Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Type Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.77 4.90

Our Thoughts

The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat and the UPPAbaby MESA offer different benefits depending on a parents' primary needs. Graco's Tranzitions 3-in-1 is a versatile car seat that can be adapted as a child grows, transitioning from a harness booster for children weighing 22-65 lb, to a highback booster for those weighing 40-100 lb, which could mean significant savings in the long run. The seat is also easy to clean and compact, making it a convenient choice for families who frequently move the car seat between vehicles. However, a point of concern might be its relatively difficult installation process, which has been noted by some parents.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby MESA is a premium infant car seat designed for babies weighing between 4-35 pounds. It shines with its advanced safety features and ease of installation, which parents often applaud. The MESA also offers seamless integration with UPPAbaby strollers, creating a convenient travel system. The seat's sleek and stylish design also adds appeal, but it does come with a higher price tag. As an infant car seat, it has a shorter lifespan as the baby will outgrow it and will require an upgrade as they grow.

The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster offers the advantage of accommodate up to 100 lbs in booster mode, which is a significant advantage over the UPPAbaby MESA that accommodates only up to 35 lbs in rear-facing mode. However, when it comes to FAA approval for air travel, only the rear-facing configuration of the UPPAbaby MESA is approved, whereas for the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1, it's only approved in the forward-facing mode.

In light of these points, if the budget allows, new parents with newborns might find the UPPAbaby MESA a good fit, especially if planning to travel by air. Its advanced safety features, easy installation process, and compatibility with UPPAbaby strollers provide peace of mind and convenience. However, for parents looking for a budget-friendly long-term solution, the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 car seat, despite its installation difficulties, could be a practical choice, given its versatility and longer lifespan.

Key Details

Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster MESA
Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Brand Graco UPPAbaby
Type Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.77 4.90
1 yr Price Range $97.99 - $139.99 $239.99 - $349.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value

The price point combined with its 3-in-1 versatility offers significant savings over time.

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

Safety

It meets Graco's ProtectPlus Engineered safety standards, which is a rigorous test for safety.

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

Features

The Simply Safe Adjust Harness System and portable design are standout features.

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

Installation

Some parents find the installation process difficult and frustrating.

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

Cleaning

Easy to remove and washable parts make cleaning a breeze.

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

Size

The lightweight and compact design make it convenient for transfers between 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 4 - 35 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 27 - 57 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 30 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Width 19.0 inches 17.0 inches
Height 26.5 inches 25.0 inches
Depth 17.4 inches 28.0 inches
Weight 20.0 pounds 9.9 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Model Year 2018 2020
Made In China China
Frame Material Aluminum Aluminum

Safety and Compliance

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 2 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 1 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster UPPAbaby MESA
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 7 Years 7 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all UPPAbaby car seats
Full review of the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster
Full review of the UPPAbaby MESA