Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ vs. Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-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 Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-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+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Type Convertible

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

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster Seat Belt Trainer
Current price
In stock
$239.99
In stock
$303.99
Rating 4.58 4.88

Our Thoughts

The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus and the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 are two versatile convertible car seats designed to address the changing needs of growing children. Both are distinguished by their ability to adapt into multiple modes, offering functional longevity and top-tier safety features.

The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus is renowned for its narrow design which facilitates the fitting of multiple car seats in a vehicle, a feature that families with more than one child will appreciate. It boasts a steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam for side-impact protection. In terms of weight limits, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus edges out the Graco 4Ever DLX with a higher maximum weight in rear-facing mode, which means your child can stay in the safer rear-facing configuration longer. However, some parents have reported difficulty in installing and reassembling the car seat, especially the cover. It's also worth noting that its robust safety features are off-set somewhat by the large size of the headrest, which can obstruct the driver's view of the back passenger window.

On the other hand, the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 scores points for its easy installation process, thanks to the SnugLock technology. This seat is designed to grow with your child from infancy through grade school. It boasts a 5-in-1 design, functioning as an infant car seat, convertible car seat, high back booster, backless booster, and even a seat belt trainer. Its versatile convertibility, coupled with rigorous safety measures, makes it an excellent investment that would last for years. However, its harness straps might be too short for larger toddlers, and the fabric may wear out quickly.

In this comparison, both car seats offer enduring safety and value but appeal to different needs. If the priority is robust safety features and fitting multiple seats in a vehicle, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus could be the best purchase. However, if the focus is on straightforward installation, cleaning convenience, and value over the child's growth journey, the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1 stands out as the better choice. Both products are worth their price; the decision would ultimately depend on which factors the parent prioritizes.

Key Details

Radian 3RXT Safe+ 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Brand Diono Graco
Type Convertible

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

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster Seat Belt Trainer
Weighted Rating 4.58 4.88
1 yr Price Range $259.99 - $349.99 $288.87 - $399.99
Current price
In stock
$239.99
In stock
$303.99
Value

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

Offers 5 stages of use at a reasonable price point.

Safety

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

Steel-reinforced frame and extensive crash testing.

Features

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

Innovative 5-in-1 design and side impact protection.

Installation

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

SnugLock system ensures a quick, secure fit.

Cleaning

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

Easy, 60-second cover removal for washing.

Size

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

Slimmer design for a better fit in tight spaces.

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 Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-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+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Height Range 18 - 44 inches
Weight Range 4 - 50 pounds 4 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Height Range 30 - 57 inches 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-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+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Width 17.0 inches 18.0 inches
Height 28.5 inches 26.2 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 19.8 inches
Weight 30.6 pounds 24.1 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Model Year 2018 2021
Made In China China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-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
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
Seatbelt Trainer
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
Not rated by NHTSA.
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-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+ Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Diono car seats See all Graco car seats
Full review of the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+
Full review of the Graco 4Ever DLX Grad 5-in-1