Chicco KeyFit 30 ClearTex vs Joie rue LX Spin
The KeyFit 30 ClearTex is 0.8 in narrower. The KeyFit 30 ClearTex lists for $30 less.
Only the differences are shown.
| Chicco KeyFit 30 ClearTex | Joie rue LX Spin | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Infant car seat | Infant car seat |
| List price | $229.99Lowest price | $259.99 |
| Rear-facing weight | 4–30 lb | 4–30 lb |
| Rear-facing height | Up to 30 in | Up to 30 in |
| Seat weight | 9.5 lb | 8 lbLightest |
| Base weight | 7 lb | 14.3 lb |
| Width | 16.75 inNarrowest | 17.5 in |
| Head rule | Do Not use this Child Restraint if top of child's head is within 1 inch (25 mm) of the top of the headrest. | The top of child's head MUST be at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) below the top of the child restraint. |
| Base included | Yes | Yes |
| Newborn insert | Newborn Positioner: only for infants who weigh between 4 and 11 lbs (1.8 and 5 kg); separate Head Rest Insert may be used with or without the Newborn Positioner (never with harness in upper slots). | Infant insert: can be used as necessary to provide a snug fit for babies under 11 lb. (5 kg); low birth weight pillow inside the insert for smaller babies. Pillow is best for babies under 8 lb. (3.6 kg). |
| Installation | LATCH (SuperCinch), seat belt (belt lock-off) | lower anchor attachments, vehicle seat belt, on its base |
| Load leg | No | No |
| Anti-rebound bar | Not listed | Yes |
| Rotates | No | Yes |
| Harness heights | 3 | Not listed |
| Recline positions | 5 | 4 |
| Works with strollers | All Chicco strollers except Liteway and Urbino | Connects to most Joie strollers, chive (adapter-free travel system) |
| Handle in the car | 3 positions (Carrying, Stationary, Rocking): 'ALWAYS place handle in one of the LOCKED positions when using Child Restraint in vehicle.' | Joie recommends to have the handle in the carry position when in the vehicle. (Handle has locked positions plus one convenience position that does not lock.) |
| Aircraft label | Certified for aircraft, per the maker | Certified for aircraft, per the maker |
| No added flame retardants | Yes | Not listed |
| Expires after | 6 years | 7 years |
Chicco KeyFit 30 ClearTex
A KeyFit carrier with a 30 lb limit and flame-retardant-free ClearTex fabrics.
- 30 lb limit
- Flame-retardant-free fabric
- 30 in height limit is low for tall babies
Joie rue LX Spin
Joie infant seat on a base with a 180 degree spin, sold with the chive stroller as a travel system and listed with its own support page.
- Base with a 180º spin
- 4-position base recline
- Not listed by the maker: height limit and expiration
Ask the meadow
KeyFit 30 ClearTex or rue LX Spin?
Answers come from each maker's published specs. Safety and health questions link to the agency or medical source.
Which is easier to travel with?
KeyFit 30 ClearTex: certified for planes, 9.5 lb. rue LX Spin: certified for planes, 8 lb.
What does the extra $30 for the rue LX Spin get you?
Per the makers, the rue LX Spin adds an anti-rebound bar, rotation. Both meet the same federal crash standard.
Still wondering? Write to us at hello@cribpicks.com and we'll look it up.