Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX vs. 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 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX 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

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Type Rear-Facing Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
In stock
$118.99
Rating 4.78 4.68

Our Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the right car seat for your little one, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX and the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 both provide reliable, quality options, but in different ways. The SnugRide 35 Lite LX serves as an ideal choice for parents seeking a dedicated and convenient lightweight baby seat for infants. This rear-facing car seat is notably one of the lightest carriers on the market and is suitable for babies weighing between 4 and 35 lbs and up to 32 inches. Its convenience is further demonstrated through its easy-to-wash components and the straightforward installation process, supported by a base with a level indicator. However, there are some downsides to consider. For instance, the seat may not provide enough support for newborns' heads and necks, and there can occasionally be issues with the chest clip coming undone.

On the other hand, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 is versatile and designed with a long-term tenure in mind, being able to accommodate children from infancy, through toddlerhood, and into their early school-going years. It starts as a rear-facing car seat for infants measuring 5-40 lbs, transitions to a forward-facing car seat for toddlers weighing 22-65 lbs, and then becomes a high-back booster suitable for bigger kids between 40 and 100 lbs. This adaptability makes it an economical choice for growing families. The TriRide also offers its owners a machine washable seat, a feature which simplifies maintenance. On the downside, the TriRide has earned its reputation of a heavy and bulky seat that can be tricky to install; it's certainly not the ideal pick if you're planning frequent transitions between vehicles.

When comparing the two safety-wise, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX shows high satisfaction ratings among users regarding safety. The Graco TriRide 3-in-1, however, takes safety a step further. It is equipped with Graco's ProtectPlus Engineeredâ„¢ system, providing an additional layer of protection. Moreover, the TriRide also has been evaluated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and it has passed the checks with positive ratings, assuring parents of its ability to keep their children secure.

In terms of durability and longevity, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 does have a longer expiration period. While the SnugRide has a lifespan of 7 years, the TriRide maintains its safety and durability through 10 years of use. It's also worth noting that both models have met Federal Safety Standards and are approved for airplane use, but the configurations allowed for air travel differ. The SnugRide 35 Lite LX is FAA approved only in the rear-facing mode, while the TriRide 3-in-1 is FAA approved in both rear and forward-facing modes.

In summary, the recommended car seat depends on the purchaser's specific needs and lifestyle. For parents in search of a lightweight and easy-to-install seat ideally suited for infants, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX would be an apt choice. If you're seeking a car seat that provides prolonged usability across different stages of your child's growth and don't mind navigating a more challenging installation process, then the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 would make an excellent fit.

Key Details

SnugRide 35 Lite LX TriRide 3-in-1
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Brand Graco Graco
Type Rear-Facing Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.78 4.68
1 yr Price Range $83.99 - $119.99 $132.99 - $189.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
In stock
$118.99
Value

It offers key features at a budget-friendly price.

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

Safety

High satisfaction with safety, reflected in user ratings.

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

Features

Meets essential needs without extra frills.

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

Installation

Easy installation with a level indicator on the base.

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

Cleaning

Machine washable seat pad simplifies maintenance.

Machine washable seat pad simplifies maintenance.

Size

One of the lightest carriers on the market.

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 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX 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

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Height Range 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 4 - 35 pounds 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Width 15.5 inches 19.0 inches
Height 27.4 inches 23.2 inches
Depth 18.1 inches 20.0 inches
Weight 12.3 pounds 18.4 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Model Year 2021 2021
Made In China China
Frame Material Unknown Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX 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 Not rated by NHTSA. 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

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Attachment Methods Base
LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders No cup holders
Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Graco TriRide 3-in-1
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 7 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats
Full review of the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Full review of the Graco TriRide 3-in-1