Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ vs. UPPAbaby Knox: 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 UPPAbaby Knox.

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+ UPPAbaby Knox
Type Convertible

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

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.58 4.40

Our Thoughts

The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus and the UPPAbaby Knox are both strong contenders in the convertible car seat market, each offering a unique balance of safety features, functionality, and style.

Starting with safety, the Diono Radian excels with its standout features such as the steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam protection. These features are particularly valuable during side-impacts, offering an additional layer of security. Moreover, it accommodates a wider range of weights, supporting up to 50 pounds in rear-facing mode and 120 pounds in booster mode. This means that your child can stay in the rear-facing configuration longer and transition to booster mode when they are older, compared to the Knox seat, which supports up to 45 pounds in rear-facing mode and doesn't have a booster mode.

When it comes to usability, the Diono's slim design provides a definite edge for families with multiple children or smaller vehicles, as it can comfortably fit three across in most cars. But keep in mind, some parents noted challenges with the Diono car seat's installation and reassembling, especially of the seat cover, which could be a significant factor if the seats need to be removed frequently or cleaned often.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby Knox draws attention with its premium aesthetics and innovative safety elements, such as the integrated Koroyd technology to absorb crash impact forces. However, the one major setback is its bulkiness. This could become a problem in smaller vehicles, or if there is a need to accommodate multiple car seats. Additionally, installation is often considered challenging, which could be problematic for parents who need to switch the seat between vehicles frequently.

If you're seeking a car seat that offers a balance of top-tier safety features, space efficiency, and long-term usability, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus is the recommended choice. However, if luxury and style top your list and you have a larger vehicle, the UPPAbaby Knox may be a worthy consideration. What's crucial is to consider your child's size, your vehicle space, and the amount of time and effort you're willing to spend on installing and maintaining the car seat.

Key Details

Radian 3RXT Safe+ Knox
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
Brand Diono UPPAbaby
Type Convertible

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

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.58 4.40
1 yr Price Range $259.99 - $349.99 $299.99 - $349.99
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 Knox is priced at the higher end of the market without corresponding enhancements in convenience or functionality.

Safety

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

Features like integrated Koroyd technology and Side Impact Pods offer advanced safety beyond standard requirements.

Features

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

While the chest clip's one-button release and the machine-washable fabric are nice, they don't set the Knox apart in a crowded market.

Installation

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

Installation challenges are frequently noted, which could be a significant deterrent for parents who need to move the seat between vehicles.

Cleaning

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

The machine-washable fabric is a convenient feature, allowing for easier maintenance and cleanliness.

Size

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

Its premium build comes with added bulk, making it less suitable for smaller vehicles or those needing to fit multiple seats.

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 UPPAbaby Knox. 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+ UPPAbaby Knox
Height Range 18 - 44 inches 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 4 - 50 pounds 14 - 45 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
Height Range 30 - 57 inches 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 25 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
Height Range 40 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 120 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
Width 17.0 inches 18.8 inches
Height 28.5 inches 32.5 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 23.8 inches
Weight 30.6 pounds 32.5 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
Model Year 2018 2022
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Koroyd Technology

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
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
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
Rear-Facing Mode
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Labels 1 out of 5 stars
Instructions 3 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 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 2 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 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby Knox
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+ UPPAbaby Knox
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Diono car seats See all UPPAbaby car seats
Full review of the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
Full review of the UPPAbaby Knox