Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Diono Radian 3R and the Safety 1st Crosstown.
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 | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
| 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 | 4.70 |
Our Thoughts
Comparing the Diono Radian 3R and the Safety 1st Crosstown car seats, we see two options that both offer value in their unique ways. The Diono Radian 3R is renowned for its slim and sturdy profile, built with a steel frame for enhanced safety and durability. It accommodates various seating modes and carries robust weight capacities in rear-facing (up to 40 lbs), forward-facing (up to 65 lbs), and high-back booster (up to 100 lbs) positions. A standout feature is its space-saving slim design, allowing for three-across seating in most vehicles, a strong advantage for families with multiple children.
The Safety 1st Crosstown, on the other hand, has the edge in affordability. It has the capability to transition from a rear-facing infant seat to a forward-facing car seat, and then finally to a belt-positioning booster. Similar to the Diono Radian 3R, the Crosstown also holds commendable weight capacities in rear-facing (also up to 40 lbs), forward-facing (also up to 65 lbs) configurations, as well as a decent booster capacity maxing out at 100 lbs. What separates the Crosstown from the pack is its comfortable padding and adjustable features that ensure a snug and comfortable fit for a growing child, without burning a hole in your pocket.
As a functional note, both car seats are FAA approved for their rear-facing and forward-facing configuration, which is an added advantage for families who travel by air often. Do note, however, high-back booster mode configuration is not FAA approved for both.
In the end, the choice between the Diono Radian 3R and Safety 1st Crosstown depends on what is most important for you and your family. If space is a premium and you appreciate a car seat with a solid, sturdy build that lasts, the Diono Radian 3R is recommended. However, if budget is a significant factor and you are looking for a car seat that has a focus on comfort and snug fit, then the Safety 1st Crosstown is the better choice. Both car seats have their strengths, and ultimately, the best one should cater to your family's specific needs and preferences.
Key Details
| Radian 3R | Crosstown | |
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| Brand | Diono | Safety 1st |
| Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
| Weighted Rating | 4.70 | 4.70 |
| 1 yr Price Range | $155.39 - $199.98 | $99.99 - $189 |
| 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. |
A price range from $99.99 to $189.00, paired with its 3-in-1 functionality, provides considerable savings over time. |
| Safety |
Features a steel frame for enhanced safety and reliability, scoring high in safety ratings. |
Several positive indicators of a high level of trust in its safety among parents. |
| Features |
Despite its minimalist design, it includes essential features like memory foam padding and a foldable design for travel (converts into a backpack!) |
It covers the essential features expected of a convertible car seat but lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end models. |
| Installation |
Installation experiences vary; some find it straightforward, while others face challenges, especially in smaller vehicles. |
Reviews often mention ease of installation, suggesting a user-friendly design. |
| Cleaning |
The seat cover is removable for cleaning, but some users report challenges in maintenance and durability. |
The fabric is easy to clean, a convenience highly appreciated by parents. |
| Size |
Its slim profile is a standout feature, allowing for three-across seating in most cars. |
With a moderate weight and footprint, it's fairly comparable to other seats in its class. |
| 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 Safety 1st Crosstown. 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 | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 0 - 44 inches | 19 - 40 inches |
| Weight Range | 5 - 40 pounds | 5 - 40 pounds |
Forward-facing
| Diono Radian 3R | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 0 - 57 inches | 29 - 49 inches |
| Weight Range | 20 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
| Diono Radian 3R | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| Height Range | 0 - 57 inches | 43 - 52 inches |
| Weight Range | 50 - 100 pounds | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
| Diono Radian 3R | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 17.0 inches | 19.2 inches |
| Height | 28.5 inches | 28.8 inches |
| Depth | 16.0 inches | 31.8 inches |
| Weight | 25.9 pounds | 15.4 pounds |
Core Specifications
| Diono Radian 3R | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| Model Year | 2018 | 2022 |
| Made In | China | China |
| Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
| Diono Radian 3R | Safety 1st Crosstown | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
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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 | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Safety 1st Crosstown | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturers Warranty Length | 1 year | 1 year |
| Lifespan | 10 Years | 10 Years |
Additional Links
| See all Diono car seats | See all Safety 1st car seats |
| Full review of the Diono Radian 3R Full review of the Safety 1st Crosstown |