Both are great: LX adds premium fabric and extras; Element is simpler and more budget-friendly.
I remember juggling a newborn, a diaper bag, and a bulky stroller in a parking lot. The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System both solved that chaos. I tested both across errands, parks, and quick trips. The core dilemma: the LX adds nicer fabrics and a few comfort upgrades, while the standard Element keeps things simple and lighter on the wallet. I’ll share what stood out and who should pick which system.
Graco Modes Element LX Travel…
3 strollers in 1: Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Stroller, and Toddler Stroller to stroll from infant to toddler Reversible stroller seat can face parent…
Graco Modes Element Travel System,…
3 strollers in 1: Infant Car Seat Carrier, Infant Stroller, and Toddler Stroller to stroll from infant to toddler Reversible stroller seat can face parent…
Is Graco Modes Element LX Travel System Good?
Yes — the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System is a strong pick for parents who want a mix of comfort and smart features. It feels slightly more polished than the base model. The bassinet-like fabrics, better cushioning, and a few extra stroller adjustments gave me more confidence on longer walks. If you value a bit more style and a softer ride, this unit fits that need. If you want ultra-minimal weight, this might feel a touch heavier than the basic model.
I used the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System for weekly park runs and grocery trips. Once, during a rainy afternoon, the deeper canopy and fabric repel helped keep my baby dry while I loaded bags. Another time, the multi-position seat made napping in public easier. These small wins added up. In short, I liked the extra comfort and polish during real use and felt the LX earned its small premium.
Graco Modes Element LX Travel System, Lynwood
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Multi-mode seating: infant car seat to toddler facing options.
- Softer, upgraded fabrics with deeper canopy for sun/rain coverage.
- 1-step fold and compact storage for quick trips.
- Included infant car seat that snaps into stroller and base.
- Suspension and slightly larger wheels for smoother walks.
What I Like
- Comfortable seat padding helped my baby nap longer on walks.
- Canopy coverage kept little one sheltered during sudden showers.
- Sturdy snap-in car seat made transfers easy and fast.
- Brake and folding were intuitive when I had an arm full of groceries.
- The fabric cleaned up well after a playground snack spill.
What Could Be Better
- It is slightly heavier than the standard Element—noticeable when lifting into trunks.
- Price is higher than the basic model for mostly cosmetic upgrades.
- Storage basket is roomy but a touch hard to access when reclined.
My Recommendation
If you want extra comfort and slightly better materials without breaking the bank, choose the LX. It’s widely available and worth the small upcharge.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Parents who walk often | Smoother ride and deeper canopy add comfort outdoors. |
| Style-conscious buyers | Upgraded fabrics look and feel more premium. |
Is Graco Modes Element Travel System Good?
Yes — the Graco Modes Element Travel System is a reliable, budget-friendly system for everyday life. It gives you the same core travel system features without some of the LX’s frills. If you want a dependable car seat and stroller combo that handles errands and short walks, this model does that job well. It is lighter and easier to handle for quick in-and-out tasks.
I used the Graco Modes Element Travel System on tight city sidewalks and crowded stores. Its lighter weight made folding into small trunks much easier. Once, I hopped a curb and the basic suspension handled it fine. Another time, quick seat adjustments let me switch from parent-facing to forward-facing in seconds. For most parents, the standard Element met all core needs with no fuss.
Graco Modes Element Travel System, Canter
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Travel system with snap-in infant car seat and base included.
- Lightweight stroller frame for easier lifting and storage.
- Multi-position recline for naps and sitting upright.
- Compact fold aimed at small trunks and apartments.
- Affordable price with core safety features from Graco.
What I Like
- Very easy to fold and store in my small car trunk.
- Good value: you get a car seat and stroller combo at a fair price.
- Simple controls mean less learning curve for new parents.
- Light frame made it easier when I had to carry it up stairs.
- Car seat installation was straightforward and secure.
What Could Be Better
- Canopy is less deep than the LX—less shelter in heavy sun or rain.
- Seat padding is thinner; long naps are less cushy.
- Wheels are smaller, so rougher paths feel bumpier.
My Recommendation
Choose the standard Element if you want reliable performance and a lighter, cheaper option. Great for city parents and tight budgets.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget-conscious families | Covers essentials without extras. |
| Urban parents | Lightweight and easy to fold for small cars. |
Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System: Side-by-Side Test
I put the Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System through the same errands and walks. Below are focused comparisons in key categories from my real use.
