models having removable head and body support, a five-recline-position base, and Chicco’s EPS energy-absorbing foam for impact protection. There is very little weight difference across the carrier models from 9.5 lbs to 10.25 lbs, which is most likely due to the variance in soft goods and not the carrier itself. All models are the same dimensions (27.5 × 16.75 × 24 inches) and the same base dimensions (20 × 15 × 8 inches) with a product depth footprint of 22 inches. All models also contain one crotch buckle position, which is another potential adjustment point parents won’t have to worry about as their child grows.

The basic version of the KeyFit 30 is a no-frills, budget-friendly, and basic Chicco car seat. It is simple to install and easy to use. Some parents may not find this basic model to be as flashy. The fabric is not as soft as other seats on the market but with the tradeoff that it is fairly easy to clean and repels stains quite well. In my personal mom experience with this model, I did not run into any staining issues during the 15 months I used my seat.

The ClearTex model contains all the specifications of the original KeyFit 30. This version has ClearTex fabric, which contains no added chemicals and has been GREENGUARD Gold certified. According to Chicco’s website, this certification is conducted by a third party where the fabric is rigorously tested for chemical emissions and the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present. Products that have been GREENGUARD Gold certified by this third party have met the low chemical emission standard. The ClearTex model is a great option for those who are environmentally conscious but are looking for a budget-friendly option as well.

The KeyFit 30 Zip keeps all the features of the basic model and adds an extendable canopy with a zip-open mesh window for better airflow. It also includes a zip-open boot cover for colder temperatures. This version is a great option for parents who live in a climate that experiences varying weather and seasons or who travel to those types of climates frequently. The Mesh window allows for more airflow in the warmer months, and the seat cover will keep baby toasty in the colder temperatures.

Finally, the KeyFit 30 Zip Air is very similar to the basic and Zip models. Its major perks include 3D AirMesh, which creates a breathable backrest and more ventilation, a zip-off canopy, a zip-on visor, and a zip-around boot cover. This is another model that would be nice for families living in varying climates. The zip features allow for easy removal of extra features or cleaning.

How Heavy Is the Chicco KeyFit 30?

The carrier of the KeyFit 30 weighs 9.6 pounds, and the base weighs 7 pounds. While not the lightest carrier on the market, this carrier’s weight is certainly not the heaviest either and well within the average of seats available.

Will the Chicco KeyFit 30 Fit in My Car?

In my experience, the KeyFit 30 is a versatile seat that fits in a variety of vehicles and works in many unique car seat situations. The rough measurements of the carrier are 27.5 × 16.75 × 24 inches. The base measures 20 × 15 × 8 inches. The depth footprint is 22 inches. In my practice, you will need around 25 to 30 inches from your vehicle’s back seat to the seat in front of it for proper installation and to prevent bracing of the vehicle seat on the child restraint. While every vehicle and situation are different, especially with multiple car seats in the vehicle, this Chicco seat tends to be a top contender on my recommendations list.

Is the Car Seat Easy to Install?

The KeyFit 30 can be installed in three ways: using the base with lower anchor connectors, using the base with the vehicle belt, or baseless with the seat belt. Overall, all installation options are relatively straightforward if you read the manual—and make sure you do. In my opinion, the KeyFit 30 was made for LATCH installation, which would be the simplest for even the novice caregiver. It is typically the method I recommend as a CPST unless there is a particular reason for me to suggest otherwise, such as caregiver preference or a vehicle-related issue. Despite my love of the LATCH install, the seat belt install is simplified with the use of the lock-off instead of locking the vehicle seat belt retractor. With a baseless install, some specific issues could come into play. While routing or locking the vehicle seat belt is not difficult, many caregivers struggle with getting a tight install or achieving the correct recline angle. This type of installation takes practice to perfect.

My opinion of the installation methods (including manual directions) is that the KeyFit 30 is simple, straightforward, and easy to understand.

Installation Instructions

The Chicco YouTube channel is an excellent resource for visual assistance with installation. For assistance installing your KeyFit 30 in one of the three approved ways, consult your manual and check out these videos.

Installation with the base

Here is a quick video of the installation process of the base with lower anchor connectors:

YouTube video

While this video only offers a quick snippet of the process without narration, installation with the lower anchor connectors is quite simple.

