Who’s the Boss? Nuna Rava vs Graco Extend2Fit: An Unbiased 2023 List

Are you looking for a specific convertible seat for your little one? Then, finally, you're at the right place!

We've compared the two most popular convertible car seats on the market: Nuna RAVA vs Graco Extend2Fit.

They have exceptional benefits and advantages, but, above all, they're safe and secure for more extended periods.

But, who's better and why? Stay tuned.

Nuna RAVA vs Graco Extend2Fit: The Ultimate Fight!

1. Design and specifications

Both car seats are convertible, meaning they offer two modes:

- rear-facing infant car seat for kids 4-50 pounds.

- forward-facing car seat for kids 22-65 pounds.

As you see, both seats have an extended rear-facing weight limit of up to 50 pounds, unlike similar rear-facing car seats with 35 or 40 pounds maximum weight limits.

So, both seats follow the NHTSA and AAP recommendations to keep your little ones in the extended rear-facing position as long as possible. It's the safest position for them.

You must follow the rules for the proper installation and position.

None of the units provides the booster seat mode, so you will have to obtain a correct booster once the child overgrows the rear-facing infant car seat and then the second car seat (forward-facing).

However, they differ in dimensions and seat weight.

Namely, the Graco Extend2Fit has the following proportions ‎22.1 x 19.2 x 25.2 inches, while it weighs 19 pounds. On the other hand, the Nuna RAVA has the following proportions: 16 x 19 x 25.2-31 inches and weighs 27.2 pounds.

Now, the Nuna car seat is way too heavier than the Graco model, but it's narrower in design. So, it easily fits three across in the back seat of your vehicle.

You do need a bulkier seat in a car accident, but the Nuna car seat will not be as flexible as the Graco seat to move it around the vehicles so quickly.

But, the Graco is still a bit bulky due to its design, so that the Nuna car seat might be more practical.

I'll leave the decision to you.

2. Safety features

Both seats offer great safety features for your little ones.

They meet and exceed all FMVSS, IIHS, NHTSA, and similar safety standards and undergo rigorous crash tests for maximum protection.

The Graco seat offers the ProtectPlus Engineered technology, with additional layers of side-impact protection and plush paddings to protect your child's head, neck, spine, and torso while on the road.

In addition, the Extend2Fit seat has a steel-reinforced frame and shell, with the EPS energy-absorbing foam to redirect and absorb the energy, impacts, and pressure from collisions.

So, the system protects your child in the frontal, rear, side, and rollover crashes. It's similar to Britax seats - Britax Boulevard, Advocate, and Marathon, as they also have specific protection.

Regarding Nuna, it also offers multiple layers of side-impact protection, energy-absorbing foam, and an all-steel frame for maximum stability and no pressure.

It also features more leg room for the rear-facing and forward positions, so your child will have enough space for comfortable and secure rides.

But, both seats have infant inserts and paddings that you can add and remove when necessary to create more leg room and comfort for your babies.

So, the result is a tie, and you can choose both seats.

3. Installation process

As you know, there are two modes of use: infant seat and convertible seat. You can install the seat via the LATCH connectors or the vehicle seat belt system.

Both manufacturers recommend you use the seat belt for the car seat installation.

You have to thread the seat belt through the belt path and tighten them to ensure a secure installation.

On the other hand, you can use the LATCH system too, but ensure the LATCH strap has a tight fit and doesn't twist it.

It might be complicated for newbies, so the seat belt is always the number #1 option.

And while the Graco Extend2Fit seat has the InRight LATCH system, the Nuna RAVA seat uses the Simple Secure Installation. So both are similar in the installation process.

Again, you can choose the best seat on your own.

4. Comfort and convenience

Both seats use the five-point harness systems. However, these are no-rethread types.

So, you can adjust the harness straps as your children grow to find the most stable position for your babies, the infant seat. The same goes for the forward positions as well.

But, the Graco Extend2Fit seat offers six recline positions, while the Nuna RAVA seat uses only five recline positions.

Both offer ten headrests, harness positions, and leg room for your growing children. So, I give my vote to Graco Extend2Fit, as it's a more comfortable seat.

