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

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 MESA
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Current price
Currently unavailable
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Currently unavailable
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Rating 4.58 4.90

Our Thoughts

When looking at the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus, it's evident that it's a car seat meant to stand up to daily wear and tear, and designed with families with multiple kids in mind. Its unique features, like a 12-position adjustable headrest, a steel-reinforced frame, and EPS foam for side-impact protection, ensure both comfort and safety. The maximum weight limit for forward-facing, rear-facing, and booster mode usage help extend the car seat's lifespan, allowing you to transition smoothly from one stage to another without purchasing a new one every time. Despite the robust safety measures and long-term usability that justify the cost, some factors may not be convenient to every family. For instance, the complex seat cover installation can make the cleaning process challenging for some parents. Also, it may not be the best fit for taller children or in case of limited view for the driver.

Turning to the UPPAbaby MESA, it offers an excellent blend of safety, convenience, and luxury for newborns and smaller babies, up to 35 pounds and 32 inches. It stands out for an array of advanced features like the no-rethread harness, a SMARTSecure system, and compatibility with UPPAbaby strollers, simplifying the transition from car to stroller. Overall, the UPPAbaby MESA car seat is an ideal choice for those wanting advanced safety features and those who frequently travel with their infants. It seamlessly answers the demands of busy parents. However, keep in mind this is an infant car seat, which faces limitations on how long it can be used as your baby grows.

In terms of comparison, there are substantial discrepancies in the maximum weight between the two products. The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus has a higher maximum weight limit, being suitable for older and heavier children, showcasing its adaptability. On the other hand, UPPAbaby MESA, as an infant car seat, is specifically tailored for newborns and small babies.

In this evaluation, if you're looking for a durable and versatile product that can grow with your child and tackle daily demands head-on, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus might be the choice for you. However, for parents primarily concerned with easy installation, comfort, and safety for their infants, and planning to use it predominantly as part of a travel system, we recommend investing in UPPAbaby MESA. Your decision should truly focus on what specific features matter to you and the everyday practicality of the car seat.

Key Details

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

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Rear-Facing
Weighted Rating 4.58 4.90
1 yr Price Range $259.99 - $349.99 $239.99 - $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.

While on the pricier side, its durability and advanced features justify the cost.

Safety

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

Features like a no-rethread harness and side-impact protection enhance safety.

Features

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

Offers unique elements like a one-button stroller release and SMARTSecure system.

Installation

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

The car seat is praised for its easy and secure installation process.

Cleaning

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

The seat cover is removable and washable, although some care is needed.

Size

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

Comparable to other infant seats in size, fitting well in most vehicles.

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 MESA. 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 MESA
Height Range 18 - 44 inches 0 - 32 inches
Weight Range 4 - 50 pounds 4 - 35 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby MESA
Height Range 30 - 57 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

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

Dimensions and Weight

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby MESA
Width 17.0 inches 17.0 inches
Height 28.5 inches 25.0 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 28.0 inches
Weight 30.6 pounds 9.9 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby MESA
Model Year 2018 2020
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Aluminum

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby MESA
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
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 5 out of 5 stars
Labels 5 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 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 MESA
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
LATCH
Base
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. No cup holders

Warranty and Durability

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ UPPAbaby MESA
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 2 years
Lifespan 10 Years 7 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 MESA