Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Type Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
In stock
$83.99
In stock
$59.99
Rating 4.77 4.70

Our Thoughts

Comparing the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster and the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1, important differences stand out that can guide your choice of car seat for your child.

The Graco Tranzitions car seat prioritizes adaptability to your child’s growth, transitioning from a harness booster for children weighing 22-65lbs to a highback booster for children weighing 40-100lbs, and finally to a backless booster suitable for the same weight range. This car seat is also deemed safe as it meets Graco's ProtectPlus Engineered safety standards, undergone rigorous testing. However, some parents may find the installation difficult and time-consuming. It's also important to note that despite its FAA approval in forward-facing mode, its high back booster and backless booster configurations aren't approved for travel.

The Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1, on the other hand, bank on its affordability and longevity. It starts as a forward-harness seat for kids weighing 30-65lbs and then transitions into a belt-positioning booster for children weighing between 40-120lbs. The seat is lightweight and features a less bulky design, fitting three of these seats across most car models - a potentially desirable feature for larger families. However, it lacks luxurious features and comfort, which is the trade-off for its affordability. Like the Graco Tranzitions, this car seat is FAA approved for use in forward-facing mode but not in high back booster configuration.

Weighing both options, my recommendation would be dependent on your priorities and constraints as a parent. If you are looking for a long-term budget-friendly car seat that will grow with your child, offers easy-to-clean features, and don't mind the stripped-down comfort features, then the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 is a great choice. However, if your budget allows for a higher-priced car seat and comfort is important for your child, notably on long journeys, then the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster offers higher comfort levels alongside its adjustable design. But be mindful of the more challenging installation process. Either options offer long-term use addressing your child's changing needs and ensure conforming to safety standards essential in choosing a car seat. Choose the one that suits your family's needs and lifestyle the best.

Key Details

Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Grand 2-in-1
Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Brand Graco Safety 1st
Type Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.77 4.70
1 yr Price Range $97.99 - $139.99 $74.99 - $79.99
Current price
In stock
$83.99
In stock
$59.99
Value

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

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

Safety

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

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

Features

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

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

Installation

Some parents find the installation process difficult and frustrating.

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

Cleaning

Easy to remove and washable parts make cleaning a breeze.

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

Size

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

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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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

Neither car seat has a Rear-facing configuration.

Forward-facing

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 27 - 57 inches 32 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 30 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 30 - 100 pounds 40 - 120 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Width 19.0 inches 19.6 inches
Height 26.5 inches 30.2 inches
Depth 17.4 inches 18.3 inches
Weight 20.0 pounds 12.2 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Model Year 2018 2021
Made In China USA
Frame Material Aluminum Unknown

Safety and Compliance

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
Forward-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
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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster 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 Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 7 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all Safety 1st car seats
Full review of the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster
Full review of the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1