Comparison Cybex Balios S Lux vs Cybex Priam 2 in 1

General design of the pushchair.

In addition to traditional varieties — classic models (with a carrycot) and pushchairs (with a seat) — nowadays you can also find universal pushchairs, which are 2 in 1 and 3 in 1, transformers and pushchairs for sports purposes. Here is a more detailed description of each variety:

— Pushchairs. Pushchairs designed for the sitting position of the kid. The seat for the baby in such pushchairs is called a seat unit; in fact, it is a seat of a special design. In some models, this seat can tilt almost horizontally, which gives the little passenger the opportunity to take a nap. Nevertheless, all pushchairs are intended for more or less grown-up kids who are able to sit up independently — that is, not younger than 6 — 8 months.
Also note that in this category there are the possibility of installing a carrycot. In fact, such models are universal (see below); but if the carrycot is not initially included in the delivery, it is customary to classify the pushchair as a pushchair.

— Jogging. A type of pushchairs (see above) designed for parents who value an active lifestyle: a jogging pushchair can be used not only when walking quietly, but also when jogging. Such pushchairs are usu...ally equipped with three wheels of rather large diameter, and also have a large width of the chassis (see below); all this gives additional stability and passability, including on uneven roads. In addition, the design may include specific features for added comfort and safety, such as a strap that fixes the parent's hand on the pushchair handle or an additional brake that activates when the pushchair is released from the hands.

— Universal. Pushchairs often come with at least two (or even three) interchangeable units: a lying carrycot for infants, a seat unit for older babies, and sometimes a Group 0+ car seat. Parents can choose which unit to use on the chassis. This option provides convenience throughout the baby's pushchair years, starting with the carrycot for the first 6-8 months and transitioning to the seat unit. However, these universal pushchairs are pricier and less space-efficient than transformers with similar capabilities. On the flip side, separate carrycots and seat units are more convenient and reliable.
It is worth taking into account that some universal models can be supplied in alternative options — for example, " carrycot + car seat". So, when buying such a pushchair, it does not hurt to specify the set of accessories supplied with it.

— Pushchair-transformer. Transforming pushchairs allow the seat to convert seamlessly from a carrycot to a seat unit and vice versa, offering the same versatility as universal models. Unlike universal pushchairs, transformers don't require rearranging the main unit for this reconfiguration, providing several advantages. Firstly, the main block's format can be changed anytime, even on the go, without the need for separate seat units or carrycots. Secondly, the integrated carrycot takes up less storage space compared to two separate units.

— Classic. Pushchairs that are equipped with carrycots only; some also allow the installation of a seat unit, as in universal models, but if such a unit is not included in the kit, the pushchair is considered a classic. Recall that carrycots are intended mainly for children under 6 – 8 months old, who are not yet able to sit normally in the seat unit; in other words, this type of pushchair is suitable mainly for the smallest kids. That is why the "classic" nowadays is not particularly popular.

The ability to adjust the tilt between the seat and the backrest of the stroller. This helps to find the most comfortable position for the baby and adjust the seat to different situations: for example, at the end of a long walk, the backrest can be tilted back for a tired baby to take a nap.

The ability to adjust the tilt of the main unit relative to the stroller frame. This allows you to adjust the stroller to different situations: for example, at the beginning of the walk, the unit can be installed almost vertically, based on a sitting position, and later tilted back so that the baby can take a nap.

The carrycot carry handle for carrying is mounted on the carrycot and makes it easy to carry it from place to place — for example, if you need to remove the carrycot for cleaning and then put it back. The handle can have a different shape — in the form of an arc attached to the sides of the carrycot, in the form of a hood cutout, etc.

A window made of transparent or translucent material, built into the hood that covers the cradle or seating unit. In the version with a walking block, the viewing window is usually located so that the parent can see the baby directly while moving, without being distracted from controlling the stroller. In cradles, the parent can see the child through a window by approaching the stroller from the side of the hood (that is, on the opposite side of the handle); implementations with a window in the front hemisphere of the hood are less common. In addition, a baby lying in a cradle can usually see the outside world through the window (primarily the sky above the stroller). The viewing window can be made in the form of oilcloth or a mesh mosquito net, through the holes of which air freely penetrates, but insects and small debris raised by the wind are retained.

The main material from which the frame of the pushchair is made.

— Aluminium. The material used in the vast majority of modern pushchairs of all price categories. This is due to a number of advantages: aluminium is light and at the same time durable, it does not rust and is not afraid of moisture, it lasts a long time, it looks nice, but it is relatively inexpensive — somewhat more expensive than steel, but noticeably cheaper than more advanced materials like carbon.

— Steel. Steel frames are as strong as aluminium frames, and they are much cheaper. On the other hand, they are quite heavy, so steel is used less often in pushchairs.

