Infant in Thule Shine Stroller Seat

Best Mid-Sized Strollers


If you're searching for the ideal stroller to meet all your needs, a mid-size stroller might be just what you're looking for. We've compiled a list of the best mid-size strollers from some of our favorite baby gear brands. Read on to see how the mid-size strollers from Bugaboo, Cybex, Joie Baby,  Joolz, and Thule compare.

What are the best mid-size strollers of 2025?

Best Mid-Sized Strollers of 2025

Why should parents consider a mid-size stroller?

Mid-size strollers strike the perfect balance between compactness and durability. They offer better performance and sturdiness compared to smaller travel strollers, while remaining lighter and more compact than full-size strollers. Typically, mid-size strollers come equipped with the same features that are popular in full-size strollers. Here are a few reasons parents might choose a mid-size stroller over a full-size one:

  1. Minimalists: For those looking to reduce spending on baby gear and minimize needed storage space, mid-size strollers are an excellent choice. They're light enough for everyday use - in and out of the car and durable enough for neighborhood walks.

  2. City Families: Families living in the city often need a reliable, compact stroller as their primary mode of transportation. Mid-size strollers are perfect for maneuvering city sidewalks, navigating public transportation, fitting into cramped elevators, and carrying up stairs.

  3. One-Child Families: Parents planning for only one child should also consider a mid-size stroller. While convertible strollers are popular among first-time parents, they are often larger than standard single strollers. There's no need to burden the family with unnecessary bulk.

Thule Shine Carried down stairs

Newborn Use: Bassinet vs. Stroller Seat vs. Infant Car Seat


All the strollers on our list can be used from birth in some capacity. Let’s explore the three ways a stroller can accommodate a newborn:

  1. Good – Infant Car Seat Compatibility
    Attaching an infant car seat to a stroller offers convenience for parents on the go, making transitions in and out of the car seamless for short trips. However, babies should not remain in their infant car seat for extended periods.

  2. Better – Fully Reclining Seat
    A stroller with a fully reclining seat that provides a flat, newborn-approved position offers better comfort and support for infants.

  3. Best – Bassinet or Cot Attachment
    Adding a bassinet to your stroller creates the ideal environment for newborns, keeping them in a flat, safe position while protecting them on all sides. Bassinets also offer convenience—parents can transfer a sleeping baby from the stroller to the home without disruption.

Babies should not nap in an infant car seat. A flat position is crucial for proper spine development and maintaining open airways.

Now that we’ve covered newborn stroller options, let’s take a look at what our top mid-size strollers have to offer.

The Bugaboo Dragonfly can be purchased in a bundle with its bassinet included, and the stroller always comes packaged with its infant car seat adapters. The Dragonfly Bassinet can also be paired with the Bugaboo bassinet stand for home use, and can even double as a primary bedside sleep system. Unique to the Dragonfly design, the stroller offers a compact fold even with the bassinet attached!

Bugaboo Dragonfly with Bassinet

 

Cybex offers a cot sold separately for use with the Cybex Mios3 which is the preferred method for strolling with a newborn. The Mios3 also comes with included car seat adapters. 

The Joie Baby Ginger offers an innovative approach with its 2-in-1 seat design. The stroller seat itself can be manipulated to create a "bassinet like" environment. The Ginger also comes with infant car seat adapters included. 

Joie Baby Ginger with Flat Seat

The Joolz Hub2 is a standout option for newborn use as it does not require any additional accessories or manipulations to accommodate babies from day 1. Simply recline the seat back to its near flat recline and you're ready to go! However, if a bassinet is preferred, Joolz does offer one separately.

Joolz Hub2 with Bassinet

The Thule Shine is the only stroller on our list that does require an additional purchase for newborn use. The Shine stroller seat should not be used until baby is 6 months old and has developed full neck control. Thule does not include any newborn friendly accessories or infant car seat adapters with the stroller purchase. However, they do offer both infant car seat adapters and a  bassinet sold separately. 

Travel System Use: Infant Car Seat Compatibility

Thule Shine with Infant Car Seat

When selecting a stroller to use from day one, car seat compatibility is a top priority for many parents. A stroller that seamlessly connects with your baby’s car seat offers unparalleled convenience on the go and is referred to as a "travel system."

