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Best Car Seats of 2026

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Robert Reyes

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Car seats are an essential safety feature for any family with young children. Designed to protect infants and toddlers in the event of a car crash, car seats come in a variety of styles to fit different ages, weights, and heights. From rear-facing infant seats to forward-facing convertible seats and booster seats, there are options to suit every stage of a child's development. Many car seats also offer additional features such as adjustable harnesses, cup holders, and easy installation systems. When choosing a car seat, it is important to consider the child's age and size, as well as the vehicle's make and model, to ensure proper fit and maximum safety.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Car Seats

#TOP 1

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat

  • Graco
  • 2216092
  • Gotham 2.0
  • 2-in-1
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Baby Car Seat, Rear and Forward Facing, Adjustable Extension Panel for Extra Legroom, Gotham

The Graco Extend2Fit Car Seat is designed to grow with your child, offering a safe ride from rear-facing to forward-facing as they grow. It allows your child to stay rear-facing up to 50 pounds, which is safer for younger kids. The seat also features an adjustable extension panel that gives up to 5 inches of extra legroom, so your child can be more comfortable during longer rides. Additionally, it meets advanced safety standards for side and frontal impacts, giving you extra peace of mind that your child is well protected on the road.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • High rear-facing weight limit
  • Spacious and comfortable
  • Adjustable headrest and harness
  • Washable cover

What We Don't Like

  • Bulky for small cars
  • Appearance is average

What Customers Say

"As a parent who has tried out numerous car seats over the years, I found the Graco Extend2Fit incredibly straightforward to install. The rear-facing weight limit is exceptional, which means my kids can stay safer, longer. I love that it offers ample leg room and comfort, and the harness adjusts easily without rethreading. This seat has become my top recommendation, especially since it's also affordable and practical for growing families."

"After researching and seeing positive reviews, I chose this seat for my grandchild. Installation was a breeze with a YouTube tutorial, and I appreciate the versatile adjustments—from recline to headrest height. The padding feels high quality and secure, and it fits well in our standard car. Although it took a moment to figure out the bottom buckle adjustment, overall I feel it's much safer and more comfortable than older models."

"I consider this car seat the 'Mercedes of car seats'—it's spacious, well-made, and the material is super comfy. The straps clip in easily, making buckling my child in hassle-free. Installation was simple, and most importantly, my child genuinely enjoys sitting in it."

#TOP 2

Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Slim Fit Design, Rear & Forward-Facing, 5-Position Headrest, 3-Across Fit, Travel-Friendly with Machine-Washable Seat Pad, Smokey Haze

The Safety 1st Ellaris Car Seat is designed to grow with your child, offering three modes to fit infants and toddlers from 5 to 65 pounds. You can use it rear-facing for babies and toddlers or forward-facing for older kids, providing flexibility as your little one grows. Its slim design allows you to fit three car seats across most back seats, making it ideal for families with multiple children. The adjustable five-position headrest and harness ensure your child stays comfortable and secure during every ride. Plus, it meets strict federal safety and side impact standards, giving you peace of mind while on the road.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Comfortable padding
  • Adjustable straps
  • Good value
  • Lightweight design

What We Don't Like

  • Challenging rear-facing installation
  • Bulky size

What Customers Say

"I’m really happy with this car seat—it was super easy to install and my child seems very comfortable in it. The soft padding and adjustable straps make it even better. I love that it will last through different stages as my kid grows. Definitely recommend!"

"I needed a car seat for travel and emergencies, and this one was lighter than most, which made moving it through the airport a breeze. My son was comfortable enough to fall asleep in it, and I found the quality and value to be impressive for the price."

"As a mother and grandmother, I found it difficult to secure rear-facing. Even with help from professionals, it felt floppy and not stable enough for infants. It may work better forward-facing, but I wouldn’t recommend it for smaller kids."

