Joovy Qool vs Graco Premier Modes Merge
Both are $550, and they point in opposite directions. The Qool is a 30.8 lb frame that expands to two or three riders with front adapters, a second seat or a bench seat, all sold separately, so a real double costs more than the sticker. It folds to 36.2 x 24.4 x 11.2 inches. The Premier Modes Merge weighs 22 lb, folds with one hand and stands, and does only one child: it is a travel system where a Graco SnugRide clicks in directly. Graco publishes no folded size and says the infant car seat and carry cot are sold separately, with the carry-cot bundle at $749.98. The Qool's seat starts at 6 months, and a younger baby needs a car seat adapter for Maxi-Cosi, Cybex or Pipa seats, bought on top. Take the Qool if a second or third child is on the way, and the Merge if the first one is and Graco is already in the car.
Only Joovy publishes a folded size for its model here; Graco gives none for the Graco Premier Modes Merge, so only one side gets a carry-on verdict. The Graco Premier Modes Merge is 8.8 lb lighter by its maker's figure (22 lb to 30.8 lb). Graco infant seats seats click straight onto the Graco Premier Modes Merge; every seat listed for the Joovy Qool needs an adapter.
Joovy
Joovy Qool
~$550
Modular full-size that starts as a single and grows to a double or triple with add-on seats and adapters.
Best for: A second or third child on the way, and one frame bought to cover them
Check price on AmazonGraco
Graco Premier Modes Merge
~$550
The top tier of Graco's Modes line: a reversible seat that faces you or the world, 360-degree EZ Spin wheels and in-seat suspension.
Best for: Newborn-to-toddler use with a carry cot added later
Check price on Amazon| Specification | Joovy Qool | Graco Premier Modes Merge |
|---|---|---|
| Approx. price | ~$550 | ~$550 |
| Type | Full-size | Full-size |
| Weight | 30.8 lb | 22 lb |
| Newborn option | Newborns ride in an infant car seat | Needs a bassinet, insert or car seat (sold separately) |
| Folded size | 36.2 x 24.4 x 11.2 in | not published |
| Carry-on check | Over by 14.2 in (3 sides over) | not published |
| Folded box | 5.72 cu ft | not published |
| Unfolded size | 44 x 24.4 x 43 in | 32 x 21.5 x 42 in |
| Fold | not published | One-hand fold, stands when folded |
| Max child weight | 55 lb | 50 lb |
| Recline | Joovy: "One-Handed Reclining Seat" | Reclining seat; adjustable calf support |
| Car seats | 3 seat families: 3 with an adapter | 1 seat family: 1 click in directly |
| Single to double | Joovy: expands to two or three riders with front adapters, a second seat or a bench seat (sold separately) | not published |
Joovy Qool: what it gives up
- Seat starts at 6 months; a younger baby needs a car seat adapter bought separately
- Second seat, bench seat and adapters all cost extra, so a double or triple costs more than $549.99
- Folded it is 36.2 inches long and 11.2 high
- Adapters name Maxi-Cosi, Cybex and Nuna only
Graco Premier Modes Merge: what it gives up
- The Carry Cot and car seat are both extra; the Carry Cot bundle is $749.98
- 50 lb child limit
- Car seat fit stops at Graco SnugRide seats
Full pages: Joovy Qool · Graco Premier Modes Merge