Choosing the perfect car seat for your child can be a daunting task, with numerous factors to consider.
Britax is a trusted brand that offers a variety of car seats, ensuring comfort, convenience, and safety for your little ones.
In this article, we will provide an in-depth comparison of the Britax Compaq and Graphene car seat models, focusing on their differences to help you make an informed decision.
Important note: This article is solely intended to provide a comparison of the features of these Britax car seats. It is not intended to be taken as advice or guidance on which car seat to choose. We recommend that you visit the Child Car Seats website to evaluate car seat safety and consult a professional installer for advice on installation. We also encourage you to consult the manufacturer for specific queries.
Size and Weight
Both the Compaq and Graphene car seats have a compact design that allows them to fit three across the back of a vehicle and nest between seatbelt buckles. Their rearward-facing depth is the shortest of all Britax models, making them suitable for smaller cars.
However, there is a slight difference in weight: the Compaq weighs 7.6 kg, while the Graphene is a bit heavier at 7.8 kg. This minor weight difference may not significantly impact your decision, but it’s worth considering for those who prioritize portability.
RELATED: Britax Millenia vs Graphene
Convertibility and Installation Method
The Compaq and Graphene car seats are suitable for children from 0-4 years old, offering rearward and forward-facing configurations. Both models also feature seatbelt installation and top tether compatibility.
However, the Graphene comes with an additional ISOFIX installation method, which provides a more secure and convenient connection between the car seat and the vehicle. If the ISOFIX system is important to you, the Graphene might be the better choice.
Side Impact Protection
While both car seats are equipped with EPS foam protection for side impacts, the Graphene offers two additional safety features: Active Head Restraint (AHR) and Side Impact Cushion Technology (SICT) for the torso.
Here’s what Britax says about these features:
- AHR “is designed specifically with deeper side wings that shield and contain your child’s head in a side impact crash. AHR grows with your child working with SICT to contain your child’s head and to minimise impact forces.”
- “Torso SICT minimises the energy felt on your child’s chest and vital organs, reducing crash forces to a safer level. Torso forces are lower and dispensed over a longer period of time.”
Features
The Compaq and Graphene car seats share several hardware features, such as rebound bars, hassle-free harness systems, and storage pockets. However, there are a couple of differences between the two models:
- Seat Belt Lock-offs: The Graphene has forward-facing seat belt lock-offs, while the Compaq does not.
- Adjustable Headrest and Backrest: The Graphene has a push-button adjustable headrest, while the Compaq features a push-button adjustable backrest.
RELATED: Britax Compaq vs Brava
Comfort
Both car seats come with comfort and newborn inserts, shoulder pads, buckle tongue holders, and storage pockets. They also have two forward-facing recline positions to ensure your child’s comfort during the ride. However, there are a couple of differences in terms of comfort features:
- Performance Fabric: The Graphene is equipped with Thermo 5 performance fabric, which is not available in the Compaq model. Thermo 5 fabric enhances breathability and comfort for your child.
- Crotch Pad: The Graphene has an EZ Buckle crotch pad, while the Compaq has a standard crotch pad. The EZ Buckle system keeps the buckle in a forward position, making it easier to secure your child in the seat.
Conclusion
When comparing the Britax Compaq and Graphene car seats, the key differences to consider are the installation method, side impact protection, hardware product features, and comfort. Both car seats have similar size and weight profiles, making them suitable for small cars and three-across installations.