#TOP 3

Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

  • Graco
  • 2215460
  • Jarret
  • SlimFit
Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Ultra-Space-Saving Design, Jarret, Suitable for Rear and Forward-Facing, Highback Booster Seat with 10-Position Headrest

The Graco Slimfit Convertible Seat is designed to grow with your child, offering three ways to use it: rear-facing for infants, forward-facing for toddlers, and as a highback booster for older kids. This flexibility means you won’t need to buy multiple seats as your child grows. Its slim design saves space in your car’s back seat, making it easier to fit other passengers or gear. The seat also includes cup holders that tuck away when not in use, keeping things neat and convenient. Plus, it features an easy-to-adjust headrest and harness system that moves together, so you can quickly get the safest and most comfortable fit for your child.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Compact slim design
  • Easy installation
  • Adjustable for growing children
  • Comfortable padding
  • Easy to clean

What We Don't Like

  • Minor cover durability concern
  • Limited recline for front-facing

What Customers Say

"After extensive research, I chose this car seat for its superior safety features, comfort, and adaptability. The installation using the LATCH system was simple, and I appreciate how it transforms from rear-facing to booster, truly growing with my child. The padding is thick and supportive, and the machine-washable cover is a real plus. The built-in cup holders are great for snacks and drinks. I feel confident about my child's safety every drive. Highly recommend for durability and value!"

"This car seat is a perfect fit for compact cars thanks to its slim design. It's lightweight and easy to move between vehicles, and my child finds it very comfortable, especially with the airflow feature for ventilation. The tether latch system makes tightening and releasing a breeze. Plus, the color looks great in our car. Honestly, I wish I’d bought it sooner!"

"We’ve been using this seat for our grandkids and it’s wonderful—easy to install, fits well in all our vehicles, and is a breeze to clean. The soft, well-padded seat ensures comfort, and I love how secure and stable it feels. The neutral color is a bonus, and it’s held up great to regular use."

#TOP 4

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Slim Convertible Car Seat, Rear Facing, 5-40 lbs, Forward Facing (30–65 lbs), High Back Booster Seat 40-100 pounds, Alaskan Blue

The Safety 1st Grow and Go offers a versatile car seat that grows with your child through three stages: rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seat. This means you won’t need to buy multiple seats as your child grows. It features an easy-adjust QuickFit harness and headrest, so you can quickly get your child secured and comfortable without hassle. Cleaning is simple with a removable, washer-and-dryer-safe seat pad and dishwasher-safe cupholders, making maintenance stress-free. Plus, the seat includes removable baby pillows for a snug fit and a 3-position recline to keep your child comfortable during rides. Overall, this seat combines convenience, comfort, and safety for your growing child.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Comfortable padding
  • Adjustable as child grows
  • Strong safety features
  • Good price

What We Don't Like

  • Bulky design
  • Loose cup holders

What Customers Say

"I've had the Grow and Go car seats for both of my kids since they were newborns, and they have truly been amazing for every stage. After a serious accident, my daughters were entirely uninjured, and I credit their car seats for keeping them safe. These seats offer peace of mind and adapt as my kids grow—from newborn to booster. If you want a car seat you can rely on, I highly recommend this one."

"We’ve been using this car seat for our 1-year-old for about three months, and it’s proven to be a solid investment. The sturdy build gives us confidence, and our little one is comfortable even on long drives. Installation was straightforward, and the side-impact protection is a key feature I appreciate. It’s a bit bulky for smaller vehicles, but overall, I’d highly recommend it for safety and comfort."

"I did a lot of research before buying these for my twins, and I’m so glad I did. The seats have a great price point, are easy to install, and feel secure. The extra neck padding solved issues our previous seats had, and my girls are always comfortable and well-supported. For the cost, these are a fantastic deal."

#TOP 5

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

  • Graco
  • 2215744
  • Redmond 2.0
Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat - Highback Booster, Forward & Rear Facing Modes, Suitable from Newborn to Preschooler, Perfect for Long Journeys in Redmond Color

The Graco TriRide Convertible Seat adapts as your child grows, starting from a rear-facing harness for infants up to 40 pounds, then switching to a forward-facing harness suitable for toddlers up to 65 pounds, and finally transforming into a highback booster for kids up to 100 pounds. This flexibility means you only need one seat for many years, making it a convenient choice for families. It features Graco's advanced ProtectPlus technology, which offers enhanced safety beyond standard side-impact protection, giving you peace of mind. Adjusting the harness and headrest is simple with the no-rethread system, so you can quickly get a secure and comfortable fit as your child grows. Plus, with 10 different headrest positions, you can customize the seat to keep your child safe and comfortable at every stage.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Adjustable reclining positions
  • Comfortable and well-padded
  • Sturdy and safe design
  • Grows with child

What We Don't Like

  • Straps can be hard to tighten
  • Cup holders may detach easily

What Customers Say

"After my baby outgrew his infant seat, I switched to this one and it’s been a huge improvement. The seat is super comfortable and the reclining feature makes all the difference for longer rides. I had no trouble setting it up, and although my son loves to pull off the cup holders, overall I’m very happy with this car seat."

