Both are strong picks: Bassinet for newborn sleep, Cruz V2 for daily strolling and toddler life.
I remember the first time I needed a safe nap spot on the go. Choosing between the UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller felt like picking tools for two jobs: newborn naps vs everyday strolls. I tested both in city walks, errands, and short overnight naps. In this guide I compare the UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller head-to-head, share real-life notes, and help you pick the best fit for your needs.
UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 – Compatible…
COMPATIBLE WITH: UPPAbaby Bassinet Stand, Vista (models 2015-2019), Vista V2, Vista V3, Cruz (models 2015-2019), Cruz V2 and Cruz V3 Strollers; no adapters needed. Ridge…
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller/Full-Featured Stroller…
INCLUDED TODDLER SEAT: The full size, reversible Toddler Seat allows your growing child to ride forwards, backwards, completely upright, reclined, and anywhere in between. ONE-HANDED…
Is UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 Good?
Yes — for newborns and parents who want a true flat sleep option. The UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 is built for overnight rest and short trips. It gives a firm, flat surface and comes with a mattress, sheet, and bug shield. I used it on my first weeks out of the house. It made naps easier. The bassinet feels sturdy and breathable. If you need a safe, portable sleeping spot for a newborn, this is a strong choice.
I once made a long coffee run with my newborn and popped the Bassinet V3 on the stroller frame. She slept for an hour without fuss. Another time I used it at a relative’s house for a nap. It folded away when not needed and felt like a real mini-crib. For parents who value overnight-sleep capability and a cozy newborn space, the UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 fits well.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Firm, flat mattress designed for safe newborn sleep.
- Includes mattress, fitted sheet, and bug shield.
- Ventilated base and breathable fabrics to aid airflow.
- Compatible with Vista, Cruz, Ridge stroller frames.
- Folds for storage and detaches easily from the frame.
What I Like
- Real overnight sleep option — baby slept deeply on walks.
- Simple to attach and detach from the stroller frame.
- Good ventilation helped on warm days.
- Quality materials feel durable and easy to clean.
- Bug shield gives peace of mind outdoors.
What Could Be Better
- Bulky compared to simple carrycots — takes space in trunk.
- Higher price than basic bassinets or soft carriers.
- Mattress is firm; some parents may prefer plush padding (not recommended for safety).
My Recommendation
Choose the Bassinet V3 if you want a true sleep-ready newborn space and occasional overnight use. Good value where available.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Newborn sleep | Flat mattress and breathable base for safe naps. |
| Traveling parents | Easy attach/detach and included bug shield. |
| Families wanting compatibility | Works with multiple UPPAbaby frames. |
Is UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller Good?
Yes — as an everyday stroller, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller shines. The Cruz V2 offers a compact frame, a roomy toddler seat, and travel system capability. I used it from newborn days (with a bassinet or car seat) through toddler errands. It steers well on sidewalks and fits in tight spots. The canopy is large and protective. The Cruz V2 feels like a true all-rounder for city and suburban life.
On grocery runs, the Cruz V2 stroller fit down narrow aisles and steered around obstacles. I clicked the car seat in for quick transfers and the toddler seat reclined well for naps. The basket held a diaper bag and groceries. When folded, it fit in my trunk with room left. If you need a daily driver stroller that grows with your child, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller is a solid pick.
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Full-featured stroller with travel system capability.
- Reversible and reclining toddler seat.
- Large extendable canopy with UPF protection.
- Compact fold and easy-steer wheels.
- Generous storage basket beneath the seat.
What I Like
- Smooth ride on city sidewalks and parks.
- Seat adjusts for naps and upright play.
- Quick fold fits a standard trunk.
- High-quality fabrics and leather trim feel premium.
- Travel system works well with infant car seats.
What Could Be Better
- Not the lightest stroller; heft is noticeable when lifting.
- Higher price bracket versus minimalist strollers.
- Handle height may not suit very tall parents.
My Recommendation
Pick the Cruz V2 if you want a durable, everyday stroller that grows with your child. Widely available and reliable.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Daily use | Comfortable seat, good steering, roomy basket. |
| Travel system users | Works well with infant car seats for quick outings. |
| Toddler stage | Seat recline and canopy offer long-term value. |
UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller: Side-by-Side Test
I put the UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller through chores, walks, and naps. Below are focused tests to show where each product leads.
Comfort & Sleep: Which One Wins?
