Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 vs. UPPAbaby MESA: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 and the UPPAbaby MESA.

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 Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Rear-Facing
Current price
In stock
$349.00
In stock
$329.99
Rating 4.70 4.90

Our Thoughts

The Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 and the UPPAbaby MESA are two impressive car seats, each with their own set of distinct features. Their differences lie in terms of their designing philosophy and purpose. The Graco Turn2Me, a convertible car seat, stands out with its versatility, transitioning from a rear-facing to a forward-facing to a high-back booster seat as your child grows. It accommodates children from 4 to 100 lbs, making it a long-term investment. The unique rotating feature of this seat makes it easier for parents to get babies in and out while using rear-facing mode. However, it's substantial weight and size could prove to be challenging for smaller vehicles.

The UPPAbaby MESA, on the other hand, serves as an infant car seat catering to babies weighing 4-35 pounds and up to 32 inches in height. It is particularly remarkable for its advanced safety features like no-rethread harness and side-impact protection, as well as user-friendly installation with SMARTSecure system. Notably, it is also compatible with UPPAbaby strollers, which gives it an edge for those looking for a harmonized travel system. With its refined design and high-quality materials, it leans towards the costlier side. This is worth considering, especially when considering the shorter usability span of an infant car seat.

Comparing the weight capacities, the Graco Turn2Me supports up to 100 lbs in its Forward-Facing and High Back Booster modes, significantly higher than the UPPAbaby MESA, which supports up to 35 lbs in its rear-facing only mode. Furthermore, whilst both seats are approved for travel in a certain configuration, the Graco Turn2Me is approved in forward-facing mode, compared to the UPPAbaby MESA, which is approved in rear-facing mode.

Whilst both products come with robust safety features, they target different age and size brackets. For those in search of a one-time long-term investment that will grow with the child, and can handle a heavier and bulkier seat, the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 could be a suitable option. On the other hand, if you have a smaller baby and you're searching for a seat that is convenient, stylish, and integrates beautifully with a travel system (and are comfortable with a higher price point that offers fewer years of use), then the UPPAbaby MESA is an excellent choice.

Key Details

Turn2Me 3-in-1 MESA
Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Brand Graco UPPAbaby
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.70 4.90
1 yr Price Range $314.97 - $449.97 $239.99 - $349.99
Current price
In stock
$349.00
In stock
$329.99
Value

Priced in the mid-high range, it justifies its cost with its 3-in-1 versatility and rotating feature.

While on the pricier side, its durability and advanced features justify the cost.

Safety

Equipped with Graco ProtectPlus Engineering, it provides tested protection in various crash scenarios.

Features like a no-rethread harness and side-impact protection enhance safety.

Features

The rotating seat and SnugLock Technology are standout offerings.

Offers unique elements like a one-button stroller release and SMARTSecure system.

Installation

While SnugLock ensures a quick fit, the seat's size may complicate installation in smaller vehicles.

The car seat is praised for its easy and secure installation process.

Cleaning

Plush inserts are comfortable but may challenge quick cleanups.

The seat cover is removable and washable, although some care is needed.

Size

Its bulk and weight may be a trade-off for the rotating convenience.

Comparable to other infant seats in size, fitting well in most 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 Turn2Me 3-in-1 and the UPPAbaby MESA. 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 Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 4 - 40 pounds 4 - 35 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Width 19.1 inches 17.0 inches
Height 24.4 inches 25.0 inches
Depth 20.8 inches 28.0 inches
Weight 30.0 pounds 9.9 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Model Year 2022 2020
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Aluminum

Safety and Compliance

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
Rear-Facing
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Not rated by NHTSA. Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Labels 5 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 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 Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Base
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. No cup holders

Warranty and Durability

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 UPPAbaby MESA
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 10 Years 7 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all UPPAbaby car seats
Full review of the Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1
Full review of the UPPAbaby MESA