Safety 1st Crosstown vs. UPPAbaby Alta: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Safety 1st Crosstown and the UPPAbaby Alta.

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

When comparing the Safety 1st Crosstown and the UPPAbaby Alta, one of the first discrepancies that stands out is the seats' respective abilities to adapt to a child's growth. The Crosstown convertible is a 3-in-1 design, transitioning from a rear-facing infant seat to a forward-facing car seat and, finally, to a belt-positioning booster. This allows it to accommodate children in the rear-facing position up to 40 pounds, in the forward-facing position up to 65 pounds, and in the booster mode up to 100 pounds. On the other hand, the Alta seat, while well-regarded for its rigid LATCH connectors and SecureFit belt routing system, is a high-back booster form for older children (roughly 5-10 years old). It supports a weight range of 40-100lbs, demonstrating less versatility in adapting to children as they grow.

When it comes to comfort and safety, both the Crosstown and Alta are similarly appreciated. Reviews for both products mention parents' trust in these brands, and the comfort they provide to children, likely due to the spaciousness and the padded seating options they offer. However, they have slight differences in terms of their FAA-approved modes for travel. The Safety 1st Crosstown can be used in both forward-facing and rear-facing modes during travel, while the UPPAbaby Alta does not have FAA-approved modes.

Ease of installation is another point where these seats differentiate. Although both seats have been praised for an essentially user-friendly installation process, the Crosstown stands out with additional positive mentions from users, suggesting a more enjoyable user experience regarding establishment. However, the Alta offers the unique feature of Rigid LATCH connectors, aiding in providing accurate installation and stability when the seat is not in use, which may enhance its overall safety.

Coming from a fellow parent and car seat enthusiast, if you are on a budget or hoping to get the most value per purchase, I would recommend the Safety 1st Crosstown. The distinct ability of the Crosstown to grow with your child from infancy through to the booster seat years provides enormous savings over time. The Crosstown is also highly rated for safety and ease of use. However, if you are looking for a high-back booster for an older child and value unique installation safety features over versatility, the UPPAbaby Alta would be a smart choice. Both seats state they meet Federal Safety Standards, scrutinize your needs and preferences before making a decision.