— Magnesium alloy. Premium Material: Stronger and more durable than aluminium, just as lightweight, but at a significantly higher cost. It is extremely rare, in single models of expensive pushchairs.

— Carbon. Another high-end material: carbon fiber filled with plastic. This combination gives excellent strength - comparable to steel — at a very low weight. However, carbon is very expensive, and these advantages are rarely decisive for pushchairs — in most cases simpler materials are enough. That is why carbon frames have not become widespread.

— Plastic. Plastic itself is easy to manufacture and relatively cheap; it is also not as cold to the hands in cool weather as aluminium or steel. However, modern pushchairs very rarely have frames made of this material. The fact is that low-cost vari...eties of plastic are not strong enough for this; and high-quality varieties cost accordingly - their price is close to aluminium, or even higher.

— Fibreglass. In this context, "fibreglass" typically refers to glass fibers mixed with plastic filler. Unlike conventional window glass, glass fibers are flexible and strong. The plastic filler enhances durability by offering scratch and tear resistance. The result is a material that is lightweight and very strong. However, fibreglass is prone to brittleness, especially with point impacts, and is susceptible to abrasion. As a result, it isn't widely used in pushchairs.

The type of wheels installed on the pushchair.

The most popular in our time are rubber wheels, including air-filled ones. Plastic wheels are used mainly in inexpensive pushchairs to further reduce the cost, while gel ones, on the contrary, are considered a very advanced option. Polyurethane wheels and EVA foam-filled wheels are also widely used. Here is a more detailed description of each of these varieties:

— Rubber. Rubber solid tires, found in many modern pushchairs, are popular due to their affordability, quiet operation, and smooth ride over bumps. While less effective on uneven surfaces compared to air-filled and gel wheels, solid rubber tires are cost-effective, low-maintenance, damage-resistant, and suitable for various wheel diameters, including small ones.

— Air-filled. Air-filled rubber tires, commonly featured on pushchairs, offer a softer ride and facilitate easy maneuvering on uneven surfaces and high curbs. Despite their higher cost, they require periodic maintenance to ensure proper pressure and protection against cuts or punctures. However, users find air-filled wheels manageable, as they are thick and less prone to damage.

— Plastic. Plastic wheels, commonly featuring both tire and rim made from this material (thou...gh some have metal rims), are known for their simplicity and affordability. However, they lack durability, reliability, and effective vibration dampening due to their hardness. Typically found in low-cost pushchairs with small wheels designed for flat surfaces.

— Gel. Wheels similar in design to air-filled tires (see the relevant paragraph), but filled not with air, but with a special gel. The main advantage of this option is its insensitivity to small punctures and cuts: coming out, the gel in the tire in contact with air almost instantly solidifies, effectively sealing the damage. In addition, such wheels are virtually maintenance-free — they do not need to be inflated. The disadvantages of gel tires include high cost and somewhat higher rigidity than air-filled tires (although in terms of softness of running such wheels are still noticeably superior to rubber and even more so to plastic ones).

— Polyurethane. Solid polyurethane tires offer excellent maneuverability, shock absorption, puncture resistance, and durability. They are unaffected by extreme temperature changes and are cost-effective, making them a common choice for various pushchair types.

— EVA. Wheels made of microporous foam rubber, specifically EVA material, offer high elasticity, excellent cushioning, and wear resistance. Lightweight and puncture-resistant, these wheels provide a smooth pushchair ride. However, they may stiffen in cold winter weather.

The diameter of the front wheels installed in the stroller.

At the same time, the front wheels are not as important for mobility as the rear wheels: for example, to overcome obstacles, the stroller is often lifted "on its toes" by tilting it towards itself, with only the rear wheels working. Therefore, the diameter of the front wheels may be noticeably smaller than the rear wheels. It should be noted here that the small size also has its advantages — the wheels are lighter.

Speaking of specific numbers, diameter up to 15 cm is considered very modest, 16 — 20 cm — small, 21 — 25 cm — medium, 26 — 30 cm is larger than average and more than 30 cm is large.

The diameter of the rear wheels installed in the stroller.

The larger the wheel — the better it overcomes obstacles and bumps, the more convenient it is to drive the stroller over mud, snow and other difficult surfaces. For the rear wheels these moments are most relevant: for example, when driving the stroller over obstacles, it is usually tilted towards itself, so that the front wheels are in the air, and the rear wheels have to overcome the obstacle. On the other hand, small wheels weigh less and are easier to move, they are better suited for flat surfaces. So choose a stroller on this indicator should take into account the roads on which it has to be driven. If you plan to move on flat floors, good asphalt and stroller ramps — it is worth choosing small wheels, up to 20 cm. For difficult terrain, driving on mud and snow, regular overcoming steps and curbs it makes sense to pay attention to wheels in 30 cm and larger. And the diameter of 20 — 30 cm is an average option — it is suitable if you have to ride mainly on flat surfaces, but occasionally there is a need to overcome obstacles.