Adjusting to strapping a newborn—or a squirmy infant—into a car seat can be challenging enough. The last thing parents want is to unbuckle their baby for a quick trip into the post office or grocery store, only to struggle in a parking lot—potentially in less-than-ideal weather—trying to get them secured again.

Save yourself the hassle and choose a car seat and stroller that work together! Your infant car seat should easily detach from its base with your baby comfy and secure inside, then click right onto your stroller for effortless transitions.

While all the strollers on our list offer this convenience, some include the necessary adapters at no extra cost. The Dragonfly, Mios3, and Ginger come with infant car seat adapters included, while the  Joolz Hub2 and Shine require adapters that must be purchased separately.

Bugaboo Dragonfly: Compatible with Bugaboo, Cybex, Maxi Cosi, Nuna, and Romer infant car seats.

Cybex Mios3: Compatible with Cybex, Maxi Cosi, Nuna, and Romer infant car seats.

Joie Baby Ginger: Compatible with Joie Baby infant car seat.

Joolz Hub2: Compatible with Cybex, Maxi Cosi, Nuna, and Romer infant car seats.

Thule Shine: Compatible with Cybex, Maxi Cosi, Nuna, and Romer infant car seats.

 

How do mid-size strollers handle? Performance:

Thule Shine with Nuna PIPA Infant Car Seat and Ride-on-board

Every mid-size stroller on our list features all-wheel suspension, ensuring a smooth ride over rough and bumpy sidewalks. However, it's important to set realistic expectations—while these strollers are not designed for rugged terrain, they excel in everyday use. Their compact yet durable design allows them to handle cobblestones and packed trails with ease while effortlessly maneuvering through crowds and tight spaces.

What mid-size stroller offers the best features?

These mid-size strollers share many features that enhance ease of use, functionality, and comfort. However, a few standout features might help parents make their final decision.

The Bugaboo Dragonfly, Cybex Mios3, Joie Baby Ginger, Joolz Hub2, and Thule Shine all feature a modular design with a removable, reversible seat. When used as a travel system, the main seat is removed and replaced with car seat adapters, creating a streamlined look while reducing weight on the go. The reversible seat allows little ones to face either the parent or the world. Each stroller also includes a height-adjustable handlebar, adjustable footrest, and a UV-protective, extendable sun canopy.

  • The Bugaboo Dragonfly boasts the tallest stroller seat, providing ample room for growth—perfect for taller toddlers and older children. It also includes an additional storage pouch that hangs from the handlebar for quick and easy access to essentials.

  • The Cybex Mios3 is designed for ultimate ease of use, featuring Cybex’s signature one-pull harness, similar to a car seat harness, allowing for quick and effortless adjustments.

  • For families in warmer climates or those looking for enhanced summer comfort, the Mios3 and Hub2 stand out with their double-layer seat design—once the top seat liner is removed, a mesh seat back is revealed, providing superior airflow in hot temperatures.

  • Storage-conscious families should consider the Dragonfly, Hub2, and Shine, as each stroller features an undercarriage basket that holds up to 22 lbs—significantly more than the Ginger and Mios3.

Bugaboo Dragonfly

Bugaboo Dragonfly Features:

  • Seat height 50cm from the ground
  • One-hand fold with a patented self-standing design, fold with bassinet or seat
  • Full suspension and new, flatter wheel design ensure a smooth ride
  • Reversible reclining seat
  • Adjustable foot rest
  • Height adjustable handlebar
  • Extendable UPF 50+ Canopy with mesh peek-a-boo window
  • Tallest seat back in its category at 22"
  • Lightweight (17.4 - 21.8 lbs) to carry over your shoulder or pull like a trolley
  • Integrated carry strap
  • Padded 5-point safety harness can be adjusted for height
  • 22 lbs of underseat basket, with extra rear pocket for more storage
  • Made with bio-based material, which reduces CO2 emissions by 16% compared to fossil-based plastic
  • Built to last with premium-quality materials
  • PFAS-free water-repellent fabric coating
  • Handlebar grips are made of 100% vegetarian leather
  • Modular design supports repairs and refurbishment
Bugaboo Butterfly Folded

Cybex Mios3 Features:

