Graco Contender 65 vs. SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Contender 65 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

The Graco Contender 65 and Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 are both sturdy car seats from Graco that provide suitable options for parents seeking long-term solutions for their child's car seat needs. Both seats are designed to accommodate a range of weights and points in your child’s development but there are noticeable differences between the two.

Starting with the Graco Contender 65, this convertible car seat caters to children weighing up to 40 pounds in rear-facing mode, and then transitions to accommodate a child up to 65 pounds in its forward-facing configuration. It features an adjustable harness system for optimum comfort and safety, as well as multiple recline positions, which can enhance the comfort for your child during journeys of varying lengths. The design emphasizes practicality, convenience, and safety, which many parents seek. However, it's worth noting that even though the cover is removable, it may be tedious to clean which can make maintaining this seat a little more challenging than some parents may anticipate.

On the other hand, the SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 extends beyond the convertibility of the Contender, offering coverage from rear-facing right through to high-back booster mode. This seat is designed to accommodate children from 5 to 40 pounds in rear-facing mode, 22 to 65 pounds in forward-facing mode, and then from 40 to 100 pounds in its high-back booster configuration. This means that your child will be able to use this seat for a longer period of time, which could result in overall cost savings. The 3-in-1 design is combined with Graco's ProtectPlus engineering which has been tested for multiple types of crashes, giving an added layer of safety assurance. In terms of convenience, the car seat even comes with a machine-washable cover.

In regards to their approved modes for FAA travel, both car seats are permitted for usage in forward-facing and rear-facing modes. The Graco Contender will allow your child to remain securely strapped in the rear-facing configuration until they weigh 40 pounds, and then up until 65 pounds in the forward-facing configuration. However, the Slimfit3 allows the child to stay rear-facing until they weigh 40 pounds, forward-facing until they weigh 65 pounds, and supports FAA unapproved booster mode until they weigh up to 100 pounds.

Given these key differences, the SlimFit3 LX stands out as the most versatile choice. It lasts longer, covering stages right through to the high-back booster mode, making it a more convenient option for parents who hope to use the seat for many years. Its slim design also makes it a unique contender, as the slim profile will be beneficial for families with multiple children or for those with smaller cars. We recommend the SlimFit3 LX for those with room in the budget for a higher-end model that offers extended usability, enhanced safety features, and ease of cleaning. The Contender 65 remains a great choice for those looking for a reliable and practical option without a hefty price tag and who don't mind a bit of extra effort in cleaning.