Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the UPPAbaby MESA.
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 | UPPAbaby MESA | |
Type | Rear-Facing | Rear-Facing |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.87 | 4.90 |
Our Thoughts
Considering the safety of a child, especially in a moving vehicle, is a top priority for parents. In the universe of car seats, two products stand out - the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the UPPAbaby MESA. Recognized for their robust safety features, user-friendly installation, and rave reviews, both seats promise to protect your little one during car rides. But which one is the better match for you?
The Chicco KeyFit 30 car seat, widely praised for its safety and comfort, is renowned for its lightweight design and compatibility with Chicco strollers. It is specifically created for newborns and small babies, offering a snug and secure environment during car rides. A strong track record in protecting infants during accidents makes this model a compelling choice. Plus, its material is not just comfortable, but delightfully easy to clean. Parents greatly appreciate the straightforward installation process, and the fact that it fits perfectly even in compact cars. However, this seat isn't without drawbacks. A few users have reported issues with the sunshade being difficult to adjust, and some found the neck straps to be uncomfortable for their babies.
On the other hand, the UPPAbaby MESA serves up a host of advanced safety features. Adjusting easily as your baby grows, its SmartSecure system guarantees an accurate installation every time. The MESA, compatible with UPPAbaby strollers, stands out with its plush headrest and extra padding for newborns. Parents report great comfort and safety levels, and the seamless integration with strollers and design makes it an ideal pick for families who value style and quality in baby gear. However, it does come with a higher price tag, and some parents find it a bit heavy to carry, especially when the baby grows. The MESA also can only be used as long as your child is within the 4-35 pounds range, necessitating an upgrade as the baby grows.
Between the two, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget. The Chicco KeyFit 30 is an excellent choice for parents on a budget or those who frequently move the car seat between different cars due to its lightweight build. However, if budget isn’t a consideration and you are looking for enhanced safety features for your newborn or better integration with your existing travel system, the extra features of the UPPAbaby MESA may be worth the additional investment. Above all, remember that proper installation and adherence to weight and height specifications are key to maximizing your child's safety.
Key Details
KeyFit 30 | MESA | |
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Brand | Chicco | UPPAbaby |
Type | Rear-Facing | Rear-Facing |
Weighted Rating | 4.87 | 4.90 |
1 yr Price Range | $160.99 - $229.99 | $239.99 - $349.99 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value |
![]() Offers great quality and features for its price. |
![]() While on the pricier side, its durability and advanced features justify the cost. |
Safety |
![]() Highly praised for its safety features in various reviews. |
![]() Features like a no-rethread harness and side-impact protection enhance safety. |
Features |
![]() Well-equipped with necessary features for comfort and safety. |
![]() Offers unique elements like a one-button stroller release and SMARTSecure system. |
Installation |
![]() Noted for its ease of installation in multiple reviews. |
![]() The car seat is praised for its easy and secure installation process. |
Cleaning |
![]() The removable cover makes it relatively easy to clean. |
![]() The seat cover is removable and washable, although some care is needed. |
Size |
![]() Compact and lighter compared to many other models, making it suitable for small cars and easy carrying. |
![]() Comparable to other infant seats in size, fitting well in most vehicles. |
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 UPPAbaby MESA. 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 | UPPAbaby MESA | |
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Height Range | 0 - 30 inches | 0 - 32 inches |
Weight Range | 4 - 30 pounds | 4 - 35 pounds |
Forward-facing
Neither car seat has a Forward-facing configuration.
Booster
Neither car seat has a Booster configuration.
Dimensions and Weight
Chicco KeyFit 30 | UPPAbaby MESA | |
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Width | 16.5 inches | 17.0 inches |
Height | 24.0 inches | 25.0 inches |
Depth | 27.0 inches | 28.0 inches |
Weight | 9.5 pounds | 9.9 pounds |
Core Specifications
Chicco KeyFit 30 | UPPAbaby MESA | |
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Model Year | 2018 | 2020 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Plastic | Aluminum |
Safety and Compliance
Chicco KeyFit 30 | UPPAbaby MESA | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Rear-Facing |
Rear-Facing |
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NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
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Rear-Facing Mode
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Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Chicco KeyFit 30 | UPPAbaby MESA | |
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Attachment Methods |
LATCH Base Seatbelt |
LATCH Base Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders |
No cup holders |
No cup holders |
Warranty and Durability
Chicco KeyFit 30 | UPPAbaby MESA | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 2 years |
Lifespan | 6 Years | 7 Years |
Additional Links
See all Chicco car seats | See all UPPAbaby car seats |
Full review of the Chicco KeyFit 30 Full review of the UPPAbaby MESA |