UPPAbaby Aria vs. Nuna PIPA Infant Car Seats

Well, we’ve got good news — we’re pitting two top infant car seats against each other to see which one stands out. 

Dubbed “the best infant car seat” by many parents and publications is the PIPA by Nuna. But hot on its heels and challenging for that number one position is the brand-new Aria by industry-titan UPPAbaby! These seats are both sleek and ultra-lightweight, offering a range of features designed to keep your baby safe and comfortable (and stylish) while on the move! 

In this head-to-head comparison, we'll dive into the specs, similarities, and key differences between these two top-rated seats, helping you make an informed decision for your family's needs. 

Let’s get it on!

Head to Head

ARIA SPECS: 

• Suitable from 4 to 30 lbs. or up to 30” in height 
• Infant Insert: For use from 4 lbs. to 4 months 
• Car Seat Dimensions: 24.5” L x 17” W x 18.5” H    
• Car Seat Weight: 5.9 lbs. 
• Base Weight: 12.6 lbs. 
  
  

PIPA SPECS: 

• Suitable from 4 to 35 lbs., or up to 32” in height 
• Infant Insert: For use from 4 to 11 lbs. 
• Car Seat Dimensions: 26.1” H x 17.5” W x 25.2” L 
• Car Seat Weight: 7.9 lbs.  
• Base Weight: 14 lbs. 
  
  

The UPPAbaby Aria and Nuna PIPA car seats are both lightweight and compact options, making them ideal for you and your child. 

The Aria slightly edges out the PIPA where design is concerned, as it’s slimmer and lighter. 

Weighing in at just 5.9 lbs, the Aria car seat is nearly 2 lbs. lighter than the PIPA, and its dimensions (especially its 17-inch width) make it slightly more compact in your backseat. 

On the other hand, while slightly heavier and bulkier, the PIPA can accommodate bigger babies, up to 35 lbs and 32 inches in height (compared to the Aria's 30 lbs and 30-inch limit).

Striking Similarities 

Parents always want the best car seat for their little ones, and both the UPPAbaby Aria and Nuna PIPA offer a range of similarities that cater to both safety and convenience.  

Here's a closer look at the key features these top-end seats have in common: 
 

• Infant Insert: Both seats come equipped with an infant insert, allowing you to use them from day one, ensuring a snug and secure fit for your newborn on that first ride home from the hospital. 
   
• Ergonomic Handle: Designed with portability in mind, the Aria and PIPA boast ergonomic aluminum carry handles that provide stability and ease of transport, minimizing strain on your arm as you move from home to car to stroller. 
   
• Adjustable Headrests: These seats grow with your baby, offering adjustable headrests to ensure a perfect fit as your little one grows taller. 
   
• Easy Installation: Both seats feature LATCH connections with levellers and European belt routing, making installation a breeze — whether you’re using the base or securing the seat without it for travel in Ubers or airplanes (both seats are FAA-certified). 
   
• Fabrics: Comfort is key! Thankfully, these seats deliver with premium, plush fabrics that create a cushy environment for your child. The PIPA's micro-knit fabrics elevate luxury, while both are machine-washable for easy cleaning. 
   
• 5-Point Harness: The 5-point harness on each seat securely straps your baby in, preventing unwanted movement during travel. The single-pull adjustment also simplifies the process! 

Definitive Differences 

While the Aria and PIPA share many similarities that make them top contenders, they also have distinct differences that may sway your decision: 

• Size/Design: As previously mentioned, the Aria wins in the portability department with its lightweight design and compact size. Weighing only 5.9 lbs, it's nearly 2 lbs. lighter than the PIPA, and its dimensions make it more streamlined for tight spaces. This slimmer profile could also potentially allow for fitting three Aria seats across your backseat if need be (you can test it out via our Dry Fit Program). The PIPA, while still lightweight at 7.9 lbs, has a slightly larger overall footprint (which also allows you to use the seat for an extra 5 lbs or 2” in height).
  
  
• Safety: Both seats prioritize safety, but with different approaches. The PIPA features a heavy-duty shell and advanced Side Impact Protection to shield your little one from potential collisions. The Aria, on the other hand, is one of the few infant car seats that has a load leg, which prevents dangerous rotation in a crash. Its carry handle also doubles as an anti-rebound bar, minimizing crash forces during a rear-end collision.
  
  
• Canopies: Keeping your baby protected from the elements is crucial, and these seats offer varying canopy designs. The PIPA boasts an integrated UPF 50+ full-coverage canopy that extends down for maximum shade, complete with a flip-out eye shade and dream drape for added sun protection and privacy. The Aria's canopy is extra-large with UPF 25+ protection, providing ample coverage over the seat and your child.
  
  
• Airflow: Babies love comfort, and both seats address temperature regulation differently. The PIPA's premium micro-knit fabrics create a plush, cushy environment that keeps babies cool in hot weather and toasty in cold climates. The Aria, however, features a back panel specifically engineered for ventilation, allowing airflow to circulate and prevent overheating.
  
  
• Travel Compatibility: If you plan to use the car seat with a stroller (aka a travel system), compatibility is essential. The Aria clicks directly into UPPAbaby's popular Vista and Cruz strollers without needing adapters (though adapters are available separately for the Minu and Ridge models). The PIPA seamlessly integrates with Nuna's stroller lineup, including the MIXX, IVVI, TAVO, and TRVL. However, it can also connect to UPPAbaby's Vista and Cruz with this adapter, broadening your options.
  
  
• Weather Protection: For rainy day adventures, Nuna offers a Rain Cover specifically designed for the PIPA to keep your little one dry and comfortable.
  
  
• Colour Options: When it comes to style, the PIPA offers 3 options (Granite, Caviar, Riveted), while the Aria provides 4 colour choices (Anthony, Greyson, Gwen, Jake), allowing you to better match your aesthetic preferences.
  

Battle of the Lightweights 

Choosing the right car seat is a crucial decision for any new parent, and both the Aria by UPPAbaby and Pipa Infant Car Seat by Nuna offer exceptional safety, convenience, and comfort features.  

While they share many similarities, their distinct differences in design, safety features, canopy coverage, airflow, stroller compatibility, and style options cater to varying preferences and needs.  

Ultimately, weighing these factors against your specific requirements will help you determine which of these top-rated car seats is the perfect fit for your little one's first rides and beyond. Whichever you choose, you can rest assured that your baby will be secure, snug, and ready for adventures ahead. 

For more information on each, you can read our full reviews of the Nuna PIPA and UPPAbaby Aria. Additionally, you can learn more about each brand selection of seats with our UPPAbaby Car Seat Overview and Nuna Car Seat Lineup articles.