Graco Contender 65 vs. SnugRide 35 Lite LX: 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 SnugRide 35 Lite LX.

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 SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.77 4.78

Our Thoughts

The Graco Contender 65 and the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX are two child car seats offering reliable safety and convenience features at reasonable prices. Both are manufactured by Graco, a trusted brand in the industry, and ensure quality and robust safety standards.

The Graco Contender 65 is a highly adaptable convertible car seat suitable for children between 5 and 65 pounds, offering both rear-facing and forward-facing options. This feature allows it to grow with the child, providing comfort and safety from infancy to the toddler stage. With adjustable harness system, multiple recline positions, and easy installation, it has garnered favor among practical parents. However, it lacks in ease of cleaning with users noting certain difficulties with removing and cleaning the seat cover. Also, while the construction ensures safety, some users have pointed out that the straps can be a bit uncomfortable against the child's neck. It's FAA-approved for both forward-facing and rear-facing use, which is perfect for jet-setting families.

On the other hand, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX is a lightweight car seat specifically designed for infants 4-35 lbs and up to 32 inches. Being rear-facing only, it provides essential protection for your little one. It is impressively light at only 7.2 lbs, making it one of the most portable options in the market - a great option for caregivers who want to avoid heavy lifting. Despite maintaining a light structure, it doesn't compromise on safety or functionality. The 4-position adjustable base, rotatable canopy, and the ease of installation make it highly practical. However, a few cons to note are the necessity for additional inserts for smaller babies and the interference of the sunshade and handle when fully extended. As for travel, this is FAA-approved, but only in rear-facing mode.

From a robust convertible design to a lightweight structure, both seats have their unique offerings. If you have a newborn, the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX may be a better choice due to its lightweight design perfect for carrying young infants without much hassle. For those who want a car seat to last for years, growing with their child, the Graco Contender 65 offers the bonus of longevity, thanks to its increased weight limits in both the rear and forward-facing modes. Both are good, reasonable options with their respective target users, so consider your personal situation when choosing.

Key Details

Contender 65 SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Graco Contender 65 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Brand Graco Graco
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.77 4.78
1 yr Price Range $118.99 - $249.99 $83.99 - $119.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value

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

It offers key features at a budget-friendly price.

Safety

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

High satisfaction with safety, reflected in user ratings.

Features

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

Meets essential needs without extra frills.

Installation

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

Easy installation with a level indicator on the base.

Cleaning

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

Machine washable seat pad simplifies maintenance.

Size

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

One of the lightest carriers on the market.

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 SnugRide 35 Lite LX. 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 SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Height Range 0 - 49 inches 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds 4 - 35 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Contender 65 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Neither car seat has a Booster configuration.

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Contender 65 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Width 20.3 inches 15.5 inches
Height 24.8 inches 27.4 inches
Depth 17.3 inches 18.1 inches
Weight 15.2 pounds 12.3 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Contender 65 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Model Year 2021 2021
Made In China China
Frame Material Plastic Unknown

Safety and Compliance

Graco Contender 65 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
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 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 SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
Base
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. No cup holders

Warranty and Durability

Graco Contender 65 Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 7 Years 7 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats
Full review of the Graco Contender 65
Full review of the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX