In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
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The Graco Extend2Fit is a higher-end Graco with impressive top crash test results in our best convertible car seat review. This convertible car seat is relatively lightweight and easy to use, with dual cup holders, side harness retainers, and a cool footrest that provides additional legroom when rear-facing. The Extend2Fit can remain rear-facing up to 50 lbs, making it relatively unique, and it sports a no-rethread harness height adjustment you can operate with your baby in the seat. This Graco is almost 19 inches wide, which makes it a challenge to fit three safety seats across or two seats and an adult. It can be slightly harder to install, and the quality isn't as nice as similarly priced options. However, this seat has the best crash test results, a budget-friendly price, and children can remain rear-facing longer (which is safer). So if you want the best crash test results, then this Graco could be the one for you.
REASONS TO BUY
Best crash test results
Rear-facing till 50 lbs
Price
REASONS TO AVOID
Not the best quality
Harder belt installation
What did we test?
We tested the regular Extend2Fit, NOT the 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 options. The crash test results and our analysis only apply to this version and no other safety seat. While other versions of this seat (mentioned above) might include additional safety features, we cannot remark on their efficacy or potential safety. We also can't remark on the potential crash test results of these seats, as we did not have them tested. In our experience with other seats from different manufacturers, we've observed that "extra" safety features don't always translate to better crash test results.
Editor's Note: We updated all gear reviews on December 21, 2021, with more details about the multiple tests we run within the larger test metrics so the performance of each seat can be compared to the competition.
Rear-facing up to 50 lbs and the best crash results are a bonus to this budget-friendly seat
Great lightweight seat with excellent crash test results that is very easy to use
Budget-friendly, easy to use option with better crash test results make it a standout
Somewhat better than the average option with nothing extraordinary to sing about
Nice and easy to install with the "SuperCinch" strap but has only average crash results
Rating Categories
Graco Extend2Fit
Britax Emblem
Britax Allegiance
Graco SlimFit All-i...
Chicco NextFit
Crash Test(35%)
8.5
8.0
8.0
6.0
5.0
Ease Of Install - LATCH(20%)
6.6
7.2
7.2
7.9
8.5
Ease Of Install - Belt(15%)
7.0
6.0
6.0
6.6
6.6
Ease Of Use(15%)
7.3
7.6
7.6
7.4
6.4
Comfort / Quality(10%)
5.8
7.4
6.8
5.8
8.6
Weight / Size(5%)
5.0
5.5
5.5
5.0
4.5
Specs
Graco Extend2Fit
Britax Emblem
Britax Allegiance
Graco SlimFit All-i...
Chicco NextFit
Crash Test HIC Score
214
218
186
320
336.6
Crash Test Chest G Clip
40
42
43
43
45.7
Min/Max Rear Facing Passenger Weight
4 - 50 lbs
5 - 40 lbs
5 - 40 lbs
5 - 40 lbs
5 - 40 lbs
Min/Max Forward Facing Passenger Weight
22 - 64 lbs
20 - 65 lbs
20 - 65 lbs
22 - 65 lbs
22 - 65 lbs
Max Rear Facing Passenger Height
Child's head must be at least 1 in. below the top of the head restraint
Child's head must be at least 1 in. below the top of the head restraint
Child's head must be at least 1 in. below the top of the head restraint
40" and the child's head must be at least 1 in. below the top of the child restraint.
Not Listed
Max Forward Facing Passenger Height
49" and the child's ears must be below the top of the seat shell.
49" and the child's ears must be below the top of the head restraint.
49" and the child's ears must be below the top of the head restraint.
49" and the child's ears must be below the top of the seat shell.
49"
Measured Rear Facing Seat Weight
18.7 lbs
18.8 lbs
18.5 lbs
18.6 lbs
25.3 lbs
Measured Forward Facing Seat Weight
18.7 lbs
18.8 lbs
18.5 lbs
18.6 lbs
24.9 lbs
Width
19.6"
18.9"
18.8"
19"
19"
Recline Positions
4 Rear Facing
3 Forward Facing
1 Rear Facing
2 Forward Facing
1 Rear Facing
2 Forward Facing
4 Total
2 Rear Facing
2 Forward Facing
1 Booster
9
Max Recline Angle
51°
42°
42°
°
53°
Shoulder Harness Positions
10
10
10
10
6
Crotch Strap Positions
2
2
2
3
2
Built in Lock Off
No
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Anti-rebound Device
No
No
No
No
No
Head Support
No
No
No
No
Yes
Newborn Insert
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No Rethread Harness
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Onboard Manual Storage
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Level Indicator On Seat
Ball in Tube.
Line on Decal
Line on Decal
Ball in Tube.
