Cybex Balios S is definitely one of the best strollers that came out last year. And now this multi-functional and stylish stroller has new look thanks to new fashion lineup! Here’s why Cybex Balios S 2018/2019 is so awesome.
This is a full-sized everyday stroller, really well quipped, yet very compact and not excessively heavy. It features few seating options (including near-flat recline) to serve parents from birth to toddlerhood. And the best part is the canopy – I’ve never seen such a HUGE canopy!
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Cybex Balios S Review – Stroller Features
This is brand new stroller from Cybex that has hit the market in the Spring 2018. It has modern, minimalist design and it’s made of high-quality materials. For 2019 Cybex Balios S has a new appearance (new colors and fashions added to the lineup). In terms of functionality Balios S 2019 stayed the same.
This all-in-one stroller offers several seating options which make it suitable for newborns and toddlers. It can be used since day one up to about 4 years.
You can find more “infant to toddler” strollers in my ranking of top-quality convertible strollers for 2020.
Let’s take a closer look at the awesome features of Cybex Balios S 2018/2019.
Seat
The regular seat is reversible so your child can face you or the World. Reversing the seat is very easy thanks to memory button. Everything simply clicks into the frame.
There is 3-position recline with near-flat position which make this stroller suitable for smaller and younger infants. To recline the seat you need to use a lever on the back of it, so it is a one-handed system. Very quick and easy.
There is also independently adjustable leg rest, that also has 3 different positions. This stroller has also a step that older and taller children can use as a footrest. Keep in mind, that it’s unadjustable and can be used only when the seat is facing forward.
Another great thing is that Balios S comes with a bumper bar. Many strollers don’t include this accessory and you have to pay extra for it, so it’s a big advantage of Balios S. It rotates and opens from both sides which simplifies putting the baby in and out of the seat.
The regular seat is very roomy and padded with soft fabric. At the first glance you can tell the fabric and craftsmanship are high-quality.
The seat has 5-point harness with easy to adjust straps and smooth buckle in the middle. I also love the padding – it’s so soft and nice to the touch.
There is one more feature worth to mention. The seat is placed pretty high – suitable for eating at the table. So it can be even an alternative for highchair seat!
Seating options for newborns
According to the manufacturer the regular seat can be used from birth (when it’s fully reclined, with leg rest fully raised). To be honest, it’s probably the deepest recline on standard stroller I’ve seen!
However, I would still use additional attachment that provides even more supportive surface and enclosed space. Parents can attach additional newborn cocoon (Cybex offers special one for Balios S) to provide proper support for your newborn’s back, neck and head.
There is also possibility of attaching bassinet or infant car seat to make this stroller perfect for newborns.
Infant car seat compatibility – Cybex Balios S Travel System
There are additional car seat adapters (available separately here) so parents can turn this stroller to a travel system. Cybex Balios S 2018/19 is compatible with Cybex and GB infant car seats. If you want to use this stroller as travel system you need to remove the regular seat and attach the car seat to the frame.
Cot S – Cybex Balios S Pram
Parents can also turn this stroller into a pram with a bassinet called Cot S. It is really big and roomy. There is 2-panel canopy with sun visor and apron that protects infant from sun, wind and rain.
Check the Cot S on PishPosh Baby
This bassinet is also equipped with memory foam mattress that provides the best surface and support for newborn’s back. This is very spacious, comfy and sheltered place for the youngest babies.
Newborn cocoon
The regular seat reclines near-flat but you can add newborn cocoon for better back support. It’s smaller than bassinet Cot S, but provides proper support and completely flat position. This cocoon is also equipped with two covers – one for summer and one for winter, to protect your child from cold and overheating at the same time.
There are openings in the back of the cocoon for the stroller harness. Although it does provide enclosed space for newborn baby, I recommend buckling the child in the harness, mostly because the cocoon doesn’t have long and rigid sides like carrycot.
Ass you can see Cybex Balios S 2018 is truly 3-in-1 stroller and thanks to so many seating options it can be the only stroller that parents would ever need.
Canopy
This is the best feature of Cybex Balios S 2018. It has enormous, truly XXL sun canopy! It extends by unzipping the third panel and there’s also flip out sun visor. It really covers the baby from head to toe! Anyway, see for yourself – the picture below shows fully open canopy, when the seat is reclined.