"I bought this car seat during a sale and feel like I got a great deal. It fits my one-year-old perfectly, feels secure, and was straightforward to install. I love that it will last through multiple stages, making it a smart investment. The overall quality is exactly what I expect from Graco."

"This seat was easier to install than I expected; the instructions were clear and it fit perfectly in my car. My baby looks comfortable and secure, and the sturdy build gives me peace of mind. The reclining feature is a big plus for longer drives. I would definitely recommend this car seat to other parents."

#TOP 6

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Black Sparrow

The Safety 1st Grand Booster is designed to grow with your child, easily switching from a forward-facing harness seat for younger kids to a belt-positioning booster for older ones. This flexibility means you get long-lasting use from one seat. Its slim design lets you fit three seats across the back of most cars, which is perfect if you have multiple kids or carpools. The seat is lightweight, so you can quickly move it between vehicles without hassle—great for busy families on the go. Plus, the adjustable headrest offers personalized comfort and support as your child grows, ensuring a safe and cozy ride every time.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Very sturdy build
  • Comfortable for kids
  • Slim and lightweight design
  • Adjusts with child's growth

What We Don't Like

  • Straps not super long

What Customers Say

"I found the car seat incredibly easy to install and was impressed by its sturdy construction. My 2-year-old fits perfectly and seems very comfortable, making this a great choice for our family."

"With so many options out there, I can say this car seat is absolutely worth every penny! The simple instructions and quick installation made things stress-free, and the smooth transition for my special-needs child really stood out to me. Highly recommend!"

"I love how slim and light this seat is—it makes transferring it between cars so simple. My daughter, who usually dislikes car seats, now actually wants to sit in this one! She sits high enough to see out, and the deep cup holder prevents spills. It's been holding up great with daily use."

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat

  • Graco
  • 2110186
  • Studio
  • SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat Cover

Graco SnugRide Lite LX Infant Car Seat, Lightweight Rear-Facing Seat for Babies 4–30 lb, 4-Position Adjustable Base, LATCH Installation & ProtectPlus Engineered, Studio

The Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat provides safety for rear-facing infants up to 35 pounds and 32 inches. This lightweight carrier is easy to transport from the car to the stroller, weighing only 7.2 pounds. With a 4-position adjustable base and an easy-to-read level indicator, it ensures an accurate installation and provides comfort for the baby as they grow. Additionally, this car seat is ProtectPlus engineered to protect your child in different types of crashes.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Lightweight design
  • Easy installation
  • Secure and safe
  • Comfortable padding
  • Travel system compatibility

What We Don't Like

  • No cup holder
  • Shoulder pads not included

What Customers Say

"As a new parent, I was searching for a car seat that was both lightweight and easy to install. The Graco SnugRide Lite LX exceeded my expectations—moving it in and out of the car is nearly effortless, even with my baby in it. The installation process was simple and secure, and the seat’s padding makes my baby feel supported and comfortable on every ride. I especially appreciate the clear instructions and the peace of mind knowing my child is so well protected."

"When I was expecting twins, I did my homework and finally decided on the Graco DuoGlider double stroller and the SnugRide SnugLock 35 LX car seats. Both were easy to assemble and fit seamlessly together, and I was surprised by how lightweight the car seats are compared to others. The safety harness with seat belt covers is a nice touch, and the overall quality has been impressive. I’m looking forward to using these with my babies soon!"

"I’ve been loyal to Graco for years and this car seat didn’t disappoint. It fits my newborn perfectly, is easy to adjust, and feels safe and secure. While I wish there was a cup holder, the comfort and smooth ride more than make up for it. Safety is my top priority, and Graco always delivers."