Follow these steps to install with your lower anchor connectors:

  1. Choose a vehicle seating position, and make sure your vehicle is on a level surface.
  2. Place the base on the seat. Locate the bubble level indicator and adjust the recline foot until the bubble falls between the arrows on the indicator.
  3. Use the LATCH release lever to loosen the LATCH straps to their full length and remove both LATCH connectors from their storage compartments.
  4. Locate your vehicle’s LATCH anchor bars and attach both LATCH connectors to the anchor bars.
  5. Tighten the LATCH straps by pulling up on the LATCH pull strap while applying pressure on the base firmly into the vehicle seat.
  6. Check that the base does not move more than 1 inch from side to side and front to back. Continue to tighten until the base passes this test.
  7. Finish the process by rolling the LATCH pull strap into the strap storage slot and double-check that the recline indicator bubble is still located between the arrows.

Below a visual walk-through of seat installation with the base and vehicle seat belt:

YouTube video

Installation without the base

The KeyFit 30 can be installed without a base, which is a great option for taxi and air travel. To install baseless, follow these instructions:

Choose a vehicle seating position and make sure your vehicle is on a level surface.
Position the carrier on the vehicle seat so that the red level line (located on the side of the carrier) is level with the ground. You may use a rolled-up towel to help you achieve the correct recline.
Thread your vehicle seat belt through the seat belt guide on the carrier and buckle the seat belt. Pull out the shoulder belt webbing to activate the locking mode of your seat belt. If the belt does not lock, do not use that seating position to install the carrier.

Apply pressure to the carrier and pull up on the shoulder belt to remove slack from the belt. Allow the shoulder belt to rest on the vehicle’s seatback.

Make sure the carrier is secure and moves less than 1 inch from side to side and front to back. Ensure that the carrier has remained level.

Safety Ratings and Crash Test Results

It is important to remember that all legitimate car seats approved for use in the United States have been self-certified by the car seat manufacturer to conform to the dynamic testing requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 213, Child Restraint System. Furthermore, a correct installation will help the car seat to remain safe and function as intended in a crash. Many manufacturers do not release the raw data from their crash tests. Several third parties, including the New York Times and Consumer Reports, have conducted independent testing or hired research firms to do so on their behalf.

One of the best sources for accurate safety ratings and crash test information is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In the past, the NHTSA investigated the benefit of analyzing crash test data of child restraint systems but determined this information would not provide understandable, practical, or meaningful information to caregivers. However, the NHTSA does provide car restraint ease-of-use ratings, which examine the manual instructions, installation features, labels, and securing of the child.

The KeyFit 30 was given a 4 Star (out of 5) rating overall for its ease of use. The NHTSA rated the securing of the child as 3 Stars because the harness chest clip was not labeled to indicate where it should be placed on the child’s body. The NHTSA also noted that the infant insert can block the harness slots from being visible, and the seat has a rethread harness.

The labels on the seat were noted to lack transparency. The labels were given a 2-star rating indicating they lacked information on how to prepare the LATCH attachments for use, the correct harness height relative to the child, supplemental sizing information, or a full picture of a properly restrained child. Both the instruction manual and vehicle installation features categories received 5 Stars. The instruction manual is written in an easy-to-understand format, but the manual storage location can be difficult to spot unless you know where to look. The instructions for determining seat belt types are present but incomplete. For installation, the LATCH attachments are easy to use as they have buttons that can be depressed for removal. However, there is no labeling that indicates in which position the carrier handle should be placed when in the vehicle.

For reference, this is what the NHTSA 5 Star rating system means:

  • 5 Stars = Excellent features on this child restraint for this category
  • 4 Stars = Above-average features on this child restraint for this category
  • 3 Stars = Average features on this child restraint for this category
  • 2 Stars = Below-average features on this child restraint for this category
  • 1 Star = Poor features on this child restraint for this category
  • N/A = Does not contain any features that require a rating

How Comfortable Is the Chicco KeyFit 30?

