12 best prams for newborns 2024 tried and tested

The best prams from birth put to the test by parents - which one is right for you?

A selection of the best prams reviewed by our testers including iCandy, Stokke, Ickle Bubba, Inglesina and ABC Design
(Image credit: Future)

The best prams suit your lifestyle, budget, and, of course, your baby. But with hundreds of different designs to choose from it can be difficult to narrow down the options so to help you choose, we've roadtested 12 of the best prams.

A pram is probably the single most expensive piece of baby kit you’re likely to buy for your baby so it's a decision to get right. You're faced with decisions you probably didn't even know you'd need to make, such as whether to choose a pram with air-filled tyres that can handle off-road adventures or one with swivel wheels that will glide easily over shiny shop floors and uneven pavements. Factor in, too, that you may need to buy some accessories - such as a raincover - separately.

For babies under six months old, the best pram to choose is one with a carrycot (sometimes also called a bassinet) or a seat that can be fully reclined. This is because babies under six months old need to lie flat when they're in a pram as their lungs are still developing. As well as supporting the healthy development of a baby's spine and hips, lying flat (rather than being propped upright) whilst in a pram also improves oxygen saturation, which is very important for your baby's breathing.

All of the prams in this buying guide are safe to use from birth as they support lying flat. Then, when your baby is over six months old, you can remove the carrycot attachment or adjust the seat unit and continue to use the pram as an upright pushchair until your little one no longer needs a ride, which is usually once they reach the age of about three years old.

Picking the best pram for your baby is one of the most exciting moments when you're expecting a baby but it can also be overwhelming, so we asked our panel of parent testers to put 12 market-leading prams to the test and tell us what they loved - and didn't love - about each one. We've made sure to include prams to suit all budgets, from affordable options at around £200 up to top-of-the-range luxury prams that cost over £1,000.

Best prams for newborns: quick list

Need quick advice to help you pinpoint the best pram to buy for your newborn? Here's the lowdown...

The best prams we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.

The best pram overall

The Stomp V4 All-in-One Travel System from Ickle Bubba - our top pick for best pram overall

(Image credit: Ickle Bubba)

1. Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 Special Edition All-in-One Travel System with ISOFIX base

Unbeatable price for a classy pram with carrycot and car seat included

Specifications

Weighs: 7.1kg
Age limit: Birth - 22kg (approx. 4 years)

Reasons to buy

+
A dream to push
+
Sleek and stylish design
+
All the extras are included

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited choice of colours
-
It's not the cheapest option
-
If you don't drive, it's not the one
Buy it if

✅ You want to save money: a bundle like this saves you money compared with buying each of the parts separately.

✅ You want a pram that's easy to push: it glides along effortlessly and has an 'off-road' feature too.

✅ You need a height-adjustable handlebar: a great feature for shorter-than-average mums like our tester! 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don't drive: if you're a non-driver and don't need a car seat, these extras will be wasted on you.

❌ You're an off-grid parent: this coped well on tough terrain but go for off-road wheels if you're a hardcore hiker.

❌ You can afford to spend more: if your budget can stretch further take a look at the Silver Cross Wave instead.

The bottom line

🔎 Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 Built to last but still great value, with all the extras included in the price. ★★★★★

Tested by: Johanna Hewitson, mum to three-month-old Georgia

Our baby gear expert says: This is an impressive 'travel system' deal that simplifies the process of buying a pram and saves you money compared with buying each of the parts separately. You get both a newborn carrycot (0-6m) and a reversible pushchair seat (6m+) included, along with a Galaxy 0+ car seat (with Isofix base, worth £179) which is suitable from birth to 13kgs/12-15 months. And that's not all - they've even thrown in a nappy change bag and window sunshades for your car.

Our tester, Johanna, says: "The Stomp looks very sleek and stylish and is an absolute dream to push. It glides along effortlessly and has an 'off-road' feature which makes walking over the grass much less bumpy for the baby. The adjustable handle is great for shorter-than-average mums, like me, and makes the pram even more comfortable to push. I am especially impressed with the leatherette handle and the bumper bars as they're so easy to wipe clean – always a brilliant feature whenever children are involved."

"I also love the quilted carrycot liner, super comfy for keeping my little one on her newborn sleep schedule, and the way the pram hood extends to create a cosy, den-like atmosphere for my baby - and I am impressed that it offers 50 UPF sun protection. The extra-large shopping basket is also a real bonus."

Verdict: This is the best pram of all those we've tested because it comes with literally everything you need to get out and about with your baby from day one – and you don't need to rob a bank to pay for it. 

The pram is both supremely stylish and great value for money - a winning combo. We love the premium fabrics and the classy colour options, and the fact that you can choose the colour of the frame. (Bronze is stunning and definitely gets our vote.)

Choosing a complete 'travel system' bundle like this takes all the stress and hassle out of shopping for a pram. You don't need to shop around for extras like a compatible car seat or spend yet more cash on extras like a carrycot - it's all included. It's also built to last but still great value, with all the extras covered in the price. Top marks!

Read more: Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 review

The best luxury pram

An image of the Silver Cross Wave pram

(Image credit: Silver Cross)

2. Silver Cross Wave

A beautifully crafted, luxurious pram that can grow with your family

Specifications

Weighs: 17.7kg
Age limit: Birth-26kg (approx. 6 years)

Reasons to buy

+
Light and easy to push
+
Detachable, separate carrycot 
+
Wonderfully comfy for a baby

Reasons to avoid

-
One of the most expensive options
Buy it if

✅ You plan to have another baby: it's the perfect pram if you hope to grow your family as it converts to a double.

