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

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

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+
Diono Radian 3R Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
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+
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+
Height Range 0 - 57 inches 30 - 57 inches
Weight Range 20 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3R Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
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+
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+
Model Year 2018 2018
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3R Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
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
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 2 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 2 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 1 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 1 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 1 out of 5 stars
Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 1 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 2 out of 5 stars
Securing 1 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Diono Radian 3R 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

Diono Radian 3R Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
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+