Chicco KeyFit 30 vs. Graco TriRide 3-in-1: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco KeyFit 30 and the Graco TriRide 3-in-1.

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

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Type Rear-Facing Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
In stock (4 varieties available)
$167.99 - $209.99
In stock
$118.99
Rating 4.87 4.68

Our Thoughts

The Chicco KeyFit 30 and the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 car seats are both excellent options, each with unique features that address different needs of parents and children.

The Chicco KeyFit 30 is renowned for its superior safety ratings, comfort, and ease of use. An infant car seat, it's specifically designed to provide a secure and cozy environment for newborns and small babies, accommodating from 4 to 30 lbs. Its distinctive features include the high safety ratings, the lightweight build compared to many other models, easy-to-clean fabric, and the ease of installation which many parents highlighted. It also boasts the advantage of being compatible with Chicco strollers. However, in comparison, the maximum rear-facing weight of the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 is 40 lbs, allowing for longer use in a rear-facing configuration, which is considered the safest for small children.

On the other hand, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 offers versatile growing options for children - transitioning from a rear-facing to forward-facing harness, and then to a high-back booster mode. It accommodates children significantly longer, from 5 lbs up to 100 lbs, covering three stages of growth. It also features a machine-washable seat pad and an adjustable headrest with 10 height positions, which can be beneficial for quickly growing toddlers. However, it's worth noting that some users have pointed out its relatively complex installation process and challenges regarding the comfort of smaller infants.

In terms of travel convenience, the Chicco KeyFit 30 is FAA approved for rear-facing configuration, while the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 is FAA approved for both rear and forward-facing configurations, but not for the booster mode.

While both car seats cater to differing needs, the choice between the two will largely depend on individual preferences and circumstances. If you prioritize an easy installation process, a lightweight design for easy carrying, and plan to utilize a Chicco stroller, the Chicco Keyfit 30 would be an excellent choice. Yet, if you're looking for a car seat that will grow with your child, from infancy to school-age, and you don't mind maneuvering through a slightly more complex installation process, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 would be a more suitable and cost-effective choice, especially for long-term use.

Key Details

KeyFit 30 TriRide 3-in-1
Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Brand Chicco Graco
Type Rear-Facing Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.87 4.68
1 yr Price Range $160.99 - $229.99 $132.99 - $189.99
Current price
In stock (4 varieties available)
$167.99 - $209.99
In stock
$118.99
Value

Offers great quality and features for its price.

Offers versatile, long-term use at a competitive price point.

Safety

Highly praised for its safety features in various reviews.

Equipped with Graco's ProtectPlus Engineeredâ„¢ system for enhanced safety.

Features

Well-equipped with necessary features for comfort and safety.

Basic features suitable for its price range but lacks premium options.

Installation

Noted for its ease of installation in multiple reviews.

Installation can be tricky; not ideal for frequent vehicle changes.

Cleaning

The removable cover makes it relatively easy to clean.

Machine washable seat pad simplifies maintenance.

Size

Compact and lighter compared to many other models, making it suitable for small cars and easy carrying.

Comparable in size and weight to similar models in its category.

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 Chicco KeyFit 30 and the Graco TriRide 3-in-1. 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

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Height Range 0 - 30 inches
Weight Range 4 - 30 pounds 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Width 16.5 inches 19.0 inches
Height 24.0 inches 23.2 inches
Depth 27.0 inches 20.0 inches
Weight 9.5 pounds 18.4 pounds

Core Specifications

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Model Year 2018 2021
Made In China China
Frame Material Plastic Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Rear-Facing
Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 2 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 4 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 out of 5 stars
Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 5 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 4 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 4 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 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 4 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

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Attachment Methods LATCH
Base
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders No cup holders
Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Chicco KeyFit 30 Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 6 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Chicco car seats See all Graco car seats
Full review of the Chicco KeyFit 30
Full review of the Graco TriRide 3-in-1