✅ You want the best of the best: prams don't get much fancier than this - good enough for the Royals! 

✅ You want flexibility: you can attach an upright seat, a car seat, or a carrycot as required.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You haven't got much storage space: once your baby outgrows the carrycot it's quite bulky to store.

❌ You're on a budget: a top-of-the-range pram is worth every penny but there are lots of cheaper alternatives.

❌ You need a lightweight pram: it's fairly heavy to lift so impractical for lugging up and down apartment steps.

The bottom line

🔎 Silver Cross Wave The Rolls Royce of prams  ★★★★★

Tested by: Johanna Hewitson, mum to Georgia, three months.

Our baby gear expert says: The Silver Cross Wave is a beautifully crafted pram that's mind-bogglingly versatile. It's cleverly designed to adapt to your family's changing needs, so it's perfect if you're a first-time mum hoping to add to your family - with the Wave, you can 'future-proof' your pram.

What does that mean? You can use it as a single pram but then later convert it to a double, so you could accommodate both a baby and a toddler at the same time. It's also ideal if you're expecting your second baby but have a toddler who still needs to use a pushchair. You can also add an infant car seat, a tandem pushchair seat, or even a second carrycot. Overall, you can create 30 different configurations for carrying a baby, siblings, or twins. Add a ride-on board, and you could even carry three children at once! 

The Wave also has multi-terrain wheels and independent suspension so it handles brilliantly on all kinds of surfaces, rather than being better suited to one type of terrain. This means you can move seamlessly between the park and the pavement without worrying about whether the pram can cope.

Our tester, Johanna, says: "This pram certainly lives up to the manufacturer's claim that it's both beautiful and luxurious - I fell in love with it at first sight! And all the little finishing touches make it look so smart and chic." 

"My husband also fell in love with it when he realised that the carrycot and the pushchair seat are on two separate frames. This means no fiddly assembly for him when setting it up or switching between using the carrycot or the seat!"

"The carrycot is well-positioned so it doesn't restrict access to the shopping basket, and there's plenty of space for storing a couple of bags of groceries. The Silver Cross Wave also comes with a separate storage bag for each of the rain covers (one for the carrycot and one for the pushchair seat), and each seat comes with an insect net."

"The inside of the carrycot is beautifully plush and well-padded - in fact, I noticed my baby was pressing her hands into the sides so she liked the feel of it too. Also, the zip-on cover is really easy to pop on and off."

Verdict: If you're looking for a luxurious pram for your newborn - and don't mind paying extra for first-class craftsmanship - the Silver Cross Wave is the best pram you could choose. Built to stand the test of time, it's a perfect choice if your family hasn't finished growing yet.

Read more: Silver Cross Wave review

The best budget pram

The Graco Transform 2-in-1 Pramette to Pushchair

(Image credit: Graco)

3. Graco Transform 2-in-1 Pramette to Pushchair

A straightforward, sturdy but stylish pram that's super affordable

Specifications

Weighs: 15.8kg
Age limit: Birth-22kg (approx. 4 years)

Reasons to buy

+
Great value for money
+
Large, well-designed shopping basket
+
Sturdy apron usable as the child grows

Reasons to avoid

-
Tricky to assemble
-
Minimal suspension
Buy it if

✅ You have limited storage space: adjust the seat from lie-flat mode to toddler seat with no carrycot to store.

✅ You'd like a reversible seat: you have the option f your facing forward or facing you - usually only possibly on pricier prams!

✅ You need a decent-sized shopping basket: this pram has one of the best baskets we've seen.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need good off-road suspension: this is a nippy set of wheels for city living but it's not for off-roading.

❌ You can afford to spend more: it's a brilliant budget buy but if you can stretch further, it's worth it.

❌ You want a carrycot for overnight sleeping: this has an upright seat that you can lie flat but it's not for nighttime.

The bottom line

🔎 Graco Transform 2-in-1 Easy to store★★★★★

Tested by: Natasha Henderson, mum to Montgomery, 13 weeks.

If you're looking for a hassle-free set of wheels that converts from a lie-flat 'pramette' for a newborn to an upright, toddler-friendly pushchair, this is it. Compatible with the Graco SnugEssential i-Size car seat, the Graco Transform 2-in-one Pramette to Pushchair comes with a cosy newborn liner, a pram/pushchair seat, and an apron and rain cover included.

Our baby gear expert says: The seat has three recline settings so it's comfy if your baby naps when you're on the go. There's a spacious basket to hold shopping or your change bag, lockable front swivel wheels for easy maneuverability, and a mesh window in the hood, making it easy to keep a close eye on your baby when you're pushing the pram. When it's folded, the pram is both compact and free-standing so you can pop it in a corner for storage without it taking up lots of space.

Our tester, Natasha, says: "Having a baby means an overnight explosion in the amount of stuff you have to find space for, so I like the concept of a pram that converts to a pushchair – it means you don't need storage space for a bulky carrycot once your baby outgrows it. Also, the seat is extremely simple and straightforward to convert from a lie-flat bassinet to an upright pushchair seat. The thick, sturdy apron that covers the bassinet has a long fold-down flap so it can keep a small baby really sheltered from the elements." 

