Diono Radian 3R vs. Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Diono Radian 3R and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One.

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

Our Thoughts

The Diono Radian 3R and the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One are top contenders in the world of child car seats.

The Diono Radian 3R is celebrated for its versatility and space-saving design. This durable convertible car seat grows with your child and offers various seating positions including rear-facing, forward-facing and high-back booster. There's no denying that its slim design is a standout feature, easily allowing for three-across seating in most cars, which is highly beneficial for larger families. Parents have noted that it's particularly suited for smaller vehicles where maximization of space is important. However, some parents have reported difficulties with installation, especially in smaller cars, which might require purchasing additional accessories for a better fit. Also, despite its robust build and high safety score, some parents have expressed concern about a lack of head support in certain configurations.

On the other hand, Safety 1st's Grow and Go All-in-One convertible car seat is the ideal choice for budget-conscious families who do not want to compromise on safety. It's designed for long-term use and boasts a lightweight and portable design that outranks the heavier Diono Radian 3R. Much like the Radian 3R, the Grow and Go offers various seating configurations that accommodate your child through different growth stages while also providing adjustable features for ideal comfort and fit. However, it has been noted that while this car seat meets all safety standards, installation can be challenging and require more time to ensure a secure fit.

While both car seats are FAA-approved for forward and rear-facing configurations, they are not approved for high back booster mode. When considering maximum weight capacity, the Radian 3R has a higher limit in forward-facing mode (65lbs compared to Safety 1st's 40lbs), allowing for extended use in this configuration. However, both seats have an equal weight limit for the rear-facing and booster modes.

In considering these two fantastic options, the Diono Radian 3R is a strong choice for families who prioritize space-saving designs, durability, and a high weight capacity in the forward-facing mode. However, bear in mind the potential additional expense of necessary accessories for improved fit, especially in smaller cars. If budget and ease of transport are important factors in your decision, then the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One might be the better choice. Its lightweight design coupled with convenient cleaning features and competitive pricing makes it a great option for most parents. Furthermore, while sharing a similar rear-facing weight capacity as the Diono model, the Grow and Go may offer less longevity in its forward-facing mode due to its lower maximum weight capacity.