You’re so sure which car seat to buy so trying to decide between Graco Extend2Fit vs 4Ever vs Slimfit? In case you can’t read the entire article and would rather cut to the chase, go with Extend2Fit. This convertible car seat combines safety, comfort, and reliability. All the features you need to keep your baby happy and protected.
A convertible car seat is meant to be around for a long time. Your baby will use this seat from infancy all the way to toddlerhood. That’s why you need to make the right pick. You can’t afford to second guess your decision a year later. So, let’s help each other make the right purchase.
My Top Picks
- Best Overall – Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1
- Best Safety Features – Graco 4Ever 4 in 1 Car Seat
- Best for Comfort – Graco 4Ever DLX 4 in 1 Car Seat
- Best for Convenience – Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4 in 1 Car Seat
- Most Budget-Friendly – Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Convertible Car Seat
What Are the Differences Between Graco Extend2Fit Vs 4Ever Vs Slimfit?
All three products are convertible or all-in-one car seats. The reason I focused on this type as opposed to regular car seats is because they offer a more flexible usage. The seat can be converted from a rear to a forward-facing position to basically match your child’s growth stage.
But there are some differences between them which I’ll gladly point out:
- Extension panel – Graco Extend2Fit comes with a four-position extension panel which allows for additional legroom while your child is in the rear-facing position. This means that your little one can ride while in the rear position for much longer. Unfortunately, the Slimfit and 4Ever models don’t have this feature.
- Design – As the name suggests, the Slimfit car seat features a slimmer design compared to the other two models. If you have a small car and prefer a compact seat, Slimfit is the better fit.
- Price – Graco 4Ever is the most expensive model of the three followed by the Extend2Fit models. This makes the Slimfit car seat the cheapest among them.
Guide to Selecting the Right Graco Seat
Here, I’ll be detailing all you need to know about the products in question. What specs do they come with? Which features should you prioritize? Once you’re done reading, you’ll be one step closer to making your decision.
A Bit About the Brand – Graco
You certainly can’t mention prominent baby product companies without including Graco. The company has made a name for its self when it comes to designing superior safe baby products. But is the brand worth the hype? Graco is an American company that’s been around since 1942.
In 1998, the brand designed its first car seat which quickly became America’s top-selling car seat. To-date the brand offers all sorts of baby products including travel seats, car seats, high chairs, strollers, and baby swings.
How to Pick the Right Seat
I’ve listed the five most important aspects you must focus on so that you pick the right convertible car seat.
- Safety – Your baby’s safety is undoubtedly your number one priority. That’s why you must pay attention to the safety features on the seat. Does it offer head safety features? Is the seat protected against impact from collisions? Remember that babies are more prone to injuries in the event of collisions compared to adults. Where possible, pick a seat that’s safety certified by reputable companies.
- Comfort – It’s important that you buy a seat that is designed with your baby’s comfort in mind. Newborns need to be reclined at a 45ᵒ angle to lie in the seat comfortably. As your little one grows older, the seat should be lifted up. A car seat with multiple reclining levels will ensure that your child is comfortable no matter their height or weight. Also, your little one can stay in the rear-facing position for as long as possible because that’s the safest position for your kid. And this should be possible without sacrificing your baby’s comfort.
- Price – Buying a convertible seat is a big and important investment. The model you pick will depend on your budget. Let me point out that cheaper models usually have limited features. As such they may be void of certain safety and convenience features such as impact protection. By spending a little extra on the product, you can pick a car seat that comes with all the necessary safety features designed to keep your child safe.
- Convenience – With regards to convenience, you need to consider the convertible stages found on the car seat. Certain models can only be converted from an infant to a toddler seat. Others can further be converted into a booster seat. And that’s the model you want because your child can use that seat for longer in multiple positions. You’ll also need to consider whether the seat will fit into your car. That’s where the design comes into play. Do you buy one with a slim or bulky design? The answer should depend on the size of your car. Smaller cars will require seats with smaller designs to accommodate each reclining level when fully extended.
- Durability – You want a product that’ll actually last all the way to toddlerhood. So make sure that you pick one which features solid construction. You’ll never go wrong with a steel framework.
Why You Should Pick a Convertible Car Seat
I’ll reiterate again that picking a convertible seat as opposed to a regular infant seat is a smart move because:
- It grows with your child making it a convenient option
- Ensures your little one’s safety
- You save money since you don’t have to make another purchase in a few years
Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1
Like the other models reviewed earlier, this car seat features 6 reclining levels and 10 head adjustment positions. Your child is also protected in the event of collisions because Graco Protection Plus technology is incorporated into the seat.
Who it’s for
It’s ideal for babies who weigh between 4 and 100lb.
Why You Should Consider It
The additional 5” of legroom the seat offers to allow your child to sit in the safe rear-facing position for longer. You can adjust the harness in one simple motion which every parent will find convenient.
Product Information
- Weight: 20.6lb
- Dimensions: 19.2” x 22.5” x 25.2”
- Color: Gray & black
Pros
- Seat covers easy to remove
- Easy to adjust the harness
- Material designed to keep baby cool
Cons
- Difficult to tighten the seatbelt
- Seat cover difficult to put back on
Graco 4Ever 4 in 1 Car Seat
The 4-in-1 car seat can be converted into the following positions: rear, forward-facing position, high-back booster to backless booster. It features a 10 position adjustable headrest and up to 6 reclining levels.