"This pram also has the best shopping basket of all the prams I've tried – it's really spacious and a good shape so that things don't tumble out when you mount a steep curb. The basket is also really accessible and easy to pop things in and out of - without having to dodge the swinging legs of a toddler or risk a muddy welly to the face! The pramette also passed the 'going around a corner on the bus' test with flying colours."

Verdict: The pramette has less impressive suspension than other prams, but that's not an issue unless you live in the countryside or do lots of off-road walks. Folding it took a bit of practice at first and it definitely requires two hands but once you've mastered that, it's straightforward to collapse. 

You can fold the frame with the pramette in place or – when you're using it as a pushchair – with the seat unit facing in either direction. That's a brilliant feature that makes folding your pram so much easier than wrestling to remove the bassinet or seat unit first before you can fold it.

As for the price tag, our tester guessed that this would cost at least £300. Wrong! It's really affordable - the best pram we've tested in the 'budget buy' category. Sturdy and straightforward, it's excellent value compared to other similar prams we've seen.

The best pram for interaction

An image of the Stokke Xplory pram

(Image credit: Stokke)

4. Stokke Xplory X

Plush, stylish and made for face-to-face interaction with your child

Specifications

Weighs: 13.4 kg / 29.5 lbs
Age limit: Birth - 48 months

Reasons to buy

+
High seat position encourages closeness
+
Height-adjustable seat and handlebar 
+
Plush, cosy interior

Reasons to avoid

-
Carrycot is not suitable for overnight
-
The basket is small and tricky to access
-
Key accessories not included in the price
Buy it if

✅ You want a versatile pram: you can choose which way your baby faces and there are three recline settings.

✅ You're happy to pay extra for accessories: the carrycot and car seat are not supplied in the price.

✅ You love the idea of easier connection to your child: few prams position your baby this close.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don't want to spend over £1,000 on a pram: it's money well spent but plenty of cheaper alternatives exist.

❌ You want a carrycot for overnight sleeping: you can buy a compatible carrycot but it's not for nighttime use.

❌ You need a big basket: we struggled to fit much in the basket during testing except valuables - no room for wellies!

The bottom line

🔎 Stokke Xplory X A stylish, contemporary pram that fosters parent/child connection ★★★★★

Tested by: Anna Bailey and her daughter, Freddie, from six months to 15 months old.

The Xplory X from Stokke is a popular premium choice and one of the best prams you can buy if you like the idea of your baby being positioned higher up than traditional prams allow so that you can interact more easily. The chassis comes with the pushchair seat included and it's compatible with a lie-flat carrycot and a car seat but these, along with other extras such as the rain cover, have to be purchased separately.

Our baby gear expert says: Like a lot of Stokke products, the Xplory X pram is designed to ‘grow with your child’ meaning that you can continue to use it, with small adjustments, as your child gets older. For example, the seat unit can be positioned parent-facing or turned around to face the direction of travel, and the footrest can be extended to accommodate growing legs. The padded seat liner can also be removed, creating more space for a toddler

Our tester, Anna, says: "The padded insert feels very comfortable and plush. It’s easy to take off, and we’ve thrown it in the washing machine a few times. I was actually given a fancy luxury pram liner but I chose to use the Stokke liner instead as I think it's nicer. I also love how the pushchair seat is designed so you're much closer to your baby, with adjustable heights and recliner settings so Freddie can be right up high and close to us when she wants to be. There are three recline settings to the seat unit - sleep, rest, and active - and the latter is perfect when we're on a bus or a train, or in a coffee shop. The handle is adjustable too so you can 'drop' it out of the way or raise it to suit parents and carers of different heights."

Verdict: Overall, this is a stylish, versatile pram that will appeal to parents who like the idea of being close and connected to their baby, even when they're on the go. It's not a budget buy and you should factor in the additional expense of the extras but plush design features do add value.  'The canopy extends really far, which is really handy,' adds Anna. 'It’s water repellent and has SPF 50+ sun protection plus a breathable mesh section for ventilation and a reflective strip, so it can easily be spotted at night. When Freddie was just a few weeks old we were out and about and it started to rain - we were totally unprepared and didn’t have a rain cover, so we were very grateful that we could fully extend the canopy. We just about got away with it - and frantically bought a cover for next-day delivery.

Read more: Stokke Xplory X pram review

The best single-to-double pram

An image of the iCandy Orange Crush 3

(Image credit: iCandy)

5. iCandy Orange Crush 3

Best pram for a growing family - converts to a double

Specifications

Weighs: 12.1kg
Age limit: Birth - 25kg

Reasons to buy

+
Highly versatile - converts to a double
+
Freestanding when folded
+
Integrated ride-on board

Reasons to avoid

-
You need both hands free to fold it
-
It's expensive
Buy it if

✅ You want a carrycot for overnight sleeping: you can head off overnight without having to pack a travel cot.

✅ You want to switch from single to double mode: choose from 30 possible seat configurations for siblings.

✅ You want to attach a car seat: it's not included in the price but selected car seats are compatible.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: £1,000 is a lot to spend on a pram and some less expensive models have similar functionality.

❌ You don't need off-road wheels: it handles all-terrain but don't pay more for this if you don't need it.

❌ You're not into designer brands: an iCandy is a statement pram and that's not everyone's cup of tea!

The bottom line

🔎 iCandy Orange Crush An investment pram that can handle all the stages of family life in style ★★★★★

Tested by: Claire McCrory and her 10-week-old son Cathal.

