Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Graco Grows4Me 4-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 NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
| Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
| Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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| Rating | 4.79 | 4.88 |
Our Thoughts
The Chicco NextFit Zip and the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 are both highly-rated car seats designed to grow alongside your child. However, there are some distinct differences to consider when deciding which could be the best fit for your family.
The Chicco NextFit Zip is a convertible car seat that transitions smoothly between rear-facing and forward-facing configurations, making it suitable for children from infancy to preschool. Its standout feature is the Zip & Wash seat pad, an easily removable and machine-washable cover that should be a big hit with parents who appreciate practicality in cleanups. Notably, the NextFit Zip sports a SuperCinch LATCH Tightener and a LockSure belt-tightening system, intended to simplify installation processes and increase safety.
On the flip side, the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 offers four modes: rear-facing, forward-facing, a high-back booster, and a backless booster. This broader range of configurations accommodates children up to 110 lbs., outpacing the Chicco NextFit Zip's maximum weight allowance in forward-facing mode by 45lbs. While these additional modes provide extended longevity, they're not FAA-approved and, so, would not be suitable for air travel.
However, the Grows4Me reportedly falls short in ease of installation, lacking Graco's signature InRight LATCH system, which appears to make installation more challenging. Some users also listed that reclining sufficiently for newborns and infants can be difficult with this car seat.
While both car seats share near-identical weight limits in rear-facing and forward-facing modes, their possible configurations are significantly different – with the Graco Grows4Me's booster options leading considerably on the longevity front. However, it’s worth noting that Chicco's NextFit Zip has potential advantages in ease of cleaning, with its Zip & Wash seat pad, and potential ease of installation with its SuperCinch LATCH Tightener.
If you’re looking for a solid, enduring car seat that can transition with your child into their later years, and can manage the initial installation hiccups, the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 would be a cost-efficient choice. However, if your priorities lie in a reassuringly secure installation, ease of maintenance and a tight budget isn't your primary concern, the Chicco NextFit Zip could be your winner.
Key Details
| NextFit Zip | Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
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| Brand | Chicco | Graco |
| Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
| Weighted Rating | 4.79 | 4.88 |
| 1 yr Price Range | $199.81 - $319.99 | $195.99 - $279.99 |
| 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. |
Offers 4-in-1 functionality, reducing the need for multiple purchases. |
| Safety |
With high sides and a sturdy build, parents feel confident in its protective design. |
Steel-reinforced frame adds robustness and security. |
| Features |
The Zip & Wash seat pad and multiple recline positions add convenience and comfort. |
Versatile 4-in-1 design with a 6-position recline and adjustable harness system. |
| Installation |
Equipped with SuperCinch tightener and LockSure belt-tightening system for secure installation. |
Installation process can be frustrating without the InRight Latch system. |
| Cleaning |
Zip-off seat pad simplifies maintenance and cleaning. |
The seat has a removable cover, but no specific features that make it easier than average to clean. |
| Size |
Fits in compact cars, but its sturdy build may take up more space and limit front passenger legroom. |
The seat is somewhat bulky, which may be challenging for smaller cars. |
| 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 Grows4Me 4-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 NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 0 - 43 inches | |
| Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 5 - 40 pounds |
Forward-facing
| Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
| Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
| Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 43 - 57 inches | |
| Weight Range | 40 - 110 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
| Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 19.0 inches | 21.5 inches |
| Height | 26.0 inches | 24.0 inches |
| Depth | 21.0 inches | 20.0 inches |
| Weight | 25.0 pounds | 22.5 pounds |
Core Specifications
| Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Model Year | 2022 | 2019 |
| Made In | China | China |
| Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
| Chicco NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing High Back Booster Backless 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 NextFit Zip | Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 |