Graco TurboBooster Backless Review

Crash Test

The TurboBooster did not perform well in our crash tests, with some of the highest recorded g-forces for both the HIC (head) and chest clip sensors in the group. The goal is the lowest g-forces.

While each booster in this review should be considered safe and is presumably compliant with federal guidelines, we ran our tests at hotter, looking for outliers and standout options.

The TurboBooster sensor data experienced more G-forces during crash testing than the sensor used when testing the Nuna.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

The TurboBooster sensor data shows more G-forces during crash testing than the sensor in the Nuna.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

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This Graco has some of the worst sensor results for the head sensor in the review, with recorded G-forces more than twice the next lowest-performing competitors. The chest clip results are somewhat better and manage to prevent this booster from earning the lowest analysis score in the group, but the difference is minuscule. The HIC result is enough to give us pause, and we would not use this booster with our children.

Ease of Use

When you don't have much going on, being easy to use should be no problem. The TurboBooster is straightforward and earned a slightly higher-than-average ease-of-use score.

This seat has no back and doesn't install in any way. Our tester was able to buckle the belt easily; however, the shoulder belt became twisted. We believe this will sort itself out over time as children learn how it works and gain some practice.

The TurboBooster lap belt pathway is color-coded, and our tester had no trouble getting the belt buckled.   Credit: Abriah Wofford

The shoulder guide positioner might require a little parent help as it can get twisted.   Credit: Abriah Wofford

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Some testers also struggled with determining what to pull and what to tighten after buckling, but again, this is a learning curve issue that we think will become intuitive and second nature quickly.

The TurboBooster features two pull-out cup holders. They can be adjusted to keep them out of the way when not in use, which might make them easier to keep clean. However, they are not removable, so you'll need to remove the entire seat to tip it over and remove crumbs. We were able to secure our test water bottle in the holder without it falling out.

Weight and Size

This Graco is one of the lightest in the group, weighing 4.5 lbs, mainly due to its lack of a back. While we prefer a backed booster, we know there are times when a smaller and lighter option is what you need. Despite its lighter weight, it would not be our choice for travel or carpooling, as it is harder to carry than some of its smaller competitors.

It is also pretty narrow, with a width of only 16.3 inches. A few competitors are narrower in the seat but have a wider back. The narrow seat width makes it good for multiple seats in a single row; however, combined with its disappointing crash analysis, we would still look elsewhere.

Comfort

As one of the few backless options we tested, it isn't a huge surprise that it didn't score well for comfort compared to the competition. This Graco earned one of the lowest results for comfort. While it is obvious you won't have the nice side or support of competitors, what might not be obvious is the discomfort of the seat itself.

The hard plastic bottom features a jersey knit cover, and the padding is equivalent to that of a blanket. There is no padding to speak of, and while it might be okay for shorter trips, it won't be a favorite on longer drives. Our tester didn't mind the lack of back support and liked the armrests, but we suspect there would be significant complaining on any road trips.

Quality

The TurboBooster is also of poor quality. It is a basic plastic booster with a thicker cover that looks like padding but isn't. There isn't much to this, and even the armrests are attached with just Velcro, which we can't imagine will last over time. It also doesn't install in any way, so if there is no passenger, you'll need to buckle it in place to prevent it from moving around freely in your car.

Should You Buy the Graco TurboBooster Backless?

Small and easy to carry is the name of the game when it comes to finding a boost for travel or everyday carpooling to school or camp. We see how the TurboBooster could end up on your shortlist, given its smaller size, lower weight, and additional features, such as armrests and cup holders. However, it is not our seat of choice for any use, whether daily or for travel, and given the lower crash testing results, we recommend that parents look elsewhere for suitable options based on their goals.

What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?

If your goal is an excellent option for little ones to carry themselves or something compact you can use while traveling, then the BubbleBum is our favorite. This simple booster is an inflatable cushion with a shoulder belt positioner that can be quickly and easily deployed in almost any situation. The lower price and better crash test analysis results than the TurboBooster make it a great option for when a high-backed traditional booster would be impractical. If you need an everyday booster for regular car rides, the Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 is our favorite option. This booster has a below-average price, better crash test results, and impressive features for comfort. Plus, it can go backless when you need it to. If you want the booster with the best crash test results and your budget can stretch, the Nuna AACE is our favorite. While it is more expensive than Graco, it remains reasonably priced compared to many competitors, and its price is justified by impressive test results across almost every metric.

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