The KeyFit 30 is well cushioned and contains extra padding in the form of the infant insert (which comes out at 11 pounds) and the head support. The carrier is designed to comfortably fit babies of all sizes, from preemies to older infants. The fabric used for the basic KeyFit 30 model is not the softest on the market. However, it is easy to clean and, in my experience, repels staining. The basic fabric is not uncomfortable, but if you want something softer, consider upgrading to the ClearTex or higher-level models such as the Zip or Air.

Improvements could be made to the canopy as some parents dislike that it does not cover the entire carrier. In my experience, it does the trick to keep the sun out of the baby’s eyes and keep them safe from the elements. The five-point harness is basic but satisfactory. The shoulder pads are soft and padded but not as thick as some other seats on the market. The harness is a rethread harness, which means that once baby grows and the strap height requires adjusting, the harness straps must be removed from the carrier and threaded through a new slot. This type of harness is not as easy to adjust as a no-rethread harness, but the process is simple enough for parents to manage as it is an infrequent adjustment. Overall, the basic KeyFit 30 is comfortable and stylish without being overly flashy.

Where Do I Find Important Information?

Date of Manufacture label:

chicco keyfit 30 manufacturer info
chicco keyfit 30 manufacturer info 2

This label can be found on the bottom of the base and the bottom of the carrier. The label includes the date of expiration in addition to the date of manufacture. The seat expires after 6 years.

FAA Approval (United States):

chicco keyfit 30 FAA approval

The KeyFit 30 carrier is FAA approved for use aboard an aircraft. This information is in red letters on the label of the carrier near the red recline line.

Manual:

Chicco Keyfit 30 Manual

This booklet will contain all the information you will need to answer any question you may have about the installation and operation of your seat.

Manual storage:

chicco keyfit 30 manual storage

The KeyFit 30’s base has a nice storage compartment on the front of the base for your manual. This is great to keep it from being misplaced, and it is available for reference as needed.

Lower anchor storage:

chicco keyfit 30 lower anchor storage

Each lower anchor connector has a dedicated storage compartment on either side of the base.

Infant inserts:

chicco keyfit 30 infant insert

Remember to remove the lower infant insert once your baby reaches 11 pounds. The head support may be removed once your child reaches the top harness slots but is optional to use.

What Strollers Is the Chicco KeyFit 30 Compatible With?

There are many compatible Chicco strollers and travel systems on the market, and there are also others produced by different companies that use available adaptors. It’s important to point out that Chicco brand strollers are specifically designed to work with their car seats without causing damage to any latching mechanisms that could affect the seat’s function in a vehicle crash. Therefore, be wary of using a different brand stroller with adaptors. The best-case scenario would involve using another stroller brand that does not interact with the car seat in any way that could cause damage to any connectors.

Let’s look at the many Chicco strollers that are compatible with the KeyFit 30.

Full-Size Strollers

  • Bravo
  • Bravo Air
  • Bravo LE
  • Bravo Primo
  • Bravo Primo Air
  • Corso
  • Corso LE
  • Corso Primo ClearTex
  • Viaro

Lightweight Strollers

  • Mini Bravo Plus

Jogging Strollers

  • Activ3
  • Tre

Double Strollers

  • Cortina Together
  • BravoFor2
  • BravoFor2LE

Frame Strollers

  • KeyFit Caddy
  • Shuttle

There are tons of stroller and travel system options offered by Chicco. Check out their comparison tool here.

How Easy Is It to Clean?

The KeyFit 30 is relatively easy to clean. All fabric goods on the seat can be spot-cleaned, hand washed using mild soap and water, or washed in a washing machine with cold water, a mild detergent, and on the delicate cycle. Regardless of the cleaning method selected, all fabrics should be hung to dry. The shoulder pads can be hand washed with water and mild soap and hung to dry. If you need to clean the plastic parts of the seat, use a sponge with mild soap and warm water followed by towel drying. Do not use harsh soaps, sanitizing wipes, or bleach on the plastic parts of your seat. The harness can only be sponge cleaned using warm water and mild soap. The straps cannot be machine washed, soaked, or otherwise saturated. The LATCH straps cannot be replaced on the base, so take care to only sponge clean them with warm water and mild soap and let them air dry. If you find that your buckle or LATCH hardware is sticky or contains debris and needs to be cleaned, you can sponge wash the outside with water and mild soap. You can also place the buckle (not the strap webbing) into a cup of warm water and agitate to lose the debris. Allow it to air dry.

