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Discover why the Graco TurboBooster LX stands out as a lightweight, narrow backless booster seat perfect for growing kids. With easy independent buckling, deep cupholders, and fit for tall children up to 57 inches, it's ideal for families needing three-across seating. Read our expert scores, pros, cons, and comparisons.
Quick Pick: The Graco TurboBooster Review: Top 2-in-1 Booster Seat for 2024 is our top recommendation for a reliable backless booster. Lightweight at just 5.4 lbs, it fits kids 40-100 lbs and up to 57 inches tall. Read the full review.
As kids outgrow forward-facing car seats, transitioning to a booster is a key step for safety and comfort. The Graco TurboBooster LX (model m389541) excels in this category, earning an overall score of 78/100 in our testing. This backless design prioritizes simplicity, portability, and vehicle compatibility, making it a favorite for busy parents.
Backless boosters like this one use your vehicle's lap and shoulder belts, positioned correctly by open guides that let kids buckle themselves—promoting independence from ages 4+. At 5.4 pounds, it's easy to move between cars, taxis, or carpools. Its narrow 16.5-inch width shines for fitting three across in sedans or SUVs, a common pain point for families.
We evaluated crash protection, ease of use, and fit based on real-world tests. Frontal crash performance scored 6/10, side impact 5/10, reflecting solid engineering with a steel-reinforced frame. But it's the everyday usability that sets it apart.
| Feature | Graco TurboBooster LX | Graco Atlas Booster | Graco Affix Car Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 78/100 | 82/100 | 85/100 |
| Booster Weight Limit | 40-100 lbs | 40-120 lbs | 40-100 lbs |
| Height Limit | 38-57 in | 38-57 in | 43-57 in |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs | 10.5 lbs | 11.6 lbs |
| Width | 16.5 in | 17 in | 19 in |
| Cup Holders | 2 deep | 2 | 2 |
| Installation | Belt or LATCH (4/10) | Belt/LATCH (5/10) | LATCH (6/10) |
| Fits 3 Across | Excellent | Good | Fair |
Data from our lab tests and specs. Check Graco Atlas Booster Seat Review or Graco Affix Car Seat Review for details.
Safety starts with proper belt fit. The TurboBooster LX uses open belt guides—one of its strongest features—ensuring the shoulder belt sits across the child's chest, not neck. In frontal crash tests (simulating 30 mph impacts), it achieved a 6/10, with effective energy absorption via the steel frame. Side crash scored 5/10, adequate for a backless but not class-leading.
It meets or exceeds federal standards (FMVSS 213) and supports kids from 40-100 lbs (booster mode) and 38-57 inches tall. The crotch strap/hip belt positions perfectly for smaller kids, while shoulder guides adjust for 3-6 year olds (5/10 scores). No harness mode here—pure booster simplicity.
Pro Tip: Always check belt fit with the "five-step test": pinch test on lap belt, shoulder belt routing, etc. This seat aces it for most vehicles.
Parents rave about installation: 4/10 score, using vehicle belts or LATCH (up to 65 lbs child weight). Securing the child? 5/10—kids as young as 4 can do it solo. Vehicle fit is versatile (5/10), from compact cars to minivans. Accessories like the padded armrests and two deep cupholders score high (5/10).
At 17 inches deep, it doesn't eat into front seat space. Narrow design means no squeezing in a Honda Odyssey or Toyota Camry for three kids.
Padded armrests provide elbow room, and the 2 cupholders hold sippy cups or water bottles securely—deeper than many rivals. The high-density foam seat is firm but supportive for long trips. Tall kids benefit from the 57-inch height limit, taller than average (most cap at 52-55 inches).
Our Verdict: Scores 78/100 overall. Best for budget-conscious families prioritizing ease and fit over luxury.
See detailed Graco TurboBooster analysis.
Ideal for:
Skip if:
Compared to high chairs or floor boosters, this shines in vehicles. Pair with best Graco lightweight strollers for outings.
Graco Atlas Booster: Wider but more padded; great for comfort. Full review.
Graco Affix: Hybrid car seat/booster with better LATCH. Pros and cons.
For dining, check portable options like the Toddler Booster Seats for Kitchen Chair for home use.
Ready to buy? Dive into the Graco TurboBooster Review for the latest deals and specs.
Enhance your baby gear collection:
Yes, for kids 40+ lbs and 38+ inches who pass the belt fit test. Open guides ensure proper positioning.
Absolutely—its 16.5-inch width excels in midsize vehicles like CR-Vs or Accords.
Use LATCH (under 65 lbs child) or vehicle belts. Tighten firmly; takes under 2 minutes.
40-100 lbs in booster mode, up to 57 inches tall.
Yes, two deep ones that hold standard kid cups securely.
Wipeable fabric cover; spot clean with mild soap. Machine-washable insert available.
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