Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 vs. Safety 1st Grand 2-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 Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Grand 2-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

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
In stock
$181.99
In stock
$59.99
Rating 4.90 4.70

Our Thoughts

When looking at the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1, both seats offer practical features that cater to growing families. The Graco SlimFit3, as the name suggests, is designed with a slim profile to fit three across in the back seat, a boon for larger families. On the other hand, Safety 1st's Grand 2-in-1 is crafted with a lightweight, portable design in mind that doesn't compromise safety.

While both car seats are versatile, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 stands out with its 3-in-1 capability. This allows the car seat to be used starting as a rear-facing harness for 5-40 lbs, transitioning to a forward-facing harness for 22 to 65 lbs, and finally converting to a high-back booster for 40 to 100 lbs. This longevity of use makes this car seat an attractive investment for parents. In contrast, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 offers only two modes. It starts as a forward-facing harness seat for kids weighing 30-65 pounds and transitions to a belt-positioning booster for those weighing 40-120 pounds. However, it does not have a rear-facing mode, thus not suitable for infants or younger toddlers.

Safety is paramount when selecting a car seat for your child. The Graco SlimFit3 offers a robust steel-reinforced frame and energy-absorbing EPS foam, meeting and exceeding standard safety expectations with its ProtectPlus engineering. On the other hand, Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 does meet standard safety requirements, yet it lacks the advanced features of its counterpart, such as the steel-reinforced frame. When it comes to weight and height specifications, both seats are almost identical except for the rear-facing mode that Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 lacks.

Furthermore, the Graco SlimFit3 LX is FAA approved in both rear and forward-facing configurations, allowing for smoother travel with your child. The Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 is only FAA approved in the forward-facing configuration.

Looking at the ease of cleaning, both car seats excel with their machine-washable seat covers. However, Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 additionally offers dishwasher-safe cup holders, making cleanup that much easier for busy parents.

In regards to price, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 is the more economical model. Still, it's important to consider the added value the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 brings with its additional features and extended use.

When it comes to choosing between these two, if you are seeking a car seat that can accommodate an infant and can continue to be used as your child grows, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 is your go-to choice. However, if budget is a significant consideration, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 can suffice for a child who has outgrown the need for a rear-facing seat.

Key Details

SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Grand 2-in-1
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Brand Graco Safety 1st
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.90 4.70
1 yr Price Range $195.99 - $279.99 $74.99 - $79.99
Current price
In stock
$181.99
In stock
$59.99
Value

The price point is moderate considering its 3-in-1 capability and longevity from infant to booster stage.

The price point combined with its dual functionality as a harness and booster seat offers substantial savings over time.

Safety

With its steel-reinforced frame and ProtectPlus engineering, it exceeds standard safety expectations.

It meets standard safety requirements, but lacks advanced features like a steel-reinforced frame.

Features

The car seat includes a no-rethread harness, multiple recline positions, and dual cup holders, adding convenience.

While it covers the essentials, it may not include comfort extras found in higher-end seats.

Installation

The installation process is standard, with no specific enhancements that simplify it significantly.

Installation is straightforward with LATCH or seatbelt, but achieving a tight fit requires attention to detail.

Cleaning

The Rapid Remove cover is machine-washable, facilitating easy cleanup.

The seat pad is machine washable and dryer safe, and the cup holders are dishwasher-safe, simplifying maintenance.

Size

The slim profile is ideal for fitting three across in the backseat, a rare attribute in car seats.

The design is space-efficient, ideal for fitting multiple car seats in the back of a car.

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 Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Grand 2-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

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 32 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 30 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 43 - 57 inches 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds 40 - 120 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Width 19.9 inches 19.6 inches
Height 25.5 inches 30.2 inches
Depth 21.5 inches 18.3 inches
Weight 21.5 pounds 12.2 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Model Year 2022 2021
Made In China USA
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Unknown

Safety and Compliance

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Forward-Facing
High Back Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Not rated by NHTSA. Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 2 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 1 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all Safety 1st car seats
Full review of the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1
Full review of the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1