Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.88 4.90

Our Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the safest and most comfortable seat for your child, the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 and the UPPAbaby MESA are top contenders. Both car seats have outstanding features, but they cater to slightly different needs.

The Graco Grows4Me is an all-rounder, designed to accommodate a child from infancy to booster seat age with its 4-in-1 functionality. What sets it apart is its seamless transition from rear-facing to forward-facing to high-back booster to backless booster. Its steel-reinforced frame adds robustness and security while the 6-position recline option provides comfort to your growing child. Notably, it has a higher maximum weight limit for the booster mode of up to 110 lbs, meaning it can accommodate your child for longer. However, this seat is quite large, which may pose a challenge for those with smaller cars. Also, some parents have reported complications with installation and not enough recline for newborns.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby MESA is a premium infant car seat that's specifically tailored for newborns and babies up to 35 lbs and 32 inches in height. Its SMARTSecure system ensures accurate and straightforward installation, a feature that many users commend. When it comes to safety, the MESA excels with its no-rethread harness and integrated side-impact protection within the headrest. Its seamless integration with UPPAbaby strollers offers a practical and stylish travel system. Some potential drawbacks include its higher price point and limited longevity, as it caters to infants only.

To choose between the two car seats, consider your budget and long-term needs. If you're looking for a budget option that grows with your child, the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 offers great value. It can potentially be the only seat you'll need throughout your child's car seat years. However, if easing the transition from car to stroller while ensuring top-tier safety features for your newborn is your priority and pricing is not a major concern, the UPPAbaby MESA could be the better fit. Always remember, the most important factor is not the price or features but the assurance that your child is safe and comfortable during every journey. Your choice should reflect both your child's needs and the practicalities of your lifestyle.

Key Details

Grows4Me 4-in-1 MESA
Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Brand Graco UPPAbaby
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.88 4.90
1 yr Price Range $195.99 - $279.99 $239.99 - $349.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value

Offers 4-in-1 functionality, reducing the need for multiple purchases.

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

Safety

Steel-reinforced frame adds robustness and security.

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

Features

Versatile 4-in-1 design with a 6-position recline and adjustable harness system.

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

Installation

Installation process can be frustrating without the InRight Latch system.

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

Cleaning

The seat has a removable cover, but no specific features that make it easier than average to clean.

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

Size

The seat is somewhat bulky, which may be challenging for smaller cars.

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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds 4 - 35 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 110 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Width 21.5 inches 17.0 inches
Height 24.0 inches 25.0 inches
Depth 20.0 inches 28.0 inches
Weight 22.5 pounds 9.9 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Model Year 2019 2020
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Aluminum

Safety and Compliance

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1
Full review of the UPPAbaby MESA