Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ vs. Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1: 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 3RXT Safe+ and the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1.

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 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.58 4.70

Our Thoughts

When comparing the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus and the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 car seats, several distinctions stand out. The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus boasts top-tier safety features like a steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam for side-impact protection. This robust construction lends a sense of trust and safety that is crucial for parents. Furthermore, it offers a broad range of usage from rear-facing, forward-facing, to high back and backless booster modes, providing options for different age groups, weights, and heights.

In contrast, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1, while satisfying fundamental protection standards, doesn't match the Diono Radian in terms of superior safety features. This car seat's primary strength lies in its affordability and longevity, with its dual functionality as a harness and booster seat offering substantial savings over time. Its lightweight design is an added advantage, making it more portable than its Diono counterpart. Although it is not suitable for rear-facing mode, it is still a viable option for forward-facing young kids transitioning to booster mode.

Given their unique strengths, both car seats could be suitable, albeit for different reasons and scenarios. The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus, with its remarkable safety features, and an extended lifespan from rear-facing to high back booster mode, is a commendable investment, especially for families with several children. It is indeed more expensive, but worth it if you're prioritizing safety and long-term usability. However, it's worth noting that its installation and reassembly are reported to be somewhat challenging, which might be a significant drawback, especially for parents always on the go.

On the other hand, if you're seeking a budget-friendly, no-frills convertible seat that's easy to maintain and can still provide basic support and safety for your growing child, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 is a strong contender. It might lack in comfort and luxury features, but its affordability and convenience cannot be overlooked.

In conclusion, if budget is a concern, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1's ease of maintenance and extended use offer solid value for money. But if you're willing to invest more for a car seat with robust safety features and longer usability, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus could be the right choice for you.

Key Details

Radian 3RXT Safe+ Grand 2-in-1
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Brand Diono Safety 1st
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Convertible

Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.58 4.70
1 yr Price Range $259.99 - $349.99 $74.99 - $79.99
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Value

Offers robust safety features and long-term usability, justifying its price.

The price point combined with its dual functionality as a harness and booster seat offers substantial savings over time.

Safety

Steel-reinforced frame and comprehensive protection measures are a standout.

It meets standard safety requirements, but lacks advanced features like a steel-reinforced frame.

Features

The 12-position headrest and machine-washable cover add notable convenience.

While it covers the essentials, it may not include comfort extras found in higher-end seats.

Installation

Installation and reassembly, especially of the seat cover, are noted as challenging.

Installation is straightforward with LATCH or seatbelt, but achieving a tight fit requires attention to detail.

Cleaning

The machine-washable cover is practical, but reinstallation can be cumbersome.

The seat pad is machine washable and dryer safe, and the cup holders are dishwasher-safe, simplifying maintenance.

Size

Its narrow design is ideal for fitting multiple car seats in a vehicle.

The design is space-efficient, ideal for fitting multiple car seats in the back of a car.

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 3RXT Safe+ and the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1. 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 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 18 - 44 inches
Weight Range 4 - 50 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 30 - 57 inches 32 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 30 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Height Range 40 - 57 inches 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 120 pounds 40 - 120 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Width 17.0 inches 19.6 inches
Height 28.5 inches 30.2 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 18.3 inches
Weight 30.6 pounds 12.2 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
Model Year 2018 2021
Made In China USA
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Unknown

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
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
High Back Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 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 2 out of 5 stars
Securing 1 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
Forward-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 3 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 2 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 2 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 1 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
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 3RXT Safe+ Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1
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 3RXT Safe+
Full review of the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1