Ensuring your child’s safety and comfort during car rides is a top priority for every parent. Britax offers a range of high-quality car seats designed to meet different family needs.
In this article, we’ll compare the Britax Graphene and b-first ifix car seat models, focusing on their differences to help you determine the best option for your family.
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
The Graphene car seat is designed for compact installations, with the ability to fit between seatbelt buckles and a shorter depth for rearward-facing positions.
In contrast, the b-first ifix is slightly larger and heavier, weighing 9.9 kg compared to Graphene’s 7.8 kg. The b-first ifix also has larger dimensions in both forward and rearward-facing positions.
If fitting three car seats across the back of your vehicle or having a smaller footprint is essential, the Graphene model may be more suitable.
Convertibility and Installation Method
Both car seats cater to children aged 0-4 years and offer rearward and forward-facing configurations. They support seatbelt and ISOFIX installations, with top tethers for added security.
However, the Britax b-first ifix is not aircraft-compatible, unlike the Graphene model. If traveling by air with your child’s car seat is a priority, the Graphene would be the better choice.
Side Impact Protection
The Britax Graphene and b-first ifix car seats both have EPS foam protection and Active Head Restraint (AHR) for enhanced side-impact safety.
The Graphene features Side Impact Cushion Technology (SICT) for torso protection, while the b-first ifix offers advanced deployable SICT for both torso and head protection.
Here’s what Britax says about these features:
- Head Protection SICT – “Dual layer head protection minimises the energy generated in a side impact crash. The inner SICT layer provides 180° protection around your child’s head, whilst the outer SICT layer on the seat exterior absorbs immediate crash energy.”
- 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.”
Further, they state that “Advanced SICT is a deployable safety innovation with crumple zone technology. Located on the Headrest and Torso, the unique design combines advanced safety and freedom of space.”
Hardware Product Features
While both car seats share several hardware features, such as rebound bars, hassle-free harness systems, and adjustable headrests, there are notable differences:
- Rear Facing Level Indicator: The b-first ifix has a rear-facing level indicator, while the Graphene does not. This feature helps ensure the correct installation angle for rearward-facing positions.
- Push Button Lower Harness Adjustment: The b-first ifix offers ease of use with a push-button lower harness adjustment, while the Graphene does not have this feature.
- Frontal Easy Adjust Headrest: The b-first ifix comes with a frontal easy-adjust headrest for added convenience, which is not available in the Graphene model.
- Forward Facing Recline Positions: The b-first ifix provides four forward-facing recline positions compared to Graphene’s two, offering greater flexibility and comfort for your child.
RELATED: Britax Millenia vs B-First iFix
Comfort
Both car seats feature Thermo 5 performance fabric, EZ Buckle crotch pads, and shoulder pads for improved comfort. However, the b-first ifix offers additional comfort features:
- Hardware Ventilation: The Britax b-first ifix has hardware ventilation, ensuring better airflow and increased comfort for your child.
- Comfort / Newborn Insert: The b-first ifix comes with removable wings in its newborn insert, providing extra support for smaller babies.
- Vehicle Seat Protector: The b-first ifix includes a vehicle seat protector, which is not available with the Graphene model.
Storage
The Graphene car seat has a storage pocket for added convenience, while the b-first ifix does not. If storage space for small items is important to you, the Graphene model may be a better fit.
RELATED: Britax Graphene vs Millenia Car Seats
Conclusion
When comparing the Britax Graphene and b-first ifix car seats, both offer a high level of safety and comfort for your child.
The Graphene is more compact, lightweight, and aircraft-compatible, making it a better option for families with limited vehicle space or those who plan to travel by air.
On the other hand, the b-first ifix provides advanced side-impact protection, additional comfort features, and greater adjustability, making it a suitable choice for parents who prioritize increased safety and comfort.