#TOP 8

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Slim Convertible Car Seat, Rear Facing, 5-40 lbs, Forward Facing (30–65 lbs), High Back Booster Seat 40-100 pounds, Vineyard Girl

The Safety 1st Grow and Go Seat is designed to grow with your child through three stages, from rear-facing to booster seat, which means you won’t need to buy multiple seats as your child grows. It features the QuickFit harness system, making it simple to adjust the harness and headrest quickly, so you can get your child in and out easily. The seat pad is washer and dryer safe and snaps off for easy cleaning, while the two dishwasher-safe cupholders help keep things tidy. Plus, it includes removable baby pillows for extra comfort and a three-position recline to ensure a perfect fit for your little one.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy installation
  • Adjustable and grows with child
  • High safety rating
  • Comfortable padding
  • Good price value

What We Don't Like

  • Bulky in smaller cars
  • Cup holders may fall off

What Customers Say

"After being in a car accident, I decided to replace my old seat and chose this one. Installation was a breeze and the seat feels lightweight, yet secure. My child loves the comfort and I’m a huge fan of the built-in cup holders. I’m happy with the purchase and would definitely buy again!"

"I’ve used the Safety 1st Grow and Go for both my children since they were newborns. After a serious side-impact collision, my kids were completely unharmed, which I credit to their car seats. The ability to use this seat from infancy through booster stage means I never have to worry about safety or outgrowing it. The peace of mind is priceless— I truly can’t recommend it enough!"

"We’ve had this car seat for a few months now for our toddler, and I can say it’s been a solid investment. The build is sturdy, installation straightforward, and my child is comfortable even on long drives. I appreciate the side-impact protection and the harness adjustments. It is a bit bulky, but that’s not a problem for us. Highly recommend for parents seeking safety and comfort."

#TOP 9

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

  • Graco
  • 2215451
  • Cambridge 2.0
  • Turn2Me 3-in-1
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car Seat, Cambridge, Rear-Facing Rotation, Forward-Facing Mode, Highback Booster Up to 100 lbs, Adjustable Headrest & Harness, Steel Reinforced Frame

The Graco Turn2Me Car Seat offers a convenient rotating feature that allows you to switch from rear-facing to forward-facing mode with just one hand, making it easier to place your child in and take them out safely. It adapts to your growing child with three modes: rear-facing for infants, forward-facing for toddlers, and a highback booster for older kids up to 100 pounds. Installation is quick and simple thanks to SnugLock technology, which secures the seat in less than a minute using either your vehicle’s seat belt or LATCH system. Plus, it meets advanced safety standards with Graco ProtectPlus engineering, offering extra protection beyond basic requirements for side impacts.

8.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • 360-degree rotating base
  • Excellent comfort and padding
  • Easy installation process
  • Strong safety features
  • Grows with child

What We Don't Like

  • Initial installation learning curve
  • Rotation limited in front-facing

What Customers Say

"I’ve noticed a huge difference with the Turn2Me 3-in-1 Rotating Car Seat—my baby instantly falls asleep in it, and the headrest offers great support. The 360-degree swivel is a lifesaver, especially for loading and unloading. While installation took a moment to figure out, once I understood the straps, I felt confident and secure. This seat is easily one of the best in terms of price and quality."

"The 360° rotation of this car seat is amazing—it makes it so much easier to get my baby in and out without straining my back. I’m impressed by how sturdy and safe the seat feels, and my baby always seems comfortable and relaxed during rides. Installation was a breeze, and the quality of the materials is excellent. I think it’s totally worth the investment and would recommend it to any parent."

"I went back and forth between the Turn2Me and another Graco model, but I’m so glad I chose Turn2Me. It’s super convenient and easy to use after the first try, with installation taking less than two minutes. The seat is well-padded and secure, and my baby, who used to cry in other seats, now falls asleep every single time. The adjustable incline is a great bonus. I’d happily recommend it to any parent."

