Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Diono Radian 3R and the Graco Extend2Fit.
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 | Graco Extend2Fit | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Current price |
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating | 4.70 | 4.79 |
Our Thoughts
The Diono Radian 3R and the Graco Extend2Fit are both convertible car seats renowned for their robust safety features and long-lasting versatility. They are designed to grow with your child, offering various seating configurations: rear-facing, forward-facing, and as a high-back booster.
The Diono Radian 3R stands out with its slim profile, making it a great option for smaller vehicles or for those looking to fit three seats across. This sturdy seat features a steel frame construction that ensures your child's safety. Additionally, it provides comfortable memory foam padding and the convenience of a foldable design for travel. Despite these great features, some parents have reported challenges with installation in compact cars and with the removal and cleaning of the seat cover. The lack of head support in certain positions might also raise concerns for some.
On the other hand, the Graco Extend2Fit particularly impresses with its high weight limits for rear-facing mode, allowing children to remain in this safer position longer than in other comparable seats. This seat also features a removable and machine-washable cover. However, some users find it difficult to remove the cover, and many have noted that the harness can be quite challenging to tighten. Moreover, the Extend2Fit is noticeably bulkier than the Radian 3R and might not be the best fit for smaller vehicles.
When it comes to weight limitations, the Extend2Fit has a higher maximum weight for rear-facing mode at 50 pounds compared to the Radian 3R, which maxes out at 40 pounds. This could be a deciding factor if you prefer to keep your child in the rear-facing position for as long as possible. If forward-facing mode is what you're considering, both seats have a similar maximum weight limit. However, when used as a high-back booster, the Radian 3R outperforms Extend2Fit with its higher weight limit of 100 pounds versus Extend2Fit's 65-pound limit.
For airplane travel, both seats have FAA approval for forward and rear-facing configurations but do take note that the Diono Radian 3R specifically mentions that it is not FAA approved for high back booster mode.
In choosing between these two seats, consider your specific needs. If you're working with limited space or need to fit multiple seats, the slim design of the Diono Radian 3R might be a better fit for you, especially if you want a seat that will last into the booster phase. However, if your main concern is to keep your child in the rear-facing position for as long as possible, the Graco Extend2Fit offers a higher weight limit for this mode and provides additional legroom. Additionally, the Extend2Fit is typically priced lower than the Diono Radian 3R, which might make it a more appealing choice for budget-conscious families.
Key Details
Radian 3R | Extend2Fit | |
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Brand | Diono | Graco |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.70 | 4.79 |
1 yr Price Range | $155.39 - $199.98 | $199.99 - $210.69 |
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. |
![]() The Extend2Fit's competitive pricing paired with its long lifespan and adaptability offers remarkable value for parents. |
Safety |
![]() Features a steel frame for enhanced safety and reliability, scoring high in safety ratings. |
![]() With a reinforced steel frame and high weight limits for rear-facing, it exceeds typical safety standards. |
Features |
![]() Despite its minimalist design, it includes essential features like memory foam padding and a foldable design for travel (converts into a backpack!) |
![]() The 4-position leg extension and Simply Safe Adjust harness system are standout features. |
Installation |
![]() Installation experiences vary; some find it straightforward, while others face challenges, especially in smaller vehicles. |
![]() While installation is generally straightforward, some parents report difficulty in tightening the harness. |
Cleaning |
![]() The seat cover is removable for cleaning, but some users report challenges in maintenance and durability. |
![]() The seat cover is challenging to remove, and the tiny hooks are not easily accessible. |
Size |
![]() Its slim profile is a standout feature, allowing for three-across seating in most cars. |
![]() The seat is bulkier than some of its counterparts, which may be a consideration for smaller vehicles. |
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 Graco Extend2Fit. 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 | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Height Range | 0 - 44 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 4 - 50 pounds |
Forward-facing
Diono Radian 3R | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Height Range | 0 - 57 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
Weight Range | 20 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Diono Radian 3R | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Height Range | 0 - 57 inches | 43 - 57 inches |
Weight Range | 50 - 100 pounds | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Diono Radian 3R | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Width | 17.0 inches | 19.0 inches |
Height | 28.5 inches | 24.5 inches |
Depth | 16.0 inches | 20.8 inches |
Weight | 25.9 pounds | 20.6 pounds |
Core Specifications
Diono Radian 3R | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Model Year | 2018 | 2017 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Diono Radian 3R | Graco Extend2Fit | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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 |
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NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
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Not rated by NHTSA. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Previous Recalls | This car seat has never been recalled. | This car seat has never been recalled. |
Features
Diono Radian 3R | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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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 | Graco Extend2Fit | |
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Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
Lifespan | 10 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
See all Diono car seats | See all Graco car seats |
Full review of the Diono Radian 3R Full review of the Graco Extend2Fit |