Graco Contender 65 vs. TurboBooster 2.0 Highback: 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 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
Graco Contender 65 Graco 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
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 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