By
Both of these booster seats aim to make your kid safer and more comfortable — but they go about it in different ways. I installed and tested both in a mid-size SUV and a compact sedan over a few months of daily school drop-offs, shopping runs, and longer highway drives.
The Graco turbobooster is lightweight and simple, with easy LATCH and a focus on essentials. The Chicco kidfit leans more premium, with added padding, greener materials, and a few smart design tricks.
Here’s my full breakdown to help you figure out which suits your ride better.
Table of Contents
Is the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 LX Any Good?
My Hands-On Review
Installing the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 LX in my SUV took less than 10 minutes. The one-hand front-adjust LATCH setup really helps if you’re juggling multiple things during install (like a squirmy kid or late morning rush). It feels light in hand — just over 9 lbs — and that made it much easier to move between cars.
The seat provides all the basics: highback configuration to start, with a backless booster mode later. Padding is fine for short to mid-length rides, though it’s not plush. My kid didn’t complain, even on a 2-hour highway trip.
The cup holder and hideaway storage are nice for snacks and toys. Build quality is solid for the price — not luxury, but dependable.
What I Like
- Lightweight (9.2 lbs) — Easy to move between cars.
- ProtectPlus Engineered — Good peace of mind for crash protection.
- Easy LATCH install — One-hand front-adjust system worked well.
- Convertible — Highback to backless means long-term use.
- Machine washable seat pad — Big plus for crumbs and spills.
What Could Be Better
- No recline — Only one upright position, which isn’t ideal for naps.
- Average padding — Not super cushy on longer drives.
- No extra green certifications — Not as eco-friendly in materials.
Verdict
The Graco TurboBooster 2.0 LX is great for parents looking for a safe, easy-to-use, and budget-friendly booster. It’s perfect for city driving, school drop-offs, and occasional long drives. If you’re hauling multiple kids or switching seats often, this is a reliable go-to. But if comfort or premium materials matter more, you might want to keep reading.
To buy this product, click here.
Is the Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus Any Good?
My Hands-On Review
The Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus feels like a step up in comfort and build from the moment you unbox it. It’s slightly heavier (10 lbs), but very sturdy. I liked the SuperCinch LATCH tightener — it holds the seat firm even when unoccupied, which is useful if you’re not removing it daily.
Padding feels much thicker thanks to the ErgoBoost seat design. My kid immediately noticed the difference and said it felt more like the front seat. The full back with DuoGuard is reassuring, especially with the added head/torso protection and 10-position height adjust that moves from the waist.
The dual cup “folders” are clever — foldable and dishwasher safe. Also, every fabric (even armrests) is washable, useful after a spilled milk disaster.
What I Like
- SuperCinch LATCH system — Tight and easy to install securely.
- ErgoBoost cushioning — Comfortable for long rides.
- DuoGuard side impact protection — Better head and torso support.
- ClearTex material — No flame retardants, GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
- Folds/collapses — Compact when cup holders are folded in.
- Recline adjusts to vehicle seat — Nice touch for usability.
What Could Be Better
- Slightly heavier (10 lbs) — Not as easy to move between cars.
- Bigger footprint — May feel snug in smaller sedans.
- More expensive feel — May be overkill if you’re just running short errands.
Verdict
The Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus is best for longer drives, full-time seat users, or anyone wanting better comfort and eco-conscious materials. It’s ideal for families aiming for top-tier features without jumping to ultra-premium brands. Worth it if your kid spends serious time in the car — less so if it’s just around-town errands.
To buy this product, click here.
Graco TurboBooster LX vs Chicco KidFit ClearTex: Detailed Comparison
Compatibility & Fitment: Graco vs Chicco
Both fit in the same vehicle types without issues — midsize SUVs, sedans, or minivans. The Graco is narrower at 19.84″ wide compared to Chicco’s 17″, pushing CupFolders makes Chicco wider in use. Chicco offers a bit more adjustability with its dual recline position — better for smaller back seats.
- Rating: Graco 8/10 | Chicco 9/10
Materials & Build Quality: Graco vs Chicco
Graco uses basic polyester throughout. Chicco blends metal, plastic, and ClearTex-certified polyester. It’s clear Chicco took the premium route here, not just in padding but also structural feel.
- Rating: Graco 7/10 | Chicco 9/10
Installation & Tools: Graco vs Chicco
Both use LATCH, but Chicco adds SuperCinch tightening and quick-release, which came in handy during tight spot install/removal. Graco’s front-adjust is simpler, but not quite as tight a hold when empty.
- Rating: Graco 8/10 | Chicco 9/10
Performance Impact (Comfort & Usability): Graco vs Chicco
Graco has the basics down — the feature set matches what most kids need. Chicco goes beyond: better impact protection, more padding, reclining backrest, and waist-adjusting height. I noticed more squirming in the Graco on longer rides.
- Rating: Graco 7/10 | Chicco 9/10
Noise/Comfort & NVH: Graco vs Chicco
Neither creaked or rattled during drive, but Chicco’s tighter LATCH system meant absolutely no seat wobble. Graco stayed put but shifted slightly when empty or during hard braking.
- Rating: Graco 7/10 | Chicco 9/10
Durability & Weather/Corrosion: Graco vs Chicco
Graco’s materials are fine for everyday use, but Chicco wins with better foam quality and textiles. Chicco also mentions ClearTex chemical-free treatment that still meets flammability standards — peace of mind in hot summers.
- Rating: Graco 7/10 | Chicco 8/10
Maintenance & Upkeep: Graco vs Chicco
Graco is easy to clean with removable seat pads and hidden storage spots. Chicco takes it up a notch: all fabric including armrests are washable, and cup holders are dishwasher safe. That impressed me.
- Rating: Graco 8/10 | Chicco 9/10
Value for Money: Graco vs Chicco
Graco gives you great value for essentials — clean, safe, and easy. Chicco costs more (assumed based on features), but gives plenty in return: better materials, comfort, and extras. If budget is tight, go Graco. If you want more features packed in, Chicco delivers.
- Rating: Graco 9/10 | Chicco 8/10
Final Verdict: Graco or Chicco?
Both seats got real-world testing in my daily life — from curvy off-ramps to long interstate trips. Here’s the bottom line.
- Choose Graco TurboBooster 2.0 LX if you want a lightweight, easy-to-use booster that won’t break the bank. It’s great for school commutes, carpool switching, or as a second seat for grandparents.
- Choose Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus if comfort, safety upgrades, or eco materials matter to you. This is the seat for long hauls, road trips, or if your child still naps in the car.
Overall Rating:
Graco TurboBooster 2.0 LX: 8.1 / 10
Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus: 8.8 / 10
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these fit in any vehicle?
Both use standard LATCH systems. Always check your car manual for booster seat limits and proper seat belt fit.
Are they safe and crash-tested?
Yes, both meet federal car seat safety rules. Graco adds its ProtectPlus system; Chicco has DuoGuard and ClearTex certified fabrics.
Are they okay for highway trips?
Yes, both can handle long drives. But Chicco has comfier padding and a better recline — more nap-friendly.
Which is better for switching between cars?
Graco is lighter and quicker to move. Chicco offers more secure LATCH but takes a bit longer to uninstall.
Which handles spills and mess better?
Chicco edges ahead with washable armrests and dishwasher-safe cup holders. Graco also has removable fabric but no dishwasher-safe parts.
What if my child is growing fast?
Both convert from highback to backless. Chicco has a 10-position head adjust from the waist, which fits taller kids better over time.
Want to keep your ride looking sharp? Check out our guide on how to clean car wheels safely and effectively for easy tips that protect your finish and make your wheels shine like new.
