Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Review

Crash Test

The Tranzitions booster did not perform well in our commissioned crash tests with MGA Research, earning one of the lowest analysis results in the test group. Its final score in this metric is below the average and not a standout.

The Graco Tranzitions recorded far more G-forces in the HIC sensor than the top-performing Nuna.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

The Graco couldn't match the lower chest clip sensor data of the Nuna AACE.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

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We analyzed the HIC and chest clip sensor results from our testing to determine the final scores. We ran our tests hotter than the federal guidelines and used a sled designed to better mimic modern vehicle back seats.

All of the boosters in this review are assumed to have passed the federal guidelines and are considered safe. The Tranzitions has higher sensor data for both the HIC (head) and chest clip sensors than much of the competition. Lower is better as they are recordings of the g-forces experienced by the crash test dummy sensors.

Ease of Use

The Tranzitions has a higher-than-average result for ease of use. However, one downside is that our child tester struggled to buckle the belt by herself. After multiple attempts, an adult had to help her, and we suspect many parents will want a seat their kids can use without assistance.

The Tranzition shoulder guide includes a little convoluted shape to help prevent the belt from slipping out when you don't want it to.   Credit: Abriah Wofford

The lap portion of the belt goes under the Tranzitions armrest, and there is no color-coding to help guide kids in placement.   Credit: Abriah Wofford

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The belt guide is not color-coded, but it is somewhat forward compared to others, making it easier to find and grasp. The 5-point harness for smaller kids may also require some assistance, but in our experience, most booster-age kids can put these on alone, although they might need help unbuckling.

The LATCH strap release on the Trazitions is a push button on the strap that requires significant pressure with two thumbs.   Credit: Abriah Wofford

The LATCH connectors on the Tranzitions are hook-style options that are harder to use.   Credit: Abriah Wofford

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This option installs using hook LATCH connectors, which is not our preferred method, but they are easier to remove here than on the tighter straps of the convertible or infant car seats. The seat features handholds on top and bottom, making it extremely easy to move and maneuver in a car during installation.

The Tranzitions have dual cup holders, and while our test water bottle didn't fit all the way down inside the holder, it was snug, and we weren't worried about it toppling out.

Weight and Size

The Graco is almost dead on average for both weight and width. The measured weight is 13.5 lbs. It is heavier than we'd want to tote, but if you don't need to move it far or carry it often, it likely isn't a big deal. There are definitely heavier and larger options in this lineup.

It measures 18.1 inches wide and features a leg padding portion that extends down. So, while there are wider options in this group, this Graco still feels like a lot of chair, and you probably don't want to carry it through the airport.

Comfort

This Graco is below the average booster in terms of comfort. The padding is like a pillow and lacks support, with an instant hard plastic feeling when pressure is applied. We suspect there will be pressure points. The armrests are fully padded, however, and little ones might like having padding over resting legs against bare plastic.

The fabric is soft, and our tester liked it until she sat in it and could feel the seam in the cover. The headrest seemed to push the head outward awkwardly, and we had to slightly recline the seat to rectify this problem. It is a small thing, but if you want to sit upright, it's not ideal for maintaining a good head position.

Quality

The Tranzitions is not the best-ranked option for quality, with a performance below the average. There isn't much padding on this seat, and when you remove the cover, it looks really uncomfortable. The headrest is mostly a hunk of plastic, and it's disappointing that there isn't more here for impact or comfort.

The material on the cover is okay and feels like a microfiber. The cover is held snug to the seat with elastic bands and doesn't come undone, but it looks less polished than those where the cover slides into slots and hides the cover edge.

Should You Buy the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1?

The Tranzitions is an easy-to-use high-backed booster from Graco with a relatively reasonable price in this lineup of boosters. However, it didn't perform that well in our tests, with below-average scores in every metric we tested, except for ease of use. With lower crash test results and issues with comfort and quality, it's not a booster we recommend. We believe there are better options, regardless of your hopes.

What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?

The Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 is one of our favorite options and the one we'd recommend to most families. With a below-average price and one of the highest scores for crash test analysis, it is hard to beat this thoughtfully designed option. This Chicco performed well in terms of comfort, featuring a leg lounger, and is easy to use with LATCH installation. If you want the best crash test results and a high-quality option, the Nuna AACE is easy to use, super comfortable, and outperforms most of the competition in crash testing. While it is about twice the price of Graco, it remains reasonably priced if your budget can accommodate it.

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