Kid Care Experts:
One of the most vaunted car seats for babies over the past few years is the Cosco Alph Omega 3 in 1. I was supposed to order the “Elite” model and instead purchased the “Deluxe” ($114 US w/shipping, eBay). Is there really any appreciable difference between the two models? How horribly have I upset the order of the universe with this grievous gaffe?
Not really.
In the U.S., carseats tend to be roughly the same in terms of what they’re supposed to do, which is protect the baby in case of a crash. It’s impossible to find a seat that does not do this, unless you buy one secondhand.
Most of the difference is in features. We have two carseats, one a stripped-down model that basically keeps the baby strapped in, but another one that cost more but which has a different strap setup (it’s easier to get him in and out), cupholders, and a pocket for books and stuff. Any prestige in carseats is due to perception and not actual quality. In other words, a $40 carseat is the same as a $150 carseat.
If you’re buying this for yourself, I’d advise taking a course through the hospital on installation of carseats. A specially-trained person will install the seat and show you how to do it if you have to. Also, consider buying one seat per car so that you can have them installed correctly and just leave them alone.
Robin
We have had the Alpha Omega for the past two years. I believe the difference between the models has to do with fabric choices. One may be more durable or just more upscale-looking than the other. The structural integrity of both are the same. I have seen the same seat branded under the Eddie Bauer label with other fabrics as well.
Thanks Geoduck and MsRobyn–I feel better already. (This is a gift purchase anyway.)
Any and all additional replies are welcome. Thanx
Check out the NHTSA ratings of car seats. The Cosco seats are mostly rated B. If you have a chance to return it and get an A rated seat, that would be cool. Otherwise, a B rating isn’t that bad.
Be sure to direct the folk that are receiving the present to the Child Passenger Safety link.