Our baby gear expert says: The iCandy Orange 3 is every bit as impressive as you'd expect from a brand of this calibre. It's the perfect pram for first-time parents, since it's suitable from birth and comes with a carrycot that's approved for overnight sleeping - but it also easily converts from a single to a double pushchair if your family grows. There are 30 different possible seat configurations and you can choose whether your child faces you or the direction of travel.

The pushchair seat is easy to recline through three different positions for a smooth transition, if your baby falls asleep while you're out and about, and it comes with adaptors included so you can also pop a car seat on the frame, if you wish. 

It has optimised tyre tread and soft suspension which means it handles all kinds of terrain well, and it's free-standing when folded for neat and easy storage when it's not in use. 

It has an integrated ride-on board for toddlers who need to hitch a ride now and then, plus a removable Pip-Zip carry bag - we love that you don't need to spend more money on buying these items separately. 

The adjustable handlebar makes this a dream to push if you and your partner are not the same height, while the large basket makes nipping to the shop for milk and nappies hassle-free.

Our tester, Claire, says: The new iCandy Orange Crush 3 impressed our tester for several reasons. Firstly, she was wowed by its luxe look and feel; this is a premium pram with a high-end finish and great attention to detail.

Secondly, Claire found the pram lighter and more compact than she expected. Prams can be heavy and cumbersome - that's partly what makes them so comfortable and robust - but a heavy pram can put you off getting out and about with your baby. But Claire found this really maneuverable and very easy to handle on all kinds of terrain and in different environments. 

"It ticks all my boxes; it's a beautiful-looking yet robust buggy/carrycot combo that is suitable from birth but it has some great additional features like the integrated buggy board and the fact that you can convert it from a single pram to a double," she says.

Verdict: The iCandy Orange 3 is not a budget buy so it won't appeal to everyone. But it's well worth considering if you're shopping for a luxe, premium pram and your budget allows. And if you're hoping to have another baby within the next few years, it's an investment that could deliver real value for money over the long term.

Read more: iCandy Orange Crush 3 review

The best pram design

An image of the iCandy Peach 7 pram

(Image credit: iCandy)

6. iCandy Peach 7

A statement pram for style-conscious first-time parents

Specifications

Weighs: 13.65kg
Age limit: Birth-4 years

Reasons to buy

+
Very stylish design
+
Super smooth ride 
+
Padded seat for extra comfort

Reasons to avoid

-
Two hands needed for bassinet removal 
-
Assembly can be fiddly
-
Toddler ride-on step is small
Buy it if

✅ You love beautiful design: this is an exceptionally well-crafted pram that's as functional as it is stylish.

✅ You want good manoeuvrability: seriously, this thing practically steers itself. Dreamy! 

✅ You'd like a large shopping basket: raincover, coats, wellies, a bag of groceries - it can take it all and more.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: if you don't plan on spending this much, there are lots of cheaper alternatives to consider.

❌ Designer prams aren't your thing: it's a statement piece and if that's not your bag, we understand.

❌ You want a light pram: it's not overly heavy but we wouldn't want to drag it up a flight of stairs every day

The bottom line

🔎  iCandy Peach 7 Classy, stylish and built to last ★★★★★

Tested by: Gemma Fromage-Crawford with her children Effie and Boden who were 7 weeks old and 2 years old at the time.

It comes as no surprise that the iCandy Peach 7 ticks lots of boxes you might expect from a premium pram. We're talking luxe fabrics, plush padding, a spacious shopping basket, puncture-proof tyres and an aluminium frame for almost effortless handling and manoeuvrability. Better yet, this stylish and sophisticated pram is designed to convert seamlessly from a single pram to a double - or even a twin - pushchair as your family grows. So you get a lot of bang for your buck. Plus, you can let older siblings hitch a lift with the Ride-On board. 

Our baby gear expert says: The iCandy Peach 7 is a beautifully engineered pram that you can use from the day your baby is born thanks to the handy carrycot, if you so wish. Along with its lengthy list of premium features, the Peach 7 also comes with several extras including a cupholder, sunscreen, footmuff, change bag, car adaptors, a rain cover and a parasol. So, while the upfront cost of this pram is high, you get a lot for your money. And, as it's made from high-quality materials you won't have to invest later in a toddler pushchair or another pram for subsequent children. 

Our tester, Gemma, says: "The iCandy Peach 7 pushes like an absolute dream, with wheels and suspension that absorb a lot of the bumps of uneven pavements. Plus it looks exceptionally stylish. There is no part of the iCandy Peach 7 that you think could have been made stronger or less flimsy. The handle feels incredibly soft to hold and push, and I felt like it all looked amazing when I was walking down the street. The basket under the pram is a good size (it holds up to 10kg) and can fit several shopping bags, coats, and all the other things you find yourself needing to carry with small children."

Verdict: It turns out there is a pram that does it all. The fact that it's approved for overnight sleeping is a major advantage and is another good reason to choose the iCandy Peach 7 over other less expensive prams. Of course, most parents aren’t likely to use their pram instead of a cot every night, but if you're visiting the grandparents or meeting up with a friend just as nap time strikes, you can rest assured that your little one has a safe and secure carrycot to lay their head. Gemma adds: "I'd recommend this to someone who wants an exceptionally good-looking pram that is very high quality and which will last for several years. It's ideal for first-time parents or those happy to purchase the adapters to fix on a second seat."