  • One-pull harness helps you secure your child in seconds with just one hand
  • Reversible seat allows child to face parent or face forward
  • Accommodates a Cybex infant car seat or the Mios3 carry cot
  • Stroller folds with one hand and stands when folded
  • Breathable mesh in seat helps keep child cool in warm weather
  • All-wheel suspension helps provide a smooth ride
  • Narrow width of less than 20" helps families navigate tight spaces
  • 3-position recline can be adjusted with one hand
  • Premium leather handlebar is adjustable
  • Premium leather bumper bar can be opened from either side for easy access to seat
  • Adjustable leg rest is backed with mesh
  • UPF 50+ canopy features zip-out extension and ventilated mesh window
  • 5-point harness with comfortable padding
  • Front swivel wheels can be locked for stability on rough terrain
Cybex Mios3

Joie Baby Ginger Features:

  • Use from birth up all the way up to 50 lb.
  • Pair with the rue™ or mint latch™ infant car seats (sold separately or as a travel system.)
  • One-tap shoe-saver brake 
  • 5-point harness adjusts to 3 different heights to keep up with growth spurts
  • Built-in, lie-flat pramette creates a cozy haven for newborns
  • An adjustable leg rest with cushy calf support
  • Full-coverage UPF 50+ and water-repellent canopy
  • Adjustable recline
  • All-wheel suspension
  • Seat adjusts to 3 different heights to bring your baby closer to you for better bonding 
  • Easily folds down into a self-standing package
  •  Spacious storage basket Plus, a secure storage pouch for valuables
  • Front swivel wheels lock at the touch of a button
  • Removable cupholder 
  • Swivel leatherette arm bar
Joie Ginger Features

Joolz Hub2 Features:

  • One-handed fold
  • Newborn friendly recline
  • 8 recline positions
  • 5 position adjustable handlebar
  • Extendable canopy with mesh peek-a-boo window
  • 2 layer seat with mesh backing for premium airflow
  • Swivel bumper bar
  • Integrated carry strap to tote stroller on shoulder
  • Reversible seat with comfort padding
  • Adjustable 3 positino leg rest 
  • 4 Wheel suspension 
  • Infant car seat compatible
Joolz Hub2 Configurations

Thule Shine City Features:

  • Lightweight design
  • Reversible toddler seat
  • Large, extendable canopy with UPF50+ protection provides full coverage and ventilation
  • One-hand adjustable sliding handlebar
  • Easy step-in step makes it safe for an older child to climb into the stroller on their own
  • All-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride
  • Includes bumper bar and rain cover
  • Able to be used from birth with Thule Shine Bassinet, Thule Shine Newborn Nest, or compatible car seat adapter
Thule Shine



What is the lightest and most compact mid-size stroller?


Full-size strollers can weigh from 25 to 35+ pounds, whereas the mid-size strollers on our list all weigh in under 25 pounds. Although the weight difference might seem minimal, every pound counts, especially for parents seeking the lightest options. The Joolz Hub2 is the lightest weight at 19.4 lbs. For those prioritizing a compact fold and size, the Cybex Mios3 stands out with its nimble maneuverability and minimal trunk space occupancy.

Cybex Mios with Infant Car Seat

Comparing Specs and Dimensions:

Weight:

 Open Dimensions:

Folded Dimentions:

Recommended Use:

Storage Basket Capacity:

Warranty:

What's in the box:

Finding the Perfect Mid-Size Stroller

Joie Baby Ginger Stroller with Infant

If you're searching for a lightweight, reliable stroller that's durable enough for long walks yet compact enough for life on the go, any of these options will fit the bill. However, each stroller offers unique standout features to suit different needs.

  • For city life, the one-handed fold and integrated carry strap on the Bugaboo Dragonfly and Joolz Hub2 provide unparalleled convenience, along with high-capacity storage space for everyday essentials.

  • For luxury features and ease of use, the Cybex Mios3 and Joolz Hub2 stand out, especially for parents in year-round warm climates, thanks to their breathable mesh seat backs.

  • For all-around durability and practicality, the Thule Shine is an excellent choice, offering a sturdy yet compact design, making it perfect for urban parents who need a stroller that can handle daily adventures while remaining easy to store and transport.

  • For budget-conscious families, the Joie Baby Ginger presents an affordable option with premium features, plus a nice bonus with included accessories.

No matter your lifestyle, this list has you covered when it comes to the best mid-size strollers for everyday use!

Questions?

Strolleria is dedicated to making the baby gear buying experience less overwhelming for parents.

If you have more questions about mid-size strollers, feel free to email us at customercare@strolleria.com or chat with us today!

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