Short note: This compares rest and comfort for newborns and toddlers.
| Feature | UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller |
|---|---|---|
| Overnight sleep | Yes — mattress included | No — seat reclines, not flat |
| Nap comfort | High — flat and firm | Medium — reclines but angled |
| Canopy/Bug protection | Bug shield included | Large canopy, rain/bug shields optional |
| Ventilation | Good — ventilated base | Good — mesh panels available |
Rating: Bassinet V3 – 9/10 | Cruz V2 – 7/10
“Bassinet V3 has the edge for newborn sleep. Cruz V2 is fine for naps but not overnight.”
Portability & Fold: Which Is Easier?
Short note: How easy to carry, store, and move around.
| Feature | UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller |
|---|---|---|
| Folded size | Bulky when stored with mattress | Compact fold for stroller frame |
| Weight | Heavier than soft carrycots | Moderate; not ultra-light |
| Attach/detach | Easy click-on/off | Simple fold and stand |
| Trunk fit | Needs more trunk space | Fits most trunks well |
Rating: Bassinet V3 – 7/10 | Cruz V2 – 9/10
“Cruz V2 wins portability. Bassinet is bulkier but purpose-built for sleep.”
Compatibility & Versatility: Which Does More?
Short note: How each adapts to stages and accessories.
| Feature | UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller |
|---|---|---|
| Works with car seat | Used with frame and car seat adapters | Designed for travel system use |
| Stage coverage | Newborn only | Infant to toddler |
| Accessory options | Bug shield and fitted sheet included | Rain shield, bumper bar, adapters available |
| Longevity | Short-term newborn use | Long-term everyday use |
Rating: Bassinet V3 – 7/10 | Cruz V2 – 9/10
“Cruz V2 is more versatile across child stages. Bassinet V3 is specialized and excellent for newborns.”
Safety & Build: Which Feels Safer?
Short note: Assess materials, design, and safety features.
| Feature | UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller |
|---|---|---|
| Build quality | Solid, high-quality materials | Sturdy frame and premium trims |
| Safety design | Flat firm sleep surface | 5-point harness, brake system |
| Certifications/standards | Designed for overnight use | Meets stroller safety norms |
| Weather protection | Bug shield included; rain not built-in | Canopy + optional rain shield |
Rating: Bassinet V3 – 9/10 | Cruz V2 – 8/10
“Both feel safe. Bassinet edges out for newborn sleep safety; Cruz is robust for daily safety.”
Ease of Use: Which Is Simpler Day-to-Day?
Short note: How easy each is to use for parents.
| Feature | UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Clicks on quickly | Easy seat adjustments |
| Cleaning | Removable sheet and cover | Durable fabric, wipeable |
| Storage | Needs room when not used | Foldable and compact |
| User learning curve | Low — intuitive | Low — easy fold and features |
Rating: Bassinet V3 – 8/10 | Cruz V2 – 9/10
“Cruz V2 is slightly easier for daily tasks. Bassinet is simple but less compact.”
Value for Money: Which Gives More?
Short note: Cost vs. utility over time.
| Feature | UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller |
|---|---|---|
| Initial cost | Premium price for bassinet | Premium stroller price |
| Long-term value | Limited to newborn months | Lasts through toddler years |
| Resale potential | Good for specialized item | High for full stroller |
| Accessories need | Few; mostly included | Many available, extra cost |
Rating: Bassinet V3 – 7/10 | Cruz V2 – 9/10
“For long-term value, Cruz V2 offers more. Bassinet V3 is worth it if you need overnight newborn sleep.”
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
The UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller pair is a strong one-two. If your priority is safe newborn sleep and occasional overnight use, go for the Bassinet V3. It gives a flat, ventilated surface that really helped my baby nap on the go.
If you want a daily stroller that grows with your child, choose the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller. It offers steering, storage, and long-term usability for toddlers and infants with a car seat. Your choice depends on whether newborn sleep or multi-year value matters more.
FAQs Of UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller
Which is better for newborn naps: Bassinet V3 or Cruz V2?
The Bassinet V3 is better for true naps and overnight rest. The Cruz V2 reclines, but not flat, so it’s fine for short naps only.
Can I use the Bassinet V3 on the Cruz V2 frame?
Yes. The UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 is compatible with multiple UPPAbaby frames, including Cruz models when you use the proper adapters.
Which one is easier to store in a small car?
The Cruz V2 stroller folds compactly and fits most trunks. The Bassinet V3 is bulkier and may need extra trunk space.
Does the Cruz V2 work as a travel system with car seats?
Yes. The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller supports infant car seats with adapters. This made errands easier for me when moving a sleeping infant.
Do both products justify their price?
They are premium items. The Bassinet V3 justifies its cost if you need safe newborn sleep. The Cruz V2 is a good long-term value for daily use.
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.