Read more: iCandy Peach 7 review

The best off road pram

Bugaboo Fox 3 configuration

(Image credit: Bugaboo)

7. Bugaboo Fox 3

An absolute dream to push - we can't fault it

Specifications

Weighs: 12.2kg
Age limit: Birth to 4 years

Reasons to buy

+
Spacious, padded, and extremely comfortable
+
Incredibly easy to steer and push
+
Easy-to-use brake

Reasons to avoid

-
Tricky handlebar retraction
-
Not compact when folded
Buy it if

✅ You love off-road adventures: no need to think twice about trekking uphill and down dale with these wheels!

✅ You want a super smooth ride: we honestly felt like this pram pushed itself.

✅ You want one set of wheels: this will see you from birth until the days when you don't need a stroller.

Don't buy it if:

❌ Your budget doesn't allow: yes, it's lovely but not if you can't justify the price - cheaper options exist.

❌ You want a light stroller: this is superbly robust but could get pretty heavy with a strapping toddler aboard.

❌ You want a pram that folds with the seat in either direction: no can do but that's a very minor issue!

The bottom line

🔎 Bugaboo Fox 3 Effortlessly manoeuvrable and supremely stylish ★★★★★

Tested by: Grace Holliday and her 10-month-old daughter.

Our baby gear expert says: 
With advanced suspension and ergonomic design, this all-terrain pram is suitable from birth through to toddlerhood - and beyond. Sturdy but compact and astonishingly easy to manoeuvre, it's a dream that can handle every type of terrain from cobblestones to muddy forest walks, and everything in between.

Our tester, Grace, says: Our tester, Grace, who tested the Bugaboo Fox 3 for this review, had high expectations of it based on the fact that it's a top-of-the-range pram with a price tag to match. Happily, it met with her approval almost instantly. "The first time I took my 10-month-old daughter out in the Bugaboo Fox 3, I had to stop in the middle of the street and message my husband to tell him that it feels like I'm not pushing anything - it's as if this pram just drives itself," says Grace. 

Verdict: A brilliantly well-executed pram that's as stylish as it is practical, the Bugaboo Fox 3 is an investment that will ensure you don't need to buy another set of wheels for your child at any stage. There's almost nothing we can think of that could be improved about it - except perhaps being able to fold it with the seat unit facing in either direction. 

Read more: Bugaboo Fox 3 review

The best pram for versatility

The Inglesina Aptica travel system

(Image credit: Inglesina)

8. Inglesina Aptica Travel System

A stylish, contemporary pram with all the extras included

Specifications

Weighs: 10.2kg
Age limit: Birth to four years old

Reasons to buy

+
Large and comfortable carrycot
+
Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre
+
Stylish

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
Buy it if

✅ You want a pram you can fold with one hand: even with the seat mounted facing in any direction.

✅ You want a versatile travel system: the car seat, carrycot, and stroller seat all attach easily without adapters.

✅ You want to attach an infant car seat: it comes with the Darwin Infant Recline car seat included.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: at £1500 this is more than some people spend on a car - but you do get everything included.

❌ You don't drive: if the car seat is an extra that you don't really need then go for a pram without the car seat included.

❌ You're not a big outdoors person: this pram really comes into its own for all weather adventures outside.

The bottom line

🔎 Inglesina Aptica Travel System Everything you need for luxe adventures with your baby in all weathers ★★★★★

Tested by: Jess Bird and her baby Remy, who was six months old at the time.

The Inglesina Aptica Travel System is a feature-packed, beautifully designed product that is one of the best prams you can buy, especially if you have a newborn or infant on your hands. It merges style and functionality seamlessly and it comes with all the accessories you need — and more. This includes a car seat, carrycot, chassis, and storage basket. But despite this, the Inglesina Aptica Travel System is lightweight, spacious, and easy to stow away. It's also ideal for just about any terrain so your little traveller can travel in comfort. 

Our baby gear expert says: One of the best things about this model is the fact it's a stylish, all-season stroller with multiple configurations that will keep your little one safe and comfortable. The versatility means you get more bang for your buck, as you essentially get a car seat, carrycot, and pram all in one. Plus, the clever design makes changing the travel system into any one of its other four configurations quick and easy — once you've got the hang of it, you can do so in seconds. 

Our tester, Jess, says: "I really like the Inglesina Aptica Travel System. Remy is six months old and in a bit of an 'inbetween stage' where sometimes he needs to lie flat to sleep and sometimes likes to have a look around when out and about. Due to the Inglesina being very versatile, it is quick and easy to change the travel system to ensure maximum comfort at all times. The Inglesina Aptica system has everything that you could need and has some very unique features that set it aside from others on the market. I do think you get a lot for your money with this travel system, but I do think this is a more high-end budget, especially for a brand that isn't as well known as others in the UK."

Verdict: All in all, this super stylish and adaptable pram will best suit parents who like the idea of having a stroller that does it all. "The travel system definitely has a premium feel about it and comes with so many items and accessories," says Jess. "It has a large carrycot suitable for slightly older babies and a large basket to hold even the biggest of change bags. The carrycot also has a very handy pocket on the outside which was ideal for stashing my phone and keys." Jess adds: "The Inglesina Aptica Travel system would definitely suit someone who likes stylishly designed products and someone who is on the go a lot. Especially mums on the school run etc."