When you use the canopy in extended 3-panel version, there is a silent, mesh peek-a-boo window so you can check on your little one whenever you want. It also gives nice extra ventilation. This sun hood is made of fabric with UV 50+ protection.
Handlebar
Cybex Balios S 2018 has adjustable push bar which telescopes in and out. There are 4 different setting, so parents of any height can comfortably steer this stroller.
Wheels
This new model from Cybex has all-terrain rubberized wheels. You don’t have to worry about inflating or having flat. The rear ones are bigger, while the front ones are pivoting and can be locked for better stability on rough terrain.
There are visible spring on all wheels which give nice suspension, so you can be sure the ride will be comfortable even on harsher surfaces. You can take this stroller over pavement, cobbled streets, grass or gravel and it will remain sturdy and smooth.
You can see how the suspension works here:
Brake
This model is equipped with a single action brake, located in the middle of the rear axle. It’s sandal-friendly, easy to press and release.
Just keep in mind the pedal is close to the storage basket, so be careful when you press with your foot.
Storage basket
The basket under the seat is really big and capacious. It can easily accommodate large diaper bag and shopping bags. The seat is mounted high so you can fit big and long items in the basket and have easy access to them. The weight limit is about 11 lbs.
Size & Weight
I’m really happy that this full-sized stroller is not clumsy and bulky. Its dimensions are: 31.10” x 23.62” x 39-43.31” (L x W x H), so you won’t have any problems with narrow sidewalks or tight corners.
Cybex Balios S 2018/19 weighs about 24 lbs which is not that big for such a well-equipped and multifunctional stroller. You will be able to carry it up and down the stairs or lift it to the car trunk.
Folding
Folding is two-step, but you can do it using one hand and it takes literally few seconds. You just need to bring the backrest to the front and then push the handlebar down. It’s a piece of cake! And you can do it with the seat attached, both rear and front facing.
The stroller stands on its own when folded and there is also convenient handle so parents can easily carry Balios S between home and car.
Folded stroller is fairly compact, especially if we consider it is a full-sized buggy! Dimensions of folded Balios S are only: 16.14” x 23.62” x 29.53” which simplifies storage and transport. It fits in most of car trunks and doesn’t take much space at home.
Ease of use & overall performance
Balios S is a breeze to push and maneuvers so smoothly! On flat surfaces you can navigate and turn it with one hand!
The wheels and suspension work better than on Balios M and you can actually take this stroller on more difficult terrain (not only city sidewalks).
Pros & Cons
Color versions
For 2019 Cybex Balios S has a new fashion lineup and parents have a really vast choice.
There is a standard collection that still includes Denim Blue, Manhattan Grey and Lavastone Black from last year (with black frame and black handles), as well as two new colors: Fancy Pink and Tropical Blue. I must tell you, I love the melange fabrics!
In 2019 Cybex offers also Denim collection that includes Denim Blue, Manhattan Grey and Lavastone Black with silver frame and brown handles.
There are many more colors for fashion-oriented moms. Fashion collection includes 4 models: Respect, Love, Trust and Strength, while Cybex for SCUDERIA FERRARI collection includes: Victory Black and Racing Red models.
You can see some of the color versions of Cybex Balios 2019 below.
Keep in mind that each color may have different price, so make sure to check it before you decide to purchase this stroller (see which colors are currently available on Amazon or on PishPosh).
Accessories
| Image | Description |
|---|---|
 | Cot S – This is one option for parents who want to use Cybex Balios S from birth. It provides spacious, comfortable and sheltered place for newborns. |
 | Cybex Cocoon S– Since Balios S seat reclines almost fully flat you can simply add the cocoon and the stroller is suitable for newborn baby! Cocoon S gives extra support for newborn’s head and neck and provides enclosed space for sleeping baby. Cybex Cocoon S is also compatible with Cybex Eezy S Twist! |
 | Footmuff – Useful accessory for those you live in colder area or just like winter strolls. |
 | Kid Board – Perfect solution for older sibling. Thanks to it your older kid can also have a ride when he get tired of walking. |
 | Rain cover – If you live in area where it rains often, it is a must have. You can keep this useful shield in a storage basket, just in case. |
 | Organizer – Although the storage bin is really spacious, many parents likes to have this additional organizer to keep their essentials at hand. |
There are also other accessories which allow parents to customize their Cybex Balios S. There is a snack tray, cup holder, adapters for infant car seats, parents gloves and changing bag. You can check more additional accessories here.
