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In this deep-dive Cosco Apt 50 review, we look at the least-expensive convertible car seat that we’ve reviewed, part of Cosco's very affordable line of car seats.
Despite its low price, Cosco Apt 50 has NHTSA ease-of-use ratings, which means it meets basic federal safety standards.
Here’s a quick rundown of this model’s features:
Now let’s get into the details!
Cosco Apt 50 Overview
The car seat offers parents a lot of great features. The pad on the seat can be easily removed, is machine washable, and can even be placed in the dryer. The Cosco Apt 50 includes two cup holders. This built-in feature is ideal for holding both drinks and snacks during road trips. The car seat offers two different seating modes with a weight of just nine pounds.
Parents can carry the car seat between vehicles, and install and remove the Apt 50 without unnecessary back strain. If there is a crash, parents will know their child is safe due to the side impact protection standard with the car seat. The Cosco Apt 50 is a good option for new parents, or for toddlers requiring a car seat.
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Video Overview of Cosco Apt 50
Cosco Apt 50 Specs
Cosco Apt 50 Features
Safety Features
Design Features
Installation Features
Usage Features
Who is the Cosco Apt 50 Most Suitable For?
First of all, this model is definitely best for parents on a tight budget! You won’t find a cheaper model with these safety features.
The rear-facing mode is suitable for children between five and 40 pounds, with a height of 19 to 40 inches. The forward-facing mode is appropriate for children between 22 and 50 pounds with a height of 29 to 43 inches.
What is Included with the Cosco Apt 50?
The Cosco Apt 50 includes two integrated holders for cups and a removable seat pad. Additionals accessories can be purchased separately.
Pros and Cons of the Cosco Apt 50
Pros
Cons
Cosco Apt 50 Installation
Tutorial installation videos are available at:
Cosco Apt 50 Manual
A link to the manufacturer's manual is available at:
Cosco Apt 50 vs Cosco Scenera Next
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Both the Cosco Apt 50 and Cosco Scenera Next are in the lower price range, with easy installation.
The width of the Scenera is smaller, making it easier to install more than one car seat in the vehicle. The Cosco Apt 50 is suitable for a maximum of 50 pounds, with the Scenera only holding 40 pounds. Although both models are convertible car seats, there are some notable differences as well as similarities.
Both models are similarly priced as economic options for car seats. The Apt has two cup holders built into the car seat for both drinks and snacks. Although the Scenera only offers one cup holder, it is detachable. The weight of the car seats is also similar. The only difference between the models regarding the two modes is the Apt 50 holds an additional 10 pounds in weight, so the car seat can be used longer.
The Cosco Apt 50 is the better option for harness positions. The car seat provides six positions for 16, 13, 11, nine, seven and five inches. The harness will remain above the shoulders of the child to a maximum of 50 pounds or the age of four years. There are only five positions for the harness with the Scenera, for a maximum of 13 inches. If the child is taller, the car seat is not appropriate.
The Apt 50 buckle offers four different positions for the buckle strap, two, three, four and one-half, and six inches from the car seat's back for the crotch straps. The six-inch option is not available with the Sceenera, which may be an issue if the infant has chubby thighs. The Apt 50 offers parents color-coded stickers to ensure the car seat is installed correctly.
Since there is no color coding for the Scenera, the parents must rely on the instructions found in the manufacturer's manual.
BabyCare Review's of Cosco Apt 50
The Final Word
Affordable convertible car seats have their place in the marketplace. The Cosco Apt 50 is handy for some grandparents that get their grandbabies occasionally, and the ride alongs are short and sweet.
The Apt 50 is lightweight and easy to handle on its own. However, it does not score well on crash tests. The installation is not all that smooth, either. When rear-facing, the belt system is hard to use when securing it. Another common complaint is the recline. Some parents complain about having to roll a towel to find a suitable angle for their little ones.
Cosco Apt 50 (click image for more info)
Another thing to consider is that the Apt 50 convertible car seat is rear-facing and forward-facing. But, the weight limit is not convenient, maxing out at 50 pounds. Premature babies and those that are on the tiny side benefit from the smaller limit, but there are more things to consider first.
The Cosco Apt 50 has its occasional uses, but it lacks all the things it needs to keep your bundle safe and comfortable for daily protection. A convertible car seat with a higher weight limit and better protection might likely suit you better.
With two kids of my own, I’m passionate about child safety! I’m a research nerd who’s on a mission to make the world a safer place for kids – starting with car seats!
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