Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip vs Evenflo LiteMax NXT

The KeyFit 30 Zip is 1.3 in narrower. The KeyFit 30 Zip lists for $20 less.

Only the differences are shown.

Chicco KeyFit 30 ZipEvenflo LiteMax NXT
TypeInfant car seatInfant car seat
List price$229.99Lowest price$249.99
Rear-facing weight4–30 lb3–30 lb
Rear-facing heightUp to 30 inUp to 32 in
Seat weight9.5 lb8.6 lbLightest
Base weight7 lbNot listed
Width16.5 inNarrowest17.83 in
Head ruleDo Not use this Child Restraint if top of child's head is within 1 inch (25 mm) of the top of the headrest.Top of child's head is at least 2.5 cm (1 in.) below the top of the child restraint seat back
Base includedYesYes
Newborn insertNewborn 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: required for children weighing 1.4 - 2.7 kg (3 - 6 lbs) and optional for children over 2.7 kg (6 lbs).
InstallationLATCH (with base), lap-shoulder belt (with base), lap belt only (with base), lap-shoulder belt (without base, American belt path), lap belt only (without base)LockStrong belt tensioning
Load legNoNo
RotatesNoNo
Recline positions5Not listed
Works with strollersCompatible with all Chicco strollers (except the Liteway and Urbino strollers).Evenflo Q&A: Pivot Xpand strollers (not Pivot Vizor, not Folio3)
Handle in the car3 positions (Carrying, Stationary, Rocking): 'ALWAYS place handle in one of the LOCKED positions when using Child Restraint in vehicle.'The Carry Handle MUST be in any locked position when traveling in a vehicle.
Aircraft labelCertified for aircraft, per the makerCertified for aircraft, per the maker
No added flame retardantsNot listedYes
Expires after6 yearsNot listed

Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip

    Evenflo LiteMax NXT

    Evenflo's lighter-weight infant carrier with SensorSafe alerts and a belt tensioning system. Rear-facing only, 3-30 lb and up to 32 in.

    • Starts at 3 lb
    • Carrier around 8.6 lb
    • SensorSafe reminders (temperature, child left, chest clip) on this version
    • 30 lb limit is lower than 35 lb infant seats
    • Load leg sold separately
    Ask the meadow

    KeyFit 30 Zip or LiteMax NXT?

    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 Zip: certified for planes, installs without a base, 9.5 lb. LiteMax NXT: certified for planes, 8.6 lb.

    What does the extra $20 for the LiteMax NXT get you?

    Per the makers, the LiteMax NXT adds no added flame retardants. Both meet the same federal crash standard.

    Still wondering? Write to us at hello@cribpicks.com and we'll look it up.