Who it’s for
For babies that weigh between 4lb and 120lb.
Why You Should Consider It
The seat allows for easy and secure installation. An audible click confirms the latter. Adjusting the headrest is done in one simple motion. Plus, your child is protected against side-impact collisions because it incorporates Trueshield technology. The washable seat cover is easy to remove. You’ll be having this seat for a long time thanks to the durable steel frame.
Product Information
- Weight: 24lb
- Dimensions:20” x 21.5” x 24”
- Color: Ion
Pros
- Allows for a snug fit
- Shoulder straps easy to release
- Car seat easy to remove
Cons
- Limited neck support
- Safety latch system only used for rear-facing position
Graco 4Ever DLX 4 in 1 Car Seat
If you’re a fan of Graco 4Ever but want a cheaper option to the model reviewed above, consider this car seat. It also has four convertible stages, 6 recline levels and allows for 10 head adjustment positions. The key difference with this product compared to the other 4Ever model lies in the price. And that it doesn’t have Trueshield technology. But it’s still designed to protect your child in the event of collisions.
Who it’s for
It’s ideal for babies that weigh between 4 and 120lb.
Why You Should Buy It
Though it’s much cheaper than the 4ever 4-in-1 car seat, this product offers enhanced safety features. Not only does it protect your child against side-impact, but also rear, frontal, and rollover collisions. This is because it features Graco Protect Plus technology. You’ll also find the car seat easy to install and it allows for secure attachment.
Product Information
- Weight: 22.8lb
- Dimensions: 20” x 21.5” x 24”
- Color: Gray & black
Pros
- Easy to adjust to different positions
- Comes with extra padding
- Easy to wash covers
Cons
- May be uncomfortable for baby’s neck
- Difficult to uninstall
Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4 in 1 Car Seat
Next up we have this versatile 4 in 1 car seat that promises safety as well as a secure and snug fit. It has been side-impact tested and passed with flying colors. It has 10 adjustable headrest positions and up to 5″ of extendable legroom. The 4-in-1 car seat can be used as a rear-facing car seat, a forward-facing car seat, a high-back booster, and a backless booster.
Who it’s for
It’s can accommodate babies that weigh between 4lb and 120lb.
Why You Should Consider It
This seat provides your child with four ways to ride, extended legroom, and adjustable head-rest settings. Two cup holders simply make your life easier. Plus, using it is easy thanks to its “Frustration-free” certification.
Product Information
- Weight: 24lb
- Dimensions: 21″ x 19″ x 23″
- Color: Clove
Pros
- Comfortable and convenient
- Extended legroom
- Integrated cup holders
- RapidRemove car seat cover is easy to clean
Cons
- Cup holders don’t stay in place
- Headrest tends to push head forward
Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Convertible Car Seat
Last up we have this 3-in 1 car seat that’s designed to ensure your child’s safety. The seat has four reclining levels and allows for simple and safe adjustment. It’s the only model that features a unique rotating cup holder and is also designed to protect your child in the event of collisions.
Who it’s for
It’s designed for babies that weigh between 5 and 100lb.
Why You Should Consider It
Firstly, it’s the most affordable (and compact) of the three. This is something you’ll appreciate if you’re working on a budget or have a small car. Installing the seat is simple and straightforward. You can easily remove the seat cover for washing without necessarily removing the harness.
Product Information
- Weight: 19.69lb
- Dimensions: 26.81” x 19.88” x 22.36”
- Color: Darcie
Pros
- Cushioned seat extra comfortable
- Sturdy frame
- Space saver
Cons
- Safety sticker inside seat retains temperature and cause discomfort for baby
- Only four reclining positions
FAQ
Which one is better: a convertible or an infant seat?
A convertible seat is a better option. Because it can be used for much longer than an infant seat, it’s the more cost-effective option. An infant seat can be attached to a travel system which is super convenient. But you’ll need to purchase another seat as soon as your baby outgrows it.
When do I move my baby from the infant to convertible seat?
Ideally, you must use the height and weight restrictions on the model as a guide. Car seat manufacturers clearly state how long you must keep your baby in a certain position based on these factors. The average time-frame is between nine and eighteen months. Other car seat manufacturers encourage you to keep your child in the rear-facing position until they are aged two.
Do I place a car seat in the front or back seat?
It’s recommended that you place the car seat in the back seat of your car—away from airbags. If a collision happens and the airbag inflates, it might hit the back of the seat causing injury to your child’s head.
Conclusion
Because they are all designed to grow with your baby, all of these products are better than traditional car seats. If you have been saving up for a convertible car seat and are able to spend extra money, go ahead and buy the Graco 4Ever 4 in 1 Car Seat. You’ll enjoy more safety features that are built to last. I’m only concerned with the comfort levels—or lack thereof—they offer to your baby. What with some customers citing comfort concerns particularly regarding their little one’s necks.
If you’re working on a budget or have a small car, the Slimfit will suffice. It has all the basic features needed to keep your child safe. However, my personal favorite is the Graco Extend2Fit. The additional legroom, enhanced safety features, and multiple reclining levels make it a winner. Plus it’s not too expensive like the Graco 4Ever.
But regardless of the model you pick, I can promise you a safe and reliable product for your little one.
Last update on 2024-04-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
