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

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

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

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Rear-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
Currently unavailable
-
Rating 4.79 4.90

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.

Key Details

Extend2Fit MESA
Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Brand Graco UPPAbaby
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.79 4.90
1 yr Price Range $199.99 - $210.69 $239.99 - $349.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
Currently unavailable
-
Value

The Extend2Fit's competitive pricing paired with its long lifespan and adaptability offers remarkable value for parents.

While on the pricier side, its durability and advanced features justify the cost.

Safety

With a reinforced steel frame and high weight limits for rear-facing, it exceeds typical safety standards.

Features like a no-rethread harness and side-impact protection enhance safety.

Features

The 4-position leg extension and Simply Safe Adjust harness system are standout features.

Offers unique elements like a one-button stroller release and SMARTSecure system.

Installation

While installation is generally straightforward, some parents report difficulty in tightening the harness.

The car seat is praised for its easy and secure installation process.

Cleaning

The seat cover is challenging to remove, and the tiny hooks are not easily accessible.

The seat cover is removable and washable, although some care is needed.

Size

The seat is bulkier than some of its counterparts, which may be a consideration for smaller vehicles.

Comparable to other infant seats in size, fitting well in most 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 Extend2Fit and the UPPAbaby MESA. 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 Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 4 - 50 pounds 4 - 35 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Width 19.0 inches 17.0 inches
Height 24.5 inches 25.0 inches
Depth 20.8 inches 28.0 inches
Weight 20.6 pounds 9.9 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Model Year 2017 2020
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Aluminum

Safety and Compliance

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
Rear-Facing
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Not rated by NHTSA. Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Labels 5 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Base
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. No cup holders

Warranty and Durability

Graco Extend2Fit UPPAbaby MESA
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 10 Years 7 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all UPPAbaby car seats
Full review of the Graco Extend2Fit
Full review of the UPPAbaby MESA