Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Graco Extend2Fit.
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 NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.79 | 4.79 |
Our Thoughts
When you're a parent, the safety and comfort of your child is always a top priority and this extends to the choice of car seat. After closely examining two popular models — the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Graco Extend2Fit — I believe both have safety features and conveniences that can address most parents' needs.
The Chicco NextFit Zip is a robust choice for parents valuing safety and cleanliness. This car seat has high sides and a sturdy build, making it commendable for its protective features. A highlight is the Zip & Wash seat pad, a machine-washable component that parents can easily take off for cleaning. The NextFit Zip also facilitates a secure installation with its SuperCinch LATCH tightener and LockSure belt-tightening system. However, this seat might be challenging for those with compact vehicles due to its bulkiness and resultant impact on front passenger legroom. Additionally, while the seat can accommodate kids as they grow, rear-facing mode might get a tad cramped for their legs over time.
Conversely, the Graco Extend2Fit brings to the table its commendable lifespan and adaptability, offering great value for families on a tight budget. Its key selling point lies in the Extend2Fit 4-position adjustable extension panel, providing extra legroom that allows children to continue in the rear-facing position longer. This is particularly valuable since safety experts highly advocate maintaining the rear-facing position for kids as long as possible. Nevertheless, the Extend2Fit does have its imperfections — parents noted difficulties in harness tightening and cleaning the cover due to inaccessible hook placements.
Still, if longevity and budget are your primary concerns, the Graco Extend2Fit is the more budget-friendly option that still checks the safety and functionality boxes. The car seat's ability to adjust to the needs of your growing child saves you from having to switch seats as often. Furthermore, the higher rear-facing weight limit caters for cautious parents who intend to keep their child in this safer seating position longer than usual.
On the other hand, the Chicco NextFit Zip could be the better choice if you prefer a more compact, easy-to-clean, and robustly-built car seat. Its impressive safety measures, comfort features, and easy installation make the price well worthwhile, especially for parents who don't frequently switch the car seat between vehicles and want to prioritize the easiest possible clean-up process.
Overall, both car seats offer commendable safety and comfort features. Your best option will depend on your unique needs and priorities as a parent.
Key Details
NextFit Zip | Extend2Fit | |
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Brand | Chicco | Graco |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.79 | 4.79 |
1 yr Price Range | $199.81 - $319.99 | $199.99 - $210.69 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value |
![]() Offers extended use with convertible features, justifying its price point. |
![]() The Extend2Fit's competitive pricing paired with its long lifespan and adaptability offers remarkable value for parents. |
Safety |
![]() With high sides and a sturdy build, parents feel confident in its protective design. |
![]() With a reinforced steel frame and high weight limits for rear-facing, it exceeds typical safety standards. |
Features |
![]() The Zip & Wash seat pad and multiple recline positions add convenience and comfort. |
![]() The 4-position leg extension and Simply Safe Adjust harness system are standout features. |
Installation |
![]() Equipped with SuperCinch tightener and LockSure belt-tightening system for secure installation. |
![]() While installation is generally straightforward, some parents report difficulty in tightening the harness. |
Cleaning |
![]() Zip-off seat pad simplifies maintenance and cleaning. |
![]() The seat cover is challenging to remove, and the tiny hooks are not easily accessible. |
Size |
![]() Fits in compact cars, but its sturdy build may take up more space and limit front passenger legroom. |
![]() The seat is bulkier than some of its counterparts, which may be a consideration for smaller 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 NextFit Zip and the Graco Extend2Fit. 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 NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Height Range | 0 - 43 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 4 - 50 pounds |
Forward-facing
Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Height Range | 43 - 57 inches | |
Weight Range | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
---|---|---|
Width | 19.0 inches | 19.0 inches |
Height | 26.0 inches | 24.5 inches |
Depth | 21.0 inches | 20.8 inches |
Weight | 25.0 pounds | 20.6 pounds |
Core Specifications
Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Model Year | 2022 | 2017 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
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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 NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Attachment Methods |
LATCH Seatbelt |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders | Has cup holders. | Has cup holders. |
Warranty and Durability
Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 8 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
See all Chicco car seats | See all Graco car seats |
Full review of the Chicco NextFit Zip Full review of the Graco Extend2Fit |