Graco TriRide 3-in-1 vs. Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One.

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 TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
In stock
$118.99
In stock (10 varieties available)
$129.99 - $159.99
Rating 4.68 4.61

Our Thoughts

When it comes to reliable and proven car seat models, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 and Safety 1st's Grow and Go All-in-One certainly come to mind. Both seats offer versatility, transitioning effortlessly from rear-facing to forward-facing with a harness, and eventually to a high back booster mode. Importantly, they cater to a broad weight range, accommodating children from as light as 5 pounds to those weighing up to 100 pounds.

Let's delve deeper into what distinguishes these two products. The Graco TriRide, a product that carries the reputation of a well-trusted brand, boasts an adjustable headrest with 10 different height options. This feature, combined with the machine-washable seat pad, promise a comfortable and easy-to-maintain experience. However, the Graco TriRide does have a trickier installation process which may not be ideal for parents constantly shifting the seat from one vehicle to another.

On the other hand, Safety 1st's Grow and Go All-in-One provides notable comfort with its soft padding and promises extended use over multiple growth stages. It stands out for how much legroom it offers for front seat passengers when in rear-facing mode—up to 7 inches more than competitors. Still, this car seat isn't without its challenges. Some users reported issues with strap tangling and getting a tight installation.

In terms of longevity, both the Graco TriRide and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One have a 10-year expiration period, ensuring they deliver value for a considerable length of time.

In terms of weight capacity, the two car seats are very closely matched. The Graco TriRide and Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One both allow for children up to 40 pounds to use the rear-facing configuration. However, in forward-facing mode, the Graco TriRide can accommodate a child up to 65 pounds, unlike the Safety 1st model that has the same weight limit as the rear-facing configuration. As for the booster mode, both car seats support a maximum weight of 100 pounds.

When it comes to FAA approval, both car seats are approved for travel in rear-facing and forward-facing modes. However, both are not FAA approved for use in booster mode.

Ultimately, both car seats fulfill their purpose effectively and carry pros and cons according to the specific needs of families. If you're seeking an option that grows with your child while ensuring an easier cleaning and adjustable comfort, the Graco TriRide might be an excellent choice for you. However, if the legroom in your vehicle is a concern and you would prefer lighter weight, Safety 1st's Grow and Go could be a better option. Whichever you choose, both of these choices are likely to serve you well in your parenting journey.

Key Details

TriRide 3-in-1 Grow and Go All-in-One
Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Brand Graco Safety 1st
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.68 4.61
1 yr Price Range $132.99 - $189.99 $159.99 - $179.99
Current price
In stock
$118.99
In stock (10 varieties available)
$129.99 - $159.99
Value

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

The Grow and Go offers extended utility across multiple growth stages at a competitive price, making it a smart purchase for budget-conscious families.

Safety

Equipped with Graco's ProtectPlus Engineered™ system for enhanced safety.

It meets all safety standards, although some users report challenges with installation and strap tangling.

Features

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

While it includes essential features like the QuickFit Harness, it may lack some of the premium features found in higher-end seats.

Installation

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

Reports indicate that the car seat installation can be tricky, requiring more effort to ensure a secure fit.

Cleaning

Machine washable seat pad simplifies maintenance.

The seat pad is both machine washable and dryer safe, which is highly convenient for busy parents.

Size

Comparable in size and weight to similar models in its category.

Its rear-facing mode offers more leg room for front seat passengers, a bonus in smaller vehicles.

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 TriRide 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One. 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 TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Height Range 19 - 40 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 29 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Height Range 43 - 57 inches 43 - 52 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Width 19.0 inches 19.3 inches
Height 23.2 inches 24.2 inches
Depth 20.0 inches 24.5 inches
Weight 18.4 pounds 18.7 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Model Year 2021 2022
Made In China USA
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings 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
Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 2 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 1 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One
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 TriRide 3-in-1
Full review of the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One