Century Drive On 3-in-1 vs. Graco Contender 65: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Century Drive On 3-in-1 and the Graco Contender 65.

Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident that you're choosing the optimal car seat for your family's needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions!

At A Glance

Our Thoughts

When it comes to balancing safety with sustainability, Century Drive On 3-in-1 car seat stands firmly up to the challenge. Designed as part of the brand's Happy Planet collection, this seat integrates fabric made from recycled materials, setting it apart as an eco-friendly option. It's an adaptable 3-in-1 car seat that can be switched from rear-facing to forward-facing with a harness, and then to a belt-positioning booster, accommodating children from 5 to 100 lbs. Despite its impressively lightweight frame at only 13.7 lbs, the Drive On doesn't compromise on durability or safety. Its slim design fits snugly in compact car spaces, while the no-rethread harness system assures easy height adjustments as your child grows. However, some parents cite that it tends to lean to the right when installed with a seatbelt, so be sure to review the installation instructions carefully.

On the other hand, the Graco Contender 65 is engineered for practicality, keeping safety, comfort, and convenience at the core of its design. Functioning as a convertible car seat, it offers both rear-facing and forward-facing options and can support children between 5 and 65 lbs. Notably, users commend the simplicity of the Contender's installation, attributed largely to its practical design and clear instructions. Furthermore, its adjustable harness system and multiple recline positions allow customization for ideal child comfort. However, unlike the Century Drive On, parents indicate some difficulty in removing and cleaning the Graco Contender's cover which could be a concern for mishaps on the road.

Given the higher maximum weight limit in the booster mode for the Drive On (100 lbs as against the Contender's 65 lbs), the Century Drive On has a clear advantage for ensuring longer usability. Moreover, both car seats are approved by the FAA for forward-facing and rear-facing modes, promising peace of mind during flights. While both seats originate from China and offer a 1-year warranty, they differentiate in terms of materials used. Century does not specify the frame material, while Graco uses sturdy plastic.

In terms of overall recommendation, if sustainability is a high priority for you, and you appreciate a car seat which is lightweight, compact and can accommodate your child for a longer duration, the Century Drive On would be a worthy choice. Conversely, for those who value an uncomplicated installation process, the Graco Contender could be a more favourable avenue. But do remember that it's slightly heavier and more difficult to clean. Price wise, both sit in a similar range, offering good value for money. Nevertheless, considering its thoughtful eco-conscious design and its extended applicability owing to the higher weight limit, the Century Drive On gets the nod as the favorable all-rounder.