Read more: Inglesina Aptica review

The best pram for manoeuvrability

An image of the Mamas and Papas Ocarro pram

(Image credit: Mamas and Papas)

9. Mamas and Papas Ocarro

Highly manaoeuvrable in a sleek and stylish package

Specifications

Weighs: 13.7kg
Age limit: Birth-22kg (approx. 4 years)

Reasons to buy

+
Chunky wheels handle all terrain
+
Comfy and cosy for baby
+
Stylish design

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavy to lift
-
Bassinet restricts basket access
Buy it if

✅ You want an easy to assemble pram: we had this up and running within moments of unboxing it.

✅ You want a pram for different terrain: it handles both muddy parks and shiny shop floors with ease.

✅ You want a pushchair that folds easily: tick... and there's no need to remove the seat unit first.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need a pram that's light to lift: it's heavy, we cannot lie, but that makes it sturdy and robust.

❌ You don't live on the ground floor: it's not the one for lugging up and down several flights of steps.

❌ You have a small car boot: we had to remove the parcel shelf to fit it in the car during testing.

The bottom line

🔎 Mamas and Papas Ocarro Expensive but still good value, as good for city streets as it is for rural walks  ★★★★★

Tested by: Rohese Devereux, mum to Lemba, 11 weeks

Our baby gear expert says: The Mamas and Papas Ocarro is a premium pushchair for use from birth to toddlerhood. It's a breeze to assemble, tackles different surfaces with ease, and feels sturdy, safe, and secure.

Our tester, Rohese, says: "With plush accessories, faux leather trim, and exceptionally smooth handling of corners, the Ocarro is the high-end sports car of the pushchair world. It's easy to assemble and it folds easily, even with the seat unit still attached. The chassis is heavy so those with smaller car boots might struggle to squeeze it in – in a Volkswagen Polo, the fit was snug and we had to remove the parcel shelf. It's also a bit of a struggle to carry the whole thing (plus a baby) and up down steps, so it's not ideal if you live in a flat."

"The basket is a good size and would easily fit a day's groceries but it's hard to access when the bassinet is attached. While it's a bit of an effort to push this uphill due to its weight, the ride is very smooth for the baby. The pram handles well, even going round corners and over bumpy pavements. It also tackled cobbled streets easily without jolting my baby awake, and the swivel wheels mean rough, off-road surfaces only require a little extra expenditure of effort."

"The changing bag is roomy and can be worn over the shoulder or as a rucksack, and the footmuff kept our baby warm in the Scottish autumn wind."

Verdict: This isn't the most compact pram you'll find, but it can easily manage narrow shop aisles and its sturdiness makes it feel reliable and safe. The hood can be pulled right down almost to the baby's feet for sun protection or a cosy snooze.

Although this is an expensive option, it represents good value for money since it looks, feels, and handles like a luxury item. Ease of use, the comfort of the seat unit and bassinet, and well-designed features like the extended sunshade, air vents, head pillow, and big basket make this a brilliant buy. Considering it can be used for both city streets and country walks, or even a bit of off-roading, it's well worth the price.

The best pram for sun protection

An image of the Cybex Balio S Lux

(Image credit: Cybex)

10. Cybex Balios S Lux

Specifications

Weighs: 11.7kg
Age limit: Birth-22kg (approx. four years)

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent suspension
+
Wheels cope with all-terrain
+
Fabulous XXL hood

Reasons to avoid

-
One-handed fold is a bit tricky
Buy it if

✅ You want a lie-flat pram: the ergonomic seat reclines or you can attach the compatible carrycot (sold separately).

✅ You want a large shopping basket: it's easy to access and can hold all the day's essentials including groceries.

✅ You want a pram that's easy to store: it's freestanding when folded so it won't take up your whole hallway.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a pram that folds with one hand: we managed it in the end but it takes lots of practice.

❌ You want a lightweight pram: it's on the heavy side but that's what makes it feel so safe and sturdy.

❌ You don't need all-terrain wheels: this will be wasted on you if you're surrounded by smooth pavements.

The bottom line

🔎 Cybex Balio S Lux Great engineering, stylish design and an overall luxe appearance ★★★★★

Tested by: Natasha Henderson, mum to Montgomery, 16 weeks

Our baby gear expert says: With a spacious seat that reclines to an ergonomic lie-flat position, the Balios S Lux is an elegant 4-in-1 travel system that can take a seat unit, an infant car seat, and the Cot S or Cocoon S carrycots. It's self-standing when folded for easy storage, and easy to fold with one hand.

Our tester, Natasha, says: "I found it easy to assemble and I love that it has luxe energy without being flashy. When I unclipped the front wheels it was agile enough to swerve past a gang of teenagers at the bus stop without breaking my stride. The suspension is awesome, even on cobblestones, and my little chap snoozed peacefully."

"The rear wheel brake is responsive and 'flip flop friendly' so you can use it without mashing your toes in the summer, but my favourite feature is the hood. It's a bit tricky to get on but once you've done it – oh my! The fabric is SPF50 and it's a good size but there is an extra flap that folds out at the front to deal with the low-hanging winter sun. There is also a secret extension compartment that you can unzip and it folds right over to help little ones snooze in peace on the go. Best of all, the viewing flap in the hood opens silently and the mesh is perfectly designed so you can check on your little one without risking eye contact when they're nodding off."