Cybex Balios S – Release Date & Pricing
Cybex Balios S has been released on the market in Spring 2018, while the new colors and fashions have been added for 2019.
As for such a multi-purpose stroller it’s not super expensive (it’s not cheap either, but it’s less pricey than Priam, Mios and cheaper than other strollers like UPPAbaby CRUZ and VISTA). You can check the current price of Cybex Balios S 2018/19 on Amazon – just click here. You can also find this stroller in PishPosh Baby store.
If you’re feeling like this stroller doesn’t meet your expectations, you can also check out my ranking with other amazing strollers.
Cybex Balios S Review – Conclusion
Keep in mind
This is an everyday full-sized stroller, so it’s heavier and bigger than lightweight travel strollers. For example it’s heavier than Cybex Eezy S Twist. It’s still quite compact, but doesn’t fit in overhead compartment on airplanes.
3 Reasons Why You Will Love Cybex Balios S 2018/19
| 1. This stroller has the biggest canopy ever! It provides full coverage, but you don’t have to worry about the ventilation. Mesh window gives extra air-flow. Thanks to these features you can be sure your child is well protected from the harmful sun rays and overheating at the same time. 2. It has every feature that parents may need: all-terrain wheels, large storage basket, adjustable telescoping handlebar – all to provide convenient and easy use. It won’t let you down during shopping, running errands, off-road cruising and road trips. 3. It has many seating options suitable for newborns and toddlers – it can be your primary and only stroller. My rate: |
Pictures with the sign www.littlebabygear.com were taken by me. Other pictures belong to Cybex (source: https://cybex-online.com/en/pushchairs/balioss.html & https://store.cybex-online.com/itm/cybex-collections/cybex-gold-values-for-life/balios-s-values-for-life.html)
| Your trust is really important to me: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to buy something using these links, I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me run this blog. Thank you so much 🖤 Zooey |
Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂
Hi. Can the Cybex Balios be converted to a double stroller?
No, it’s a single stroller only. If you need expandable stroller, check out Cybex Gazelle S 🙂
Hi I use the Balios S for my baby and love it. Great on roads and bumpy suburban sidewalks. It manages fine off-roading if I’m not going terribly far. I love it. Love the big sunshade and the recline, and the big basket. I love the one handed closure function. It isn’t intuitive but I’ve never seen a stroller that was, and once you learn how to do it it is easy as pie.
Cons: the cup holder Is fine for cans ora phone but tips if there is a tall thing in it like iced tea. And it usually comes off when stroller gets folded.
In the summer the cushy well padded seat makes baby pretty sweaty on her back. But she didn’t complain.
All in all I love it.
Hi Addy, thank you so much for sharing your experience with Balios S! I’m glad it’s working well for you 🙂
BTW, for summer I sometimes add a separate seat liner made of a more breathable fabric. You can find lots of universal seat liners that are not super expensive. It helps to keep the baby from sweating and it’s quick to detach and machine-washable. It’s easier to keep it clean and fresh than a seat fabric. 🙂
Take care!
Hi Zooey,
In terms of seat height is the Balios S higher in comparison with other strollers, i.e. Bugaboo Fox? I read somewhere that is perfectly aligned with the average table height (31.5 inches) so that it can be used on the go as a mobile child seat in restaurants, is this correct or not?
Also, does the Cot S or Cocoon come with summer fabrics included or is it separate?
Hi Christina,
Yes Balios S may be used instead of a high chair when you’re in a restaurant as the seat is mounted higher than on standard strollers. Fox has a high seat too, about 24″ from the ground.
Not sure what did you mean by summer fabrics.. The Cocoon has 2in1 apron, you can unsnap the cozy “winter” layer to reveal thiner “summer” layer.
Hi,
Does the Cloud Z fit on the Balios S Lux? Do I need additional adapters?
Thanks
Hi,
I have purchased balios s and I am wondering if cloud q is compatible? If not, may I know what models of car seat is compatible with balios s?
Hey Brian!
Balios S is compatible with all Cybex infant car seats that have capacity of 4-35 lbs (Aton, Aton 2, Aton M, Aton Q, Cloud Q).
