Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX.
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
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Rear-Facing |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.77 | 4.78 |
Our Thoughts
The Graco Contender 65 and the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX are two child car seats offering reliable safety and convenience features at reasonable prices. Both are manufactured by Graco, a trusted brand in the industry, and ensure quality and robust safety standards.
The Graco Contender 65 is a highly adaptable convertible car seat suitable for children between 5 and 65 pounds, offering both rear-facing and forward-facing options. This feature allows it to grow with the child, providing comfort and safety from infancy to the toddler stage. With adjustable harness system, multiple recline positions, and easy installation, it has garnered favor among practical parents. However, it lacks in ease of cleaning with users noting certain difficulties with removing and cleaning the seat cover. Also, while the construction ensures safety, some users have pointed out that the straps can be a bit uncomfortable against the child's neck. It's FAA-approved for both forward-facing and rear-facing use, which is perfect for jet-setting families.
On the other hand, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX is a lightweight car seat specifically designed for infants 4-35 lbs and up to 32 inches. Being rear-facing only, it provides essential protection for your little one. It is impressively light at only 7.2 lbs, making it one of the most portable options in the market - a great option for caregivers who want to avoid heavy lifting. Despite maintaining a light structure, it doesn't compromise on safety or functionality. The 4-position adjustable base, rotatable canopy, and the ease of installation make it highly practical. However, a few cons to note are the necessity for additional inserts for smaller babies and the interference of the sunshade and handle when fully extended. As for travel, this is FAA-approved, but only in rear-facing mode.
From a robust convertible design to a lightweight structure, both seats have their unique offerings. If you have a newborn, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX may be a better choice due to its lightweight design perfect for carrying young infants without much hassle. For those who want a car seat to last for years, growing with their child, the Graco Contender 65 offers the bonus of longevity, thanks to its increased weight limits in both the rear and forward-facing modes. Both are good, reasonable options with their respective target users, so consider your personal situation when choosing.
Key Details
Contender 65 | SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
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Brand | Graco | Graco |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Rear-Facing |
Weighted Rating | 4.77 | 4.78 |
1 yr Price Range | $118.99 - $249.99 | $83.99 - $119.99 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value |
![]() Provides excellent features at an affordable price, making it a cost-effective choice for families. |
![]() It offers key features at a budget-friendly price. |
Safety |
![]() Ensures robust safety standards with its secure harness and impact-resistant design. |
![]() High satisfaction with safety, reflected in user ratings. |
Features |
![]() Offers essential features like adjustable harness and recline, though lacks some advanced options. |
![]() Meets essential needs without extra frills. |
Installation |
![]() Users find it relatively easy to install, with straightforward instructions and practical design. |
![]() Easy installation with a level indicator on the base. |
Cleaning |
![]() Some users noted challenges with removing and cleaning the seat cover. |
![]() Machine washable seat pad simplifies maintenance. |
Size |
![]() Its size is manageable, but not the most compact option available. |
![]() One of the lightest carriers on the market. |
Review | Click here | Click here |
Comparison of Specifications
While features and reviews provide a sense of real-world use, the specs offer quantifiable details on sizing, limitations, and more. Comparing key measurements and ranges side-by-side is crucial for ensuring you choose a seat properly fitted for your child and vehicle.
We've compiled the weight limits, height limits, dimensions, and other vital statistics for the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX. This data will confirm whether each seat can accommodate your child's current size and projected growth. Specs like seat depth and width are also important for assessing fit with your car's backseat.
Review the following key measurements for both seats. Pay special attention to the height and weight limits to ensure your child falls within the safe ranges.
Height and Weight Limits
Rear-facing
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | 0 - 32 inches |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 4 - 35 pounds |
Forward-facing
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
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Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Neither car seat has a Booster configuration.
Dimensions and Weight
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
---|---|---|
Width | 20.3 inches | 15.5 inches |
Height | 24.8 inches | 27.4 inches |
Depth | 17.3 inches | 18.1 inches |
Weight | 15.2 pounds | 12.3 pounds |
Core Specifications
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
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Model Year | 2021 | 2021 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Plastic | Unknown |
Safety and Compliance
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
Rear-Facing |
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NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
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Not rated by NHTSA. | ||||||||||||||||||||
Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
---|---|---|
Attachment Methods |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Base LATCH Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders | Has cup holders. |
No cup holders |
Warranty and Durability
Graco Contender 65 | Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 7 Years | 7 Years |
Additional Links
See all Graco car seats |
Full review of the Graco Contender 65 Full review of the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX |