Century Drive On 3-in-1 vs. Safety 1st Guide 65: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Century Drive On 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Guide 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

The Century Drive On 3-in-1 and Safety 1st Guide 65 are two convertible car seats that cater to different needs and budgets. The Century Drive On 3-in-1 is an eco-friendly seat crafted from recycled materials, an offering from Century's Happy Planet collection. This car seat stands out with its seamless transition from rear-facing to forward-facing and eventually to a high back booster, accommodating kids from 5 to 100 pounds. Favorably reviewed for its lightweight and slim design, it's especially advantageous for families with small cars or those who often switch vehicles. It also offers a no-rethread harness system for easy height adjustments as your child grows.

On the other hand, the Safety 1st Guide 65 differs in that it remains a convertible seat without transitioning to a booster. While this may limit its lifespan in terms of child weight range, it caters to children from 5 to 65 pounds. The Guide 65's compact design provides a practical solution for multiple car seat arrangements, as it fits three across in most vehicles – a notable advantage for growing families. Despite being a less costly option, it comes with primary safety features including side impact protection and a 5-point harness system. However, this seat has received criticisms for its challenging installation process, particularly in the rear-facing mode. The lack of sufficient legroom may also pose a discomfort for taller kids.

In terms of safety measures, both car seats meet Federal Safety Standards and are FAA approved for both forward-facing and rear-facing configurations. However, it's worth highlighting that the Century Drive On 3-in-1 boasts a higher maximum weight limit for forward-facing at 65 pounds, compared to the Guide 65's 40-pound limit. This implies a longer usage in the safer, forward-facing position with the Century Drive On 3-in-1.

As a fellow parent, my recommendation leans towards the Century Drive On 3-in-1 car seat, particularly for those prioritizing sustainability, extended weight coverage, and desiring a convenient, hassle-free experience. However, the Safety 1st Guide 65 could be a viable option for families having multiple toddlers, needing to fit three seats in a row, or operating on a tight budget. Nonetheless, assessing your family's individual needs, the car's compatibility, and your child's comfort is paramount before arriving at a final decision.