Hi, thanks for you review. I need to buy a raincover for the balios s. Would you know if the raincover for the balios m would fit? and do I need a seperate raincover for the cot s? Both my balios s and cot s came without the raincover. (not in usa)
Hi,
There is a separate cover for the Balios S and the Cot S: https://store.cybex-online.com/itm/accessoires/pushchair-accessoires/cybex/balios-s-accessoires/raincover-cot-s.html
https://store.cybex-online.com/itm/accessoires/pushchair-accessoires/cybex/balios-s-accessoires/raincover-balios-s.html
Do only the cybex car seats fit with the Balios chassis or can I buy any other brand car seat?
GB, Maxi Cosi and Clek are compatible too 🙂
Hello,
Great review I just wanted to clarify the accessories INCLUDED with purchase of the Balios S are:
1. Cup Holder
2. Rain Cover
3. Car Seat Adapters (these adapters will work with Cybex, gb, Clek, and Maxi Cosi infant car seats) If someone lost their adapters then you can get an additional set as a separate purchase.
The Cocoon S, and Cot S are compatible with the Balios S as well, sold separately
The Previous Model BALIOS M is discontinued here in the US, however is only compatible with M-LINE stroller products (i.e. Cot M, M line adapters)
Thank you 🙂
Hi does the cybex cloud z fit onto the balios m? Do I buy cloud z adapters or balios m adaptors. Thanks.
Hi Emma,
Yes, Cloud Z fits onto Balios M stroller. You need adapters – there is just one type of adapters for Balios M that connect the stroller and infant car seat. However, this stroller has been discontinued and it may be quite difficult to get these adapters. I found them on Amazon (here), but you need to check if they are available in your location.
Hello! Do you know what material of handlebar is better and will last longer…. the black foam or the brown faux leather?
I am trying to buy the black Balios S, but cannot decide between the all black (w/ foam) or Denim black (w/ leather)…. I love them both, I just want the one that will last longer.
Thank you so much for your help!!
Hey! I would go for the leather cover.
PS – if you want the Denim black with brown leather, there is a Black Friday sale on PishPosh Baby and this exact color (it’s called Lavastone Black) is 20% off. Just wanted to let you know 🙂
Hi Zooey!
I’ve noticed (and read) that the calf rest gets stuck in the basket when unfolding the stroller. Do you think that in the long run and after daily use I will have some problem with that (ex. breaking the calf rest)???
It’s a serious con for me….
Also, I have a rather small car boot. Will it fit??
Thank you in advance.
Hi!
I’m not sure how small is your car trunk, so it would be best if you could compare it with Balios S fold dimensions (16.14” x 23.62” x 29.53”).
Regarding the calf rest getting stuck – I didn’t have those problems, but that’s true there are some online reviews that mention the fold mechanism for the whole stroller or the seat only got broken after a few months. It’s really hard to tell if all models have that issue or if it was a few faulty strollers… I can’t predict how yours is going to work, I can only tell you that folding mechanism is a bit tricky and you need to carefully follow some steps to fold the stroller properly. If the mechanism gets stuck, don’t force it, try again – it should work smoothly. If you force it and push the handlebar hard then the mechanism may broke. I found this useful video on Youtube that shows exactly how to fold the stroller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Dqy5EPEREY
Hi, good morning, Do you know if you can use de carry cot M with the Balios S? I see the Balios S comes with an adapters.
Thank you
Hey Raul, Cot M works with Balios M, Cot S works with Balios S. The adapters that Balios S includes are for the infant car seat.
Take care
Hi Zooey,
Can the Balios S be coverted to a double stroller?
Hi Toni,
Balios S is just a single stroller, it doesn’t expand to a double one.
Hi! I walk on a paved trail a few days a week. Do you think I would need to purchase a jogging stroller in addition to the balios s?
Hi! If it’s not very bumpy or cracked you should be fine 🙂 But keep in mind this stroller is only for walking, not jogging. If you want a stroller for running and something that handles all bumps etc. then a jogging stroller would be a great addition, you don’t even have to spend a lot of money to get a good one. For example Joovy Zoom 360 is an inexpensive option and great for all kinds of terrain. For pavement and slightly uneven surfaces Balios should be great.
