Nuna Rava vs. UPPAbaby MESA: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Nuna Rava 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

Our Thoughts

Diving into the world of car seats, we have two top contenders here: the Nuna Rava and the UPPAbaby MESA. At first glance, both appear to be excellent selections, offering superior safety features, comfort, and style. However, upon closer review, distinct characteristics become apparent that may sway your decision one way or the other.

The Nuna Rava stands out with its impressive weight allowance, adjustable and comfortable legroom, and straightforward installation system. Designed for both rear-facing and forward-facing configuration, this robust car seat supports a weight of up to 65 pounds in the forward position and 50 pounds in the rear. So even as your little one grows older and heavier, you can still ensure their comfort and safety with this adaptable design. Its unique legroom extension provides an extra two inches of space for those longer journeys, helping to keep your child at ease. The installation features, including the Simply™ secure system and True Tension doors, guarantee a secure and fuss-free fit. Despite its heft and size, many parents can attest to the Rava's uncompromising safety and overall child-friendly design, even if it takes up a bit more room in the car.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby MESA is specifically designed to accommodate smaller babies, making it a prime choice for newborns. Tailored for rear-facing use only (with a weight limit of 35 lbs), this car seat scores highly in safety due to features like its no-rethread harness and side-impact protection. Installation is remarkably simple with the SMARTSecure system, and the overall design matches brilliantly with UPPAbaby strollers for an easy transition from car to stroller. The MESA's durability, advanced features, and ease of use justify the higher price, making it a well-loved product among many parents. Despite the limited usage span due to its design—since it's only for infants—the MESA offers great value, especially for families who frequently travel with their infant.

In terms of recommendations, it essentially boils down to your child's age, size, and your personal preferences as a parent. If you're seeking a long-term, adaptable solution that can grow with your child, the Nuna Rava would be an excellent investment despite its bulkiness and slightly higher price tag. Conversely, if you’re in need of an infant car seat that combines top-tier safety, easy installation, and stroller compatibility, then the UPPAbaby MESA may be the reasonable choice. It's worth noting that both car seats are FAA approved, making them excellent choices for parents who frequently travel by air.