We’ve been seeing a lot of you asking about which ultra-compact stroller is best for your needs, so I thought it would be helpful to share some information on how we compare them.
The perfect stroller is an individual decision, but there are some things that most parents will be able to relate to when choosing their own.
We were excited to see how these four models compared: the Babyzen Yoyo2, the Uppababy Minu V2, the Silver Cross Jet 3, and the Nuna TRVL.
When considering which stroller to buy, it’s important that you take into account your needs and lifestyle factors. If you live in New York City for example, then we recommend choosing one of these lightweight foldable models because they are perfect for navigating public transport systems like the subway with ease.
Lastly, I’d like to throw in a couple more stroller models that have been highly rated by moms.
The Babyzen Yoyo2 stroller
- EASY TO USE - BABYZEN YOYO2 is one of the most lightweight, compact, full-feature strollers available. Designed for every situation, every day, you can steer with one hand, carry it on your shoulder & store essentials in the zippered back pocket.
- TAKE IT EVERYWHERE - It's never been easier to meet up with friends, catch a cab, or hop onto the subway. The YOYO2 not only folds & unfolds with one hand, it’s so compact that you can store it in the overhead bin of a plane.
- GROWS WITH YOUR CHILD - Now you only need one stroller! Our all-in-one frame accommodates your growing child, from newborn to toddler (up to 48.5 lbs), with a comfortable seat cushion, a reclining backrest & a secure 5-point harness.
- CUSTOMIZABLE - Choose from nine trendy colors and lots of accessories to suit your needs, like the YOYO board, YOYO bag, YOYO cup holder, YOYO footmuff, YOYO legrest, YOYO parasol, YOYO travel bag, and YOYO mosquito net.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED - Your YOYO2 Stroller includes a frame, 5-point harness, multi-position reclining backrest, canopy extensions, shoulder strap, protective storage bag & the 6+ Color Pack, which includes the seat cushion & matching canopy.
The Yoyo2 stroller is a tiny, lightweight travel machine. The foldable design also meets the guidelines set by IATA (International Airline Travel Association) as cabin luggage – meaning no extra charges or fees when traveling on short trips abroad.
When considering the travel of these four models, it’s also easiest to carry having both a lengthy shoulder strap and an 18 centimeters slim profile. The slimmest folded size is important for getting your stroller comfortably fit under the arm once lung from the shoulders.
While these strollers have their own unique features, like the reclining seats for example (which can be adjusted to various angles), one thing that could fit better with them is how you fold up your baby’s seat. This process takes more steps than other models and does not seem as straightforward in general when compared to those four competitor brands. And this is essential when you are using public transport.
The Uppababy Minu V2 stroller
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: 1 MINU V2 Stroller, 1 Snack Tray for MINU & MINUV2
- MINU V2 Stroller has a spacious seat suitable up to 50 lbs, One-hand, one-step compact fold, Multi-position recline
- MINU V2 Stroller has a zip out extendable canopy for increased sun protection, One handed, adjustable leg rest, Deeper, easy access basket with 20lbs weight limit, 100% full-grain leather bumper bar included
- Snack Tray for MINU & MINU V2 folds with stroller, open bowl allows for different kinds of snacks
- Snack Tray for MINU & MINU V2 has an easy to clean surface, formed cup holder fits sippy cups and juice boxes
The Minu V2 is a little heavier (7.7 kilos) and longer than the rest of these models, having a folded size that makes it too large enough to be accepted as cabin luggage on most airplanes. Though you may still get denied if gate-checked this stroller without checking in advance with your airline’s policies about what can go where.
The heavier 7.7 kilos is perfect for strolling around without worrying about bumpy areas and it also has a reinforced profile which makes carrying easier on your stroller.! The folded size of this bag means that you can take longer walks with less discomfort, however, the extra weight may make some people want to find alternatives.
The sturdiness and ability of the stroller make it a good choice for rough terrains. However, because you can fold up it more quickly than other types while riding on public transportation or when exploring new areas with him/her in tow – this factor alone may convince some parents that they should buy one. The new design has a larger seat with a longer backboard and also comes equipped with adjustable leg rests. These features make up for its harder-to-carry weight in comparison to other versions, making this an ideal option if you’re looking for something that can provide more comfort while traveling.
The Uppababy Minu is one of the most popular strollers around, and it’s not hard to see why. The V2 version isn’t available yet here, but we have a lot of experience with the Minu and plan to review it this fall as soon as it makes its way across our desks.
Silver Cross Jet 3 stroller
- A Modern Stroller For New Families - The new Jet 3 has been upgraded with a simple one-motion fold, child-proof and easy to use magnetic Genius buckle, and, for shopping trips or holding baby bags, we added a 20% bigger shopping basket with access from both the front and back of stroller. The sleek new Silver Cross branding and leather accents add a touch of elegance to the Jet 3.
