Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Diono Radian 3R 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
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.70 | 4.58 |
Our Thoughts
The Diono Radian 3R and the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus are both excellent car seat options that prioritize safety, comfort, and space efficiency. Their slim designs are exceptionally useful for families who need to fit multiple car seats in a single row or utilize smaller vehicles.
Firstly, the Diono Radian 3R is renowned for its robust build and versatility. Fitted with a memory foam padding, it provides extra comfort for your child. Its steel frame construction attributes to the high safety ratings it has received, giving assurance of your child's safety throughout your journey. Furthermore, it's a three-in-one car seat that allows for rear-facing, forward-facing, and high-back booster mode, ensuring that this car seat can grow with your child. However, a notable drawback is that some parents found it challenging to install, especially in compact vehicles.
On the other hand, we have the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus. Appreciated for its balance of safety, comfort, and convenience, it features a 12-position adjustable headrest and easy-to-clean machine-washable cover. Additionally, it offers five modes of use including the backless booster mode over the Diono Radian 3R's three modes, giving it an edge regarding versatility and extended use. This model also has an increased maximum weight limit in the rear-facing mode over the Diono Radian 3R, allowing your child to be placed in the safer rear-facing position for longer.
Both seats have been FAA approved for forward-facing and rear-facing modes, making travel more convenient for jet-setting families. However, neither seat is approved for booster modes. It's also worth noting that they both are manufactured with reinforced steel frames, ensuring robust protection in case of a collision.
While both are exceptional options, if budget allows, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus would be the recommended choice. With enhanced safety features including EPS foam for side-impact protection, versatility in use, and higher maximum weight limits, it provides a longer lifespan than the Diono Radian 3R. However, if budget is a concern, rest assured that the Diono Radian 3R still provides reliable safety features and comfort, proving to be a worthy car seat for your child.
Key Details
Radian 3R | Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Brand | Diono | Diono |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.70 | 4.58 |
1 yr Price Range | $155.39 - $199.98 | $259.99 - $349.99 |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value |
![]() Offers a long lifespan and versatile seating options, making it a cost-effective choice over time. |
![]() Offers robust safety features and long-term usability, justifying its price. |
Safety |
![]() Features a steel frame for enhanced safety and reliability, scoring high in safety ratings. |
![]() Steel-reinforced frame and comprehensive protection measures are a standout. |
Features |
![]() Despite its minimalist design, it includes essential features like memory foam padding and a foldable design for travel (converts into a backpack!) |
![]() The 12-position headrest and machine-washable cover add notable convenience. |
Installation |
![]() Installation experiences vary; some find it straightforward, while others face challenges, especially in smaller vehicles. |
![]() Installation and reassembly, especially of the seat cover, are noted as challenging. |
Cleaning |
![]() The seat cover is removable for cleaning, but some users report challenges in maintenance and durability. |
![]() The machine-washable cover is practical, but reinstallation can be cumbersome. |
Size |
![]() Its slim profile is a standout feature, allowing for three-across seating in most cars. |
![]() 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 Diono Radian 3R 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
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Height Range | 0 - 44 inches | 18 - 44 inches |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 4 - 50 pounds |
Forward-facing
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Height Range | 0 - 57 inches | 30 - 57 inches |
Weight Range | 20 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Height Range | 0 - 57 inches | 40 - 57 inches |
Weight Range | 50 - 100 pounds | 40 - 120 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Width | 17.0 inches | 17.0 inches |
Height | 28.5 inches | 28.5 inches |
Depth | 16.0 inches | 16.0 inches |
Weight | 25.9 pounds | 30.6 pounds |
Core Specifications
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Model Year | 2018 | 2018 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Federal Safety Standards | Meets all standards | Meets all standards | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Forward-Facing Rear-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
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NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
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Rear-Facing Mode
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Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Attachment Methods |
LATCH Seatbelt |
LATCH Seatbelt |
Harness Type | 5-Point | 5-Point |
Cup Holders | Has cup holders. | Has cup holders. |
Warranty and Durability
Diono Radian 3R | Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 10 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
See all Diono car seats |
Full review of the Diono Radian 3R Full review of the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ |