Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 vs. Nuna Pipa: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 and the Nuna Pipa.

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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Current price
In stock
$199.99
Currently unavailable
-
Rating 4.88 4.80

Our Thoughts

As a parent and car seat reviewer, I’ve delved into two remarkable car seats — the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 and the Nuna Pipa — each with unique attributes designed with your child's needs and safety in mind. Each offers different advantages in terms of longevity and safety features, which should be considered when choosing the right car seat for your child.

Graco's Grows4Me 4-in-1 is a versatile car seat that is designed to adapt to your child as they grow, potentially being the only car seat you'll need for about ten years. This seat offers four modes of use, transitioning seamlessly from a rear-facing harness to forward-facing, then a high-back booster, and finally a backless booster. The maximum weight allowance varies with each of these modes, with the rear-facing mode allowing up to 40 pounds, forward-facing mode up to 65 pounds, and the booster mode going up to an impressive 110 pounds; a higher maximum weight limit than typically found on most car seats. However, it's worth noting that while the Grows4Me is approved for both rear and forward-facing travel configurations, it is not approved for use as a booster during travel.

On the other hand, the Nuna Pipa is positioned as a more premium product with a focus on newborn and infant safety. The Pipa exclusively offers a rear-facing mode, with a maximum weight allowance of 32 pounds, which is fairly standard for this car seat category. Its design incorporates premium materials and a load leg feature for added stability — elevating this seat's safety and comfort aspects. It’s lighter and more compact compared to the Grows4Me, which may be beneficial for those with smaller vehicles or who need to frequently move the car seat between cars. However, only the rear-facing configuration is approved for air travel.

The notable contrast between the two car seats lies primarily in their potential for longevity and versatility. The Grows4Me, with its 4-in-1 design, offers a cost-effective solution since it's built to transition through multiple stages of a child's growth — offering a fantastic return on investment. Conversely, the Pipa's focus on infants means it has a shorter lifespan as your child will outgrow it faster, which also justifies its higher price point due to the additional safety and comfort features it includes.

In choosing between these two car seats, your decision largely depends on your current needs and your outlook for the future. The Graco Grows4Me is a robust and adaptable option if you’re looking for a long-term solution, offering transition through multiple stages of your child's growth. However, if the primary concern is newborn and infant safety with a premium feel, and you are willing to invest in future car seats as your child grows, then the Nuna Pipa car seat would be a better fit.

Key Details

Grows4Me 4-in-1 Pipa
Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Brand Graco Nuna
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.88 4.80
1 yr Price Range $195.99 - $279.99 $400 - $425
Current price
In stock
$199.99
Currently unavailable
-
Value

Offers 4-in-1 functionality, reducing the need for multiple purchases.

While the price point is on the higher side, the quality and safety features present in the Nuna Pipa offer considerable value.

Safety

Steel-reinforced frame adds robustness and security.

The car seat's reinforced steel frame and load leg provide excellent stability and safety.

Features

Versatile 4-in-1 design with a 6-position recline and adjustable harness system.

The car seat offers a range of fabric choices and is compatible with many strollers, although it lacks some additional features like cup holders.

Installation

Installation process can be frustrating without the InRight Latch system.

With the LATCH system, base, and seatbelt options, the car seat offers a versatile and user-friendly installation.

Cleaning

The seat has a removable cover, but no specific features that make it easier than average to clean.

The removable cover is a plus; however, there is no specific mention of ease of cleaning in comparison to other models.

Size

The seat is somewhat bulky, which may be challenging for smaller cars.

While not the lightest option available, the compact dimensions ensure it fits well in most cars.

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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 and the Nuna Pipa. 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 Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Height Range 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds 4 - 32 pounds

Forward-facing

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 110 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Width 21.5 inches 17.5 inches
Height 24.0 inches 23.0 inches
Depth 20.0 inches 25.2 inches
Weight 22.5 pounds 7.6 pounds

Core Specifications

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Model Year 2019 2021
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Not rated by NHTSA. Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Base
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. No cup holders

Warranty and Durability

Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Nuna Pipa
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Graco car seats See all Nuna car seats
Full review of the Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1
Full review of the Nuna Pipa