Nuna Pipa vs. UPPAbaby Alta: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Nuna Pipa 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

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Type Rear-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
Currently unavailable
-
Rating 4.80 4.59

Our Thoughts

When it comes to choosing a car seat for your precious cargo, safety and comfort are paramount. Today, we are going to compare two products from reputable manufacturers: The Nuna Pipa and the UPPAbaby Alta.

Despite targeting disparate age groups (Nuna Pipa being an infant car seat suitable for newborns up to 32 pounds, and UPPAbaby Alta being a high-back booster seat catered for older kids between 40 to 100 pounds), they both guarantee safety and ease of use, each within its category. For instance, the Nuna Pipa features a sturdy base with a load leg for enhanced stability, alongside a five-point harness system. The UPPAbaby Alta, on the other hand, provides side impact protection with pods on the seat shell that absorb crash forces, and a SecureFit belt routing system for proper seatbelt positioning.

In terms of installation, both products excel. The Nuna Pipa offers versatility thanks to the LATCH system, base, and seatbelt options, while the UPPAbaby Alta uses rigid LATCH connectors for accurate installation and added stability. No need to worry about reading through complex instruction manuals; both manufacturers have made it straightforward for you.

As a parent, you will probably appreciate the attention to detail both manufacturers have put into their designs. The Nuna Pipa is crafted with premium materials and multiple fabric choices, adding aesthetic appeal and comfort for your baby. Meanwhile, the UPPAbaby Alta's seven-position adjustable headrest ensures the seat grows with your child and offers spaciousness and thick padding for extra comfort.

Despite the many advantages, each seat also has its drawbacks. For the Nuna Pipa, some parents find it a bit heavy and pricier than its competitors, and due to it being an infant car seat, it is outgrown faster than convertible models. The UPPAbaby Alta, while generally well-regarded for safety, has had issues reported with the shoulder belt slipping out of position, requiring periodic double-checking of belt placement.

As for the final verdict, it really comes down to your child's age and what stage they're at. If you're seeking a secure and stylish infant carrier seat, and willing to spend a little more, the Nuna Pipa is a premium choice. Conversely, if you’re in need of a booster car seat for an older child that accommodates growth, the UPPAbaby Alta would be the one to consider - just remember to regularly ensure the shoulder belt is in the correct position. Ultimately, both options are made of high-quality materials and promise to deliver a good balance of safety, comfort, and easy installation.

Key Details

Pipa Alta
Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Brand Nuna UPPAbaby
Type Rear-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.80 4.59
1 yr Price Range $400 - $425 $179.99 - $179.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
Currently unavailable
-
Value

While the price point is on the higher side, the quality and safety features present in the Nuna Pipa offer considerable value.

Priced consistently at $179.99, it aligns with the market average for high-back boosters with similar features.

Safety

The car seat's reinforced steel frame and load leg provide excellent stability and safety.

It's generally well-regarded by users for safety.

Features

The car seat offers a range of fabric choices and is compatible with many strollers, although it lacks some additional features like cup holders.

Offers unique features like rigid LATCH connectors and a SecureFit belt routing system, which are not standard on all boosters.

Installation

With the LATCH system, base, and seatbelt options, the car seat offers a versatile and user-friendly installation.

Parents report easy installation, especially praising the rigid LATCH system, indicating a user-friendly experience.

Cleaning

The removable cover is a plus; however, there is no specific mention of ease of cleaning in comparison to other models.

The machine washable seat pad and removable cup holder are highlighted as positives for easy cleanup.

Size

While not the lightest option available, the compact dimensions ensure it fits well in most cars.

Its dimensions are standard for a high-back booster, accommodating the appropriate age and size range without being exceptionally compact or light.

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 Nuna Pipa and the UPPAbaby Alta. 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

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Height Range 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 4 - 32 pounds

Forward-facing

Neither car seat has a Forward-facing configuration.

Booster

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Height Range 38 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Width 17.5 inches 19.0 inches
Height 23.0 inches 33.0 inches
Depth 25.2 inches 20.0 inches
Weight 7.6 pounds 16.6 pounds

Core Specifications

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Model Year 2021 2019
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Unknown

Safety and Compliance

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 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

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Attachment Methods LATCH
Base
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 3-Point
Cup Holders No cup holders
Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Nuna Pipa UPPAbaby Alta
Manufacturers Warranty Length 2 years 2 years
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Nuna car seats See all UPPAbaby car seats
Full review of the Nuna Pipa
Full review of the UPPAbaby Alta