Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 vs. Safety 1st Crosstown: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Crosstown.

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

While comparing car seats for your child, it's crucial to consider factors like safety, functionality, and durability, among others. Two such options worth considering are the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Crosstown.

The Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 car seat is praised widely for its adaptability, comfort, and safety. Capable of transitioning from a forward-facing harness seat for toddlers to a highback booster and then to a backless booster seat, it is known for its longevity. This car seat can accommodate children from 22 to 100 pounds which makes it a valuable investment for parents in the long run. Safety is given highest priority with its 5-point harness system and a reinforced steel frame. It is simple to install, easy to clean, and is decently compact for its multi-stage functionality. However, it does pose some challenges with its installation and buckle adjustability. In terms of travel configuration, it is FAA approved for forward-facing mode.

The Safety 1st Crosstown, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly 3-in-1 convertible car seat. It transitions from a rear-facing infant seat, to a forward-facing car seat, and finally to a belt-positioning booster. This makes it potentially the only car seat you'll need to buy for your child. It can accommodate kids in the rear-facing mode up to 40 pounds and in forward-facing mode up to 65 pounds. It includes two removable grow-with-baby pillows and multiple recline options to ensure a snug fit. Although it does not match the advanced features of higher-end models, it is user-friendly in terms of installation and has easy-to-clean fabric. However, there have been user issues about the plastic feeling somewhat flimsy and the straps being difficult to tighten properly. It is FAA approved for both rear and forward-facing modes.

Both car seats offer unique benefits, but if you're looking for a seat that will provide a one-time solution across all stages of your child's growth, the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1 could be your choice. Apart from its ability to adjust as per your child's growing needs, it emphasises safety standards which help ensures peace of mind for parents. However, if you're conscious about your budget and want a car seat that covers all essential features while providing comfort, the Safety 1st Crosstown is a viable option. It provides great value for your investment and is more suitable for parents wanting to keep initial costs low.