Britax Highpoint vs. Diono Radian 3R: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Britax Highpoint and the Diono Radian 3R.

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

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Type High Back Booster Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Current price
In stock (5 varieties available)
$199.99 - $199.99
In stock
$169.99
Rating 4.70 4.70

Our Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the right car seat for your little ones, the Britax Highpoint and Diono Radian 3R both have a lot to offer.

The Britax Highpoint is part of Britax's reputation for quality and durability. It is a 2-stage belt-positioning booster seat that features multiple layers of side impact protection, adding to its high safety standards. Designed for convenience, it boasts a quick-remove cover, making it a breeze to clean as needed, especially considering how unpredictable kids can be! The Britax Highpoint supports a child's weight from 40 up to 120 pounds, proving it to be a reliable choice as your child continues to grow. While it is an investment, its focus on safety, convenience, and comfort gives you peace of mind knowing your child is well protected.

On the other hand, the Diono Radian 3R is a versatile, convertible car seat, which can transform from a rear-facing car seat to a forward-facing, and then into a high-back booster. Its robust steel frame ensures safety and durability, while its slim design allows it to fit three-across in most vehicles. One of its most notable features is the inclusion of memory foam padding for extra comfort which is perfect if your child enjoys taking naps during car rides. This car seat accommodates a child's weight from 5 to 100 pounds, offering a greater range compared to the Britax Highpoint, but a lower maximum weight limit. The Diono Radian 3R also stands out for its approved FAA modes for air travel, while the Britax Highpoint is not FAA approved.

In comparing the two, the Britax Highpoint stands out for its tremendous convenience and safety. However, the Diono Radian 3R offers more versatility and is a fitting long-term investment with its wider weight accommodation and approved modes for travel.

Taking everything into account, I would recommend the Diono Radian 3R if you're looking for a car seat that offers versatility, is travel-friendly, and that can comfortably accommodate your child through their different growth stages. Conversely, if your child is already transitioning out of a 5-point harness and you value convenience and safety, the Britax Highpoint would be a perfect option. Just remember, whichever car seat you choose, your child's safety is paramount. Do your research, consider your unique needs, and most importantly, make sure any car seat is properly installed before taking your child on the road.

Key Details

Highpoint Radian 3R
Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Brand Britax Diono
Type High Back Booster Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.70 4.70
1 yr Price Range $144 - $199 $155.39 - $199.98
Current price
In stock (5 varieties available)
$199.99 - $199.99
In stock
$169.99
Value

Britax is a reputable brand that offers quality and durability, which can justify the investment.

Offers a long lifespan and versatile seating options, making it a cost-effective choice over time.

Safety

With its high safety standards, Britax Highpoint provides peace of mind.

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

Features

It includes user-friendly components like color-coded belt paths and retractable cup holders.

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

Installation

It's straightforward to install, with clear instructions and easy-to-use connectors.

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

Cleaning

The removable cover and dishwasher-safe cup holders are convenient for parents.

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

Size

While not the smallest booster, it's designed to fit well in most vehicles without taking up excessive space.

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

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 Britax Highpoint and the Diono Radian 3R. 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

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Height Range 0 - 44 inches
Weight Range 5 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Height Range 0 - 57 inches
Weight Range 20 - 65 pounds

Booster

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Height Range 0 - 63 inches 0 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 120 pounds 50 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Width 16.0 inches 17.0 inches
Height 21.0 inches 28.5 inches
Depth 27.5 inches 16.0 inches
Weight 12.0 pounds 25.9 pounds

Core Specifications

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Model Year 2018 2018
Made In USA China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Federal Safety Standards Meets all standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes High Back Booster
Backless Booster
Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Booster Mode
Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Labels 5 out of 5 stars
Instructions 4 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 5 out of 5 stars
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
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Attachment Methods Seatbelt
LATCH
Seatbelt
Harness Type N/A 5-Point
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Britax Highpoint Diono Radian 3R
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Britax car seats See all Diono car seats
Full review of the Britax Highpoint
Full review of the Diono Radian 3R