Graco Turn2Me Vs. Evenflo Revolve 360 Car Seat: A Parent’s Guide

As a parent, I know the overwhelming feeling of sifting through endless baby gear options, especially when it comes to car seats. Safety, comfort, and ease of use are non-negotiable, but the Graco Turn2Me and Evenflo Revolve 360 have caught my eye with their rotating designs that promise to make life easier.

In this article, I’ll walk you through my experience comparing these two popular convertible car seats, breaking down their features, pros, cons, and performance to help you decide which one fits your family’s needs.

Let’s get started with a side-by-side comparison to set the stage.

A Brief Comparison Table

Why Rotating Car Seats Matter To Me?

When my first child was born, getting her in and out of the car seat felt like wrestling a tiny octopus. The awkward angles, the cramped backseat, and my own back strain made me dread every car ride.

That’s why rotating car seats like the Graco Turn2Me and Evenflo Revolve 360 caught my attention. They promise to simplify the process by letting you swivel the seat toward the door, making it easier to buckle up your kid without contorting yourself.

But beyond convenience, I needed to know which one offers the best safety, fits my car, and grows with my child. Let’s break down what each seat brings to the table.

Graco Turn2Me: Features That Stand Out

The Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Rotating Car Seat is like the reliable friend you can count on.

It’s designed for kids from 4 to 100 pounds, covering rear-facing (4-40 lbs), forward-facing (26.5-65 lbs), and high-back booster modes (40-100 lbs).

What I love most is its compact design—19.13 inches wide and 20.75 inches deep—making it a solid pick for smaller cars like my hatchback.

The 360-degree rotation in rear-facing mode is a game-changer for getting my toddler in and out without breaking a sweat.

The SnugLock technology is a standout.

It’s a lock-off system that makes installation a breeze, whether you’re using LATCH or a seat belt. I installed it in under a minute, and the audible click reassured me it was secure.

The seat also has a 10-position recline (five rear-facing, five forward-facing), which I found super helpful for keeping my daughter comfy during naps. The No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System is another win—adjusting the harness and headrest together as your child grows is so intuitive.

Safety-wise, Graco’s ProtectPlus Engineered system impressed me. It’s tested for frontal, side, rear, and rollover crashes, with excellent results in crash tests, particularly for head injury criteria (HIC) and chest clip scores.

The steel-reinforced frame adds durability, and the plush inserts cradle my daughter like a cozy hug. Plus, the two dishwasher-safe cup holders are a practical touch for snacks and sippy cups.

Graco Turn2Me: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact Design: At 19.13 inches wide, it’s ideal for smaller vehicles or three-across setups.
• Easy Installation: SnugLock makes setup quick and secure, with a clear level indicator.
• Top-Notch Safety: Excellent crash test results, especially for HIC and chest clip metrics.
• Versatile Recline: Ten positions ensure comfort and proper installation.
• User-Friendly Harness: No-rethread system simplifies adjustments as your child grows.
• FAA Approval: Certified for forward-facing harness mode, great for travel.

Cons

• Rear-Facing Only Rotation: The 360-degree swivel doesn’t work in forward-facing mode, which feels limiting.
• Potential Wear on Vehicle Seats: The rotating mechanism can rub against car upholstery, though a seat protector helps.
• Not Ideal for Newborns: Some parents find the padding and recline less suitable for tiny babies.
• Bulkier Than Expected: Despite being compact, it’s still 26.1 pounds, which isn’t lightweight.

Evenflo Revolve 360: What It Brings To The Table?

The Evenflo Revolve 360 (and its variants like the Slim and Extend) is like the cool, versatile cousin of the Graco.

It’s a 3-in-1 convertible seat for kids from 4 to 120 pounds (depending on the model), covering rear-facing (4-40 lbs, or 50 lbs for Extend models), forward-facing (22-65 lbs), and booster modes (40-120 lbs for some models).

The standout feature is its full 360-degree rotation in both rear- and forward-facing modes, which I found incredibly convenient for my wiggly toddler who’s now forward-facing.

The EasyClick LATCH system is straightforward, though I noticed it’s not as foolproof as Graco’s SnugLock.

