Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster vs. Maxi-Cosi Pria Max: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster and the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max.

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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Type Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
In stock
$83.99
In stock (6 varieties available)
$229.99 - $229.99
Rating 4.77 4.43

Our Thoughts

When it comes to choosing a car seat, there are two central contenders worthy of consideration: the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster and the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max. Both offer compelling benefits and features that are designed to ensure safety, comfort, and convenience for your little one.

The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 car seat is a versatile investment that adjusts with your child's growth stages. This car seat can transition from a forward-facing harness booster for kids weighing between 22-65 lb, to a high back or backless booster for those between 40-100 lb. Known for its compact design and weight, this model can be easily transferred between vehicles-a win for active families. However, it does have a caveat—parents have noted that installation can be frustrating and complex. Furthermore, the car seat lacks approval for air travel when in high back or backless booster mode.

On the other hand, the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max, a slightly more expensive model, prioritizes comfort with advanced safety features. This all-one convertible car seat supports children from infancy to toddlerhood across three configurations– rear-facing (4-40 lb), forward-facing (22-65 lb), and booster seat (40-100 lb). Unique features such as the magnetic chest clip and adjustable recline positions add to the convenient design. While it has received some concerns about a noticeable chemical smell and a bulkier size, many parents vouch for its exceptional comfort and sturdy side-impact protection. Moreover, it is FAA approved for both rear and forward-facing, enhancing its usability.

Taking into consideration these strengths and challenges, the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max emerges as the more well-rounded option. Offering safety, comfort, adaptability, and a wider range of FAA approved modes, it may be the better choice, especially for families who travel frequently. However, if budget constraints and the need for lightweight, easily transferable design are of paramount importance, the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 might be a suitable contender despite its complex installation process.

Key Details

Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Pria Max
Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Brand Graco Maxi-Cosi
Type Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.77 4.43
1 yr Price Range $97.99 - $139.99 $259.99 - $319.99
Current price
In stock
$83.99
In stock (6 varieties available)
$229.99 - $229.99
Value

The price point combined with its 3-in-1 versatility offers significant savings over time.

Slightly higher price justified by its long-term usability and robust features.

Safety

It meets Graco's ProtectPlus Engineered safety standards, which is a rigorous test for safety.

Equipped with advanced safety features and sturdy construction.

Features

The Simply Safe Adjust Harness System and portable design are standout features.

Offers unique features like a magnetic chest clip and easy strap adjustment.

Installation

Some parents find the installation process difficult and frustrating.

Installation process is straightforward but can be time-consuming.

Cleaning

Easy to remove and washable parts make cleaning a breeze.

Easy-to-clean fabric and machine washable cover.

Size

The lightweight and compact design make it convenient for transfers between vehicles.

Bulky design may not be ideal for smaller cars or frequent transfers.

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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster and the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max. 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Height Range 19 - 40 inches
Weight Range 4 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Height Range 27 - 57 inches 29 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 43 - 52 inches
Weight Range 30 - 100 pounds 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Width 19.0 inches 20.0 inches
Height 26.5 inches 30.5 inches
Depth 17.4 inches 25.0 inches
Weight 20.0 pounds 23.0 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Model Year 2018 2022
Made In China USA
Frame Material Aluminum Plastic

Safety and Compliance

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

Features

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Maxi-Cosi Pria Max
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 7 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all Maxi-Cosi car seats
Full review of the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster
Full review of the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max