Chicco Mini Bravo Vs Chicco Mini Bravo Plus
When it comes to the comfort and safety of your child, choosing the right stroller is essential. Chicco, a trusted name in the baby products industry, offers several lightweight stroller options that have gained popularity among parents. The Chicco Mini Bravo and Chicco Mini Bravo Plus are two closely related models that deserve consideration. This article provides a detailed comparison of these two strollers to help you determine which one best suits your family’s needs.
Key Differences At A Glance
Before diving into the details, let’s examine the main differences between these two Chicco stroller models:
Feature | Chicco Mini Bravo | Chicco Mini Bravo Plus |
---|---|---|
MSRP (Stroller Only) | $179.99 | $219.99 |
MSRP (Travel System) | $349.99 | $399.99 |
Parent Tray | Basic | Premium with zippered storage |
Canopy | Standard | Extended with peek-a-boo window |
Seat Padding | Standard | Enhanced padding and comfort |
Child Tray | Not included | Included |
Fabric Quality | Standard | Premium |
Design and Build Quality
Chicco Mini Bravo
The Chicco Mini Bravo is designed as an entry-level lightweight stroller that prioritizes portability and ease of use. It features:
- Aluminum frame that keeps the stroller lightweight yet durable
- Compact fold design that stands independently when folded
- One-hand fold mechanism that makes it convenient for parents on the go
- Basic parent tray with two cup holders and a small storage space
- Standard canopy that provides adequate sun protection
Chicco Mini Bravo Plus
The Chicco Mini Bravo Plus builds upon the foundation of the standard Mini Bravo with several upgrades:
- Same lightweight aluminum frame and compact folding mechanism
- Enhanced parent tray with zippered storage compartment for secure storage of valuables
- Extended canopy with peek-a-boo window to check on your child without disturbing them
- Child’s tray included for snacks and toys
- Premium fabrics that offer better durability and a more upscale appearance
- Enhanced padding throughout for improved comfort
Comfort and Usability Features
Usability Feature | Chicco Mini Bravo | Chicco Mini Bravo Plus |
---|---|---|
Folding Mechanism | One-hand fold | One-hand fold |
Storage Basket | Standard size | Standard size |
Seat Recline | Multi-position | Multi-position |
Handlebar | Fixed height | Fixed height |
Weight | Approximately 18 lbs | Approximately 19 lbs |
Wheels | Standard | Standard |
Comfort Features
Both strollers offer a multi-position reclining seat that can accommodate your child from approximately 6 months up to 50 pounds. However, the Mini Bravo Plus provides enhanced comfort with:
- Additional padding in the seat and backrest
- Premium fabrics that feel softer against your child’s skin
- Extended canopy that provides better protection from the sun
- Included child’s tray that improves the overall experience for your little one
Maneuverability and Performance
Both the Mini Bravo and Mini Bravo Plus feature the same wheel design and suspension system. They perform best on smooth, paved surfaces such as shopping malls, sidewalks, and indoor environments. According to user reviews, neither model is ideal for rough terrain, muddy paths, or icy conditions. The front swivel wheels can be locked for improved stability when needed.
Travel System Compatibility
One of the significant advantages of both the Chicco Mini Bravo and Mini Bravo Plus is their compatibility with Chicco infant car seats, allowing them to function as travel systems.
Car Seat Compatibility
Feature | Chicco Mini Bravo | Chicco Mini Bravo Plus |
---|---|---|
Compatible Car Seats | Chicco KeyFit 30 | Chicco KeyFit 30 |
Adapter Required | No (built-in) | No (built-in) |
Installation | Click-in, one-handed | Click-in, one-handed |
Travel System MSRP | $349.99 | $399.99 |
Both strollers can be purchased individually or as part of a travel system that includes the highly-rated Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat. The travel system option allows you to use the stroller from birth, as the car seat securely clicks into the stroller frame without requiring additional adapters.
Storage and Convenience Features
Parent Conveniences
The storage and convenience features represent one of the most significant differences between these two models:
- Mini Bravo: Features a basic parent tray with two cup holders and a small storage compartment
- Mini Bravo Plus: Offers an upgraded parent tray with two cup holders and a zippered storage compartment that provides secure storage for valuables like phones, keys, and wallets
Both models include a reasonably sized storage basket underneath the seat that can accommodate diaper bags and other essentials. The one-hand fold mechanism is identical on both models, allowing for easy folding and storage even when you’re holding your child.
Price Comparison and Value
Cost Analysis
Product | Chicco Mini Bravo | Chicco Mini Bravo Plus |
---|---|---|
Stroller Only MSRP | $179.99 | $219.99 |
Travel System MSRP | $349.99 | $399.99 |
Price Difference | – | +$40-50 |
Additional Features Value | – | Child tray, premium parent tray, extended canopy, enhanced padding |
The Chicco Mini Bravo Plus typically costs about $40-50 more than the standard Mini Bravo. This price difference reflects the upgraded features, including the premium parent tray with zippered storage, extended canopy with peek-a-boo window, child’s tray, and enhanced padding and fabrics.
Pros and Cons
Chicco Mini Bravo
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
More affordable option | Basic parent tray without secure storage |
Lightweight and compact | Standard canopy without peek-a-boo window |
One-hand fold mechanism | No child tray included |
Compatible with Chicco KeyFit 30 | Basic padding and fabric quality |
Stands when folded | Not suitable for rough terrain |
Chicco Mini Bravo Plus
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Premium parent tray with zippered storage | Higher price point |
Extended canopy with peek-a-boo window | Slightly heavier than the standard Mini Bravo |
Child tray included | Not suitable for rough terrain |
Enhanced padding and premium fabrics | No adjustable handlebar |
One-hand fold mechanism | Fixed handlebar height may not be comfortable for very tall parents |
Who Should Choose Which Model?
Choose the Chicco Mini Bravo if:
- You’re on a tighter budget and need a reliable lightweight stroller
- You prioritize the lightest possible weight
- You need a basic stroller primarily for short trips and errands
- The enhanced features of the Plus model aren’t essential to you
Choose the Chicco Mini Bravo Plus if:
- You value the additional comfort features for your child
- You want secure storage for your valuables in the zippered parent tray
- The child tray is important for your little one’s snacks and toys
- You prefer the extended canopy with peek-a-boo window
- You don’t mind spending a bit more for premium features and fabrics
Final Verdict
Both the Chicco Mini Bravo and Mini Bravo Plus are quality lightweight strollers that perform well for everyday use on smooth surfaces. They share the same fundamental design, including the folding mechanism, wheel design, and car seat compatibility.
The decision between these two models ultimately comes down to whether the premium features of the Mini Bravo Plus—specifically the enhanced parent tray with zippered storage, extended canopy with peek-a-boo window, child’s tray, and upgraded fabrics and padding—are worth the additional $40-50 investment for your family.
For parents who frequently use their stroller and value these convenience features, the Mini Bravo Plus offers excellent value despite its higher price point. However, if you’re primarily looking for a basic, lightweight stroller for occasional use, the standard Mini Bravo provides the essential functionality at a more accessible price.
Whichever model you choose, both strollers offer the reliability and quality that have made Chicco a trusted brand among parents worldwide.