Hi Zooey! I dont find this info anywhere; is it possible to use the balios s sun canopy on a balios m stroller? Or a sun canpy from cybex mios (guess not though it seems so much smaller) I would be so greatful for your answer..
Hi! I don’t think the canopies are interchangeable – they have different width.
Hi is Cybex balios S compatible with Kiddy evoluna i-size 2 car seat please?
Hi Jemma,
No, it’s compatible only with Cybex and GB car seats.
Hi,
I tried a Balios S in a shop and my impression was that the handlebar was squeaking a bit when moving it.
Did you have the same impression?
Thanks
Hi Peter,
I didn’t have any problems with the handlebar, it felt stable and was not squeaking at all.
Hi Zooey,
I am wondering if there are only aesthetic differences between the Priam and the Bailios S? I guess the material is nicer with the Priam – but are there any functionalities that are better on the Priam?
Also, is it possible to put the PRIAM LUX Carry Cot on the frame of the Bailios?
Thank you!
Hi!
Yes, there are a few differences between Priam and Balios S in terms of functionality.
-Priam has huge storage basket which can hold more stuff than Balios basket.
-Priam offers 2-wheel beach mode so you can easily pull the stroller over sandy beach – it’s a very useful solution
-Priam front wheels can be replaced with ski attachment which make the stroller easy to push through snow.
-Priam has calf rest with feet rest for the baby – while Balios S has only a calf rest
Balios S has its own carry cot – called Cot S. Priam Lux Carry Cot is designed for Priam.
Take care 🙂
Hi is Balios s and Mios compatible with nuna pipa car seat? Also why is the Balios s way cheaper that Mios?
Hi Ofelia,
Mios is a celebrity stroller, you pay for the luxurious design and some features that are rare on lightweight stroller. Mios (and Priam) is Cybex Platinum collection stroller, while Balios S is gold collection stroller. Mios is more luxurious, it’s design is very lightweight, yet it’s very robust and strong enough to hold a full-sized bassinet for newborn baby – something that other lightweight strollers cannot do. Besides, Mios offers flat recline, if you add a Lite Cot and use it from birth. As the Mios design is more advanced – this stroller can be folded with Lite Cot. What’s also pretty unique about this lightweight stroller is that it has reversible seat and it is compatible with Cybex car seats. Again, not many lightweight strollers offer these features. Its seat is also luxurious and features mesh back and adjustable leg rest – another rare features among lightweight strollers.
Mios is a more “fancy” stroller than Balios S, there are 4 color options for the frame and multiple colors and patterns for the seat and canopy, including some very fashionable and luxury ones. All of these features make it super pricey.
Balios S is also very well equipped but it’s design and fabrics are less luxury. They are very nice to the touch and look gorgeous though!
Both these strollers offer adapters for Cybex and GB infant car seats, but since Nuna car seat has similar design, the adapters work with standard Nuna Pipa too, although it may be quite hard to remove this car seat from the adapters. Keep in mind that Cybex didn’t test Balios S with Nuna car seat, it just happen to have similar design and fit the adapters, but the safety of this was not tested by the brand.
Hello, I understand the Balios S is compatible with Cybex infant car seats. Do you know which ones exactly? Thanks!
Hi! It’s compatible with all Cybex infant car seats that have capacity of 4-35 lbs (Aton, Aton 2, Aton M, Aton Q, Cloud Q)
Hi. Could you tell me what material the handle bar is covered in please? Is it foam or a leathertte? Thanks
Hi Amy,
It depends on the color actually, some versions (like the one I tested) have rubberized handlebar, newest models have leatherette cover.
Hi Zooey, are the still making the Balios M or is Balios S taking over as they seem to have bought more colours out, is there much difference between the two please.
Hi Rachel! I think that Balios M is discontinued. Balios S is like an improved version – it has better suspension, better wheels that can handle more types of terrain and roll smoother. It has also a bit different seat – the backrest reclines to near flat position and leg rest goes up so you can create a flat position for your infant. And if you add a cocoon you won’t even need a bassinet to use it from birth!
Hi! How wide is the seat? At first view it seams a little tiny for toddlers > 1,5-2 years old. Is that?
Tks!
Hi Fernanda! Balios S seat is about 12″ wide. It’s pretty standard among modern convertible strollers (for example UPPAbaby VISTA has the same dimension).
I would say it’s okay even up to 3 years.
