Diono Radian 3R vs. UPPAbaby MESA: Which is Better? (2024)

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

Our Thoughts

The Diono Radian 3R and the UPPAbaby MESA taxi bouncers are both robust car seat options with distinct benefits catered towards different familial needs.

The Diono Radian 3R is known for its slim profile and steel frame construction, making it ideal for families who need to accommodate multiple car seats in their vehicle. What sets it apart is its versatile seating options, as it can be used in a rear-facing, forward-facing, and high back booster mode. This means it can be adjusted to accommodate children up to 100 lbs. The Radian 3R also sports customized safety features like reinforced steel and memory foam padding giving parents the added reassurance for their child's comfort and safety. However, the installation process can be challenging, especially in smaller vehicles, and some users have reported difficulty in maintaining and cleaning the car seat. The Radian 3R, priced moderately, certainly fits the bill for parents seeking a safe, long-term and space-efficient child car seat option.

On the other hand, the UPPAbaby MESA is a luxury infant car seat specifically designed for newborns and smaller babies, providing top-of-the-line safety features and easy installation process. With its SMARTSecure system and no-rethread harness, it ensures that the baby is properly secured each time. The MESA seamlessly integrates with UPPAbaby strollers, providing a convenient travel system for parents. Moreover, its high-quality materials and stylish design add to its appeal. However, its usage span is shorter due to it being an infant car seat, and it is also on the pricier side. Despite the high cost, the MESA greatly suits parents who prioritize safety and convenience and are willing to invest in premium baby gear.

Both car seats have high safety ratings, but the Diono Radian 3R offers more longevity, while the UPPAbaby Mesa is more limited due to its design for infants only. The Radian 3R can accommodate a higher weight in both rear-facing and forward-facing modes, making it a wiser choice if you're looking for a car seat that grows with your child.

In final evaluation, if you're looking for a long-term investment and need to maximize back seat space, the Diono Radian 3R should be your pick. However, if you prioritize high-end safety features, convenience of installation, and don't mind upgrading your car seat as your baby grows, the UPPAbaby MESA will make a terrific choice.