"The seat is easy to recline, even if you've only got one hand free. However, I found the one-handed fold feature a bit tricky to get to grips with. It has taken me a couple of attempts with both hands to pull this off but I imagine this is a technique that gets easier with more practice. The pram is also quite heavy considering it's supposed to be foldable with one hand. The marketing video shows a woman carrying it like a handbag whilst wearing heels and walking normally but she must have epic core strength. I was staggering a little even in my flat shoes and I definitely wasn't able to swing it into the boot with one hand! However, once folded it does stand well, although you have to remember to lock the front wheels. It's very easy to unfold."

"Another selling point is the shopping basket. It's easily big enough for those days when the supermarket has an unexpected offer on a mega multipack of nappies. Also, you can reach into it from either side regardless of whether you're using the carrycot or the pushchair attachment. The padding for the pushchair is extra plush, giving a real sense of snugness, and the carrycot has a lovely thick apron that looks and feels warm and secure."

Verdict: This is a cleverly and thoughtfully designed pushchair that's more agile than our tester expected - she describes it as the Tesla Model 3 of the pram world. Good engineering and a luxe appearance combine to create a great pram that's spacious for little ones but compact enough to be practical for parents.

The best all-terrain pram

An image of the ABC Design Salsa pram

(Image credit: ABC Design)

11. ABC Salsa 4

Tackles rough terrain with ease - including cobblestones!

Specifications

Weighs: 14kg
Age limit: Birth-22kg (approx. 4 years)

Reasons to buy

+
Visual wow factor
+
Well-engineered, especially the suspension
+
Massive extendable hood

Reasons to avoid

-
Needs a large car boot
-
Basket is tricky to access
Buy it if

✅ You want a reversible seat unit: we love the option to choose which way your child faces.

✅ You want a plush, padded seat: this pram has one of the comfiest and cosiest seats we've seen.

✅ You want a pram that folds easily: we were surprised by what a doddle this is to fold despite being bulky. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a lightweight pram: not gonna lie, this is heavy and you definitely know you're pushing 14kg.

❌ You have a small car boot: this takes up a lot of space so do make sure it'll fit your boot before you buy.

❌ You want a spacious basket: it's tricky to access and can't fit an impulse buy of a multipack of nappies.

The bottom line

🔎 ABC Salsa 4 Super solid and robust with excellent suspension ★★★★★

Tested by: Natasha Henderson, mum to Montgomery, 13 weeks

Our baby gear expert says: The Salsa 4 by ABC Design is a contemporary pram with swivel front wheels, a reversible seat unit, and a bassinet suitable for overnight sleeping. It's light and stylish and folds to a neat size for travel use or easy storage. Large air-filled tyres and integrated suspension offer a really smooth ride, even off-road.

Our tester, Natasha says: "This pram oozes stability and feels well-engineered. I like the large and beautifully padded seat, which feels safe and supportive enough for my newborn son or my toddler daughter. It was very easy to assemble and it's easy to fold – and surprisingly compact when folded. It feels massive compared to my usual pram and although it's relatively easy to manoeuvre, it's tricky to steer around narrow corners in my local shop. But the suspension is great – my baby usually startles awake if anyone so much as opens a bag of crisps across the street but he didn't stir when we went for a bumpy off-road walk with this."

"There's a large shopping basket but access is a little restricted. The space to put things through is relatively small with a tricky angle of access – you couldn't fit a large pack of nappies in the basket, never mind an unexpected ‘middle aisle’ German supermarket purchase in the basket! I was, however, impressed by how well this pram handles, especially on public transport. Many buggies you have to hold onto on the bus when going round corners as the brakes are not up to the job, but this passed the bus brake test with flying colours – this bad boy did not budge!"

"This is definitely the SUV of the buggy world: it's big, it looks pretty flashy, and it will suit parents who value good style and are happy to pay extra for a luxe look and solid engineering. It's perfect if you live near cobbled streets as they'll be beautifully absorbed by the excellent suspension."

Verdict: This is an especially good choice for a first-time parent looking for a robust pram that feels both solid and luxurious, but you'll need plenty of storage space for it in both your home and your car. 

The best shopping basket

An image of the UPPAbaby Cruz V2

(Image credit: UPPAbaby)

12. Uppababy Cruz V2

Sturdy, practical and stylish with all the accessories included

Specifications

Weighs: 11.6kg
Age limit: Birth - 22kg (approx. 4 years)

Reasons to buy

+
Huge basket 
+
Extendable handle
+
Very fast and easy to fold and unfold

Reasons to avoid

-
Not great off-road
Buy it if

✅ You want a light pram: it's rare to find a sturdy pram that's light but this is certainly less heavy than many.

✅ You want a decent-sized basket: it held everything we needed it to and we still had room to spare.

✅ You want an extendable handlebar: such a useful feature for parents of varying heights!

Don't buy it if:

❌ You do lots of off-road walks: this can handle rougher terrain but an all-terrain pram would be better.

❌ You're on a budget: it comes with all the extra accessories included but it's still a lot to spend on a pram.

❌ You don't drive: the car seat and base are included in the price but they'll be wasted on you without a car!

The bottom line

🔎  Uppababy Cruz V2 A pricy but practical pram that's ideal for urban living ★★★★★

Tested by: Rohese Devereux, mum to Lemba, 11 weeks

Our baby gear expert says: Despite its weight, the Cruz feels light and nippy to push, and it seamlessly navigated the busy one-way system of a certain Scandinavian interior store like a dream. Tilting the pushchair to mount pavements is easy, and can even be done with one hand, according to our tester. 

