Chicco NextFit Zip vs. Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+: Which is Better? (2024)

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

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.