CYBEX Sirona S vs. Graco Contender 65: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the CYBEX Sirona S and the Graco Contender 65.

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

When choosing a car seat for your little one, the decision often comes down to balancing safety, convenience, longevity, and cost. Two significant contenders are the CYBEX Sirona S and the Graco Contender 65.

The CYBEX Sirona S is a high-end convertible car seat, known for its innovative features. The seat employs SensorSafe technology, which connects to your smartphone to alert you of potential unsafe situations, offering additional peace of mind. The car seat's unique 360° swivel feature greatly enhances convenience when placing and removing your child from the car, making it a perfect choice for parents with back issues or those who frequently park in tight spaces. It's built to accommodate growing children, accommodating a max weight of 65 pounds in the forward-facing mode and 50 pounds in the rear-facing mode. However, some parents find the initial installation somewhat complex, and it's on the bulkier and pricier side compared to other options.

On the other hand, the Graco Contender 65 offers robust safety features and excellent versatility at a more affordable price point. The seat grows with your child, as it's suitable for children weighing between 5 and 65 pounds in both rear-facing and forward-facing configurations. Compared to the CYBEX seat, the Graco seat installation is widely regarded as straightforward, making it a practical choice for parents. On the downside, some parents have voiced difficulty in cleaning the seat cover and discomfort with the straight straps potentially scraping against the child's neck.

Both car seats have established high safety ratings and meet federal safety standards, so you can feel confident in your child's protection in both models. The Graco seat is also approved by the FAA in both forward and rear-facing configurations, while the CYBEX seat is not FAA-approved in any configuration. So, if frequent travel is a consideration, this may sway your choice.

In terms of recommendation, it genuinely depends on what you prioritize as a parent. If you value advanced features, the innovative swivel design, and don't mind the higher price tag and a bit of a tricky installation, the CYBEX Sirona S may be the best fit for you. However, if you're looking for a practical, budget-friendly car seat that is easy to install and is FAA-approved for air travel, the Graco Contender 65 could be the one. Remember, the most crucial aspect is that your child is comfortable and safe in whichever car seat you choose.