It offers more leg room than Nuna. Therefore, it wins again - five inches to only two.

But, the Nuna RAVA offers better materials and content than the Graco model, with no flame-retardant materials and ventilation panels to keep kids relaxed and calm in the seat.

So, it's slightly more advanced than Graco. So, whom will you choose?

Finally, both offer compartments - harness holders for quick and easy access when you need them.

5. Extra features

Both seats offer dual cup holders, removable and easy to clean. You get more room for three across when you fold them in Nuna.

The Graco seat has the same feature, so the result is again a tie. You can go with either of the seats; the result will be the same.

You can focus on the road better, while your kids can enjoy snacks and drinks.

6. Cleaning and maintenance

Both seats have removable and machine-washable seat covers. It saves your time and energy, and you can keep the seat fresh for more robust use.

The materials are durable and sturdy, so you don't have to worry about losing their shape or quality. And, you can wash them often, and air dry them.

7. Travel-friendly seats: Yes or no?

I would say YES.

Although they might be too challenging to install and re-install between more vehicles, they are great for everyday errands.

And once you install them, you won't have to move them for an extended period.

What about the aircraft?

Congratulations! Both seats are FAA-approved. You can use them on the plane with the harness. However, both seats offer small tricks for the proper installation.

To install the RAVA, you must place the airplane lap belt over the True tension doors, not under.

And to install and use the Extend2Fit, you must raise the armrests on the plane seat to fit due to the cup holders.

Once again, you can pick both models.

8. Budget-friendly: Yes or no?

There's a vast difference between the two seats. The Graco model is more affordable, while the Nuna seat is higher-end.

The Graco seat costs around $240, while the RAVA has a price tag of almost $500.

Since both offer the same features and benefits, I prefer Graco over Nuna. You can combine well and get the same (or even better) features for less money.

This time I choose Graco.

Nuna RAVA: Pros and Cons

Pros:

- Safe and stable

- Quick installation

- Comfortable

- High-quality seat

Cons:

- Too expensive

- Stiff buckle

- Too bulky

Graco Extend2Fit: Pros and Cons

Pros:

- Maximum safety standards

- Quick setup process

- Comfortable

- Affordable

Cons:

- Heavy, even though it's lighter than the RAVA model

FAQs

When should I stop using Nuna RAVA?

When your child overgrows the maximum weight and height limit and is ready for the booster car seat. A child should be 65 pounds and 49 inches tall.

Is the Graco Extend2Fit safe for newborns?

Yes, Graco Extend2Fit safe for newborns! It has multiple SIP layers, extra plush paddings, and infant body support to keep your newborn safe and stable in the seat. The support will also keep them comfy for long distances.

Does Nuna RAVA get too hot?

No, Nuna RAVA doesn't get too hot. The materials are breathable, offering maximum airflow and circulation to keep your little ones calm, cool, and relaxed in the seat.

Also, the content has built-in ventilation panels to add more ventilation and keep babies relaxed for an extended period.

Is Nuna better than Graco?

No, they are pretty much the same. However, Nuna has a higher price tag, stiffer buckle, and fewer reclining options than Graco. So, it's not better - only similar and slightly disadvantaged.

Nuna RAVA vs Graco Extend2Fit: Which one lasts longer?

Both have the same expiration period - ten years from the date of manufacture. So, none of them lasts longer.

Nuna RAVA vs Graco Extend2Fit: Which is easier to install?

Both are pretty simple to install with the seat belt as the recommended installation type. So, you can choose either seat.

Nuna RAVA vs Graco Extend2Fit: Which is more travel-friendly?

Both are perfectly travel-friendly and FAA-approved seats. But, the RAVA is narrower to fit three across, while the Extend2Fit is lighter.

That's the crucial difference. So, decide what you need more, and then select the final winner.

So, the Nuna RAVA vs Graco Extend2Fit: Who Will It Be?

Whoa, this is really challenging. It's pretty hard to select the final winner since both are almost the same, providing the same benefits in most categories.

However, I still prefer Graco due to more reclining options, more buckle positions, and lower prices. You practically get the same quality for less money.

And, who do you choose? Let me know once you select the best car seat. I look forward to sharing experiences!