The seat’s slim profile (16.75 inches wide for the Slim model) is a boon for tight spaces, and at 29.6-31.3 pounds, it’s slightly heavier but manageable.

The four recline positions are fewer than Graco’s, but they still get the job done for comfort. I appreciated the breathable fabric and ventilation, which kept my daughter from getting sweaty on long drives.

Safety-wise, Evenflo’s SafeMax system includes a steel-reinforced frame and energy-absorbing foam. However, crash test results from independent reviews were less impressive than Graco’s, with moderate HIC and chest clip scores.

The Revolve 360 Extend model offers an extended rear-facing limit of 50 pounds, which I love for keeping kids rear-facing longer, a safer position according to experts.

Evenflo Revolve 360: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Full 360-Degree Rotation: Swivels in both rear- and forward-facing modes, making it super versatile.
• Slim Fit: The Slim model’s 16.75-inch width is perfect for small cars or multiple seats.
• Extended Rear-Facing: Up to 50 pounds in Extend models, ideal for safety-conscious parents.
• Breathable Fabric: Ventilation keeps kids cool, a big plus for hot climates.
• Higher Weight Limit: Supports up to 120 pounds in booster mode (select models).

Cons

• Moderate Crash Test Results: Lower scores compared to Graco, raising some safety concerns.
• Strap Issues: Thin straps can twist easily, and the crotch buckle may dig into chubby thighs.
• No FAA Approval: Not certified for air travel, limiting its versatility.
• Bulky Front-to-Back: Takes up more legroom, especially in smaller cars.
• Investigation Concerns: Some models are under review for base detachment issues.

Safety: The Heart of The Matter

As a parent, safety is my top priority, so I dug into the crash test data and safety features of both seats.

The Graco Turn2Me shines here, earning some of the highest crash test scores in its class, particularly for head injury criteria and chest clip metrics.

Its ProtectPlus Engineered system is rigorously tested for multiple crash scenarios, including rollovers, which gave me peace of mind.

The steel-reinforced frame feels sturdy, and the side-impact protection is robust, absorbing and redirecting crash forces effectively.

The Evenflo Revolve 360, while meeting federal safety standards, didn’t perform as well in independent crash tests.

Sensor data from MGA Research showed higher HIC and chest clip readings, suggesting it offers less of an additional safety margin compared to the Turn2Me.

There’s also an ongoing investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) into the Revolve 360, particularly regarding the base detaching during improper use. While some Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) argue it’s safe when installed correctly, this gave me pause.

Evenflo’s SafeMax system includes energy-absorbing foam and side-impact protection, but I felt Graco’s safety features were more reassuring.

Installation: Getting It Right Every Time

Installing a car seat can feel like assembling a spaceship, but both these seats aim to simplify the process. The Graco Turn2Me’s SnugLock system is a dream—I had it locked in place in under a minute using the InRight LATCH.

The level indicator on both sides helped me confirm the angle was correct, and the seat felt rock-solid. However, some users reported the rear-facing lock-off loosening with thinner seat belts, which I didn’t experience but noted as a quirk to watch for.

The Evenflo Revolve 360’s EasyClick LATCH system is user-friendly, with a one-click attachment, but I found it less intuitive than Graco’s. In my sedan, I had to adjust the recline to get a secure fit, and the seat’s larger front-to-back footprint meant my husband had to scoot his seat forward, which wasn’t ideal.

For smaller cars, the Slim model helps, but you may need to test it in your vehicle to ensure it fits without cramping legroom.

Comfort and Convenience: Keeping Kids Happy

Comfort is huge when your kid spends hours in a car seat. The Graco Turn2Me’s plush padding and infant inserts made my daughter look snug and cozy, though some parents note it’s less ideal for newborns due to limited recline and headrest width.

The 10 recline positions let me fine-tune her comfort, whether she was napping or sitting upright. The dishwasher-safe cup holders were a lifesaver for quick cleanups after inevitable snack spills.

The Evenflo Revolve 360’s breathable fabric was a standout, especially in summer when my daughter tends to overheat. The ventilation kept her cool, and the padding was adequate, though not as plush as Graco’s.

The full 360-degree rotation is a game-changer for forward-facing mode, letting me easily buckle her in without climbing into the backseat. However, the straps twisted a few times, which was frustrating, and the crotch buckle felt snug on her chunky thighs, though she didn’t seem bothered.