- One-Of-A-Kind - The Jet travel stroller is the only compact stroller in the world with a unique blend of features. Suitable for newborns, infants and toddlers up to 55 lbs, the Jet 3 is airline cabin approved so it can get where you need to go without having to change strollers. The quick, one-hand fold makes it easy for busy moms and dads to pack up and, weighing just 13.6 lbs, place into the car's trunk, the airplane's overhead bin, or store in the closet.
- Grows With Baby - As one of the only lightweight strollers that can be used from birth to 55 lbs, the Jet 3 is designed for use from the start with no extras needed. The adjustable footrest makes it easy to go from a full recline during nap time, to sitting up comfortably. Pair that with multi-positioning reclining seat, adjustable footrest, and a 5-point harness with magnetic Genius buckle, it's no wonder parents around the world have chosen Silver Cross handcrafted prams since 1877.
- See The World - Airline cabin approved; the Jet 3 stands on its own when folded. The Luxe, leatherette bumper bar removes and doubles as a luggage handle so you can comfortably pull the stroller like a suitcase. This stroller was designed to be ultra-lightweight for maximum portability and have also included a stylish travel cover. With lockable swivel wheels, flip-flop friendly, one-touch brakes, and Silver Cross dynamic spring suspension, you'll have a smooth ride every time.
- Imagine The Places You'll Go - With a UPF 50+ extendable sun protection canopy and pop-out sun visor, keep your little one covered and cool during your morning or afternoon stroll. The peek-a-boo window allows you to discreetly check in on your baby while the fully ventilated mesh opening allows for maximum airflow on warmer days.
The Silver Cross Jet 3 is the perfect choice for those who want to travel light and save space. This new iteration has an easier folding process because of its removable foot pedal, which makes it much more convenient than before. When folded, the Jet 3 stroller is not quite as comfortable to carry due to having a handle instead of a strap. But it does have some advantages that make up for this – namely its lighter weight and smaller folded dimensions which allow you easier handling when walking with one or two kids in tow. The YoYo stroller has a carry handle and it’s more comfortable to carry it. However, Jet 3 is easier than The Minu stroller.
The Jet is not a good model to get for these conditions due to its lower strength compared with other models such as the YoYo and Minu, which both have more hinges at horizontal contraction points because they’re made out of metal instead plastic. The handles on the previous versions of this stroller were not very secure too, making it difficult for parents to stay patient while pushing their child around. The latest version of this product has been getting a lot of bad feedback from people who have tried it out. Despite no changes being made to their folding system, these problems appear unchanged.
This is a great stroller for parents who want to take their baby on short walks around town, but it might not be the best option if you plan to use this as your main source of transportation.
The Nuna TRVL stroller
Lastly then, is the Nuna TRVL. This lightweight and easy fold factor despite its large size (compared to Minu V2) makes it perfect for carrying with you on the go or storing when not in use.
Given the model’s size and weight, I would likely have needed to gate-check it as well. It also raised some serious flags for me because generally speaking a large vehicle with an incredibly lightweight frame means that there aren’t enough reinforcement points in place which makes them prone to break easily.
TRVL is a brand we haven’t yet had the chance to review in-depth, but their stroller seems like an excellent option for parents. From what I’ve seen and read so far it appears they share many similarities with another brand – the Joey Pact stroller- that is owned by one parent company.
I was suspecting that the TRVL stroller shares many similar features with other popular brands such as the Jet. For instance, their seats are not upright enough for long periods of time and they can’t hold up to daily use in more difficult environments like city streets. It seems like the TRVL stroller has similar weaknesses compared to the Jet, I believe it is also likely this type of frame will have some serious issues with holding up under daily use in more uneven environments.
I am not sure if I should invest in the TRVL. Performance-wise, it seems like a less reliable option than the Yoyo or the Minu which have been around for much longer and also happen to be more affordable options as well.
Whether you’re a city dweller, there are plenty of options for strollers that will work well with your lifestyle. For those who value versatility and want something lightweight but still very durable (and can stand up against urban jungle environments), I recommend checking out two more models – the Bugaboo Butterfly and the Leclerc Influencer. These models work quite well in big cities and fall within the same price range as other popular brands. Their durability, versatility, and ease of use in an urban setting make them better suited for daily use. Additionally, they can be folded down to within cabin luggage limits making it perfect as a second stroller or if you’re traveling with children who will only need one seat on your trip.
We know you’re probably feeling all around overwhelmed with the various strollers on offer, but don’t worry – we’ve got detailed reviews of every model on our The Stroller Workshop youtube channel.
Although it can be difficult to choose between all these great options, hopefully, this comparison has helped and you will now know which stroller is perfect for your urban environment.