Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX

Both are great; Element LX has more modes, 3 Lite DLX is lighter and more budget-friendly.

I was juggling a newborn, a toddler, and a tight car when I tried both the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System. Each solved that crowded-car problem in its own way. The Element LX felt like a roomy toolkit. The Modes 3 Lite DLX felt nimble and simple. I’ve tested both across errands, parks, and flights. I’ll share clear, practical notes to help you pick the best system for your life.

Is Graco Modes Element LX Travel System Good?

I’ll say yes, with context. The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System is great for parents who want versatile seating and a smooth ride. It gives you many stroller modes. It handles a newborn car seat and a toddler seat well. In my week-long test, I used it for city walks and a long mall day. The stroller felt stable. The seat reclined easily. The bassinet-like feel for naps helped during naps in crowded places.

I used it with a fussy baby and a busy toddler. I folded it into my van often. The car seat clicked in fast. The stroller handled curbs well. I liked how the adjustable handle fit my height. The canopy kept sun off the baby during afternoon walks. In short, the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System fits families who want options and comfort on many outings.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• Multiple stroller modes (infant facing, parent facing, toddler mode).
• Includes Graco infant car seat and a Click Connect system.
• Reclining seat with near-flat position for naps.
• Adjustable handle and large canopy with peekaboo window.
• All-wheel suspension for smoother rides on rough sidewalks.

What I Like

• Very versatile—switch modes quickly for different ages.
• Secure car seat attachment; I felt confident on short drives.
• Solid build; it coped with a diaper bag and toddler snacks.
• Good sun protection; the canopy blocks bright light well.
• Comfortable seat with easy recline for naps on the go.

What Could Be Better

• Heavier than simpler models; lifting into a car can be bulky.
• The fold is not the most compact for tight trunk spaces.
• Storage basket is good but not oversized for big grocery trips.

My Recommendation

Choose the Element LX if you want a flexible, long-lasting travel system that grows with your child. Good value and widely available.

Best For	Why
Parents needing versatility	Many seating modes suit newborns to toddlers.
City walks and uneven pavements	All-wheel suspension smooths bumps well.
Those wanting a secure car-seat fit	Click Connect makes install fast and stable.

Is Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System Good?

It depends on your priorities, but often yes. The Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System suits parents who want a lighter stroller and a simpler setup. I found it nimble. It steered easily through store aisles. The seat options are fewer but cover key needs. It still includes a compatible infant car seat. During school-run testing, it made trips faster and less sweaty for me.

I used the Modes 3 Lite DLX on quick errands and longer neighborhood walks. Folding felt easier than heavier models. I could lift it into a smaller trunk with less strain. The canopy was smaller than the Element LX but worked on bright days. For a second stroller or for travel, the Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System was a sensible pick in my routine.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• Lighter frame for easier lifting and travel.
• Simplified mode options for straightforward use.
• Includes infant car seat with Click Connect compatibility.
• Compact fold that stores well in smaller trunks.
• Smooth steering for tight spaces and quick turns.

What I Like

• Easy to lift and carry into the car.
• Simple fold; I could do it one-handed on busy days.
• Great for quick errands and tight stores.
• Lightweight feel made daily use less tiring.
• Good value for a travel system that covers core needs.

What Could Be Better

• Fewer seating modes than Element LX; less flexible for long-term use.
• Smaller canopy and slightly firmer seat for naps.
• Not as cushioned on rough sidewalks compared to heavier strollers.

My Recommendation

Go with Modes 3 Lite DLX if you want a light, easy stroller for daily errands and travel. Great bang for your buck.

Best For	Why
Travel and quick errands	Lighter frame and compact fold save time and space.
Parents with small cars	Smaller folded size fits tighter trunks well.
Budget-conscious buyers	Offers key travel-system features at a lower cost.

Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System: Side-by-Side Test

I set up both travel systems and used them back-to-back. I wanted clear wins and real trade-offs. Below I compare key categories based on real use.

