Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+.
Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident that you're choosing the optimal car seat for your family's needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions!
At A Glance
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
-
|
Currently unavailable
-
|
Rating | 4.79 | 4.58 |
Our Thoughts
The Chicco NextFit Zip and Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus are both convertible car seats designed to accommodate children as they grow. However, there are some key differences that can significantly impact a parent's decision.
The Chicco NextFit Zip is equipped with features designed for safety and convenience. Ideal for parents seeking a long-lasting, safe, and easy-to-clean solution, it offers rear-facing and forward-facing configurations to accommodate children from infancy through preschool (up to 65 pounds). The seat comes with a SuperCinch LATCH tightener for straightforward installation and a zip-off seat pad for simple maintenance and cleaning. However, some parents reported difficulties with strap management and found it on the bulky side, possibly limiting front-seat legroom in smaller cars. With a maximum weight limit of 40 pounds in the rear-facing configuration and 65 pounds in the forward-facing configuration, it offers a great deal of flexibility in terms of how long your child can use the seat.
When compared, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus stands out due to its slim design, making it particularly well-suited for families with multiple children as it allows for fitting three car seats across in most vehicles. It also offers more safety measures such as a steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam for side-impact protection. Carrying a higher weight limit in the rear-facing configuration than the Chicco NextFit, it accommodates children up to 50 pounds in this mode and up to 65 pounds in the forward-facing mode. The Diono also offers booster modes and accommodates children up to 120 pounds, extending the car seat's usability. The downside is that while it is well-known for its safety features and slim design, it has been criticized for its complex installation and reassembly, particularly after cleaning the cover.
When it comes to selecting the right car seat for your family, both the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus have their merits. If you are looking for a seat that is easy to install and clean, and safety is your critical concern, the Chicco NextFit Zip may be a great choice. On the other hand, if you have multiple children who need to fit in the same row of seats, or if your child is a little older or heavier, the Diono Radian 3RXT might be a better fit. That being said, do take into consideration that the Diono Radian 3RXT could require more patience when it comes to installation and reassembly.
Key Details
NextFit Zip | Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
![]() |
![]() |
|
Brand | Chicco | Diono |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.79 | 4.58 |
1 yr Price Range | $199.81 - $319.99 | $259.99 - $349.99 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
-
|
Currently unavailable
-
|
Value |
![]() Offers extended use with convertible features, justifying its price point. |
![]() Offers robust safety features and long-term usability, justifying its price. |
Safety |
![]() With high sides and a sturdy build, parents feel confident in its protective design. |
![]() Steel-reinforced frame and comprehensive protection measures are a standout. |
Features |
![]() The Zip & Wash seat pad and multiple recline positions add convenience and comfort. |
![]() The 12-position headrest and machine-washable cover add notable convenience. |
Installation |
![]() Equipped with SuperCinch tightener and LockSure belt-tightening system for secure installation. |
![]() Installation and reassembly, especially of the seat cover, are noted as challenging. |
Cleaning |
![]() Zip-off seat pad simplifies maintenance and cleaning. |
![]() The machine-washable cover is practical, but reinstallation can be cumbersome. |
Size |
![]() Fits in compact cars, but its sturdy build may take up more space and limit front passenger legroom. |
![]() Its narrow design is ideal for fitting multiple car seats in a vehicle. |
Review | Click here | Click here |
Comparison of Specifications
While features and reviews provide a sense of real-world use, the specs offer quantifiable details on sizing, limitations, and more. Comparing key measurements and ranges side-by-side is crucial for ensuring you choose a seat properly fitted for your child and vehicle.
We've compiled the weight limits, height limits, dimensions, and other vital statistics for the Chicco NextFit Zip and the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+. This data will confirm whether each seat can accommodate your child's current size and projected growth. Specs like seat depth and width are also important for assessing fit with your car's backseat.
Review the following key measurements for both seats. Pay special attention to the height and weight limits to ensure your child falls within the safe ranges.
Height and Weight Limits
Rear-facing
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 0 - 43 inches | 18 - 44 inches |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 4 - 50 pounds |
Forward-facing
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 0 - 49 inches | 30 - 57 inches |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 40 - 57 inches | |
Weight Range | 40 - 120 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Width | 19.0 inches | 17.0 inches |
Height | 26.0 inches | 28.5 inches |
Depth | 21.0 inches | 16.0 inches |
Weight | 25.0 pounds | 30.6 pounds |
Core Specifications
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Model Year | 2022 | 2018 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
|
Rear-Facing Mode
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Attachment Methods |
LATCH Seatbelt |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders | Has cup holders. | Has cup holders. |
Warranty and Durability
Chicco NextFit Zip | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
---|---|---|
Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 8 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
See all Chicco car seats | See all Diono car seats |
Full review of the Chicco NextFit Zip Full review of the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ |