Edit · Car seats

The best three car seats we'd actually buy.

Safety is paramount when choosing a car seat. All our recommendations meet the highest safety standards whilst offering practical features that make daily life easier. Here are our top three picks for newborn car seats.

3 picksUpdated Apr 2026Research hours 42+Tested in real flats, real cars
Three picks, ordered by use caseScroll ↓
01
Maxi-Cosi Pebble 360 Pro2 — Best for ease of use and safety

★ Our top pick

Maxi-Cosi

Maxi-Cosi Pebble 360 Pro2

Best for ease of use and safety

The Pebble 360 Pro2 rotates on its base, making it incredibly easy to get baby in and out of the car. Top safety ratings, breathable fabrics, and compatibility with many pushchair brands make it a popular choice for new parents. Suitable from birth to 15 months.

What's great

  • +360-degree rotation
  • +Excellent safety ratings
  • +Easy installation
  • +Compatible with many pushchairs

What's not

  • Base sold separately
  • Outgrown relatively quickly
  • Premium pricing
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02
Cybex Cloud T i-Size — Best for extended rear-facing and comfort

Cybex

Cybex Cloud T i-Size

Best for extended rear-facing and comfort

The Cloud T offers a lie-flat position for newborns, making it suitable for longer journeys from day one. It can be used rear-facing up to 24 months (longer than most infant seats). Features a 360-degree rotating base and award-winning safety design.

What's great

  • +Lie-flat recline option
  • +Extended rear-facing use
  • +Award-winning safety
  • +Premium materials

What's not

  • Expensive
  • Requires compatible base
  • Heavier than competitors
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03
Joie i-Gemm 3 — Best budget-friendly option

Joie

Joie i-Gemm 3

Best budget-friendly option

A practical, affordable infant car seat without compromising on safety. The i-Gemm 3 offers excellent value with i-Size safety standards, a comfortable newborn insert, and compatibility with Joie pushchairs. Great for budget-conscious parents.

What's great

  • +Excellent value for money
  • +i-Size safety standards
  • +Lightweight
  • +Easy to install

What's not

  • Basic features compared to premium models
  • Less plush materials
  • Shorter usage period
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Naturally paired with

Pushchairs — the next sensible step.

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