Fit and Compatibility: Will It Work for You?

Car size matters, and both seats have their strengths here.

The Graco Turn2Me’s compact width (19.13 inches) and shorter front-to-back depth (20.75 inches) made it a better fit in my hatchback.

It’s also a great option for three-across setups or vehicles with non-removable headrests, though booster mode may not fit taller kids up to the full 57-inch claim.

I tested it with my 4-year-old, and it was snug but workable.

The Evenflo Revolve 360 Slim’s 16.75-inch width is a win for tight spaces, but its 21-inch depth and larger footprint in rear-facing mode ate up legroom in my sedan.

The Extend model’s higher rear-facing limit (50 pounds) is a plus for bigger kids, but the seat’s bulkiness might be an issue in compact cars.

If you drive a larger vehicle like an SUV, this may not be a concern.

Stroller Compatibility and Travel

I hoped one of these seats might pair with a stroller for a seamless travel system, but neither is designed for that. The Graco Turn2Me and Evenflo Revolve 360 are convertible seats, not infant carriers, so they don’t click into strollers.

If you want a travel system, you’d need an infant car seat like the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite. For air travel, the Graco Turn2Me has an edge—it’s FAA-approved in forward-facing harness mode, while the Evenflo Revolve 360 isn’t certified for flights.

Longevity and Value: Which Lasts Longer?

Both seats have a 10-year lifespan, but their usability varies. The Graco Turn2Me’s booster mode tops out at 100 pounds and 57 inches, but some parents report it feels cramped for taller kids by age 9. The Evenflo Revolve 360 (especially the Extend model) goes up to 120 pounds in booster mode, offering a bit more longevity.

Price-wise, the Graco Turn2Me retails around $370, while the Evenflo ranges from $339 (Slim) to $400 (Extend). The Evenflo’s lower price and full rotation make it tempting, but Graco’s superior crash test results and compact design justify the cost for safety-focused parents like me.

My Personal Experience: Testing Both Seats

To get a real feel for these seats, I tested them in my 2021 Honda Civic and borrowed a friend’s SUV for comparison. The Graco Turn2Me was easier to install in both vehicles, and its compact size left more legroom for my husband in the front seat.

The rotation in rear-facing mode saved my back when buckling my 2-year-old, but I missed it in forward-facing mode. The Evenflo Revolve 360’s full rotation was a lifesaver in the SUV, where I could swivel it easily even in forward-facing mode. However, in my Civic, it felt bulky, and the straps tangled more than I’d like.

I also reached out to a CPST friend for advice. She praised the Graco’s crash test performance but noted the Evenflo’s investigation was likely due to user error (not securing the base properly).

Still, she recommended checking for recalls before buying the Evenflo. For my family, the Graco’s safety and fit won out, but the Evenflo’s rotation flexibility was hard to pass up.

Making The Decision: What’s Right For You?

Choosing between the Graco Turn2Me and Evenflo Revolve 360 depends on your priorities. If safety and a compact fit are top concerns, the Graco Turn2Me is hard to beat with its stellar crash test results and smaller footprint.

It’s perfect for smaller cars or parents who value ease of installation and FAA approval for travel. However, if you want a seat that rotates in both modes and offers extended rear-facing or a higher booster weight limit, the Evenflo Revolve 360 (especially the Extend model) is a strong contender, despite its moderate crash test scores and bulkier size.

For me, the Graco Turn2Me felt like the safer, more practical choice for my small car and frequent travels. But if you have a larger vehicle and prioritize rotation flexibility, the Evenflo might be your pick.

Either way, test the seat in your car and check for any safety updates before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Your Road To The Right Choice

You’re probably feeling the weight of choosing the perfect car seat, and I get it—it’s a big decision. The Graco Turn2Me and Evenflo Revolve 360 both offer innovative rotating designs that make life easier, but they cater to different needs.

If you prioritize top-tier safety and a compact fit, the Graco Turn2Me is your go-to. If you want full rotation and extended use, the Evenflo Revolve 360 might be your match.

Weigh your vehicle size, safety priorities, and budget, and you’ll find the seat that keeps your little one safe and comfy on every journey.