Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1.
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
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
Type | Rear-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.87 | 4.90 |
Our Thoughts
Looking for the best car seat for your beloved little one can feel overwhelming, but two models that stand out are the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1. Both are made by eminent manufacturers and have impressive safety records, but they shine in different respects and suit various family needs.
The Chicco KeyFit 30 is designed primarily for newborns and small infants, encompassing a maximum rear-facing weight limit of 30lbs. It's praised for its convenience and peace of mind, being effortless to install and comfortable for the tiny passengers. The fabric is not only cozy but also quick to remove for cleaning. At only 9.5 lbs, it's one of the lightest models on the market, which is great for parents who frequently move the seat. However, some users express concerns about the sunshade being a bit clunky to adjust and the neck straps potentially causing discomfort. The Chicco KeyFit 30 is an infant car seat that's loved by many parents for its safety, convenience, and lightweight design. It's worth noting that this seat is designed specifically for infants and is not made to convert as your child grows.
On the other hand, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is a versatile and long-lasting car seat designed to adapt as your child grows. It starts as a rear-facing seat for babies weighing between 5-40 lbs, converts to a forward-facing seat for toddlers weighing 22-65 lbs, and ultimately transforms into a high-back booster for youngsters weighing 40-100 lbs. Although heavier at 21.5 lbs, its slim construction, which is only slightly wider than the Chicco KeyFit 30, allows for fitting up to three seats across the back of most vehicles, which is quite a feat. The Graco SlimFit3 LX is easy to adjust and comes with soft, machine-washable fabric. Despite some minor complaints about the installation instructions being unclear and the seat taking up a lot of room when in the rear-facing configuration, its long-term usability and safety features are highly appreciated. Plus, it’s approved for both forward- and rear-facing configurations for airplane travel, meaning you can easily take it onto an aircraft and it will perform perfectly.
Choosing the best car seat comes down to your lifestyle and plans for the future. If you have a newborn and value ease of use, and specifically need a light, portable car seat, the Chicco KeyFit 30 would be an excellent choice. If, however, having a car seat that will adapt to your child's growth and allow for multiple car seats in the car is your priority, then the Graco SlimFit3 LX makes more sense. The Graco car seat's higher price point is an investment in its versatility, safety features, and the added convenience of not having to purchase separate seats as the child grows.
Key Details
KeyFit 30 | SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Brand | Chicco | Graco |
Type | Rear-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.87 | 4.90 |
1 yr Price Range | $160.99 - $229.99 | $195.99 - $279.99 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value |
![]() Offers great quality and features for its price. |
![]() The price point is moderate considering its 3-in-1 capability and longevity from infant to booster stage. |
Safety |
![]() Highly praised for its safety features in various reviews. |
![]() With its steel-reinforced frame and ProtectPlus engineering, it exceeds standard safety expectations. |
Features |
![]() Well-equipped with necessary features for comfort and safety. |
![]() The car seat includes a no-rethread harness, multiple recline positions, and dual cup holders, adding convenience. |
Installation |
![]() Noted for its ease of installation in multiple reviews. |
![]() The installation process is standard, with no specific enhancements that simplify it significantly. |
Cleaning |
![]() The removable cover makes it relatively easy to clean. |
![]() The Rapid Remove cover is machine-washable, facilitating easy cleanup. |
Size |
![]() Compact and lighter compared to many other models, making it suitable for small cars and easy carrying. |
![]() The slim profile is ideal for fitting three across in the backseat, a rare attribute in car seats. |
Review | Click here | Click here |
Comparison of Specifications
While features and reviews provide a sense of real-world use, the specs offer quantifiable details on sizing, limitations, and more. Comparing key measurements and ranges side-by-side is crucial for ensuring you choose a seat properly fitted for your child and vehicle.
We've compiled the weight limits, height limits, dimensions, and other vital statistics for the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1. This data will confirm whether each seat can accommodate your child's current size and projected growth. Specs like seat depth and width are also important for assessing fit with your car's backseat.
Review the following key measurements for both seats. Pay special attention to the height and weight limits to ensure your child falls within the safe ranges.
Height and Weight Limits
Rear-facing
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Height Range | 0 - 30 inches | |
Weight Range | 4 - 30 pounds | 5 - 40 pounds |
Forward-facing
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Height Range | 43 - 57 inches | |
Weight Range | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Width | 16.5 inches | 19.9 inches |
Height | 24.0 inches | 25.5 inches |
Depth | 27.0 inches | 21.5 inches |
Weight | 9.5 pounds | 21.5 pounds |
Core Specifications
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Model Year | 2018 | 2022 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Plastic | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |||||||||||
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Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Rear-Facing |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing High Back Booster |
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NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
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Not rated by NHTSA. | ||||||||||
Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Attachment Methods |
LATCH Base Seatbelt |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders |
No cup holders |
Has cup holders. |
Warranty and Durability
Chicco KeyFit 30 | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 6 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
See all Chicco car seats | See all Graco car seats |
Full review of the Chicco KeyFit 30 Full review of the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 |