Hi Zooey,
Is it possible to fold the Bios S with the cocoon attached?
Hi Emily!
Yes, it is, but it would be really tight. If you fold it like that for a long period, the cocoon may loose its shape.
Hello, I’m undecisive between Balios S and Mios. What’s the seat height of both and how about if comparing the stability and smoothness overall.
What’d you recommend?
Hi!
Mios seat is about 23″ tall, Balios S – 20″ (both have a few inches above it, to the top of the canopy).
Mios is rather a lightweight stroller for city use, the wheels are small and best for flat terrain. It’s 5.5 lbs lighter than Balios. Both strollers feel sturdy, but of course on more bumpy terrain Balios S will perform better thanks to large rear wheels. It pushes easily and the ride is really smooth.
As I wrote in previous comment – “if the weight is important for you and you’ll often carry the stroller up and down the stairs or put it in and out of the car trunk everyday, Mios may be a better solution. But if you need a stroller that is suitable for more types of terrain than just smooth sidewalks and pavement, go for Balios S”
Hi, i want to buy footmuff for cybex balios S, but there is not special one. Which model footmuff is suitable for balios S?
Hi Slavka! I found on Cybex website this footmuff: https://store.cybex-online.com/itm/accessoires/pushchair-accessoires/cybex/balios-s-accessoires/footmuff-values-for-life.html unfortunately it seems like this version is the only one available right now.
You can also check at Amazon universal footmuffs that suit most of the strollers (like this one) – they are much cheaper.
What are the pros and cons between the carrycot and the cocoon?
There doesn’t appear to be a huge price between the two and I’m struggling to see why you would choose the cocoon over the more sturdy bassinet?
Hi!
I think the cocoon is good choice for parents who don’t have much free space at home and storing the bassinet would be difficult. Cocoon is lighter and smaller. You attach it onto the regular seat and it doesn’t make stroller more ‘bulky’. You can transport it in the car trunk much easier than the bassinet – which is not foldable and may not even fit in some car trunks, together with the stroller frame. It’s also good option if you know that during the first few month you won’t be going for long and frequent strolls with your newborn baby.
So I think the cocoon major pros are: easy storing and transportation, portability, and of course lower price (it’s about $70 cheaper – for some parents it may be a deal breaker).
The bassinet on the other hand, is better choice if you want to go for long-distance strolls with your newborn. It’s more roomy. It also protects the baby from sun and wind better. The installation seems easier – you just remove the main seat and click-in the bassinet. With cocoon it’s a bit more complicated – you need to attach it onto the seat and put the harness straps through the holes in the cocoon.
Thanks for much!
That makes a lot of sense. I hadn’t considered the ease of storage/transport aspect.
We’d been thinking of the cocoon due to the lower price, but when we checked on the UK version of amazon there’s not as big a price differential between the two as in the US – the cot is usually only around $30-40 more expensive but in some colours it’s actually cheaper than the cocoon.
I guess in the end it’s only going to get used for 6 months or so and we just need to decide what’s the best compromise for us.
Thanks again!
Hi
Is the carrycot designed to rock slightly when on the wheels?
Hi Pauline, it doesn’t rock.
Hi Zoey
Thanks for awesome review!
I can decide between the balios s and priam. We don’t have balios s in australia so inwould have to order it from ebay. Now I would like to now if balios s has a larger storage capacity of the basket and if it is easier accessible as it looks than on the priam? Also when folded is it much more compact than priam? I would also like to know if there is a big difference in the seat size and height? Thanks a lot
Hi Mia! Sorry for late reply.
1. Storage baskets on Priam and Balios S have the same capacity (5kg / 11lbs). I love how easily accessible the Balios basket is. Even when the seat is fully reclined you can take your stuff in and out of it (from the back) without any problems, as there are no bars or anything that would block the access. You can also access the basket from the front when the footrest is lifted up.
Storage basket on Priam looks smaller because it is closed – it has triangle shape. But the rear part of it expands (it closes with magnets) and it can accommodate bigger diaper bag as well. But because of that design, the access is a bit more difficult in my opinion. If you want to put something bigger in the basket you need to pull the fabric on the back of it first.
2. Balios S has more compact fold – Priam is about 8 inches higher (I compared both stroller with the regular seat attached). I think the difference is significant if you don’t have a lot of space at home or in a car trunk.
