This site has limited support for your browser. We recommend switching to Edge, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.

Free shipping on orders $75+ (exclusions apply)

Which Nuna PIPA™ Base is Right for You? PIPA™ Series Base vs. PIPA™ RELX Base

By Stephanie Button

Which Nuna PIPA™ Base is Right for You? PIPA™ Series Base vs. PIPA™ RELX Base

Which Nuna PIPA™ Base is Right for You? PIPA™ Series Base vs. PIPA™ RELX Base

Choosing the perfect car seat base is just as important as picking the right infant car seat—and when it comes to Nuna’s beloved PIPA™ series, we often get asked about the difference between the PIPA™ series base and the PIPA™ RELX base. Both are safe, stylish, and easy to use, but there are a few key differences that can help you decide which one is the best fit for your family’s lifestyle.

Let’s break it down:

Installation Ease: Both Are Fantastic—But RELX Takes It Up a Notch

  • PIPA™ Series Base: Easy to install with either the vehicle seatbelt or LATCH system. It has a built-in bubble level and a stability leg for added safety.

  • PIPA™ RELX Base: Offers an upgraded installation experience. It includes 4 recline positions, a no-rethread harness, anti-rebound panel, and adjustable foot with bubble-free recline angle indicators—making installation even more intuitive and customized for your vehicle.

✅ Winner: RELX Base for extra ease and adjustability.

Recline Options: Extra Comfort for Baby

  • PIPA™ Series Base: Has one recline position.

  • PIPA™ RELX Base: Offers 4 adjustable recline positions that can be changed even after the base is installed. This helps get the best fit for your vehicle’s seat angle and adds comfort for your baby, especially on longer rides.

✅ Winner: RELX Base for flexibility and added comfort.

Anti-Rebound Protection: A Safety Upgrade

  • PIPA™ Series Base: Equipped with a load leg to reduce force in a crash, which is a major plus.

  • PIPA™ RELX Base: Includes both a load leg and an anti-rebound panel. This panel limits the movement of the seat in the event of an accident for even more protection.

✅ Winner: RELX Base for additional anti-rebound safety.

Fit for Different Vehicles

  • PIPA™ Series Base: Fits most vehicles well, but doesn’t offer the same fine-tuned adjustability as the RELX.

  • PIPA™ RELX Base: Designed with more adjustability to accommodate a wider range of vehicle seat shapes and angles, which can make a big difference in smaller or more compact cars.

✅ Winner: RELX Base, especially for parents with multiple cars or unique seat angles.

Compatibility with PIPA™ Car Seats

Both bases work with the following Nuna infant car seats:

  • PIPA™

  • PIPA™ RX

  • PIPA™ Aire

  • PIPA™ Aire RX

  • PIPA™ Lite RX

So no matter which base you choose, it’s likely to work with your Nuna car seat.

Final Verdict

If you want a reliable, easy-to-use base with strong safety features and you’re watching your budget, the PIPA™ Series Base is still a great option.

But if you’re looking for the most advanced safety features, easier installation, and a more customized fit, the PIPA™ RELX Base is worth the upgrade.

Both are incredible options from Nuna, and you truly can’t go wrong!

Still not sure which base is best for your family? Come visit us in-store at Tweedle Beedle in Summerville or Mount Pleasant, or send us a message—we’re always happy to help you find the perfect fit for your little one.

Because safe, stylish travel should be simple.