Chicco NextFit Zip vs. Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback.

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

From convertible car seats designed to accompany your child from infancy to grade school, such as the Chicco NextFit Zip, to booster seats like the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback, meant to be a lightweight and affordable option, the variety in child safety car seats can be mind-boggling. But weighing their pros and cons concerning your particular needs can be helpful in making the right choice.

The Chicco NextFit Zip is a sturdy, reliable seat, designed to be a long-term companion for your child. Its strength lies in its safety features, comfort, and convenience. On top of its reinforced steel frame and DuoGuard Protection system, it offers nine recline positions, adjustable harness, and headrest height to accommodate growing children up to 65 pounds. The seat is FAA approved for both rear and forward-facing, making it an attractive option for families who travel frequently. Its Zip and Wash feature also simplifies cleaning, necessary for those unavoidable spills and accidents. However, it's heavier and bulkier, which can make switching vehicles a hassle, and adjusting straps can sometimes pose a challenge.

In contrast, with Graco TurboBooster, portability is one of its main perks. At less than half the weight of the Chicco NextFit Zip, transferring between vehicles is a breeze. It's also notably cheaper, excellent for those wanting a more budget-friendly option without compromising safety. Its ProtectPlus system ensures the child is safe from front, rear and rollover impacts. This seat can also adapt to child growth, transitioning from a high back to a backless booster making it a suitable choice for children weighing between 40 to 100 lbs. However, the lack of latch anchors could make installation less secure, and reports of fraying material and faulty cup holders do raise minor concerns about its overall durability.

With these pros and cons in mind, the choice between these two would largely depend on your family's lifestyle. If frequent car transfers or budget constraints are significant factors and your child is old enough for a booster seat, Graco TurboBooster 2.0 is an economical choice. However, if long-term use, strong safety features and cleaning convenience are primary considerations, and you're willing to spend a bit more, Chicco NextFit Zip's strong safety track record and excellent user-friendly features, such as machine-washable seat pads, offer substantial benefits worthy of the extra price.