Graco Contender 65 vs. Turn2Me 3-in-1: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco Turn2Me 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

As a fellow parent, I know how vital it is to choose the best car seat for our little ones. Our choices today are between two excellent options: the Graco Contender 65 and Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1.

First up, let's talk about the Graco Contender 65. This is a convertible car seat which means it can be positioned both rear and forward-facing, catering to children weighing between 5 to 65 pounds. The adjustable harness system, multiple recline positions, and easy installation make this a versatile and practical car seat. Moreover, it ensures robust safety standards with its secure harness and impact-resistant design. However, some parents have found that the seat cover is a bit challenging to clean. This car seat is affordable, convenient, and reliable, making it a brilliant choice for families on a budget.

Now, onto the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1. This car seat stands out with its rotating design, allowing the seat to turn 90 degrees towards the door for easy-to-access when in rear-facing mode. Not only is this practical, but it's also a safety feature as the seat clicks securely back into place once your child is situated. The Graco Turn2Me caters to a more comprehensive weight range than the Contender 65, accommodating babies from 4 to 100 lbs and can be set up in rear-facing, forward-facing, and high back booster modes. However, this top-of-the-line protection and convenience come with a higher price tag, making this car seat a commitment.

A key difference to note is that while both the car seats cater to the rear-facing mode, the Graco Contender 65 can hold the child in the rear-facing configuration for longer with a maximum weight limit of 40 lbs compared to Graco Turn2Me's 40 lbs limit. So, if you plan to keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible, Graco Contender 65 would be a better choice. Also, if frequent long-distance travel is on the cards, note that the Contender 65 offers both forward and rear-facing configurations that are FAA approved for travel, whereas the Turn2Me only has a forward-facing FAA approval.

In sum, both these car seats demonstrate excellent features and robust safety standards. If you are on a budget, I would recommend the Graco Contender 65. While it may not have the fancy rotating feature, it does an excellent job at prioritizing safety and ease of use without stretching your wallet. On the other hand, if budget is not a constraint and you want a car seat with extra comfort and innovative features, the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 is worth considering. Remember, the best car seat is the one that fits your child, fits your vehicle, and can be used correctly every single time.