Diono Radian 3R vs. Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX: 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 Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX.

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 Turn and Go 360 DLX
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 4.25

Our Thoughts

Starting with the Diono Radian 3R, this car seat stands out for its slim yet sturdy design. Its robust steel frame construction ensures top-notch safety and longevity, making it a perfect choice for parents prioritizing the quality and life span of the seat. The narrow profile allows for three-across seating in most cars, a feature greatly appreciated for families with multiple children or those with smaller vehicles. Despite its minimalist design, it comes packed with essential features like memory foam padding for additional comfort, versatile seating options including rear-facing, forward-facing, and high-back booster modes, and an innovative foldable design that enhances its portability and convenience. However, some users have reported that the installation process can be tricky, particularly in smaller cars. It's also worth noting that some parents have expressed concerns about the lack of head support, especially in the case of a side-impact accident.

On the other hand, the Safety 1st Grow and Go 360 DLX promises to simplify daily loading and unloading of your child courtesy of its innovative rotating design. It stands as an all-in-one convertible seat that accomodates your child right from infancy through age 10. This unique feature lessens physical strain during everyday routines, thus proving to be a lifesaver for parents with back or mobility challenges. However, feedback indicates that the rotation mechanism can sometimes be stiff and difficult to engage, especially when the seat is occupied. Some parents have also raised concerns over the material quality, which they felt was not sturdy enough, leading to safety concerns. However, this car seat stands out for its easy-to-clean materials and machine washable fabrics, making it a practical choice for busy parents.

Looking at the two car seats, it's clear that both have their advantages and drawbacks. The Diono Radian 3R shines in terms of safety, durability, and space-efficiency, but falls short when it comes to other areas like ease of installation and lack of head support. The Safety 1st Grow and Go 360 DLX, on the other hand, is valued for its rotating feature, which makes loading and unloading a breeze, and its easy-to-clean materials. However, concerns about its difficult installation process and doubts over material quality make the decision a bit more complex.

Therefore, the choice between these two depends largely on your specific needs and circumstances. If you're looking for a safe, robust, and space-efficient car seat, the Diono Radian 3R is a superb option. But if you're after more convenience, particularly in getting your child in and out of the car, and don't mind potentially dealing with the operation issues, the Safety 1st Grow and Go 360 DLX would be a more suitable choice. However, it's essential to consider each of these aspects carefully before making a final decision.

Key Details

Radian 3R Turn and Go 360 DLX
Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
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 4.25
1 yr Price Range $155.39 - $199.98 $255.99 - $319.99
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.

The price point offers good value considering its all-in-one functionality across multiple stages of child growth.

Safety

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

While it meets standard safety requirements, some parents have expressed concerns over the seat's sturdiness.

Features

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

The rotation feature and multiple modes of use provide a level of convenience that goes beyond basic car seats.

Installation

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

Feedback indicates that the installation process can be cumbersome, with some difficulty reported in engaging the rotation mechanism.

Cleaning

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

Easy-to-clean materials with machine washable fabrics and dishwasher-safe cupholders are a plus for parents.

Size

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

The car seat does not stand out in terms of size or weight compared to others in the market, fitting within the typical range.

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 Turn and Go 360 DLX. 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 Turn and Go 360 DLX
Height Range 0 - 44 inches 19 - 40 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
Height Range 0 - 57 inches 29 - 49 inches
Weight Range 20 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
Height Range 0 - 57 inches 43 - 52 inches
Weight Range 50 - 100 pounds 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
Width 17.0 inches 22.0 inches
Height 28.5 inches 23.0 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 19.0 inches
Weight 25.9 pounds 38.2 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
Model Year 2018 2023
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Plastic

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Forward-Facing
High Back 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
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 Turn and Go 360 DLX
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Base
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Diono Radian 3R Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX
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 Turn and Go 360 DLX