Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 vs. TurboBooster 2.0 Highback: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 and the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback.

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 parent, it is crucial to have a car seat that not only offers safety but also is capable enough to adapt during the growth spurts of your child. If these are your concerns, the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 and the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster offer good options. Both are robust, versatile, and comprehensive solutions ensuring maximum safety while traveling.

The Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 is a workhorse of a car seat. A hallmark feature of the Nautilus 65 is the No-rethread Harness System, which simplifies height adjustments without the need to uninstall the seat. It transitions from a forward-facing harness seat for toddlers to a highback booster and then to a backless booster seat for older children, accommodating children from 22 to 100 pounds. However, contrary to its comprehensive performance, installing the Nautilus 65 reportedly can be tricky for some parents. In addition, some users found the bottom buckle and strap adjustment a bit challenging to operate due to its rigidity.

On the other hand, the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster is extremely lightweight and easy to transfer between vehicles, which is perfect for families on the move. With the TurboBooster, you are getting more than a better-priced booster seat. It promotes the correct seat belt positioning for your child and effortlessly converts from a highback booster into a backless booster, ensuring its usability as your child grows from 40 to 100 pounds. But it's worth noting that this seat doesn't have latch anchors, a feature some parents might prefer for extra stability. Also, the cup holders present hold the cups at an angle which might spill the drinks.

In terms of safety features, both car seats ensure they leave no stones unturned. The Nautilus 65 wins with its reinforced steel frame that provides stability, durability, and added safety. Both seats are engineered with Graco's ProtectPlus system ensuring front, rear, and rollover crash protection.

Taking into account the versatility, features, and drawbacks, I would strongly recommend the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 if budget is not your primary concern. It remains a robust, long-term, safe car seat solution that grows with your child and offers comfort during frequent travel. However, for parents on a tight budget needing a lightweight and easy-to-migrate booster seat, the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster will serve as a reliable solution—with the added bonus of being well-reviewed by a vast number of users.