phil&teds LB_V1_55_200_USA Highchair Review
Our verdict
The phil&teds Lobster is a 3.8-pound clip-on portable high chair that attaches directly to a table edge, freeing families from lugging bulky chairs to restaurants or relatives' homes, with an 806-review track record averaging 4.4 stars.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Families who eat out frequently or visit grandparents often and want a compact, lightweight seat that clips to most standard table edges without taking up floor space.
Skip if
You need a full-size floor-standing high chair with a tray for home use, or if your dining table has a lip, glass top, or pedestal base that may not be compatible with clip-on designs.
- Age Range Baby
- Max Weight 37 Pounds
- Material Aluminum
- Weight 3.8 Pounds
- Dimensions 13"D x 14"W x 14"H
- Portable Yes
- Priced 29% above the category median ($69.99 across 169 tracked models)
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.4/5
4.4 average across 806 owner ratings
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Popularity3.3/5
806 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other baby gear and nursery essentials we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The phil&teds Lobster earns its place in the portable high chair market primarily through weight. At 3.8 pounds and with dimensions of 13 by 14 by 14 inches folded, it travels in a diaper bag or a small tote without significant burden. phil&teds is a New Zealand-based brand with a long history in baby gear design, and the Lobster has been in their lineup long enough to accumulate over 800 reviews.
The chair covers ages 6 to 36 months, which aligns with the window when babies and toddlers need a secure seat at meal times but before they graduate to a regular chair. The 37-pound weight limit comfortably covers most toddlers through age three. The aluminum construction keeps the frame rigid without adding unnecessary weight, and the clip mechanism grips table edges firmly enough to support an active toddler.
At $89.99 this is a premium price for a clip-on, but phil&teds' reputation and the chair's 4.4-star average from 806 reviewers suggest the build quality justifies the cost for buyers who will use it frequently. The absence of monthly purchase volume data simply reflects listing age rather than low demand for a well-established product.
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight at 3.8 pounds, making it genuinely portable for travel and restaurant use
- 806 reviews averaging 4.4 stars is a well-established, trustworthy rating for a specialized product
- Aluminum frame is durable and lightweight, resisting rust and holding up through years of regular use
- Compact 13 x 14 x 14 inch folded size fits easily in a bag alongside regular baby gear
Cons
- 37-pound weight limit means children on the heavier side of the toddler range may outgrow it earlier
- Clip-on design is not compatible with all table types, including pedestal tables, glass tops, or tables with very thick edges
- No tray included, so the child must eat directly at the table height
- $89.99 is on the higher end for clip-on portable seats
Specifications
| Age Range | Baby |
|---|---|
| Max Weight | 37 Pounds |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Weight | 3.8 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 13"D x 14"W x 14"H |
| Portable | Yes |
Performance notes
Clip-on high chairs like the Lobster secure to the table edge via a clamping mechanism, placing the child close to the table surface for meals. The aluminum frame provides the structural rigidity needed to hold an active 37-pound toddler safely without a floor base. Most parents using this design rely on the table itself as the eating surface, so a spill mat or bib is more important than with tray-style chairs. The Lobster's fold is compact enough for standard carry bags. Reviewers typically note that the clip tightens securely on solid wood and composite table edges but may not grip well on tables with unusual profiles.
What buyers say
With 806 reviews at 4.4 stars, the phil&teds Lobster has a substantial following among parents who prioritize portability. The most commonly raised satisfaction driver is how light and easy to transport it is. The most common criticism involves table compatibility, specifically that buyers with pedestal or glass-topped tables cannot use it as expected. Overall sentiment is positive, particularly from frequent travelers and families who regularly eat out.
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Frequently asked questions
What table types is the phil&teds Lobster compatible with?
The Lobster is designed for standard solid tables with a flat underside edge. It works well on most wood and composite dining tables. It is not suitable for glass tabletops, pedestal tables without a stable edge, folding or card tables, or tables with very thick edges that exceed the clamp's opening range.
Does the Lobster include a harness to keep the baby secure?
phil&teds clip-on high chairs typically include a safety strap or harness to secure the child in the seat. Verifying this detail in the product listing before purchasing is recommended, as harness style can vary by production run.
Who do I contact with questions about this product?
Reach the BabyCareShop team at [email protected] and we are glad to help.