Bubble Vial
Foam Type
EPS
EPP
EPP
EPS
EPS
Seat Lifespan
7 yrs
7
7
10 yrs
8 yrs
Warranty
1 Year
1 Year
1 Year
1 Year
1 Year
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Our Analysis and Test Results
The Graco company started in 1953 after Graco Metal Products decided to shift gears by hiring an engineer to design new types of products. Rex Thomas and David Saint were inspired by an outdoor glider to create the first best baby swing. The unique swing went on to sell millions catapulting Graco onto the baby gear scene. Over the years, Graco has continued to design and create useful gear, including favorite car seats, favorite strollers of all varieties, play yards/travel crib, and more.
Performance Comparison
The headrest of the Extend2Fit has dense EPS foam for impact absorption in addition to the padding that is part of the main shell.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Crash Test
The Extend2Fit earned impressive crash-test results, making it the top product in this metric.
While this Graco did not earn the top results for the head sensor (HIC) or the chest clip sensor (g clip), it did have the best-combined sensor results for the group. While every car seat on the market in the US must meet or exceed the Federal guidelines outlined in FMVSS 213, some seats do a better job than others, with more impressive results that indicate an additional margin of protection. The Graco is definitely one of these seats.
This Graco has a HIC result of 214 Gs, where the high is 1000, and a lower result is better. The chart above shows a comparison of the Extend2Fit result and the other products. The best result for this sensor is 186 earned by the Britax Allegiance. The image below shows a comparison of the Extend2Fit and the Allegiance.
The Extend2Fit has a HIC result of 214 which is one of the best in the group. The graph shows this value in comparison to the best in the group of 186 earned by the Essentials by Britax Allegiance.
Credit: BabyGearLab, MGA Research
The Extend2Fit has a better than average chest sensor result with a 40 Gs, but it isn't enough to keep up with the Clek Foonf and its result of 33.4 Gs.
Credit: BabyGearLab, MGA Research
The Extend2Fit chest clip sensor result is 40, where the maximum allowed is 60, and a lower result is better. This result is impressive but can't compete with the Clek Foonf and its 33.4 Gs result. The image above shows the two in comparison. Only three products earned a better result during testing. The chart below shows the actual sensor results from each seat in this review for a better comparison.
Installing the Extend2Fit using the LATCH method isn't difficult, but the one-sided tightening strap made it more difficult to secure the seat than competition with center straps or self-ratcheting features.
The LATCH system for the Extend2Fit forward-facing configuration uses the same belt pathway as the vehicle belt.
Ease of Install - LATCH
If possible, you want to choose LATCH anchor installation for your Extend2Fit because it is easier.
This method is easier and, for the most part, creates a more stable seat.
The Extend2Fit has the push button style LATCH anchor we believe are easier to use both for attaching to the car and removal.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
This Graco has the push button style of LATCH anchor, which we feel is easier to use, especially when trying to remove the clip from the car. The LATCH straps use the same belt pathway you use for the vehicle belt installation, but it only has a one-sided strap pull for tightening. Compared to options with unique tightening methods like self-ratcheting straps and center pull tightening, this can be challenging.
THe Extend2Fit level is a metal ball in a plastic case on the sie of the seat. The acceptable angle for installation is based on the age of your child.
Reclining the Extend2Fit will help you achieve the correct angle during installation.
The Graco has a side level that consists of a metal ball in a plastic case. This level helps parents determine when they have the seat properly installed. The angle adjustment on the Extend2Fit is simple and adjusts the angle to assist with installation.
The rear-facing configuration of the Extend2Fit using the vehicle belt was the most difficult installation method to perform and get a stable feeling seat in the end.
The belt pathway on the Extend2Fit is harder to use than the competition.
Ease of Install - Belt
Installing the Extend2Fit using your vehicle belt is going to be your toughest challenge with this Graco with lower performance than its LATCH installation. If installation scares you, the Britax Boulevard ClickTight ARB is practically fool-proof and worth a look-see.
If your vehicle doesn't have LATCH anchors in your chosen position or your little one has outgrown the LATCH connectors, you'll need to install your seat using the vehicle belt.
Rear-facing installation for the Extend2Fit was the most challenging installation for us with an increased difficulty getting the seat stable.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
For the rear-facing configuration, in which the Extend2Fit can remain up to 50 lbs, the belt pathway runs through the foot end of the seat (above left). It is easy enough to find, but you need to navigate without seeing it. Changing the belt from front to back is also a pain unless you remove the fabric, which is another degree of difficulty. This Graco doesn't have a belt lock-off which we find helps with stability, but this one wasn't as wobbly as some of the other options that lack the lock-off. We had the most difficulty getting this seat installed in the rear-facing position.
The belt path for the Extend2Fit forward-facing configuration is harder to use because you can't see what is going on. Removing the cover for visibility is also challenging.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Installing forward facing uses a belt pathway on the back of the seat near the seat bottom. This method is easier with a lap-only belt but can be done with a lap/shoulder belt as well. The Extend2Fit is the most stable in the forward-facing configuration using the lap/shoulder belt.
The Extend2Fit is easy to use with the second highest ease of use score in the group.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Use
Extend2Fit is one of the easier options to use in the group.