Stroller Modes: Which Offers More?

A look at how many seating or mode options each system gives you.

Feature	Graco Modes Element LX Travel System	Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System
Number of seating modes	Multiple (several parent/forward modes)	Fewer (core parent/forward modes)
Infant car seat integration	Included, Click Connect	Included, Click Connect
Toddler mode	Yes, roomy	Yes, more compact
Recline positions	Multiple reclines, near-flat	Good recline, not fully flat

Rating: Element LX – 9/10 | Modes 3 Lite DLX – 7/10

“Element LX wins here for sheer flexibility and more seating modes.”

Maneuverability & Ride: Which Feels Better?

How each stroller handles sidewalks, curbs, and rough paths.

Feature	Graco Modes Element LX Travel System	Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System
Wheel suspension	All-wheel suspension for smoother ride	Smooth steering; lighter but firmer ride
Turning radius	Good, slightly wider due to frame	Tighter, easier in stores
Terrain handling	Better on rough sidewalks	Best on smooth pavements
One-hand push	Possible, with effort	Easy, very nimble

Rating: Element LX – 8/10 | Modes 3 Lite DLX – 8/10

“Modes 3 Lite DLX edges for tight spaces; Element LX smooths bumps better.”

Ease of Use & Fold: Which Is Easier?

How quick and easy each system is to fold and store.

Feature	Graco Modes Element LX Travel System	Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System
Fold size	Moderate; needs more trunk space	More compact; fits small trunks
Folding ease	Two-step fold, stable	Simple fold; often one-handed
Weight	Heavier	Lighter
Storage while folded	Stand or lay flat	Stands more compactly

Rating: Element LX – 7/10 | Modes 3 Lite DLX – 9/10

“Modes 3 Lite DLX wins for folding and travel ease.”

Comfort & Accessories: Which Keeps Baby Happier?

Compare seat comfort, canopy, and extras.

Feature	Graco Modes Element LX Travel System	Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System
Seat padding	Plush and cushioned	Comfortable but firmer
Canopy size	Large, good coverage	Moderate coverage
Storage basket	Roomy	Adequate
Extras (peek window, cup holder)	Yes, nice extras	Basic extras

Rating: Element LX – 9/10 | Modes 3 Lite DLX – 7/10

“Element LX wins for comfort and accessories for longer outings.”

Price & Value: Which Gives More for Money?

A look at cost versus features and long-term value.

Feature	Graco Modes Element LX Travel System	Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System
Retail price	Higher mid-range	Lower mid-range
Features per dollar	Strong value if you use extra modes	Great value for core needs
Longevity	Grows well with child	Good but may outgrow sooner
Resale value	Solid	Fair

Rating: Element LX – 8/10 | Modes 3 Lite DLX – 9/10

“Modes 3 Lite DLX offers better immediate value for budget shoppers.”

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System wins for families who want versatility. It gives more seating modes, plush comfort, and a smoother ride. Pick it if you plan to use the stroller daily for varied outings and want a long-term solution.

The Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System wins for parents who want a lighter, simpler travel system. It folds compactly and costs less. Choose it if you need a nimble stroller for errands, travel, or as a second stroller.

FAQs Of Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System

What is the main difference between the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System?

The main difference is versatility versus weight. The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System offers more seating modes and comfort. The Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System is lighter and easier to fold.

Which travel system is better for travel and flights?

The Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System is better for flights. It folds smaller and is lighter to lift into overhead bins or small trunks.

Which is better for rough sidewalks and parks?

The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System performs better on rough sidewalks. It has better suspension and a smoother ride for bumpy paths.

Do both systems include an infant car seat?

Yes. Both the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System and the Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System include compatible infant car seats with Click Connect.

Which system gives better long-term value?

The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System offers more long-term value if you need versatility. The Modes 3 Lite DLX is value-focused for immediate ease and travel.