Chicco KeyFit ClearTex vs Joie Rue

The Rue rear-faces up to 30 lb, versus 22 lb.

Only the differences are shown.

Chicco KeyFit ClearTexJoie Rue
TypeInfant car seatInfant car seat
List price$169.99$169.99
Rear-facing weight4–22 lb4–30 lbHighest rear-facing limit
Rear-facing heightUp to 30 inUp to 30 in
Seat weight9 lb7.8 lbLightest
Base weight7 lb8.7 lb
Width16.75 inNot listed
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.The top of child's head MUST be at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) below the top of the child restraint.
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 can be used, as needed, to provide a snug fit for small babies; low birth weight pillow inside the insert for even smaller babies (rue manual gives no weight limit).
InstallationLATCH (SuperCinch), seat belt (belt lock-off)LATCH (lower anchor attachment), lap/shoulder belt, lap belt only, with or without base
Load legNoNo
Anti-rebound barNot listedYes
RotatesNoNo
Harness heights3Not listed
Recline positions54
Works with strollersAll Chicco strollers except Liteway and UrbinoJoie strollers or appropriate Joie adapters designed for use
Handle in the car3 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 labelCertified for aircraft, per the makerCertified for aircraft, per the maker
No added flame retardantsYesNot listed
Expires after6 years7 years

Chicco KeyFit ClearTex

A KeyFit with ClearTex fabrics made without flame-retardant chemicals, rear-facing 4-22 lb.

  • Flame-retardant-free fabric
  • Light carrier
  • Lower price
  • 22 lb limit

Joie Rue

Rear-facing infant seat with base from Joie; maker manual is titled rue with Base.

  • Maker manual lists LATCH, lap/shoulder belt and lap belt installs, with or without base
  • Base has 4 recline positions per manual
  • Maker states certified for airplane use
  • Manual states a 7-year limit counted from original purchase
  • Manual does not list carrier weight or dimensions
Ask the meadow

KeyFit ClearTex or Rue?

Answers come from each maker's published specs. Safety and health questions link to the agency or medical source.

Which one will my child use longer, the KeyFit ClearTex or the Rue?

The Joie Rue: it goes rear-facing, up to 30 lb. The KeyFit ClearTex goes rear-facing, up to 22 lb. The Rue expires after 7 years.

Which is easier to travel with?

KeyFit ClearTex: certified for planes, 9 lb. Rue: certified for planes, installs without a base, 7.8 lb.

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