The features and daily functionality of this Graco make it a pleasure to use compared to much of the competition.
The chest clip of this Graco is convoluted and not intuitive.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Harness
The Extend2Fit buckle is similar to the one found on the Britax products. It is somewhat stiff but easy to use. The chest clip n the other hand, is convoluted and not as intuitive as the competition.
The Extend2Fit has a tightening strap on the foot and a harness release button hidden under the fabric and out of the sight of little ones.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The padding on the shoulder straps can get in the way of adjusting and tightening the harness to fit. While they may add comfort, they can be cumbersome. The harness is tightened with a pull strap at the seat's foot and released with a button above the strap under some fabric.
The Extend2Fit has a non-rethread adjustable harness assembly with ten positions. This features can be used with your little one still in the seat.
The Extend2Fit cover has a built-in harness retainer system to keep the harness open so you don't need to search for it after you put the baby inside.
This Graco has a no-rethread harness assembly to change shoulder heights. It has ten settings, and the crotch strap has 2 for a more specialized fit. It is easy to operate with a lever squeeze (above left), and it moves smoothly up and down. The harness can be retained on each side (above right), so you don't need to search for the harness under the baby. It's a nice feature, but like other similar designs, we think most parents will stop using it after a few months.
The LATCH anchors on this Graco click onto the shell side about halfway up the seat back.
The Extend2Fit user manual fits in a frame on the top side of the base. This keeps it out of the way and free from the spill and vomit zone.
LATCH Storage
The LATCH anchors attach to the underside lip of the Graco shell on either side (above left). This storage design keeps the anchors out of the way but also leaves them exposed for possible play by little ones. The manual stores on the base under the seat (above right) where it is easy to access but out of the way of spills and potential vomit.
Cover
The Graco cover is challenging to get off, but it is machine washable in cold water once you do. This is a huge advantage over hand washing or spot cleaning of car seat covers. However, it can't go in the dryer and must be line dried.
The Extend2Fit has a footrest that extends legroom up to 5 inches allowing little ones to remain comfortable rear-facing for longer.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Comfort/Quality
Like most Graco products we've tested, the Extend2Fit is about average for quality and comfort.
While the Extend2Fit seat is a good-looking option with adequate padding and friendly fabric, it doesn't feel as durable or sturdy as much of the competition. The padding could be thicker for better comfort, and the fabric weave is loose, indicating it will grab dirty and may not last. The fabric also doesn't cover the shell, as well as the competition with the front of the cover coming untucked frequently on our seat.
The Extend2Fit is more self-contained than the Graco MyRide 65 LX, but it isn't as sleek and contained as much of the competition.
The Extend2Fit bottom has some smooth parts but there are plastic "fins" that could potentially cause indents or damage to your vehicle seat.
The shell on the Extend2Fit is better and more self-contained (above left) than the other Gracos, so it will be easier to keep clean and has less loose straps and items. The bottom (above right) has two rubber gripping pads, and it is smoother than the MyRide, but it still has "fins" and narrow sharper edges that could potentially dent or damage vehicle seats.
This Graco has an extendable leg rest (rear-facing only), providing 5 inches of additional legroom. This feature increases comfort as little legs won't dangle or be scrunched up against the vehicle seat when sitting rear-facing. It is the only seat we reviewed with this kind of feature.
The Graco Extend2Fit looks nice but struggles to keep up in a side-by-side comparison with the competition that offers materials that feel more durable and sturdy.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Weight
The Extend2Fit is average for weight and width measurements.
The Extend2Fit weighs 18.7 lbs, which is light compared to some options between 25 and 30 lbs. It isn't light enough to consider a great travel or city seat because we suspect most parents will not want to carry almost 19 lbs for very long. The width is almost 20 inches at its widest point, making it a poor choice if you need to fit three safety seats in the back seat or hope to fit two and another person. The width can potentially increase comfort, but that won't mean much if you can fit all your kids in your car.
Should You Buy the Extend2Fit?
There is much to love about this top-scoring seat, including its better-than-average installation scores and top crash test analysis result. If crash testing is your top concern, this is definitely the one for you. But it also has other admirable qualities that make it one we'd recommend to a friend, including a longer rear-facing lifespan (the safest installation direction) and impressively low price. While it doesn't have the best comfort or quality, we believe you get a great seat for a reasonable price that will last as long as you need it to.
What Other Convertible Car Seat Should You Consider?
If installation has you fearful, the Britax Boulevard ClickTight ARB is definitely one that deserves a closer look. It is as foolproof as a seat can get without installing itself. However, the Britax is more expensive, which could be a deal-breaker if your budget is tight. It also has lower crash test results than much of the competition, which is something to consider as it factors into overall safety. If Britax is a brand you trust and you want a budget-friendly option that isn't hard to install but also offers better crash test results, then he Britax Emblem is a good choice for your best car seat shortlist. This seat is easy to use, has better quality, and still has one of the highest results for crash testing with a comparable price tag to the Extend2Fit.