3. The seat is slightly bigger on Priam. It’s about 2 inches wider and the seat back is 3-4 inches taller.
I hope it helps, take care 🙂
Hi Zooey,
We need your help.
Could you tell me exactly what do you do to close this stroller?
I am not sure if ours has a problem or if it’s us but it’s difficult to close it. Sometimes is very smooth but most of the times it gets stuck in one of the sides and it doesn’t close.
What is your feeling? Does it happen to you as well? What is your secret?
This stroller is great! I really love it. Only have this problem that I really want to fix to be my perfect stroller 🙂
Many thanks
Hi Iris. Folding takes a bit practice but it definitely shouldn’t be hard. Fold the stroller when the parking brake is engaged. First, you need to fold the seat – lift the buckle behind the canopy and fold the seat forward (it should fold in half). Then you need to use these two buttons on the handlebar. First slide the top button to the side and while you hold it in that position, push the bottom button. I use my right thumb to slide the top button and other fingers to push the other button, I sometimes help myself with other hand as well, if it’s stiff.
And while you hold these two buttons in that position, push the handlebar a bit forward and down at the same time, as if you were pushing the whole stroller forward. The handlebar should go all the way down, until you hear a click (the lock will engage automatically). It’s important to hold these two buttons when folding the frame. Maybe you release them too quickly and the mechanism gets stuck?
Sometimes when the stroller doesn’t close completely (and the lock doesn’t engaged), I lift it with the carry handle and use my knee to push and squeeze the stroller more tightly.
The buttons may be stiff at the beginning and it takes some time to get used to this mechanism. But it should go smoothly on both sides. Try it few times, if it still get stuck on one side, it may be faulty.
Have you watch Cybex video? Maybe it will be helpful: https://youtu.be/6tCUDxpGxz4?t=1m54s
Hello Zooey,
could I please have wheels dimensions in cm?
Hi Enela! The front wheels are about 17cm, the rear ones are 27cm.
Hello Zooey,
Balio S and M are very similar from what I have read. Could you tell me what are the main difference please?
If I were to get the Cacoon for newborn, does my baby need to wear any harness or can it move freely within like using a carry cot?
Thanks.
Gina, the main difference between Balios S and M is that Balios S can handle more types of terrain like gravel or cobblestone and provides smoother ride. The suspension works better on this model and your baby won’t feel shocks so much 🙂 Balios M works best as city stroller, on flat surfaces like pavement and sidewalks.
In contrast to bassinet (Cot S), the Cocoon S doesn’t have rigid construction. It is enclosed, provide flat, supportive surface and newborn baby is sheltered in it, but I would recommend using it with harness to keep baby secured. There are special openings in the back of the cocoon for the stroller harness. You attach the cocoon onto the normal seat in fully reclined position – check how it looks in the video posted by Cybex (it shows the Eezy S Twist stroller, but the cocoon is the same): https://youtu.be/pKq_tPuQ36A?t=3m19s
Let me know if you need more information 🙂
I forgot to mention one more important difference! 🙂 Balios M has bucket-style seat, so when you recline it the whole seat goes back. It doesn’t offer flat position and baby’s legs are always bent at knees. Balios S has different seat, where the backrest reclines independently, into near-flat position and you can lift up the footrest so the whole seat is flat (check my pictures above) 🙂
Hi Zooey,
How do you feel the balios s compares with the cybex mios?
Thank you,
Chelsey
Hi Chelsey! Mios is more like a lightweight stroller with seating options for newborn baby (carrycot and infant car seat) and it has rather small wheels (which make it very agile and awesome for tight urban spaces), while Balios S is full-sized convertible stroller. It’s 5.5 lbs heavier than Mios (but still it’s not super heavy, lifting it is totally doable). Balios S has also a little bit bigger fold (because it’s about 4.5” wider). It has also bigger rear wheels which make it more suitable for different types of terrain and it can go over bumps and uneven ground like grass or gravel. Mios is designed rather for flat, smooth terrain, it’s a perfect urban stroller. Balios S has also bigger basket under the seat, if that’s important for you. Other features are similar: reversible seat, compatibility with infant car seat, option of attaching carrycot, all-wheel suspension, large canopy.
