Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback.
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 TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
High Back Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
-
|
In stock
$59.00
|
Rating | 4.77 | 4.80 |
Our Thoughts
When it comes to determining the right car seat for your little ones, two notable options are the Graco Contender 65 and the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback. Both are manufactured by Graco, a reputed brand known for ensuring robust safety standards, which should bring a level of confidence to parents. However, there are considerable differences to note between these two models that influence their compatibility based on a family's specific needs.
The Graco Contender 65 is a versatile convertible car seat designed to accommodate your child's growth from infancy to the toddler stage. It provides a hearty weight range of 5 to 65 pounds, featuring both rear-facing and forward-facing modes. This adjustability makes it perfect for parents seeking a long-lasting car seat that will smoothly transition through their child's development stages. Notably, it can support up to 40 pounds in the rear-facing configuration and up to 65 pounds in the forward-facing mode, which is a significant advantage for those wishing to keep their child in the safer rear-facing position longer. Users have found it generally easy to install with little hassle, yet some indicated challenges with seat cover cleaning and potential discomfort from the straps.
Conversely, the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback is primarily aimed at older children, functioning as a high-back booster seat that eventually converts to a backless booster as the child grows further. It is designed for children weighing between 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. The TurboBooster is particularly noted for easy cleaning due to its machine-washable fabric seat pad and its portability, making it an excellent choice for on-the-move families. However, it lacks latch anchors, a feature some parents might prefer for extra safety and stability, and the retractor cup holders don't hold drinks well. Furthermore, this booster seat has not been approved by the FAA for air travel, a point to consider if you frequently fly.
Based on these comparisons, the Graco Contender 65 might be the superior choice for parents of newborn babies and young toddlers who value early adaptability and a longer rear-facing duration. It's also your go-to option if FAA approval for air travel is essential. Alternatively, if your child is older or closer to the weight range's higher end and you prioritize portability and easy cleaning, the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback could be the optimal choice. Also, the TurboBooster tends to be more budget-friendly, worth considering for families working within a specific budget. Each comes with its unique pros and cons, carefully designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Always remember, the safest car seat is the one that fits your child, fits your car, and can be used correctly every time.
Key Details
Contender 65 | TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
Brand | Graco | Graco |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
High Back Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.77 | 4.80 |
1 yr Price Range | $118.99 - $249.99 | $59.98 - $59.98 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
-
|
In stock
$59.00
|
Value |
Provides excellent features at an affordable price, making it a cost-effective choice for families. |
Offers core safety features and comfort at an affordable price point. |
Safety |
Ensures robust safety standards with its secure harness and impact-resistant design. |
Includes Graco's ProtectPlus system for enhanced crash protection. |
Features |
Offers essential features like adjustable harness and recline, though lacks some advanced options. |
Standard features like an adjustable headrest and cup holders. |
Installation |
Users find it relatively easy to install, with straightforward instructions and practical design. |
Open-loop belt guides aid in proper belt positioning but lacks latch anchors. |
Cleaning |
Some users noted challenges with removing and cleaning the seat cover. |
Machine washable fabric seat pad simplifies cleaning. |
Size |
Its size is manageable, but not the most compact option available. |
A standard size for booster seats without distinctive size benefits. |
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 TurboBooster 2.0 Highback. 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 TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds |
Forward-facing
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 43 - 57 inches | |
Weight Range | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
Width | 20.3 inches | 16.7 inches |
Height | 24.8 inches | 29.4 inches |
Depth | 17.3 inches | 9.0 inches |
Weight | 15.2 pounds | 9.8 pounds |
Core Specifications
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
Model Year | 2021 | 2023 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Plastic | Unknown |
Safety and Compliance
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
High Back Booster Backless Booster |
||||||||||||||||||||
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
|
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 TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
Attachment Methods |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | N/A |
Cup Holders | Has cup holders. | Has cup holders. |
Warranty and Durability
Graco Contender 65 | Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback | |
---|---|---|
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 TurboBooster 2.0 Highback |