Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 vs. SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 and the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-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

Our Thoughts

When considering car seats for your little ones, safety, flexibility and usability are key factors. It’s clear both the slim, versatile Graco's SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the adaptable Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 uphold these principals, providing solid, reliable options that adapt as your child grows. Both of these Graco car seats feature reinforced steel frames and have undergone extensive safety testing. They also spotlight convenience with machine-washable covers and easy-to-adjust harnesses.

Delving deeper reveals a few key differences between the two models. The Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 is a step ahead with a 5-in-1 design that smoothly transitions to serve as a seat belt trainer, in addition to traditional car seat stages. This added feature provides a beneficial solution for children between 8 to 12 years old, ensuring proper seat belt positioning. However, this model has some limitations. The Graco 4Ever DLX’s harness straps might be too short for larger toddlers, and it is said to consume more space, which may be a disadvantage in smaller vehicles.

On the other hand, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 focuses on optimizing space. Its slim design makes the car seat ideal for compact spaces in the backseat, even allowing for a three-across setup. It does lack the seatbelt trainer mode present in the Graco 4Ever DLX, and its maximum booster weight is lower, supporting only up to 100 lbs compared to Graco 4Ever DLX’s 120 lbs. It's important to note, though, that the SlimFit3 LX has been reported to have unclear installation instructions and might not provide adequate support for newborns or infants.

So, which one should you choose? If you have the budget for it and your vehicle has ample space, the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 promises convenience from infancy through grade school with its versatile 5-in-1 feature and added comfort with its premium padding. It also sports a higher maximum weight allowance in booster mode, a significant plus if you have a larger or taller child.

However, if you prefer a car seat that saves space in your backseat, especially if you need to fit multiple seats, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 would be a better choice. Although you sacrifice the seat belt trainer mode, the SlimFit3 LX still provides a solid, long-lasting car seat solution with its durable make and flexible features.

In summary, both car seats serve different needs and are equipped with great features that will undoubtedly provide safety and comfort to your growing child. It's just a matter of picking the one most suited to your circumstances and preferences.