Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 vs. UPPAbaby Knox: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the UPPAbaby Knox.

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 it comes to choosing a car seat that offers versatility across various stages of your child’s growth, both the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the UPPAbaby Knox stand as formidable options. Each seat has its distinct strengths and weaknesses, so deciding between the two mainly depends on what you prioritize most as a parent.

The SlimFit3 LX truly stands out with its 3-in-1 convertible feature, designed to cater to kids from infancy up to the booster stage. This eliminates the need to purchase multiple car seats as your child ages. The SlimFit3 LX supports a rear-facing harness for weights between 5-40 lbs. When your child is ready, you can switch to a forward-facing harness for 22-65 lbs, and eventually convert to a high-back booster for 40-100 lbs. The SlimFit3 LX features a slim profile, perfect for tight backseats and ideal if you need to fit three car seats side by side. Safe and sturdy, it uses a steel-reinforced frame combined with ProtectPlus engineering. However, some potential drawbacks include unclear installation instructions and possibly insufficient support for newborns or infants.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby Knox offers a sleek, luxurious design that will appeal to parents who value aesthetics in their car accessories. It is a convertible seat suitable for both rear-facing and forward-facing configurations, accommodating children from birth up to 65 pounds. The Knox comes with high-end materials and premium features like integrated Koroyd technology and Side Impact Pods for added safety. However, it's critical to consider the Knox's limitations, the foremost being its size. Its premium build results in added bulk, which may not fit smaller cars or tight backseats comfortably. Furthermore, it appears that several parents found the installation process quite cumbersome.

Between the two seats, both offer safety and functionality, albeit in different measures. If you require a car seat that provides long-lasting utility, accommodating the progressive growth stages of your child, the SlimFit3 LX makes a stronger case. Its compact design, ease of adjustment, and rigorous safety testing make it an excellent choice for parents. Additionally, it has the added advantage of being machine washable, which is a plus point on the practicality front.

However, if luxury and aesthetics are your top priority and you have a larger car to support its size, the UPPAbaby Knox could be a solid investment. It offers enhanced safety metrics and a stylish build that is hard to match. Just bear in mind the installation challenges and space requirements that come with it.

In any case, both car seats have been approved for travel in forward-facing and rear-facing configurations, meaning they offer reliable child security during travel. My recommendation would be the Graco SlimFit3 LX for most parents, owing to its adaptable utility, reliable safety features, and reasonable price-point compared to the Knox. However, for those who can afford the splurge and have the space in their vehicle, the Knox certainly offers a level of aesthetic and quality that is undeniably appealing.