Tandem Vs. Side-by-Side Strolle: Which Is Better?

Whether you are waiting for twins or you already have one baby and the second is about to arrive, the first thing that comes to mind is a great double stroller, right? Since a stroller is a lifesaver, you will need it most of the time. Going out with two babies might be the most challenging part of the day.

Tandem and side-by-side strollers are the two types of best strollers, and if you are unsure about which one to choose this article will help you a lot. In this post, I will compare the tandem and side-by-side strollers and explain everything you need to know.

Meet The Strollers

As a mom of two, I have enough experience with strollers. When I had my first baby, it was all okay and easy enough since I needed a single stroller, and then things changed once I got my second one. For me, it was hard to decide on the best double stroller, and now you have me to guide you for a decent stroller to purchase.

First and foremost, I will introduce you to the two types of strollers and then move on to the comparison part, where things might be a bit more confusing and challenging.

Also Read: Double Stroller vs. Wagon

Tandem Strollers

Tandem strollers are popular nowadays, and to be honest, this type of stroller was my choice as well; since I live in a crowded city and a tandem stroller was the best option for my cute babies. In a tandem stroller, two seats or bassinets are aligned one in front of the other.

Many strollers that are available on the market can be converted from a single stroller to a double stroller, and exactly these strollers are tandem ones. All you have to do is to add an extra seat to the stroller and get the job done.

Tandem strollers are narrower than side-by-side strollers; they are foldable and offer many features and comfort as well. Many manufacturers provide amazing tandem strollers for an affordable price.

This type of stroller has many advantages especially if you live in a crowded city where moving is not that easy. However, I will discuss everything in more detail, in the sections below.

Side-by-Side Strollers

Side-by-side is preferred by many people who have twins. They are two single strollers attached and are wider. In this type of stroller, your little ones sit next to each other, and they might interact with each other effortlessly.

The side-by-side strollers allow more storage, and your babies might feel more comfortable. Whereas, for you riding a side-by-side stroller might be more challenging since they are bigger in size and maneuvering is not that easy.

The seats at side-by-side strollers have enough space, so you don’t have to think about which child should sit in which seat since they both offer plenty of space. There are many advantages and some disadvantages of using a side-by-side stroller, which I will mention in the comparison part.

Also Read: Stroller Vs Pram: What Differs Them

Tandem Vs. Side-by-Side Stroller – Head-to-Head Comparison

Comparing these two types of double strollers is a bit challenging since I have many things to mention. Both strollers have many advantages and disadvantages as well. You should choose one according to your and your baby’s requirements.

Pros Of Tandem Strollers

First and foremost, I will point out that tandem strollers have many interesting features, and the best characteristic I like the most about this type of double stroller is that you can use them as a single stroller as well. Only by reducing one seat; it becomes a perfect single stroller.

A tandem stroller is narrower, and moving with that stroller is way easier; for those who like going to cafes, or live in a crowded city, a tandem stroller is a perfect option.

Due to its compact design, you can push a tandem stroller effortlessly and maneuver easily when compared to side-by-side strollers. A side-by-side stroller folds perfectly for better storage, and it won’t take up much space.

With a tandem stroller, you can manage various sitting combinations; many manufacturers provide excellent tandem strollers that you can use for different purposes and various combinations according to your demands.

If you have a newborn and a toddler, a tandem stroller is the one you should go for; since they have a bigger seat and one which is smaller and is adequate for your newborn.

Cons Of Tandem Strollers

There are also some drawbacks of a tandem stroller that you need to consider before purchasing one. Firstly, if you have twins, a tandem stroller might not be the perfect option for your cute little ones; since the seats have different properties, and managing which baby to place in front and which one in the rear might be difficult.

Also, both seats may not be able to recline fully, depending on the position you decide to use them, which causes a bit of limitation for one of the babies. So which combination you choose plays a vital role in this case.

Furthermore, the basket storage is also limited if you use both seats. Maybe those disadvantages are not a big deal, but always consider them before purchasing in order not to get upset by the results.

Pros Of side-by-Side Strollers

If you are parents of twins, a side-by-side stroller is what you should go for since they have high weight limits for both seats and can accommodate newborns up to toddlers.

Both seats have canopies, so you don’t have to worry whether one of your babies is not protected from the sun. So, this one is a great advantage of a side-by-side stroller. Also, both seats can be reclined fully, and provide maximum comfort to your cute little ones.

In general, side-by-side strollers are made for all-terrain usage, so you can effortlessly move with this stroller on the beach or mountain without any issue.

A side-by-side stroller will also offer good basket storage, and you can put whatever you need for a day out with your babies.

Cons Of Side-by-Side Strollers

If you live in a crowded city, a side-by-side stroller may not be a great idea due to its bigger size. Side-by-side strollers are wider when compared to others, this may cause some difficulties when moving with this stroller since you will need more space.

Generally, side-by-side strollers do not have reversible seats, so your babies won’t be able to see you when you are riding them.

You can use a side-by-side stroller only as a double stroller; you can’t convert it to a single one when it is needed.

They are not as compact as tandem strollers, and even if you fold the stroller, you will need more space to store it since it is a bit bulky.

Also Read: Peg Perego Vs. Uppababy – The Differences

Final Words

Deciding between a tandem stroller and a side-by-side stroller is not easy. There are many things you need to consider. If you are a parent of twins, a side-by-side stroller can be a better idea, but it is wider and takes up a lot of space.

If you are a parent who likes to go out more often and visit different places, then a tandem stroller is what you need. This article was an excellent guide for you, and I am sure you found answers to your questions.

Do not forget to check back since many other articles are on the way!