ISOFIX vs Non-ISOFIX: Which is Better?

Dumbed down, installing a car seat can be confusing. You are far from the first to feel that way. For most parents, it's not so clear-cut whether to install an ISOFIX mount or a non-ISOFIX mount.

The decision on which system to use might determine your little one's safety. Therefore, into the details, it goes. In this article, both are compared against each other to find out the pros and cons of determining what works best for the family.

 

What is ISOFIX?

ISOFIX is an international standard for childrens car seats to secure to a car. It could be thought of as a special-purpose set of fittings built into the back of the car.

Because they connect straight to the car's framework, they have a sturdy base for your car seat, like a snap-in system, and connectors on the seat that easily fit into the attachment points. Now, most car manufacturers install it in their cars as a standard feature. It is going to be in more and more cars.

 

What is Non-ISOFIX (Seatbelt Installation)?

I’ve talked about non-isofix car seats before. Read more in the article: Are Non-ISOFIX Car Seats Safe. Non-ISOFIX car seats are installed in a car using one's car's usual seatbelt. The seat belt passes through slots of a car seat specially for such purpose and is tightened. In fact, that is a more 'old-school' approach, allowing installation in most cars with a seatbelt.

 

Key Differences: ISOFIX vs Non-ISOFIX

Installation Process

The ISOFIX installation is just like doing a jigsaw puzzle. Everything fits in just right. Compared to this, seatbelt installation is a bit delicate because it has to be tucked and tightened for the seat.

Safety Issue

Normally, with ISOFIX, there are fewer chances of such installation mistakes. The human mistake is lesser with the traditional anchoring. Seatbelt installation, if it is done right works well, but it requires careful attention so that straps don't get lost or are placed wrongly.

Compatibility

ISOFIX is suitable for only those vehicles that provide additional ISOFIX anchoring points. However, seatbelt installation is available in any vehicle.

Easy Installation

Many would claim victory in ease to ISOFIX. Clicking the child's car seat right onto the installed click-and-go is effortless and hassle-free. A seatbelt sometimes gets clumsy to work, especially if tension has not been perfectly achieved.

 

Pros and Cons of ISOFIX

Pros

1. Effortless Installation: Click, click, and you’re good to go!
2. Enhanced Safety: The sturdy connection significantly reduces the risk of incorrect installation, providing a more secure fit.
3. Consistent Performance: ISOFIX is standardized across different car models, ensuring consistent performance and safety.
4. Reduced Risk of Misuse: Many ISOFIX seats have visual or auditory indicators to confirm proper installation.

Cons

1. Not all cars have ISOFIX anchor points.
2. In most instances, ISOFIX seats cost higher prices.
3. Most of ISOFIX car seats are heavier and bigger in size.

 

Pros and Cons of Non-ISOFIX

Pros

1. Compatible with almost all the cars. It comes with seatbelts and adds flexibility.
2. More cost-effective than ISOFIX car seats.
3. They can move from one car to another.

Cons

1. Incorrect fitting occurs more often due to increased chances during installation.
2. It takes a bit more time for the correct seating of the seatbelt.
3. There are no indicators for safety as there is no feedback mechanism to ensure whether it is sitting properly or not.

 

Which One is Safer: ISOFIX or Non-ISOFIX?

Modern child car seats have developed in terms of safety features and comfort. Read our blog History and Evolution of Safety Seats for more!

On the safety front, ISOFIX has an upper hand, especially in side collisions. The rigid connection to the car's frame provides superior stability. Often, crash test data indicates that ISOFIX seats offer better protection in certain scenarios. However, the safest car seat is the one that is installed and used correctly. Even the best ISOFIX system is useless if it is not installed correctly.

 

The Choice of Installation System for Your Family

When choosing the installation system for your family, ask yourself some questions.

1. Does your car have ISOFIX? Do you move cars often?
2. How much comfort do you want while installing it?
3. What is the acceptable budget?
4. How's your family's lifestyle? Do you travel long distances? Do you need to transfer the car seat between cars?

 

Okay, So Why ISOFIX?

Well, let's face it, it's a bit of a no-brainer. ISOFIX is definitely a better choice. First and foremost, it's a doddle to install. No messing about with seatbelts, just click the connectors in, and, well, that's it. Like a magic jigsaw that just fits right every time.

This thing is secure. It can't move without control. With its bolt-in design directly attached to the frame of your car, it's more solid than solid. Chances are this seat ain't going anywhere in a bump or, for God's sake, in a crash.

Also, most of the ISOFIX seats carry brilliant little indicators letting you know when it's put on correctly, which means your kid would be as safe as a cocooned rug.

Of course, it is not perfect. A few cars may not have this feature, and it does cost a bit more. But if your car's got 'em, and you can afford it, ISOFIX is definitely the way to go. It gives you that extra peace of mind, and let's be honest, isn't that what it's all about?

 

Conclusion: ISOFIX vs Non-ISOFIX – Which is Right for You?

Both ISOFIX and non-ISOFIX can restrain your child in the car, provided they are fitted correctly. However, ISOFIX provides more safety and convenience, though limited by its incompatibility with most cars. Ultimately, it all depends on your needs, type of vehicle, and budget.

Above all, remember that your child's car seat is correctly installed and used. If not confident, don't hesitate to find a trusty baby car seat brand.

Jovikids is an ideal choice for you. We provide extensive types of car seats for each age group. Our ISOFIX car seats can protect your little one to ensure happy family trips!

 

FAQ

Can an ISOFIX car seat be used with a seatbelt?

Though most ISOFIX car seats solely depend on the ISOFIX anchors for fitting, some models offer the option to use both ISOFIX and the car seatbelt for fitting.

ISOFIX connectors just snap onto the car's attachment points in a standard configuration. A top tether strap also comes out of the top of the car seat and then goes to an anchor point on the roof or rear shelf of the car, so the forward motion of a car seat is prevented in a crash.

Is ISOFIX safer compared to a seatbelt installation?

Yes, ISOFIX installations can be much safer compared to their counterparts installed with the seatbelt.

With ISOFIX being standardized and attached rigidly to the frame of the vehicle, it reduces human error. In using seat belts, there is much more room for error due to incorrect routing or wrong tightening of straps.

Many tests and crash test reports have proven that ISOFIX-mounted car seats offer enhanced safety to the child in a number of types of impacts, especially side impacts.

However, don't forget the Correct Installation, so the ISOFIX car seat can protect your baby safe and sound!

Are ISOFIX seats suitable for any car?

No, ISOFIX seats are used in cars with detailed ISOFIX anchor points. Not All Cars Have ISOFIX. Most older models and a few of the smaller models do not feature ISOFIX.

Can I install a car seat fitted for both types of methods?

That all depends on what model car seat one would choose.

Check on the manufacturer's instructions that accompany your car seat. It would give you details as to whether that seat can fit both installation modes or not.