Graco Contender 65 vs. Nautilus 65 3-in-1: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1.

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 Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
Currently unavailable
-
Rating 4.77 4.69

Our Thoughts

The Graco Contender 65 and the Graco Nautilus 65 are two versatile car seats from Graco, a trusted manufacturer in child safety equipment. Each has its unique strengths designed to suit different parenting needs and child growing stages.

The Graco Contender 65 is a convertible car seat, facilitating both rear-facing and forward-facing configurations. This adaptable seat grows with your child, suiting children from 5 to 65 pounds. It is prioritized on providing safety, comfort, and straightforward installation, making it a reliable choice for busy parents. However, the Contender 65 does have a drawback in its cleaning component, as some parents note challenges in removing and washing the seat cover. It's worth mentioning that while rear-facing, it can hold a child up to 40 pounds, which may provide an extended duration in this safer position than other models.

On the other hand, Graco's Nautilus 65 offers longer-term usability across various growth stages due to its 3-in-1 capacity. It works as a forward-facing harness seat, a high back booster seat, and a backless booster seat, accommodating children from 22 to 100 pounds. That said, it lacks the rear-facing option prevalent in many other models including the Contender 65. Parents champion its safety features and durability, along with its machine-washable cover, making maintenance less strenuous than the Contender 65. Some users do, however, note some minor challenges with installation and strap adjustment.

Based on analysis, both models have their merits, and the choice would largely depend on the parents' priorities. For those who want the extended rear-facing option, the Graco Contender 65 would be a compelling choice. It's suitable for those with an infant transitioning to the toddler years who still want to keep their child in a rear-facing position for as long as possible.

However, if you are seeking a car seat that can effectively grow with your child throughout all their car seat years, the Graco Nautilus 65 is the more suitable option. Do take into consideration that this car seat doesn't have a rear-facing ability, so it's better suited for children who have already transitioned to forward-facing travel. With its high maximum weight capacity, it stands as an excellent long-term investment, providing a blend of comfort, ease of cleaning, safety, and longevity that single-stage car seats may not deliver.

Key Details

Contender 65 Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Brand Graco Graco
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Weighted Rating 4.77 4.69
1 yr Price Range $118.99 - $249.99 $189.99 - $209.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
-
Currently unavailable
-
Value

Provides excellent features at an affordable price, making it a cost-effective choice for families.

Offers long-term usability across different stages of a child's growth, making it a cost-effective choice.

Safety

Ensures robust safety standards with its secure harness and impact-resistant design.

With its 5-point harness system and reinforced frame, it ensures top-notch safety standards.

Features

Offers essential features like adjustable harness and recline, though lacks some advanced options.

Includes adjustable headrest, multiple recline positions, and an integrated cup holder, enhancing comfort and convenience.

Installation

Users find it relatively easy to install, with straightforward instructions and practical design.

Installation is straightforward, but some parents note it can be tricky to get a tight fit.

Cleaning

Some users noted challenges with removing and cleaning the seat cover.

The seat cover is machine washable, and the design allows for easy access to hard-to-reach spots.

Size

Its size is manageable, but not the most compact option available.

While it's not the most compact, its size is reasonable for its multi-stage functionality.

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 Contender 65 and the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1. 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 Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 27 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Height Range 38 - 57 inches
Weight Range 30 - 65 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Width 20.3 inches 20.0 inches
Height 24.8 inches 28.0 inches
Depth 17.3 inches 18.0 inches
Weight 15.2 pounds 20.5 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Model Year 2021 2017
Made In China China
Frame Material Plastic Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
Forward-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 2 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 4 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 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

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Graco Contender 65 Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 7 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats
Full review of the Graco Contender 65
Full review of the Graco Nautilus 65 3-in-1