Maxi-Cosi Pria Max vs. UPPAbaby Alta: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max and the UPPAbaby Alta.

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

Our Thoughts

The Maxi-Cosi Pria Max and the UPPAbaby Alta are both excellent car seats, each with its distinct features and benefits. However, they cater to different stages of a child's growth, which is something parents need to consider carefully when making their choice.

The Maxi-Cosi Pria Max is a fantastic long-term investment with its ability to convert from a rear-facing car seat for infants to a forward-facing one for toddlers, and eventually, a high-back booster for older kids. Safety is a priority for the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max, featuring advanced side-impact protection and a secure harness system. The convenience of an easy-to-clean machine washable cover is another attractive feature for any parent. However, it's slightly bulkier than other models and might not be an ideal choice if transferring the seat between different vehicles frequently is anticipated.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby Alta primarily serves older children as a high-back booster. It stands out for its secure installation, with many parents highlighting the ease of the rigid LATCH system. The booster is not just safe but also aims at enhancing the comfort of children, with a spacious and well-padded design. Nevertheless, a common issue reported is with the shoulder belt slipping out of position, so extra caution is required to ensure it's placed properly.

In terms of the weight specifications, the Maxi-Cosi Pria’s forward-facing mode can accommodate a child up to 65 lbs while the UPPAbaby boosts capacity in booster mode to 100 lbs, catering to older children. However, the Pria Max is an all-rounded car seat, supporting rear-facing infants from as low as 4 lbs, while the Alta doesn’t offer this mode. Also, note that the Pria Max is FAA approved for both rear and forward-facing modes, whereas the Alta doesn't have specific FAA-approved modes.

Given the comprehensive features, my recommendation would depend on the age and size of your child. If you're looking for a car seat that will serve your child from infancy to the booster stage, and if you value advanced safety features and ease of cleaning, the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max makes a solid choice — despite it being a pricier and bulkier option. On the other hand, if your child has outgrown the forward-facing harness seat, the UPPAbaby Alta— with its comfort, adjustability, and easy installation— makes a great high-back booster option.