Design & Build: Which Feels Better?
Look at materials, weight, and finish.
| Feature | Graco Modes Element LX Travel System | Graco Modes Element Travel System |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric quality | Upgraded, softer | Standard, durable |
| Frame weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Finish/looks | More premium | Functional |
Rating: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System – 8/10 | Graco Modes Element Travel System – 7/10
“The LX wins on feel and finish. The Element wins on light weight and utility.”
Seat Modes & Flexibility: Which Offers More?
Compare seating options and adjustability.
| Mode | Graco Modes Element LX Travel System | Graco Modes Element Travel System |
|---|---|---|
| Infant car seat snap-in | Yes | Yes |
| Parent-facing seat | Yes | Yes |
| Recline positions | Multiple | Multiple |
Rating: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System – 8/10 | Graco Modes Element Travel System – 8/10
“Both tie here. They give the same flexibility you need for newborns through toddlers.”
Safety & Comfort: Which Keeps Baby Happier?
Look at harness, padding, and canopy protection.
| Aspect | Graco Modes Element LX Travel System | Graco Modes Element Travel System |
|---|---|---|
| Harness security | Five-point harness | Five-point harness |
| Seat padding | Thicker, softer | Moderate padding |
| Canopy coverage | Deeper canopy | Standard canopy |
Rating: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System – 9/10 | Graco Modes Element Travel System – 7.5/10
“LX has the edge for comfort and protection. Element is safe but less cushioned.”
Maneuverability & Wheels: Which Handles Better?
Test turning, bump absorption, and wheel size.
| Drive | Graco Modes Element LX Travel System | Graco Modes Element Travel System |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel size | Larger | Smaller |
| Suspension | Better | Basic |
| Tight turns | Good | Very good |
Rating: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System – 8/10 | Graco Modes Element Travel System – 7.5/10
“LX is smoother on rough paths. The Element is nimbler in tight city spaces.”
Ease of Use: Which Saves Time?
Consider folding, installing, and daily handling.
| Task | Graco Modes Element LX Travel System | Graco Modes Element Travel System |
|---|---|---|
| Folding | Easy, a bit heavier | Very easy, lighter |
| Car seat install | Simple | Simple |
| Adjusting seat | Smooth | Smooth |
Rating: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System – 8/10 | Graco Modes Element Travel System – 8.5/10
“Element is slightly easier to lift and handle. LX is easy but heavier.”
Value for Money: Which Gives More Bang for Your Buck?
Compare price vs features and real-world benefits.
| Metric | Graco Modes Element LX Travel System | Graco Modes Element Travel System |
|---|---|---|
| Price level | Higher | Lower |
| Features per dollar | Good | Very good |
| Long-term value | Great if you want comfort | Great if you want basics |
Rating: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System – 8/10 | Graco Modes Element Travel System – 9/10
“The Element gives stronger value. LX is worth it if you want the upgrades.”
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Both systems are solid. The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System is better for parents who value extra comfort, deeper canopies, and a more premium look. It is slightly heavier but cozier for long walks.
The Graco Modes Element Travel System is best for budget-minded or city parents who need a lighter, easy-to-store travel system. Choose the LX for comfort; choose the Element for value and simple daily use.
FAQs Of Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System
What is the main difference between Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System?
The LX focuses on upgraded fabrics, deeper canopy, and a slightly smoother ride. The Element focuses on light weight and value. Both share core safety features.
Is the car seat the same for both Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System?
Yes. Both packages include a Graco infant car seat that snaps into the stroller and a car base. Installation steps are the same.
Which one is easier to lift into a car: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System?
The standard Graco Modes Element Travel System is easier to lift. The LX is heavier due to thicker fabrics and extra padding.
Do both models fold compactly for travel?
Yes. Both fold compactly. The Element is slightly more convenient for tight trunks and small spaces.
Which offers better long-term comfort: Graco Modes Element LX Travel System vs Graco Modes Element Travel System?
The LX offers better long-term comfort thanks to thicker padding and improved canopy. The Element remains comfortable for everyday short trips.
Emma Grace is a devoted mother and passionate content writer at BestBabyCart.com. With firsthand parenting experience and a love for research, she creates helpful guides and honest reviews to support parents in choosing the best for their babies. Her goal is to make parenthood easier, one article at a time.