Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 vs. Contender 65: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 and the Graco Contender 65.

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

The Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 and Graco Contender 65 are both practical and low-maintenance convertible car seats that provide robust safety with a 5-point harness system. They both transition from rear-facing to forward-facing, with the 4Ever DLX offering more configurations: booster seat and even a seat belt trainer. This offers a greater weight range, accommodating children from infancy to the booster stage up to 120 pounds, providing exceptional value over the years. On the other hand, the Contender 65 caters to children from 5 to 65 pounds. While it may not have the 4Ever DLX's long-term versatility, it is a streamlined alternative for the infant to toddler stages. Both car seats are easy to install thanks to intuitive design and clear instructions, but Graco 4Ever DLX's SnugLock system deserves special recognition for enabling installation in less than a minute.

Taking safety into account, both car seats are manufactured with commitment towards rigorous safety standards. However, the 4Ever DLX takes a slight lead with a reinforced steel frame and extensive crash testing to protect children in various types of crashes, including frontal, side, rear, and rollover. The Graco Contender 65 offers robust build and adjustable harness system but does not explicitly mention extensive crash testing.

While on the subject of convenience, it's worth mentioning that the 4Ever DLX features a 60-second cover removal system, which simplifies the washing process, and it is 10% slimmer than standard models. However, the Contender 65 does fall short in the cleaning department as users have reported difficulties in removing the seat cover for cleaning. On top of that, some users have reported discomfort, with the straps potentially scraping against a child's neck.

It's evident that both car seats are reliable options that prioritize safety and can provide adaptability to your growing child's needs. The Graco 4Ever DLX 5-in-1 provides longevity and versatility, making it an all-in-one solution for parents who want a long-lasting car seat. Conversely, the Graco Contender 65 might appeal to those seeking a simple, no-frills car seat for infants and toddlers.

To sum it up, if you're looking for a car seat that offers robust safety features, comfort, and the flexibility of long-term use, the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 would be my recommendation. Despite it being more expensive, the longevity it provides makes it a worthwhile investment. However, if your main priority is an affordable car seat that still offers good safety for the infant to toddler stages, the Contender 65 also serves as a solid and practical choice. Both seats are FAA approved for forward-facing and rear-facing, making them suitable for air travel.