Graco Extend2Fit vs. UPPAbaby MESA: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Extend2Fit and the UPPAbaby MESA.

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 Extend2Fit and the UPPAbaby MESA are two car seats designed to keep children safe during their travels. The Extend2Fit is a convertible model, transitioning from a rear-facing harness suitable for infants to a forward-facing harness and eventually a high-back booster. One of its key features is the Extend2Fit 4-position adjustable extension panel, providing additional legroom so children can stay rear-facing for longer, generally recommended by safety experts. On the other hand, the UPPAbaby MESA is an infant car seat designed specifically for babies, known for its advanced safety features and sleek design, and seamlessly fits with UPPAbaby strollers.

The Graco Extend2Fit is built to grow with your child, accommodating infants from 4-50 lbs in rear-facing mode, 22-65 lbs in forward-facing mode, and then converting to a highback booster for children between 40-100 lbs. This extended use capability is its main advantage when it comes to weight limitations, giving it the edge over the MESA, which is only suitable for babies weighing 4-35lbs in its rear-facing configuration. This difference means that an Extend2Fit seat, once purchased, can be used for longer before your child outgrows it.

Both the Extend2Fit and MESA are noted for security and safety. The Extend2Fit has a reinforced steel frame and exceeds typical safety standards, although some parents did report difficulty in tightening the harness. On the converse, the UPPAbaby MESA received high praise for easy installation and a no-rethread harness that adjusts as your baby grows. However, the Extend2Fit is FAA approved for both forward-facing and rear-facing modes, while the MESA is only FAA approved for its rear-facing mode.

In terms of cleaning, the MESA takes the lead with a removable and washable cover, compared to the Extend2Fit where the seat cover is hard to remove and the small hooks are in difficult-to-reach places. However, parents may find the Extend2Fit more affordable, despite it being bulkier than its counterparts.

So, which one should you choose? If you are planning for the future and need a car seat that will adapt and grow with your child, the Graco Extend2Fit may be your best bet. Its enhanced weight limitations mean that you can use this car seat for many years, from infancy through the booster seat years. However, if the ease of use, advanced safety features, and compatibility with strollers are of more concern to you, then the UPPAbaby MESA would be an advisable choice. Bear in mind that this comes with a higher price tag, so the final decision might be determined by your budget.