Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 vs. Safety 1st Guide 65: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 and the Safety 1st Guide 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

As parents, our role is to ensure that our children are safe and comfortable. This can be especially challenging when it comes to something as significant as picking out a car seat, where safety and ease of use become the most crucial factors. Two options that stand out are the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 and the Safety 1st Guide 65. They represent two distinct options on the car seat spectrum: premium and budget-friendly, respectively.

The Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 is a seat designed to grow with your child, from infancy right through to the grade school years. It's versatile, with five configurations that include infant mode, convertible, high back booster, backless booster, and seat belt trainer. You will find it packed with features such as side impact protection, a steel-reinforced frame, an easy-install SnugLock system, and a fast cover removal for washing. The Graco 4Ever DLX was built with convenience in mind - a slim design for tight back-spaces and simple height adjustments for the harness and headrest. Despite being highly rated and possessing high-quality construction, it may not be suitable for all vehicles due to its size, or for larger toddlers who might find the strap length lacking. Nonetheless, for safety-conscious families who prefer an all-in-one solution with advanced features, this seat is worthy of consideration.

On the other hand, the Safety 1st Guide 65 is a convertible seat designed with budget in mind. While it doesn't boast of the same versatility as the Graco 4Ever DLX, it's nonetheless a reliable option for parents on a tighter budget. Its compact design is beneficial for those with smaller vehicles or needing to accommodate multiple children. The car seat includes side impact protection and a convenient 5-point harness. However, customers have reported issues with installation, particularly in the rear-facing mode, and it has been suggested that older babies or larger toddlers may face cramped leg room. Despite these concerns, if budget constraints or restricted space are pressing issues, this could be a solid option to explore.

If budget is less of a concern and you wish to have a car seat that caters to longer-term needs, we would recommend the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1. This car seat offers a balance between comfort, safety, and longevity, eliminating the need to purchase multiple car seats as your child grows. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers safety features, the Safety 1st Guide 65 might be the car seat for you. Yet, you should mindful of installation issues and consider carefully if this might present a limitation for you. With either option, make sure to choose a car seat that best fits your vehicle and meets the needs of your family.