Babyzen YOYO2 vs Joolz Aer vs UPPAbaby Minu V3
The battle of the premium lightweight strollers – Babyzen YOYO2 vs Joolz Aer vs UPPAbaby Minu v3 – which one is worth $400+?
If you’re a city-dwelling parent or a frequent traveler, chances are you’ve come across three of the most talked-about travel strollers on the market: the Babyzen YOYO2, Joolz Aer+, and Uppababy Minu V3. Each of these compact strollers offers a unique blend of portability, comfort, and features — choosing one means making the right trade-offs for your family.
Let’s get into the details.
Why These Three Travel Strollers Are So Popular
The Babyzen YOYO2 is the OG of the compact lightweight travel stroller world. Even though the YOYO was first released 6 years after the first UPPAbaby Minu, it was really YOYO that made waves, since it was the first truly lightweight stroller that fit into airplane overheads.
The Joolz Aer+ entered the scene in 2021 as a sleek and ergonomic competitor that is even lighter than the YOYO, while the Uppababy Minu V3 was launched in 2024, combining many of the latest technologies in lightweight strollers.
All three are frequently recommended for air travel, small cars, and minimalist parenting — but they differ in key areas.
Head-to-Head: Key Features & Specifications
| Feature | Babyzen YOYO2 | Joolz Aer+ | Uppababy Minu V3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroller Weight | 13.6 lbs (6.2 kg) | ✅13.2 lbs (6.0 kg) | 17.5 lbs (7.9 kg) |
| Folded Size | ✅20.5” x 17.5” x 7.25” | 21” x 17.7” x 8.5” | 23” x 20.3” x 12” |
| Recline | Standard recline (145 degrees) | ✅Near-flat recline (170 degrees) | Deep recline (154 degrees) |
| Weight Capacity | ❌48.5 lbs (22 kg) | 50 lbs (22.7 kg) | 50 lbs (22.7 kg) |
| Basket Capacity | 11 lbs (5 kg) | 11 lbs (5 kg) | ✅20 lbs (9 kg) |
| Canopy Size | ❌Medium, with peekaboo window | Large, extendable with ventilation | Large, extendable with ventilation |
| Harness | 5-point harness | 5-point harness | 5-point harness |
| Handlebar | Fixed height | Fixed height | ✅Adjustable height |
| Price (approx.) | ❌$449 | $400 | $400 |
Comparison Highlights:
- The YOYO2 is most expensive, the only advantage being its light weight, but it is not even the lightest
- YOYO2 does not feature any premium distinguishing features such as near-flat recline, extendable canopy, adjustable handlebar, large basket
- Joolz Aer is the lightest with the most premium features
- UPPAbaby Minu V3 has the features of a full-sized stroller, but smaller
TLDR Summary:
- Best for overall: Joolz Aer
- Best for everyday use: UPPAbaby Minu v3
- Best for brand name recognition: Babyzen YOYO
Babyzen YOYO2: Compact, and Recognized by Airlines
Pros:
- Folds up smallest
- Lightweight at 13.6 lbs
- Stylish
- Handlebar folds down backwards, turning it into a seat
Cons:
- Smaller storage basket with a bar in the way
- NOT a one hand fold
- Handlebar height is not adjustable
- Rounded handlebar is not suitable for hanging bags
- Most expensive
Best for: Urban parents, frequent flyers, and those who prioritize compact storage and modern design.
Joolz Aer+: Ergonomic and Easy to Push
Pros:
- Lightest of the three at 13.2 lbs
- Folds up small
- Near-flat recline for naps on the go
- High-quality build and premium finishes
- Smooth handling with great push for its size
- Shoulder strap for easy carrying when folded
- Large canopy for those naps
Cons:
- Limited under-seat basket space
- Fixed handlebar height
- Can feel a bit cramped for taller toddlers
Best for: Parents who want an easy-to-carry stroller with an ergonomic push and sleek style.
Uppababy Minu V3: More Comfort, More Storage
Pros:
- Largest under-seat storage (20 lbs capacity!)
- Adjustable handlebar for parent comfort
- Large canopy for those naps
- Brand name recognition
Cons:
- Heaviest of the three at 17.5 lbs
- Fold is bulkier than YOYO2 and Aer+
- Despite the ‘improved’ suspension, the drive is still terrible
Best for: Parents who want a travel stroller that’s still lightweight but offers near full-size comfort and storage.
Final Thoughts: Which Travel Stroller Wins?
Each of these travel strollers offers something special:
- YOYO2: Best for minimalists and frequent flyers who want a stroller that fits anywhere.
- Joolz Aer+: Ideal for parents seeking comfort and premium design in the lightest package.
- Uppababy Minu V3: Great for families who need more space, and versatility without going full-size.
However, I think it’s clear that if you are optimizing for stroller weight, you should go for Joolz as it packs the most functionality in one small package, all for less than the price of a YOYO2.
If you want the benefits of a full-sized stroller but not the bulkiness, go for the UPPAbaby Minu V3.
There’s no single “best” stroller — only the one that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re catching a flight, navigating busy sidewalks, or loading up the car, one of these three is sure to make life easier on the go.
Which one did you choose? Let us know in the comments!