Overall, it is important to remember not to use bleach, solvents, or household cleaners on your seat as they can weaken the straps and plastic parts. Using soaps or lubricants on the buckle or LATCH hardware is not permitted because it can cause them to malfunction. Always adhere to the instructions given in your seat’s manual. If you need further clarification, contact Chicco directly for guidance. Compared to some seats on the market, Chicco gives plenty of choices for cleaning, including the convenience of machine washing. The cleaning product recommendations are consistent with other car seats and manufacturers. Removal instructions can be obtained from Chicco’s website (www.chiccousa.com).

Is the Chicco Keyfit 30 Airline Approved?

If you plan to take your baby on an airplane, the KeyFit 30 can be an excellent option. This seat is certified for aircraft use. It is recommended that you purchase a dedicated seat for your baby and use the carrier in flight, as well as contact your airline to discuss their child restraint policy. You can only use the carrier in a forward-facing aircraft seat and not jump seats or rear-facing aircraft seats. This seat will need to be installed baseless on the aircraft. Therefore, you will need to be prepared and comfortable with installing your carrier this way. You can refer to your manual for instructions on how to install your seat in this manner. The base is not certified for aircraft use. If you prefer to use your base at your destination, you may pack it in your carry-on luggage or, if necessary, in your checked luggage.

How Long Does It Last?

The KeyFit 30 has a lifespan of 6 years from the date of manufacture. Most infant (rear-facing only) seats have expiration dates from 6-7 years, while most convertible seats have expiration dates from 8-10 years from manufacture. The lifespan of this seat is well within the average industry standard. It’s a great option if you plan to have more children, depending upon the time between children.

For an individual child, this seat’s longevity is based solely upon your child’s unique growth and development. In my experience as a CPST, I have seen this seat last anywhere from 10 to 15 months, with the average being around 12 months. The maximum weight limit of 30 pounds is rarely met unless the child is particularly heavy yet short. Most children will outgrow the seat by meeting the height requirement of 30 inches or the 1-inch rule. The one-inch rule is stipulated by Chicco as another requirement for seat fit in which the child’s head must remain contained within the shell of the seat by 1 inch or more. Once a child’s head reaches 1 inch or less from the top of the seat, they have outgrown the seat. This can happen to children who may have a longer torso compared to their legs. If you happen to have a premature infant, this seat is helpful because it allows for a weight as low as 4 pounds. And you may get more usage out of the seat because of your baby’s lower birth weight and height. Bottom line, it is difficult to determine exactly when a child will outgrow this seat, but on average, you will most likely get a year of use per child.

How Does It Look?

As of this publication, Chicco offers five KeyFit 30 styles: Orion, Iron, Oxford, Calla, and Parker. Other retailers may have older or discontinued styles not available on Chicco’s website. The newest designs are muted or neutral in navy, gray, or black solid colors and stylish. These certainly look sleeker than the brighter-colored former styles.

How Does It Compare?

Let’s look at how the Chicco KeyFit 30 measures up to comparable seats on the market.

Chicco KeyFit 30 vs KeyFit 35

Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat
Anti Rebound bar. No thread harness. Has a higher height and weight limits than the keyfit 30, but also costs more.

Another seat option offered by Chicco is the KeyFit 35. This seat comes in the base model and a ClearTex model at a slightly increased price point compared to the KeyFit 30.

One of the major differences with the KeyFit 35 is that the height and weight limitations were increased from 30 pounds to 35 pounds and from 30 inches to 32 inches.

The KeyFit 35 carrier essentially weighs the same as the KeyFit 30 at 10 pounds. The KeyFit 35 contains many of the same offerings as the KeyFit 30, including the Supercinch LATCH system and a newborn insert.

The carrier has a no-rethread harness, which makes adjusting the harness height easier.

The base that accompanies the KeyFit 35 has an advanced safety feature called an anti-rebound bar, designed to further reduce the movement of the car seat in a crash. Otherwise, the base looks very similar to the KeyFit 30, which includes easy LATCH install and lock-offs. This base is compatible with the KeyFit 30 carrier, so if you’re looking to purchase an extra KeyFit 30-compatible base and like the features of the KeyFit 35 base, you can purchase the KeyFit 35 base.

