One of the most important pieces of baby equipment you can buy is a baby capsule. Otherwise, how will you get your tiny new bundle of joy home from the hospital?! Baby capsules are a safe seat that anchors into your car, offering extra comfort and protection to your little one on every car journey you embark on.
The main reason you shop around for a car capsule is because of the safety they can offer your baby. You’ll want all the protection you can get, so you shouldn’t buy the first one you see! Luckily, we’re here to help with this big decision with 12 of the best car capsules the market has to offer, including the Bugaboo Turtle by Nuna Baby Capsule and Britax Safe N Sound Unity Neos Capsule.
Let’s get started!
We conduct our best baby capsule reviews through a combination of product testing, individual research, real buyer feedback and certified paediatrician approval.
We understand that there is no such thing as a “best baby capsule” for everyone, and what is best for one person might not be suitable for another. With this in mind, we assessed baby capsules by comparing different features and specifications, and have highlighted the buyer we believe the product is best suited to.
We considered the following criteria below:
First up is the Bugaboo Turtle from Nuna, a car seat designed to carry your little one through the first year of their life – right from the moment they’re born. This resilient capsule comes with an adjustable head support to ensure every baby is protected, regardless of age.
The UPF 50 + canopy protects sensitive skin from the sun, and the included Isofix base prevents you from manually buckling the seat into your car each time you want to use it. The added base might also prove to be invaluable if you’re still suffering from postpartum pains.
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 70 x 43.3 x 59 cm |
Car seat weight | 4 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | Yes |
Facing | Rear-facing position |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | Yes |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
One of the best things about the Turtle baby car seat is that it comes with the Isofix base. These are often expensive enough on their own, so the fact that you get the base within the reasonable price range of this package is a great benefit for parents on a budget.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The Bugaboo Turtle is an excellent baby capsule for many parents thanks to its versatile base and side impact protection. This seat isn’t slim fit, so as long as you have the space for a wider car capsule, we think this option is a good choice.
The Cybex Cloud Q capsule comes with an innovative design that we haven’t seen before on a baby capsule, and we were impressed! The curved shape can be manipulated to create a near-flat recline, similar to a pram attachment on a travel system! With this capsule, you won’t have to buy a separate pram attachment for your stroller.
The carry handle comes with five positions, with three for carrying, one for rocking, and one for better stability in the car. With versatility like that, we’re surprised everyone doesn’t have this car capsule!
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 67 x 44 x 56.5 cm |
Car seat weight | 5.7 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | Yes |
Facing | Rear |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | Yes |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
Cybex believes that safety always comes first regarding their capsules, which is why the Cloud Q comes equipped with the core safety DNA that the Cybex brand pushes. The side impact protection minimises damage after a collision, with the shock being absorbed into the capsule instead of your baby.
Thanks to this and the other safety features, the Cloud Q has received the highest safety rating of all capsules on the market.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The Cloud Q is an excellent option if you’re looking for a baby capsule that offers the best amount of security and protection while not sacrificing comfort. We also highly recommend this capsule thanks to its high safety rating.
The Maxi-Cosi Mico 12 is designed to be used by babies of all birth weights, even from low birth weights to 12 months. It can be difficult to find a baby capsule for premature infants, and the fact that you can still use this capsule for the first 12 months of their life still makes it good in terms of longevity. You have enough to worry about as a new parent – Maxi-Cosi aims to make car safety a little easier on you.
This car seat can be attached to a stroller frame to turn it into a travel system, so again, you don’t need to worry about minimum weight requirements for stroller seats.
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 44 x 36 x 57 cm |
Car seat weight | 5 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | Yes |
Facing | Rear |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | Yes |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | Yes |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
This baby car seat comes with the patented Air Protect technology for safety, which is side impact protection that offers more shock absorption than traditional foam inserts. A simple squeeze on the headrest of the Micro 12 will show you just how much difference the Air Protect technology can make.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The Maxi-Cosi Mico 12 is an excellent seat for children who were born before their due date or who have a lower birth weight for another reason. Most capsules will have a minimum weight requirement, but the Mico 12 is compatible with any newborn and will carry them to their first birthday.
You need look no further than the Britax Safe N Sound Unity Neos Capsule if you’re looking for convenience to transition your capsule from the car onto a stroller frame. Seriously, the transition is so smooth that you’ll be able to move your baby without even waking them up! They’ll be well rested, and you’ll get a quick break from parenting to enjoy nature. Everybody wins!
This seat comes with the capsule base and canopy included, so you have everything you need to support your little one on their journey home from the hospital.
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 43 x 54.5 x 47 cm |
Car seat weight | 4.5 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | Yes |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | Yes |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
This seat offers ultimate comfort for your little one, with premium quality materials used and lots of padding to keep them cocooned in the car. The soft material makes it feel like they’re being held in your arms, keeping them comfortable during the journey – and hopefully preventing any tears (from you or them, we don’t judge)!
