If you’re from the USA or Europe, chances are you already know about the stringent law regarding child car seats. However, when it’s about child’s car seats, there are tons of options regarding the same, and Maxi Cosi stands out as a premium option. The brand has several offerings ranging in different features. But today, we will talk about the Magellan and the Magellan Max.
The main difference between Maxi Cosi Magellan and Max is in the ease of use. Thus, for buckling, the Max has a specific ClipQuick magnetic system. Additionally, it has automated shoulder harness management and an easy-out harness system for comfortable operation.
But these aren’t the only comparable aspects. Let’s dig in to find out more.
Maxi Cosi Magellan Overview
The Maxi Cosi Magellan is older and slightly cheaper compared to the Magellan Max. But that doesn’t mean it’s lesser than the Max in any way. In our opinion, the Magellan offers all the required features while still maintaining reasonable pricing. The Magellan is also very lightweight compared to the weight it can support.
With a handling capability of up to 120 lbs, unlike chairs with a maximum weight of 65 lbs, your youngster will be able to comfortably move from a child seat to a rear seat. Overall, the Magellan is a great value for money option that brings reliability and durable performance to the table.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]All-in-One Seating System
Superior Safety Features
Easy to Install
Micro adjustment supported
Supports double the weight of standard car seats
[/i2pros][i2cons]Hard to clean
Locating the harness is a bit difficult.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Maxi Cosi Magellan Max Overview
The Magellan max, as the name suggests, is the more updated and refined version of the very popular Magellan model. Maxi Cosi has always branded its products as utilitarian solutions with high-end offerings. The Max variant brings some useful upgrades in the clasp, hook, and harness itself.
It also introduced new outer materials for greater comfort and ease of cleaning. Price-wise, the Max is a more expensive option compared to the standard Magellan. That said, you will be getting some handy little upgrades which surely justifies the increased price tag.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Easy installation
Propped up harness for ease of use
Magnetic clasp
Rear setup up to 40 lbs
Comfort-Adjust Torso Protection
[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive than similar type[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Maxi Cosi Magellan And Max: Comparison Chart
Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a nifty table showing side-by-side differences between Magellan and Magellan Max kid’s car seats. Though you’ll get an overall idea of the dissimilarities from the table, we highly recommend reading the main comparison section for a better and clear idea.
| Factors | Maxi Cosi Magellan | Maxi Cosi Magellan Max |
| Weight | Supports up to 120 lbs | Supports up to 120 lbs |
| Ease of use | A bit difficult compared to Magellan Max | Offers one-handed use |
| Mobility | Relatively less mobility | Better harness adjustment options |
| Functionality | Highly functional | Highly functional |
| Security | Good | Good |
| Customization | No customization available | Height can be adjusted according to the child |
| Material | Standard fabric and seam | Upgraded fabric and seam |
| Longevity | 10 years | 12 years |
Maxi Cosi Magellan And Max: Detailed Differences
It is clear that these two car seats share some similarities in terms of weight handling capacity and security. However, they also have some notable differences. Let’s see a detailed comparison below-
Weight
Winner: Both
Both the standard Magellan and the Magellan Max can support up to 120 lbs weight. The weight is comfortably high enough to support kids up to 10 to 12 years of age. This is generally considered the transition age to normal car seats.
However, both the Magellan and the Magellan Max support reversed seating for up to 40 lbs only.
Ease of Use
Winner: Magellan Max
This one is an extremely close call. Both the Magellan and the Magellan max offer a utilitarian setup. Meaning the seats are designed in a way to facilitate the user experience. While the Magellan is a great product, the Max brings subtle refinements like a propped-up harness for easy access.
Mobility
Winner: Magellan Max
Again, the difference here is so small and subtle that they can both take the crown. However, the Magellan max offers some extra micro adjustment options in the headrest and the harness which gives better mobility and a snug fit to the child.
Functionality
Winner: Both
When it comes to functionality, it’s a tie. Both the Magellan and the Magellan Max are highly functional car seats. They are much lighter than most other car seats and can also be used as a standalone carry.
Security
Winner: Both
For a baby car seat, security is of utmost priority, and both the Magellan and the Magellan max excel at it. In addition to the 5-point harness, there is cushioning all around the head and hip region. The Magellan offers a more traditional clasp system, whereas the Max has a magnetic lock system for easy opening and closing.
Customization
Winner: Magellan Max
As the kids come older, they also tend to have a growth spurt. The Magellan Max brings customization to the height of the back rest to easily accommodate the growing kids. This feature is unfortunately not available on the standard Magellan.
Material
Winner: Magellan Max
While the standard Magellan has great material, the Magellan Max takes things a bit further. Unlike the Magellan, the Max has seams on the inside, which provides better comfort to the legs. The Max also uses a higher quality knit fabric compared to the woven one on the Magellan.
Longevity
Winner: Magellan Max
The standard Magellan is rated to last for at least 10 years, whereas the Max will comfortably last 12 years. This difference arises because Upgraded fabric and seam offer more lasting use than Standard fabric and seam.
Read Also: Car Seats For Kids: 3 Point vs 5 Point Harness Car Seat
Maxi Cosi Magellan And Max: Which One Should You Choose?
Maxi Cosi Magellan and the Magellan Max are both equally capable car seats. They do not differ from each other per seat, but rather bring certain refinements. So regardless of which one you choose, it will still be a great purchase.
But for the sake of being specific, if budget isn’t a worry, we suggest you should go for the Magellan Max. Mainly because it’s the updated model. It has certain quirks and features that you won’t see in the standard Magellan. And it also brings better comfort for the kid’s thanks to the new air padding system.
Conclusion
So, let’s wrap things up. Maxi Cosi has been a reliable brand that has consistently produced quality car sets for kids. Their 5-point harness system was already ahead of the market, and the new suspended side harness takes it even further.
We cannot deny that both the Magellan and the Max are very capable car seats. The differences simply come down to the new fabric, padding system, magnetic clasp, and the EZ in and out of the harness. While these aren’t massive differences, they can still be considered a welcome addition.
But before that, keep in mind that the Max costs significantly more than the standard Magellan. Other than that, happy buying.
