Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ and the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-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 SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Current price |
In stock
$239.99
|
In stock (4 varieties available)
$139.99 - $259.99
|
Rating | 4.58 | 4.90 |
Our Thoughts
Starting with the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+, this convertible car seat speaks volumes about safety and durability. Its steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam for side-impact protection are impressive safety features that would certainly give any parent peace of mind. With adjustable headrest positions and machine-washable covers, it offers the comfortable experience that every child needs and the convenience every parent desires.
However, it's worth pointing out some potential challenges. Installation and reassembly after cleaning are seen as remarkably complex, which could be a significant consideration for busy parents who value ease and straightforwardness. In addition, it might not be a good fit for taller children who, despite their age, may outgrow the seat earlier than expected.
On the other hand, we have the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1, a car seat that's also safety-focused with an identical steel-reinforced frame and additional safety from the Graco's ProtectPlus engineering. This versatile car seat caters to your child's growth, transitions smoothly as a rear-facing harness to a forward-facing harness, and finally shifts to a high-back booster. This elimination of having to buy a new car seat at every growth stage presents a good value-for-money proposition.
Despite its impressive profile, this seat also comes with its drawbacks. Parents have reported some challenges in adjusting the straps and finding the correct angle of installation might be a bit tricky. Installation instructions could be clearer, providing more user-friendly guidance.
Comparing the two, both car seats offer exceptional safety features, which should be the priority for any parent. However, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 edges out the Diono Radian partly due to its 3-in-1 adaptability, catering to your child's needs from infancy through the high-back booster stage.
In terms of weight adaptability, the Diono Radian offers higher maximum weight limits in both rear-facing and forward-facing modes, an advantage for parents who want to keep their children in these configurations for longer. However, it's important to note that the SlimFit3 LX is considerably lighter, making it a more portable option for families always on the go.
Given these points, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 might be the most suitable option for those who put a premium on adaptability and space-efficiency in their car seats. Its potential lifespan and ability to adjust to your growing child's needs are compelling selling points. However, for those who wish to keep their children in a rear-facing position for as long as possible, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ would be the better choice. Keep in mind the complexities in installation and reassembly, and be prepared for that little bit of extra effort.
Key Details
Radian 3RXT Safe+ | SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
Brand | Diono | Graco |
Type |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster |
Convertible Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster |
Weighted Rating | 4.58 | 4.90 |
1 yr Price Range | $259.99 - $349.99 | $195.99 - $279.99 |
Current price |
In stock
$239.99
|
In stock (4 varieties available)
$139.99 - $259.99
|
Value |
Offers robust safety features and long-term usability, justifying its price. |
The price point is moderate considering its 3-in-1 capability and longevity from infant to booster stage. |
Safety |
Steel-reinforced frame and comprehensive protection measures are a standout. |
With its steel-reinforced frame and ProtectPlus engineering, it exceeds standard safety expectations. |
Features |
The 12-position headrest and machine-washable cover add notable convenience. |
The car seat includes a no-rethread harness, multiple recline positions, and dual cup holders, adding convenience. |
Installation |
Installation and reassembly, especially of the seat cover, are noted as challenging. |
The installation process is standard, with no specific enhancements that simplify it significantly. |
Cleaning |
The machine-washable cover is practical, but reinstallation can be cumbersome. |
The Rapid Remove cover is machine-washable, facilitating easy cleanup. |
Size |
Its narrow design is ideal for fitting multiple car seats in a vehicle. |
The slim profile is ideal for fitting three across in the backseat, a rare attribute in car 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 Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-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 SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 18 - 44 inches | |
Weight Range | 4 - 50 pounds | 5 - 40 pounds |
Forward-facing
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 30 - 57 inches | 0 - 49 inches |
Weight Range | 22 - 65 pounds | 22 - 65 pounds |
Booster
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
---|---|---|
Height Range | 40 - 57 inches | 43 - 57 inches |
Weight Range | 40 - 120 pounds | 40 - 100 pounds |
Dimensions and Weight
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
---|---|---|
Width | 17.0 inches | 19.9 inches |
Height | 28.5 inches | 25.5 inches |
Depth | 16.0 inches | 21.5 inches |
Weight | 30.6 pounds | 21.5 pounds |
Core Specifications
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 | |
---|---|---|
Model Year | 2018 | 2022 |
Made In | China | China |
Frame Material | Reinforced Steel | Reinforced Steel |
Safety and Compliance
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ | Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-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 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings |
Rear-Facing Mode
|
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 SlimFit3 LX 3-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 SlimFit3 LX 3-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 SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 |