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The Britax Safe N Sound Unity Neos Capsule is a great car seat for parents who are looking for something to use both as a travel system and a car capsule seamlessly. This means that you don’t have to pay more for a separate travel system, saving you money in the long run. Plus, this capsule has a budget-friendly price, too!
The Mico 6 is designed specifically for younger children up to 6 months of age, with two reclining positions for the car to provide better comfort and alignment. The added head hugger keeps your baby’s head in the correct position throughout every drive, giving you one less thing to worry about when driving.
The cool baby-wicking fabric technology is designed to keep moisture away from your baby, helping them regulate their temperature. The peekaboo window in the hood also offers better airflow.
Age suitability | 0 to 6 months |
Size | 44 x 63 x 61.5 cm |
Car seat weight | 4.8 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | Yes |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | No |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | Yes |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
This seat features magnetic harness holders, so the straps are always out of your way when placing your baby in the car. While this might not seem like a big deal to most people, new parents will appreciate the benefit that these magnets offer. Honestly, they’re a game-changer. Thank us later!
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
Parents with premature babies or smaller children will find the Mico 6 the best for them since it is already smaller due to only being designed for up to 6 months of age. The slim fit compact design makes it good for smaller cars, so if you’re tight on space, you might get along well with the Mico 6.
The Mother’s Choice Baby Capsule is an excellent choice for parents who want a budget-friendly capsule to use both in the car and on a stroller frame. Designed to make getting out with your baby easier, this seat is compatible with most popular stroller brands with the correct adapters.
Mother’s Choice knows how difficult those first few outings with a newborn can be, so their baby capsule aims to make life easier and remove as many of your fears as possible. Enjoy those newborn memories with this capsule!
Age suitability | 0 to 6 months |
Size | 63 x 63 x 44 cm |
Car seat weight | 8 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | Yes |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
This capsule comes with everything you need to keep your baby happy during each outing. The breathable fabric is moisture-wicking and cooling, helping to regulate their temperature no matter what the weather. The UPF 50 + canopy is also handy for daytime outings, and the peekaboo window allows you to see them at all times without disturbing their nap.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
If you’re looking for a baby capsule for the first half year of your baby’s life while on a budget, then you can’t go wrong with this seat. It’s comfortable, features good side impact protection, and is easily cleaned thanks to the machine-washable fabric. This is an excellent car seat if you don’t mind the reduced longevity.
The Britax Safe N Sound B-Pod Lite Capsule is ideal for parents who want a secure fit for their first car journey with their baby. The click tight installation system allows you to achieve a secure and effortless installation.
Britax has made this capsule with first-time parents in mind, designed to remove your nerves and provide your baby with a comfortable and safe seat. Plus, the capsule is lightweight, making it easier for you to carry it to the car and attach it to your stroller. The stroller attachments are easy to use ,too; simply click and go!
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 38.1 x 65 x 43 cm |
Car seat weight | 4.5 kg |
Isofix compatible | No |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | Yes |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | No |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | No |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | Yes |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
The b-Pod Lite capsule is the ideal capsule. The comfortable capsule is perfect for newborns and can be enhanced further with the Newborn Infant Insert. The large canopy is a winner, too, offering UPF50+ sun protection to your baby. You won’t need to worry about the sun’s rays during a hot Australian summer with this capsule in your arsenal. Plus, the mesh window ensures there is plenty of ventilation to help regulate your baby’s temperature.
The slim design of this capsule is another high point; it can fit in any car! Despite the slim design, the seat is spacious inside, giving your baby plenty of room to grow.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The capsule is perfect for families that travel a lot. Not only is the capsule aircraft approved, but its slim design makes it easy to fit into any car – whether it is yours or a hire car, it will fit. The travel system compatibility is fantastic, and the seat clips into place effortlessly; it had never been easier to travel with a newborn.
Nuna believes that style and safety can coexist together on a single car seat without one being sacrificed. And they show that perfectly with the Nuna Klik Plus Capsule – which is both fashionable and protective of your newborn. This seat can be used from birth to their first birthday thanks to the adjustable head support and harness design.
This capsule can be added to any Nuna pushchair, making a travel system in seconds. Not only does it save you money, but it also means that your baby remains undisturbed throughout their peaceful slumber.
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 67.8 x 43.6 x 57.1 cm |
Car seat weight | 3.7 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | No |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
One unique feature of this car seat is the bubble indicator on the base, which makes sure that you’re always correctly levelling your car seat. This makes sure that your baby is properly secured and comfortable throughout any ride. This is especially helpful when your car seats are angled, so you don’t have to worry about your baby leaning too much.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
This is a good car seat for Nuna users who perhaps already have a Nuna stroller to fit with this capsule. You can’t go wrong with the NunaKlik Plus if you’re looking for a stylish baby capsule, too.
The Unity Isofix Capsule from Britax is the first baby capsule to be specifically designed and tested for low birth weight babies, which is uncommon to see on the baby capsule market. This seat can be used up until your baby’s first birthday or once they reach the maximum shoulder height marker. This allows you to potentially use the seat for longer if your little one is on the smaller side.
