Diono Radian 3R vs. Maxi-Cosi Rodisport: 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 Maxi-Cosi Rodisport.

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 Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
High Back Booster
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.70 4.63

Our Thoughts

The Diono Radian 3R and Maxi-Cosi Rodisport are two top-rated car seats that demonstrate exceptional safety and durability. However, there are distinct differences between these two models that could impact your purchasing decision.

The Diono Radian 3R is a convertible car seat renowned for its slim profile and robust build. Its standout feature, fitting three-across in most cars, is a game-changer for families, especially those with multiple children or smaller vehicles where space is at a premium. The car seat comes with an array of essential features, like memory foam padding, enhancing your child's comfort. Despite its notable advantage in size, some users have reported issues concerning head support, especially during side impacts, and challenges in installation in compact vehicles. Moreover, the Radian 3R accommodates different seating positions: rear-facing, forward-facing, and as a high-back booster, offering a maximum weight limit of 100 pounds in the booster mode, 65 pounds in the forward-facing mode, and 40 pounds in the rear-facing mode.

On the other hand, the Maxi-Cosi Rodisport is a high-quality booster seat designed for comfort, ease of use, and versatility, transitioning smoothly from high-back to backless booster. While it impressively caters to growing children's needs and is praised for providing ample space and cushioning for larger kids, a few parents have indicated that the seat could be tight for some children's sizes. One noted advantage of this seat is its easy installation process with built-in latches, but potential buyers should be aware of possible compatibility issues with certain vehicle types, such as those with inflatable seat belts. Furthermore, while the Rodisport doesn't provide a forward or rear-facing option, it does accommodate a weight limit of up to 100 pounds in both its high back and backless booster modes.

Both these car seats provide dependable safety features, durability and have a 10-year expiration period, promising a long-term safety solution for your child. Yet, their different designs and features might cater better to specific needs. If you have multiple children, a smaller vehicle or your child is still in the rear-facing or forward-facing phase, the Diono Radian 3R would be an ideal choice, offering versatility and durability. However, if your child is ready for a booster seat and you prefer a simple, straightforward installation process with some style and aesthetics, the Maxi-Cosi Rodisport would be a better fit. With these points considered, both seats provide solid safety features and excellent usability, and the final choice would mostly depend on your specific requirements.

Key Details

Radian 3R Rodisport
Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Brand Diono Maxi-Cosi
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.70 4.63
1 yr Price Range $155.39 - $199.98 $179.99 - $179.99
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 great features and comfort at a reasonable price.

Safety

Features a steel frame for enhanced safety and reliability, scoring high in safety ratings.

Equipped with a rigid latch system for maximum stability.

Features

Despite its minimalist design, it includes essential features like memory foam padding and a foldable design for travel (converts into a backpack!)

Versatile adjustments and design cater to various child sizes and needs.

Installation

Installation experiences vary; some find it straightforward, while others face challenges, especially in smaller vehicles.

Simple and quick installation process with built-in latches.

Cleaning

The seat cover is removable for cleaning, but some users report challenges in maintenance and durability.

Standard cleaning ease, similar to most booster seats.

Size

Its slim profile is a standout feature, allowing for three-across seating in most cars.

Slim design fits well in vehicles while offering ample space for the child.

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 Maxi-Cosi Rodisport. 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 Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Height Range 0 - 44 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Height Range 0 - 57 inches
Weight Range 20 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Height Range 0 - 57 inches 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 50 - 100 pounds 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Width 17.0 inches 19.2 inches
Height 28.5 inches 35.1 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 10.3 inches
Weight 25.9 pounds 16.3 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Model Year 2018 2021
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
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
Booster Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 4 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point N/A
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Diono Radian 3R Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Diono car seats See all Maxi-Cosi car seats
Full review of the Diono Radian 3R
Full review of the Maxi-Cosi Rodisport