Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco TriRide 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
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.77 | 4.68 |
Our Thoughts
When it comes to selecting a car seat that provides safety, reliability, and an assured longevity of use, Graco has managed to present two options in the Contender 65 and the TriRide 3-in-1. Both come with impressive safety features, but they differ in some key areas.
Graco's Contender 65 is a versatile convertible car seat that grows with your child. It fits infants and toddlers weighing between 5 and 65 pounds and provides a good balance between cost-effectiveness and functionality. It offers a forward-facing and rear-facing option and boasts robust safety features. Installation is relatively straightforward and the seat's construction is impressively impact-resistant. However, there are some drawbacks to note. The comfort of the straps has been a point of criticism and the seat cover is relatively challenging to remove and clean.
On the other hand, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 is the car seat that takes us the extra mile with its transition from rear-facing to forward-facing harness to a high-back booster seat. This budget-friendly option accommodates children from 5-100 pounds and shows its versatility in its potential for long-term use. Particularly notable is Graco's ProtectPlus Engineered system, which provides enhanced safety, and the machine-washable seat pad that simplifies maintenance. However, the TriRide 3-in-1 does have its weak spots, with installation noted as being potentially complex and issues with comfort depending on child size.
Both seats provide safe and adaptable options for families. Still, those seeking a seat that can go the extra mile, with the ability to transform into a high-back booster and handle a weight up to 100 pounds, should lean towards the TriRide 3-in-1. Though a bit more of a challenge to install, it provides longevity and adaptability well worth any initial inconvenience.
However, if a car seat's cleanliness is a top priority and you prefer a hassle-free cleaning process, the Contender 65 might not be the best fit. Here, the TriRide 3-in-1 shines again with its machine-washable pad. Yet, despite some of its limitations, the Contender 65 still stands strong as a reliable and affordable option for parents who prioritize easy installation and robust safety features.
In comparing these car seats, it's clear that parents must weigh the value of longevity and adaptable use (TriRide 3-in-1) against ease of installation and robust safety features (Contender 65). Both are strong choices in their own right, but the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 edges ahead with its versatility, high-back booster option, and machine-washable seat pad for easy cleaning.
Key Details
Contender 65 | TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Brand | Graco | Graco |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.77 | 4.68 |
1 yr Price Range | $118.99 - $249.99 | $132.99 - $189.99 |
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. |
![]() Offers versatile, long-term use at a competitive price point. |
Safety |
![]() Ensures robust safety standards with its secure harness and impact-resistant design. |
![]() Equipped with Graco's ProtectPlus Engineeredâ„¢ system for enhanced safety. |
Features |
![]() Offers essential features like adjustable harness and recline, though lacks some advanced options. |
![]() Basic features suitable for its price range but lacks premium options. |
Installation |
![]() Users find it relatively easy to install, with straightforward instructions and practical design. |
![]() Installation can be tricky; not ideal for frequent vehicle changes. |
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. |
![]() Comparable in size and weight to similar models in its category. |
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 TriRide 3-in-1. 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 TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 5 - 40 pounds |
Forward-facing
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Height Range | 43 - 57 inches | |
Weight Range | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Width | 20.3 inches | 19.0 inches |
Height | 24.8 inches | 23.2 inches |
Depth | 17.3 inches | 20.0 inches |
Weight | 15.2 pounds | 18.4 pounds |
Core Specifications
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Model Year | 2021 | 2021 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Plastic | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing High Back Booster |
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NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
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Rear-Facing Mode
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Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Attachment Methods |
LATCH Seatbelt |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders | Has cup holders. | Has cup holders. |
Warranty and Durability
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TriRide 3-in-1 | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 7 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
See all Graco car seats |
Full review of the Graco Contender 65 Full review of the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 |