The Maclaren Techno Arc is an updated version of the beloved Techno model. Just like the Quest Arc, it has a single adjustable handlebar instead of double handles. The canopy was also completely redesigned and now provides even more coverage and air ventilation.
They’ve also added memory foam to the leg rest for more comfort. Finally, the front wheels are now single instead of double. Everything else stayed the same.
It still features a roomy seat, one-hand full recline suitable for a newborn, a 55 lbs weight limit, a nice basket, adjustable leg rest, and additional storage.
The 6″ wheels together with all-wheel suspension provide a smooth ride. Despite all the upgrades the Techno Arc weighs stayed the same around 15 lbs. There is still no travel system option, but you can use the seat to create a newborn-safe cocoon-like environment or get a carrycot that inserts into the seat. The included head hugger and shoulder pads will provide additional comfort.
This buggy comes in two colors and retails for around $420 which is more expensive than the older version. I think it’s a great stroller, but the price is higher than I would like to see. If you don’t want to spend that much on an umbrella stroller, you can take a look at the Maclaren Quest Arc which costs only $345 and is almost identical to Techno Arc except for the smaller 5″ wheels.
BTW, I don’t understand the logic behind having so many similar models with the same features. Why would you create Techno Arc when Quest Arc is almost the same except for the wheels?
Another thing that is puzzling to me is why there is so little information on Maclaren’s site. There is no information about adjustable handlebars on Arc models. And where is the information about the wheel size or the folded dimensions?
It’s like they are trying to keep it a secret. I looked at their comparison chart and many features are listed incorrectly … I don’t even know what to say about that. Anyway, here is my full review below.
Buy Maclaren Techno Arc Stroller »
CANOPY
The previous model had a great canopy, but the 2019 one is even better. It has two large waterproof UPF 50+ panels, a sunvisor that can tucked away when not needed, plus a third zipped-in panel for even more coverage.
Your little passenger will be fully protected from the sun. The zipped-in panel has two mesh windows for better airflow. There is also a large peekaboo window on top with a magnetic closure (no noisy Velcro). The location of the peekaboo window has been definitely improved.
HANDLEBAR
Yes, it’s one handlebar! For years Techno model had two adjustable handlebars, but now they have a single adjustable handlebar that goes from 40″ to 42″ from the ground. You can easily have your coffee in one hand and push it with the other.
SEAT
The roomy seat has four recline positions including a flat one suitable for a newborn. It can accommodate a child from birth and up to 55 lbs. It’s always nice to see a lever recline system that requires only one hand instead of the annoying strap system like on most umbrella models.
Notice how wide the sides of the seat are inside. Many umbrella models have very narrow sides that offer no support at all and it looks like kids have to balance on the seat with every bump.
The seat is 13″ wide with an 18″ seat back and a measurement of 27″ from the back of the seat to the top of the canopy. This is one of the tallest canopies on the market! Even a tall toddler will fit without any problems. The seat fabric is removable and machine washable.
Another cool feature of the seat is a newborn safety foot barrier which is hidden underneath the adjustable legrest. It attaches to both sides of the frame and prevents your newborn baby from sliding out.
The previous Quest model also had the foot net but it also had a so-called head barrier that would prevent the baby from sliding out at the top of the seat.
The footrest is adjustable with two positions: up and down. Smaller babies will be able to stretch their little legs and take a comfortable nap.
It has a very nice thick adjustable 5-point harness with a center release buckle. To unlock the buckle you need to push it in the front and the back at the same time which is hard to do for a toddler but very easy for a parent.
The straps are thick and durable (most umbrella models have thin straps). Unlike Quest Arc, Techno Arc comes with shoulder pads and head support (not pictured) for added comfort.
STORAGE
There is a small storage pocket in the back of the seat that you can use for small essentials.
BASKET
It’s a decent size basket that can fit your medium bag. I wouldn’t say it’s ‘oversized’ like Maclaren does on their site, but I guess it depends on what you comparing it to. Umbrella strollers are known for their crappy baskets, so this one is not that bad. It’s still hard to access from the back because of the crossbar.
BRAKE
The brake stayed the same. It has foot-operated linked parking brakes that are not flip-flop friendly.
WHEELS
It rolls on 6″ hard rubber wheels that are double in the back and single in the front. The front wheels are swivel but can be locked straight. While the wheels are not large, the maneuverability is AMAZING!
It can easily tackle busy streets, uneven pavement, playground mulch, and grass. The all-wheel suspension definitely helps to smooth out the bumps.
FOLD/UNFOLD
Despite having a single handlebar it still has the same umbrella fold. It is a one-hand one-foot sort of fold that has three steps. They do advertise it as a one-hand fold, but you probably wouldn’t do it with just one hand because to engage the automatic lock you have to bend all the way down to the ground which will be difficult with a child in your hands.
The folded dimensions are 41.3″ x 9.4″ x 11″. And because it weighs only 15 lbs you can easily throw it on your shoulder. Btw, there is a carry handle and a shoulder strap for easy transportation.
TRAVEL SYSTEM
There is no travel system option on this one.
INCLUDED ITEMS
Comes with a rain cover, a run-away strap, shoulder pads, and a head hugger.
Cons
- Very high price. Almost $420 is a lot for an umbrella stroller. The good news is that this one should last you for years and multiple kids. I always say you get what you paid for.
- No travel system option. The competition is tough these days and many other umbrella models have a travel system option. I guess they decided not to bother with it because most parents buy umbrella models after 6 months (that’s when you are already fed up with carrying around that huge travel system stroller and want to downsize to something lighter)
Specs
Stroller weight: 15 lbs
Weight limit: 55 lbs
Folded dimensions: 41.3″ x 9.4″ x 11″
Handlebar height: 42″
Seat to canopy height: 27″
Wheels: 6″
Overall length: 39.4″
Overall width: 18.9″
Warranty
Maclaren provides a LIFETIME warranty from the original date of purchase and you have to be the original owner.
Available colors
This stroller is available in three color combinations: charcoal, and black.
Where to buy it
You can get Maclaren Techno Arc in three beautiful colors for around $420 on Amazon (free shipping/free return and no sales tax). It comes with a rain cover, a run-away strap, shoulder pads, and a head hugger.
Is the peekaboo window on the hood mesh or plastic? If it’s plastic, is there mesh venting in the hood anywhere?
Hello! I have a tall toddler and looking for a lightweight stroller. I thought the Quest ARC would be perfect but the seat back is to short/he cant rest his head. Our existing travel/lightweight stroller is the City Mini….and he fits great in that. On the Amazon site it says the Techno seat back is 23inches…you say 18 here…any idea the difference? THANKS! Kristin
Thanks for this review. It’s really usefull!
Just a question.: which is the difference between Quest arc and Techno arc referring to the height? My wife size is 1,55 m tall and we are thinking of buying the Techno arc.
Thank you in advance!