Our tester, Rohese, says: "I found this a practical yet stylish pram that made moving around with my newborn baby pretty much hassle-free. This pram is sturdy enough to feel safe and secure but light enough to tackle every urban landscape. Although heavy to carry when folded, the chassis is incredibly quick and easy to open and fold. It's also designed to stand when folded, which is handy for storing and travelling."

"The bassinet is deep and comfy with padded lining and a padded, zippable cover to keep little ones warm. The bassinet attachment fits onto the frame easily and comes off smoothly thanks to a button on top of the hood. The thick fabric is stylish but practical too, offering extra protection against wind and cold weather. The bassinet hood has vents that can be uncovered during warm weather to allow air to circulate and houses a UV sunshade tucked inside that folds all the way down to the bassinet cover."

"One of the standout features of this pram is its spacious, easily accessible shopping basket. There's enough space for groceries, rain covers, and a changing bag - with room to spare. I like the extendable handle – a useful feature for taller parents. This pram has good suspension and tackles puddles, sand, grass, and small bumps easily, although tougher terrain and uneven ground presented more of a challenge. The heaviness came into play when trying to push it up steep inclines - that takes quite a bit of extra effort - but the swivel wheels were very easy to lock and unlock with a push button."

Verdict: This is a stylish but reliable pushchair that offers maximum comfort for your baby whilst being easy and intuitive for parents to operate.

How to choose the best pram for you

  • Affordability and value for money: is the pram affordable or expensive, and if the latter, do you feel it's worth the price? Or could you choose a cheaper pram but still get lots of the same features and functionality?
  • Ease of use: is it easy to steer and push, even uphill and over bumpy ground? Is it intuitive to fold and unfold or do you need to read the instructions to work out how to do so? Does the brand claim you can fold it with your baby in your arms - and if so, is that really true? 
  • Weight: how light and compact is it? A robust, heavy frame might feel lovely and sturdy to push, but it's not fun to lift in/out of the car boot or on/off public transport. Size matters too. If your car boot or hallway is small, is the pram compact when folded? Many prams are designed to be free-standing when folded, which means you can tuck them neatly out of the way without tripping over them.
  • Terrain: are the pram wheels designed for weaving through busy city streets, gliding over shiny shop floors, or trekking to your local forest, park, or beach? Does it have swivel wheels to help you steer in confined spaces like narrow shop aisles and crowded places? If you live in the countryside, you'll need all-terrain wheels that can cope with muddy walks and 'off-road' adventures.
  • Special features: can you adjust the height of the handlebar to suit different people who might use the stroller, apart from you? Is the seat reversible, so you can choose which direction your child faces, or is it fixed facing one way? Are there any extra features like a coffee cup holder or extra-large sun canopy that add value to the pram?
  • Functionality: check out the size of the shopping basket – the bigger, the better! Can you fit a packet of nappies in the basket and still have room for your change bag plus a few essential groceries? And is the basket accessible with the carrycot or seat unit in all positions? Bonus points for any pram that can be folded with one hand. You'll be surprised how much you'll appreciate that when you're caught in a downpour and have to dash back to the car or hop on a bus unexpectedly.
  • Design: prams come in lots of different styles so pick one that you love the look of and you'll be more likely to enjoy getting out and about with your baby, even when it feels like quite the operation to pull off! 
  • The bus and cobblestones tests: Does the pram stay put even when you're on a bus that's screeching around a corner, or do you have to cling onto it with all your strength to keep it in place? And when you push it over cobblestones, will your baby get a smooth ride, or will their cheeks wobble like jelly? 

How we tested these prams

Our Consumer Editor Heidi Scrimgeour is a mum of three and a parenting journalist who has been reviewing baby gear for more than a decade. She has personally tested dozens of prams, and spoken to countless mums and industry experts to establish what is - and isn't -  important in a pram. (And yes, a coffee cup holder is high on the list.)

Heidi came up with a shortlist of the best prams to include in this buying guide, based on her product knowledge and industry research. She looked at the latest offering from the market-leading brands - and as a parenting journalist for 15 years and mother of three, what she doesn't know about baby products isn't worth knowing. She also selected products from a broad range of price points so there's a pram in this guide to suit every budget. 

Next, we assembled a panel of parent testers with babies of the appropriate age and tasked with putting the pram through its paces for several weeks. We asked them to consider specific factors including how easy the pram was to fold and unfold, how much storage space it takes up in a car boot or hallway, how well it copes with different types of terrain, and how easy it is to steer and manoeuvre. 

We left no stone unturned in our quest to help you establish which is the best pram for your needs and budget. For example, if the manufacturer says a pram can be easily folded with one hand - a super useful feature when you're wrestling a baby and a pram in and out of the car multiple times a day - then we specifically asked our tester to verify this claim.

We've also made it easy for you to choose the best pram for you, based on these reviews. We've included different types of prams at a range of different price points, from prams designed for nipping through busy city streets to those with air-filled tyres that can tackle rougher terrain, and from affordable options that put value for money first, to high-end premium prams that cost more than some people spend on a car.

Finally, our testers gave each product a rating out of five for overall performance and provided comprehensive feedback on key factors including design appeal, functionality (how easy is it to assemble and use), portability (how easy is it to lift in and out of the car or up a flight of steps), how compact when stored and value for money.

Heidi Scrimgeour
Deputy Editor

As a parenting specialist for more than 15 years, Heidi has written for most national newspapers and for a wide range of consumer magazines, including Mother & Baby where she was the Shopping Editor for six years, looking after regular consumer features including buying guides and gift roundups.