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Discover our in-depth Graco Contender 65 convertible car seat review, including crash test scores, fit details, and real-world performance. We compare it to top picks like the Graco 4Ever DLX and Diono Radian 3R for the best safety and value in 2024.
Quick Pick: Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat, Charlie – Our top recommendation for long-term use. It offers 10 years of versatility from rear-facing to booster, superior crash protection, and easy installation. Check current price
The Graco Contender 65 convertible car seat is a popular choice for parents seeking an affordable option that transitions from rear-facing (4-40 lbs) to forward-facing (22-65 lbs). With an overall performance score of 72/100 in independent tests, it shines in crash protection (5/5) but falls short in installation ease and vehicle fit. In this Review Atlas guide, we'll break down its strengths, weaknesses, and stack it against premium alternatives to help you decide if it's right for your family.
Whether you're installing in a compact sedan or SUV, safety features like side-impact protection and a 5-point harness are non-negotiable. We'll cover fit for 95th percentile kids, LATCH usability, and real-parent feedback to give you actionable insights.
Here's how the Contender 65 measures up against leading options based on crash tests, weight limits, and user ratings (out of 100). Data draws from rigorous lab evaluations and thousands of parent reviews.
| Model | Crash Protection Score | Rear-Facing Limit | Forward-Facing Limit | Installation Ease (LATCH/Belt) | Price Range | Review Atlas Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graco Contender 65 | 5/5 | 40 lbs | 65 lbs | 2.5/5 (LATCH), 3/5 (Belt) | $120-$150 | 72/100 |
| Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 | 5/5 | 40 lbs | 65 lbs (Booster to 120 lbs) | 4.5/5 | $300-$350 | 94/100 |
| Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX | 4.5/5 | 40 lbs | 65 lbs | 4/5 | $130-$160 | 85/100 |
| Clek Fllo | 5/5 | 50 lbs | 65 lbs | 4/5 | $350-$400 | 92/100 |
| Diono Radian 3R | 5/5 | 50 lbs | 65 lbs (Booster to 120 lbs) | 4.5/5 | $300-$320 | 93/100 |
See a standout? The Graco 4Ever DLX wins for versatility. View details now.
The Contender 65 earns top marks (5/5) for crash protection, meeting or exceeding federal standards in head and chest acceleration tests. Its steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam-lined shell absorb impacts effectively, providing peace of mind for rear-facing infants up to 40 lbs and forward-facing toddlers to 65 lbs (height limit 49 inches).
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Cons:
Seat fit to vehicle scores 3/5, making it tricky in smaller cars due to its 19-inch width. For child fit (3.5/5), it accommodates kids from 4-49 inches well, but harness adjustment can be fiddly without no-rethread options.
Parents report good comfort with machine-washable fabrics, but the seat weighs 11.5 lbs – lightweight for swaps between vehicles.
Pro Tip: Measure your backseat width; it's best for midsize vehicles. For slimmer fits, check the Diono Radian 3R.
LATCH ease is 2.5/5 – connectors are stiff and require significant force. Seatbelt installation (3/5) improves with the push-button LATCH release, but expect 10-15 minutes for first-time setup. Buckling scores 3/5; the harness tightens securely but lacks magnetic buckles.
Our Verdict on Contender 65: Solid budget pick at 72/100, but upgrade if installation ease matters. Compare to Graco's best: 4Ever DLX.
If the Contender's installation hurdles deter you, these outperform it across metrics.
This beast covers infancy to booster (10 years, up to 120 lbs). Crash score: 5/5. LATCH: 4.5/5 with one-hand adjustments.
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See on Review Atlas – perfect for growing families.
Slim (17 inches) for 3-across seating, extended rear-facing to 50 lbs.
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Budget rival to Contender with better LATCH (4/5).
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Premium compact with anti-rebound bar.
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Ready to buy? Start with the Graco 4Ever DLX.
For Graco fans, explore Graco Affix Car Seat Review or Best Graco Lightweight Strollers.
No, it scores low (2.5/5 LATCH) due to stiff connectors. Opt for the Graco 4Ever DLX for simpler setup.
Rear-facing: 4-40 lbs; forward: 22-65 lbs. Expires after 10 years.
At 19 inches wide, it's marginal. Try the Diono Radian 3R instead.
11.5 lbs empty – easy to carry.
Yes, the 4Ever DLX offers more modes and higher ratings.
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