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 43 x 47 x 54.5 cm |
Car seat weight | 5 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | No |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | No |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
The Unity Isofix Capsule features higher walls for maximum impact protection, keeping them safer should any danger arise. The Isoflex connectors are best for easy installation, which should hopefully reduce the stress of those first outings. Spend more time bonding with your new family unit and less time worrying about car seat safety!
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
This is another great baby capsule for premature babies or those who have a lower birth weight due to illness or health conditions. The Unity Isofix Capsule does not have a minimum weight capacity either, so it can be used by any newborn – no matter how tiny.
Similar to the other Maxi-Cosi car capsules we’ve looked at today, the Mico 12 is excellent for low birth weight babies, carrying them from newborn to 12 months. This car seat won the Canstar award for Australia’s most trusted car seat, so you know your baby is in good hands!
The Mico 12 features the first-to-market automatic headrest and harness adjustment, which is great for busy parents who don’t always have the time to check the height of the car seat against their little one.
Age suitability | 0 to 12 months |
Size | 45 x 68 x 65 cm |
Car seat weight | 5 kg |
Isofix compatible | No |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | No |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | Yes |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
There’s plenty to be impressed about with the Mico 12, from the adjustable crotch buckle and harness magnets to the patented Air Protect safety system to prevent your little one from being injured in an incident. The Cool baby-wicking fabric prevents overheating, and the sun canopy protects from both sun and rain!
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The Mico 12 is a great capsule for your baby if you’re already a fan of Maxi-Cosi and want to jump on the bandwagon of the most trusted car seat manufacturer. It comes with everything you need to use it right away, and it doesn’t connect to Isofix. While this may be a dealbreaker for some parents, if your car isn’t compatible with Isofix, this is a good option for you.
The Mico Plus baby capsules are excellent car seats that can be added to the frame from almost any stroller brand, turning it into a travel system instantly. The air-protected impact cushioning is more comfortable and shock-absorbing than traditional foam, which should keep your baby more secure should the protection ever need to be triggered.
This seat comes with the Isofix base so that you can slot it into your car within seconds. No confusing belt loops allowed!
Age suitability | 0 to 6 months |
Size | 63.4 x 61.4 x 44.8 cm |
Car seat weight | 9.64 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | No |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | No |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
With plenty of adjustability, this car capsule is excellent for both small and large babies. Gone are the days of worrying whether your child is within the correct weight limits for their car seat – the Mico Plus removes the added stress from the usability.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
This car seat is a good option for people who want a Maxi-Cosi capsule that can attach to their stroller frame, no matter which brand it is. The adjustability means that you can use this seat for both smaller and larger babies, perfect for newborns out of the average weight for their height. No parent guilt here!
Last but not least, the Infa Secure Adapt More Infant Carrier is a capsule to last between birth and 6 months. This seat features Australia’s first patented innovative base installation – not only is it the first, but it’s also the only one on the market so far!
The seat is made with active bamboo, which is super soft and gentle on newborn skin. The covers are press studs for easy cleaning, which is perfect for tired parents.
Age suitability | 0 to 6 months |
Size | 45 x 59 x 60 cm |
Car seat weight | 4.6 kg |
Isofix compatible | Yes |
Inbuilt harness | Yes |
Height adjustable headrest | No |
Facing | Rear-facing |
Side impact protection | Yes |
Crotch buckle | Yes |
Armrest | No |
Cup holder | No |
Seat protector | Yes |
Storage pocket | No |
Spare base | No |
Seat insert | Yes |
Hood | Yes |
Slim fit | No |
Travel System Compatible | Yes |
Anchored | Yes |
The Infa Secure Adapt More Infant Carrier comes with a vehicle seat protector to place underneath the capsule base, protecting the seats no matter what material they’re made from. The anti-rebound bar within the carry handle is an added safety feature to provide protection from all sides.
Below we have listed pros and cons based on real buyer feedback:
The Infa Secure Adapt More Infant Carrier is an excellent choice for most families if you have the budget, thanks to its versatility, safety protection, and intuitive design.
As you can see, the market has some pretty great offerings when it comes to baby capsules! So, how will you pick just one from the premium baby capsule sets on our list? We’re firm believers that preparation is key, so do your research beforehand. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before choosing your new baby capsule:
Once you have your answers, you’ll find it much easier to choose the best option for your family.
Thanks for reading our guide on the best baby capsules! There’s plenty to think about when looking into baby capsules, but we hope that our article has given you some insight into the best the market has to offer. Make sure you consider things like size, accessories, safety, adaptability, and more.
Your little one’s safety is the most important thing to consider, so make sure you look at things such as side impact control, bumper bars, and a five-point harness. Make sure you also look at the age suitability for the baby capsules, as some are for six months while others will adapt to 12 months.
Good luck on your journey!