#TOP 10

Graco EasyTurn 360 Convertible Car Seat

  • Graco
  • 2216077
  • Cyran
  • EasyTurn 360 2-in-1
Graco EasyTurn 360 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco EasyTurn 360 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, 360 Degree Rotating Infant to Toddler Rotating Car Seat, 2 Modes Forward and Rear Facing, Slim Design, Cyran

The Graco EasyTurn 360 Seat makes traveling with your child easier and safer. Its 360-degree rotation lets you turn the seat with one hand, so you can easily place your child in or take them out without struggling. It offers two modes: rear-facing for infants weighing 4-40 pounds and forward-facing for toddlers 26.5-65 pounds, accommodating your growing child comfortably. The slim design helps save space in your car’s back seat, making room for other passengers or gear. Plus, with SnugLock technology, you can install the seat securely in under a minute, giving you peace of mind that your child is safely fastened for every ride.

8.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • 360-degree rotation
  • Easy installation
  • Sturdy and safe
  • Comfortable padding
  • Slim design

What We Don't Like

  • Bulky in rear-facing mode
  • Some seat movement

What Customers Say

"The 360-degree swivel function totally transformed our routine—makes buckling and unbuckling so much easier. I found the installation process simple and the whole seat feels solid and secure. The slim profile fits perfectly in my car, and the soft fabric keeps my baby cozy. If you're tired of wrestling with car seats, this one is a must-have!"

"After trying several models, the full 360 rotation on this seat stands out as the best feature. It's really smooth, sturdy, and user-friendly. Compared to other seats I've owned, this one feels much safer and higher quality. Absolutely worth every penny."

"This car seat is incredibly easy to install and adjust, and cleaning is a breeze. The safety features and comfortable padding give me peace of mind. Plus, it's budget-friendly for families who want great features without overspending. I recommend it to all my friends!"

Car Seats Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 2 Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 3 Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 4 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 5 Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 6 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

#TOP 7 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat Cover

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat

#TOP 8 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat Cover

Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 9 Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

#TOP 10 Graco EasyTurn 360 Convertible Car Seat Cover

Graco EasyTurn 360 Convertible Car Seat

Brand Graco Safety 1st Graco Safety 1st Graco Safety 1st Graco Safety 1st Graco Graco
Installation Type Latch Latch Latch Latch, Seatbelt Latch LATCH, Seatbelt Seat Belt Latch, Seatbelt Latch Latch
Material Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester Polyester
Color Gotham 2.0 Smokey Haze Jarret Alaskan Blue Redmond 2.0 Black Sparrow 2 Studio Vineyard Girl Cambridge 2.0 Cyran
Orientation Forward Facing Forward Facing, Rear Facing Forward Facing Front Facing, Rear Facing Rear Facing Forward Facing Rear Facing Front Facing, Rear Facing Forward Facing Forward Facing
FTB Score
9.8
9.7
9.5
9.4
9.2
9.1
9.1
8.9
8.7
8.7
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What age can a toddler sit in a car seat?

For newborns, there are two options: an infant carrier from 0-1 year, followed by a toddler seat until around 4 years old. Alternatively, a 2-in-1 seat can be used from 0 to approximately 4 years of age.

2. What is the best seat to survive a car crash?

The rear middle seat is considered the safest spot in a car during a car crash. While the back seat is generally safer than the front seats in head-on collisions, the middle seat in the back provides additional protection in side crashes, making it the safest location.

3. Should my 5-year-old be in a car seat or booster?

According to current California law, children under 8 years old must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat. Children who are 8 years old or have reached a height of 4'9" may use a booster seat, but they must be secured by a safety belt at a minimum.

4. What are the car seat stages?

The car seat stages include: rear-facing car seat for birth to 12 months, forward-facing car seat for 1 to 3 years (keeping the child rear-facing for as long as possible is recommended), and a booster seat for 4 to 7 years.

5. What car seat lasts the longest?

Different car seat models have varying expiration dates. Some car seats, like Evenflo Symphony and Evenflo SafeMax, have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years. Graco models usually last 7 to 10 years, while Maxi-Cosi seats are designed for 10-year use without expiration. Recaro seats typically last for 6 years, and Safety 1st models have a lifespan of 6 to 8 years.

6. What age does the 2-hour car seat rule end?

The specific age for ending the two-hour car seat rule is not mentioned. However, it should be followed until the baby is old enough to sit upright and have control over their head and neck movements.

Editor's Notes

During our car seat research, we found 48 car seat products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 752,867 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car seats list. We found that most customers choose car seats with an average price of $216.99.

The car seats are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car seats, including Graco, Safety 1st. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.