We are reader supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

Graco Tranzitions vs Wayz (2021): What’s the Difference?

With the wide range of car seat models by Graco, choosing the best one for your child can be a confusing and, at times, even overwhelming process. For instance, a lot of people get confused between the Graco Tranzitions and the Graco Wayz. Both are 3-in-1 harness booster car seats with a similar design and price, but why are they sold under different model names?

One of their major differences is where they’re sold. Walmart carries the Graco Wayz models exclusively, while the Tranzitions is available everywhere else. Keep reading to learn more about these two top-selling Graco car seats and more ways they differ.

Graco Tranzitions vs Wayz Car Seat Comparison Chart

ModelGraco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Car SeatGraco Wayz 3-in-1 Car Seat
 Graco Wayz
PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
TypeConvertible 3-in-1Convertible 3-in-1
Headrest Positions88
No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness SystemYesYes
Forward-Facing Harness Seat22 to 65 lbs22 to 65 lbs
Highback Booster30 to 100 lbs30 to 100 lbs
Backless Booster40 to 100 lbs40 to 100 lbs
SnugLock Technology LATCH SystemAvailable on the Fairmont and Sutherland modelsN/A
Machine Washable YesYes
Cup Holder22
ColorsMint Green, Pink, Black, Gray, andPurple, Fuchsia, Gray, Red

Design and Build Quality

The Graco Tranzitions and Wayz are pretty much the same, save for their colors and SnugLock Technology available in select Tranzitions car seats

The Graco Tranzisions Fairmont and Sutherland feature SnugLock Technology LATCH system

Design-wise, not a lot is different between the Graco Tranzitions and Wayz. They are both well-made, slim harness booster car seats that can easily fit most cars. If your vehicle is on the smaller side, either car seat is a great option for you.

Both provide enough padding to keep your child comfortable, snug, and secure in their seat. In addition, they have machine-washable seat pads that you can easily remove when it’s time for cleaning.

One of the top considerations when choosing between the Graco Tranzitions and Wayz is your preferred color. The Tranzitions comes in mint green, pink, gray, and black. Meanwhile, the Wayz is available in gray, red, fuchsia, and purple. While they are called Wayz, Walmart has recently labeled them as Tranzitions in their online store as well, but the colors you’ll find at Walmart are exclusive to them.

Another difference between the two is the availability of a SnugLock Technology option for the Graco Tranzitions Sutherland and Fairmont models. Through this feature, you can easily snap the car seat secure through its LATCH system.

Height and Weight Limits

The Graco Tranzisions and Wayz have a weight limit of 22 to 100 lbs

Both are 3-in-1 car seats that can grow with your child

The Graco Tranzitions and Wayz have the same weight limit and can be used by your child from 22 lbs to 100 lbs. When using the seat forward-facing with the 5-point harness, the weight limit is from 22 to 65lbs. What makes these car seats great its 8-position headrest which you can easily adjust using one hand and you don’t need to rethread the harness as you do so. For parents who usually have their hands full, this is a godsend.

When used as a highback or backless booster, the weight range is from 40 to 100 lbs. While the backless booster might seem more comfortable for your child, we recommend using the high back booster as long as possible as the backrest provides extra side impact protection.

Installation and Safety

Only the Graco Tranzitions has models that feature SnugLock Technology

Both car seat models are pretty easy to install and their harness keeps your child secure in their seat

Installing either car seat can be done easily even without help. Perhaps the only issue one may encounter is if they have a bigger hand that can’t fit in the backrest space during installation. Otherwise, the Graco Tranzitions and Wayz can be easily attached or detached from the vehicle seat.

If you’re after much easier installation, Graco claims you can install the Tranzitions with SnugLock Technology (Fairmont or Sutherland) within a minute. Of course, it still depends on you and how many times you’ve done it before.

Both Graco car seats use a 5-point harness system to keep your child securely fastened in their seat. The harness has two locks that your child won’t be able to unlock easily, an area where some car seats fall short.

Verdict

Choosing between the Graco Tranzitions and Wayz depends on your preferred color or whether you want the SnugLock Technology

Amazon product

Since the Graco Tranzitions and Wayz are essentially the same, it all boils down to your color preference. If you also want Graco’s the SnugLock Technology attachment system, it’s only available on select Tranzitions models. Whichever you choose, you’ll get a 3-in-1 car seat that can last for years and will keep your child secure and comfortable while you drive.

FAQs

๐Ÿ“Œ What’s the difference between the Graco Tranzitions and Wayz?

They are essentially the same, but the Wayz car seats are only available at Walmart

๐Ÿ“Œ Can the Graco Wayz and Tranzitions used in a rear-facing position?

No, they are only for forward-facing harness use. If you want a rear-facing Graco car seat, you can get the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 or Extend2Fit 3-in-1 convertible car seat instead.

๐Ÿ“Œ Is the Graco Tranzitions/Wayz FAA approved?

The front-facing harness seat is FAA approved, but the highback and backless booster seat modes kids who use car seats this way can also use the seatbelt on the plane seat.

๐Ÿ“Œ Is the Graco Wayz/Tranzitions safe?

Absolutely. They are one of the top-rated harness booster seats and safety is just one of the many reasons why.

RELATED  Graco SnugRide vs SnugLock (2022): Comparing Graco Infant Car Seats
Rhodaline Escala-Phelps

Managing Editor and Team Leader at Compare Before Buying. Writer and researcher passionate about people, product comparisons, culture, and current events.