Graco Contender 65 vs. Nuna Rava: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

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

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 Nuna Rava
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.77 4.70

Our Thoughts

After closely examining and comparing the Graco Contender 65 and the Nuna Rava car seats, it's evident that both offer unique and beneficial features to consider as a parent. Both car seats provide safety, versatility and accommodate children as they grow, which are major factors for any family.

The Graco Contender 65 is a practical and cost-friendly option that allows for a maximum weight of 65 lbs in forward facing mode. It's a durable and adjustable car seat, with an easily adaptable harness system designed to accommodate a growing child. Moreover, it's straightforward to install with user-friendly instructions. However, some users report difficulties with cleaning the seat cover and concerns about strap comfort. If affordability and functionality are top of mind, the Graco Contender 65 is a practical choice.

On the other hand, the Nuna Rava is a higher-end car seat that excels in safety and comfort. Its rear-facing position is suitable for children up to 50 lbs and forward-facing for those up to 65 lbs. Features such as the added legroom extension and hypoallergenic fabric provide maximum comfort. With advanced side-impact protection using an all-steel frame and the unique door mechanism for easy installation, this seat showcases excellent value for its higher price point. It's worth noting that although parents praise the seat's plush comfort and easy installation, it's bulkier and heavier than average, which may not work well for smaller cars or if frequently moved between vehicles.

If budget is not an issue and you prioritize superior safety features, durability and long-term adaptability, then the Nuna Rava would certainly meet your needs. However, if a more budget-friendly option with good safety standards and user-friendly features is what you're looking for, then the Graco Contender 65 would be a sound choice.

Key Details

Contender 65 Rava
Graco Contender 65 Nuna Rava
Brand Graco Nuna
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.77 4.70
1 yr Price Range $118.99 - $249.99 $450 - $549.95
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.

Despite a higher price point, the Rava’s durability and extensive features offer significant long-term value.

Safety

Ensures robust safety standards with its secure harness and impact-resistant design.

All-steel frame and advanced side-impact protection make the Rava a fortress of safety.

Features

Offers essential features like adjustable harness and recline, though lacks some advanced options.

Innovative legroom extension and hypoallergenic fabric set the Rava apart.

Installation

Users find it relatively easy to install, with straightforward instructions and practical design.

The unique door mechanism ensures a hassle-free, secure installation.

Cleaning

Some users noted challenges with removing and cleaning the seat cover.

The Rava’s fabric is durable and comfortable, but no specific advantages in ease of cleaning have been observed.

Size

Its size is manageable, but not the most compact option available.

The Rava's premium features add to its bulk, which might be a consideration for smaller vehicles.

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 Nuna Rava. 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 Nuna Rava
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds 5 - 50 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Contender 65 Nuna Rava
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 25 - 65 pounds

Booster

Neither car seat has a Booster configuration.

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Contender 65 Nuna Rava
Width 20.3 inches 19.0 inches
Height 24.8 inches 31.0 inches
Depth 17.3 inches 16.0 inches
Weight 15.2 pounds 27.2 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Contender 65 Nuna Rava
Model Year 2021 2017
Made In China China
Frame Material Plastic Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Graco Contender 65 Nuna Rava
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 2 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 4 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Not rated by NHTSA.
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Graco Contender 65 Nuna Rava
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 Nuna Rava
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 7 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all Nuna car seats
Full review of the Graco Contender 65
Full review of the Nuna Rava