So, which one should you choose?

  • If you have a history of having or expect to have a child that is taller or heavier, the KeyFit 35 will allow for extra weight and height room, so your child can remain in the infant carrier for longer.
  • If you are budget conscious and want just the basics in a car seat, the KeyFit 30 is an excellent option.
  • If you have a higher budget price point and like the additional features of the anti-rebound bar and the no-rethread harness, choose the KeyFit 35.

Chicco KeyFit 30 vs Britax B-Safe Gen2

Britax B-Safe Gen2
Higher weight and height limits. Heavier than the KeyFit 30. Customizable to fit your child.

The Britax B-Safe Gen2 is a rear-facing car seat designed for infants weighing 4-35 pounds and up to 32 inches in height.

At a similar price point, the Britax seat does allow 5 additional pounds and 2 additional inches, thus increasing the longevity of the seat (similarly to the KeyFit 35).

The carrier and base are slightly heavier than the KeyFit 30 at 10.9 pounds for the carrier and 9 pounds for the base.

The B-Safe is a narrower seat and may not fit all babies well compared to the KeyFit 30. The dimensions of the B-Safe are 26.6 × 17.0 × 25.9 inches. It is a bigger seat, despite the narrow interior, with a smaller product depth of 20 inches (compared to the KeyFit 30’s 22 inches).

Both seats have similar push-on lower anchor connects, seat belt lock-off on the base, and similar baseless installs. The B-Safe does have a steel reinforced base, which explains the extra weight of the base, a feature the KeyFit 30 lacks.

The B-Safe also has a larger canopy with sun protection and an easy-to-read level indicator.

Another important tidbit of information is that Chicco allows for the base of their KeyFit 30 to overhang the front end of the vehicle seat up to 4 inches, while Britax only allows for up to 3 inches. This can be an important factor in vehicles that have shallow seat depths.

The B-Safe cover can also be machine washed and dried in the dryer for easy cleanup.

It also has a newborn harness setting, tailoring the harness for smaller babies that must be switched at 11 pounds, as well as moving the crotch buckle.

The B-Safe mechanism for tightening the LATCH connectors is slightly different than the Chicco but is not overly difficult to use.

Since both the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the B-Safe are extremely similar, including their price point, which should you choose?

  • While the price points are similar, every dollar counts, and the B-Safe does offer extra perks for a slightly cheaper price. So if budget is the final determinator for you, choose the B-Safe.
  • If you want a lighter-weight seat, select the KeyFit 30.
  • If you have a history of having or expect to have a child that is taller or heavier, the B-Safe will allow you to have extra weight and height room, so your child can remain in the infant carrier for longer.
  • If you want a seat with fewer settings and rules to change or remember, go with the KeyFit 30.
  • If you have a vehicle that is smaller or has shallow seat depths, choose the Chicco KeyFit 30.
  • If you want a seat that is customizable to fit your child, the B-Safe may be a better option for you.

All seats mentioned are excellent and have passed the same safety testing requirements. Therefore, it is necessary to choose a car seat that fits your child, your vehicle, your budget, and one that you can use correctly every time.

Verdict

The Chicco KeyFit 30 has been an all-around favorite of mine for years. It is a user-friendly seat for inexperienced and veteran parents alike. The KeyFit 30’s ease of use and easily understood manual makes this seat a solid rear-facing-only option. The carrier’s low harness slots and infant insert allow a good fit for small babies with ample room for growth. The KeyFit 30 remains budget-friendly while delivering what you need in a car seat without the extra frills or unnecessary features.

Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat
User-friendly. Easy to use use. Manual is easy to understand. Low harness slots allow for a good fit. Infant insert. Budget-friendly while delivering what you need without the extra frills or unnecessary features.

If you do desire extra frills and features, Chicco offers many options within their “families” of car seats that may better suit your needs and remain similar in size. The Britax B-Safe Gen2 is another option for those who want some additional features without the increase in cost.
While the Chicco KeyFit 30 will remain a top recommendation for me, the best seat is one that is installed and used correctly every time. Be sure to read your seat manual and consult with a CPST or the manufacturer if you have installation or use questions. Happy shopping!

Leave a Comment