So if the weight is important for you and you’ll often carry the stroller up and down the stairs or put it in and out of the car trunk everyday, Mios may be a better solution. But if you need a stroller that is suitable for more types of terrain than just smooth sidewalks and pavement, go for Balios S 🙂
I really like the cybex range. I’m looking for a complete travel set, baby is due September ’18. I was set on a Priam but like the compact size of the new Balios S. I can’t work out which would be better if the Balios S is suitable from birth?
Hi Georgina! Balios S is actually suitable from birth. The regular seat reclines almost flat (it’s only few degrees from flat) so if you add an infant insert (Balios Cocoon S or any other insert) you will be able to put your newborn there 🙂 You can also use it with the carrycot or attach infant car seat. I think the functions and versatility are similar for Balios S and Priam but the former one is a bit lighter and has more compact fold which is really useful if you are going to put it in and out of the car trunk often or don’t have that much free space at home. And it’s much cheaper!
Hi Zooey,
Can the carry cot be used for as a travel overnight cot? Is it breathable?
Hi Gina! There aren’t any mesh windows, but of course you can fold the canopy and detach the apron to give your baby better air-flow. The material is quite breathable. I would recommend it for naps during the day when you can keep an eye on your baby, rather than overnight sleeping 🙂 Unfortunately there are no information if the Cot S was tested and approved for overnight sleeping.
Hi,
thanks for the review.
We are hesitating between Balios M and Balios S. Main concern is our elevator, we want to be sure it fit in lenght, when equipped with the the cocoon.
Would you have minimum overall lenght for Balios S with the coocon Cot S (and maybe Balios M / Cot M also) ?
Hi Laurent, Balios S is about 88-90 cm long when you attach the bassinet, Balios M is about 102 cm long.
thanks a lot ! Looks like Balios S is the right choice for us. Hope it will be available soon enough in France 😉
Hi, could I please have seat dimensions in cm, Height, width, depth for the Balios s and the Eezy S Twist as want to make sure my
Toddler is comfortable as she is too small for abuggy that is meant to last until
She’s 3. Thank you
Hi Alice. The dimensions of Cybex Balios S seat: The seat is about 49 cm long, 30 cm wide, 23 cm deep. The calf rest is about 20 cm long.
I haven’t had the chance to measure Eezy S Twist, when I get mine I will definitely add this info 🙂
Do you have any idea where we can buy a newborn cot for balios s?
I got info from cybex the cocoon will not be available until June btw
Hi Petya, thanks for the information. Cot S for Cybex Balios S is not available on Amazon yet (I think it will be very soon), however you can already buy the carrycot for example on Pishposh.
Great review!! Do you happen to have the dimensions of the Cot S?
Hello! Thank you 🙂 The external dimensions are about: 34.6 x 16.1 x 9.8 inches, the internal dimensions are: 30.3 x 12.6 x 8.3 inches.
Hi! Does car seat adapters of Balios S support Maxi-Cosi Pebble?
Hi Cindy! Currently there are only adapters designed for Cybex and GB car seats.
Actually, I am unable to find any adapters for balios s whatsoever…. I do not think they are produced just yet
Petya, this stroller and accessories for it are available in some online stores (not on Amazon yet though). Cybex is a German brand, maybe that’s why these products are available in the US a bit later 🙂 I found adapter for Balios S (that connects GB and Cybex car seats) on Pishposh.
I have also received information from Cybex that this adapter is designed to work with GB and Cybex infant car seats, but it might be compatible with other brands (like Maxi Cosi) as well. However you would have to check it in one of the retailers stores, if the adapter connects the car seat properly.
But if you’d ask for my opinion, I wouldn’t use this adapter with other car seat brands. It was tested with GB and Cybex car seats and only with these car seats you can be sure everything fits properly and your baby is safe. I would recommend matching it with one of these car seats 🙂
Could you please tell a bit more in details about infant insert or newborn cocoon from Cybex? I could not find them
Hi! I don’t have any new information. When Cybex presented Balios S for the first time last year there was information that the stroller could be used with the newborn cocoon as well, but I checked on their official website and it’s not on the market. Maybe they decided not to release it on the market… Anyway, I will let you know if the newborn cocoon is for sale.
Hello Zooey,
Is the Balios S wider than the Balios M?
Hi Mei, Balios S is slightly wider than Balios M – about 0.4 inch (1 cm).