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

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the UPPAbaby Knox 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

Looking at the UPPAbaby Knox and UPPAbaby MESA car seats, there are several factors to consider. The Knox is a convertible car seat designed to support children from birth up to 65 pounds, making it a product that can last for years. On the contrary, the MESA is a dedicated infant car seat for babies weighing between 4-35 pounds and can be used for a shorter period. However, both are recognized for their advanced safety features which include the integrated Koroyd technology in Knox, which is designed to absorb crash impact forces and the no-rethread harness and integrated side-impact protection system in the MESA.

When it comes to installation, the Knox does fall short with parents noting frequent challenges, especially for those who need to move the seat between vehicles. This contrasts with the MESA, which has been praised for its easy and secure installation process fueled by its SMARTSecure system. For those who frequently switch between rear and forward-facing, the Knox's convertible design is an advantage as it offers both rear and forward-facing configurations, while MESA is only approved for rear-facing mode.

Size is another important aspect to consider. The Knox is notably bulkier, which may not be suitable for smaller vehicles or households needing to fit multiple seats. The MESA, on the other hand, is comparable to other infant seats in size and fits well in most vehicles.

Given these factors, your choice will strongly depend on your personal circumstances. If you desire a longer-lasting seat with a focus on durability and safety and you have a larger vehicle to accommodate its size, the Knox is a solid choice. But if easy installation, portability, and compatibility with a travel system are top priorities and you don’t mind transitioning to another seat as your child grows, then the MESA would be your best bet.