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

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

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing High Back Booster Backless Booster
Current price
In stock
$299.99
In stock
$279.00
Rating 4.58 4.86

Our Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the best car seat for your child, considering all the features that align with your specific needs can make a significant difference. After scrutinizing two popular options in the market: the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus and the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1, here's the scoop to help you make an informed decision.

The Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus excels in safety scores, thanks to its steel-reinforced frame and EPS foam for side-impact protection. Its slim design is a lifesaver for families with multiple children as it could fit three car seats across most vehicles, making it quite unique. The 12-position adjustable headrest provides a matchless level of comfort for growing children. Although robust and safe, this car seat lacks in installation convenience. Parents found the assembly, especially the reinstallation of its machine-washable cover, challenging. Moreover, the large headrest may block the back passenger window view, and some older kids may outgrow this seat sooner than expected.

On the other hand, the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 is known for its exceptional convenience and durability. Parents appreciate the easy installation owing to Graco's Click Connect feature and the convenience of the easy-to-remove cover that can be washed without uninstalling the seat. Possessing a considerable number of safety features, it carries a steel-reinforced frame which ensures robust protection from any impact. Furthermore, the transition from a rear-facing infant seat to a forward-facing to a high back and finally a belt-positioning booster seat ensures that it's the only car seat you'll need from birth through elementary school. However, its bulky design may pose a challenge for smaller vehicles or parents needing to fit multiple seats.

In terms of specifications, the Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus has a slightly higher maximum weight in rear-facing mode (50lbs compared to 40lbs in the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1). Meaning, if you prefer to keep your child in the rear-facing configuration longer, the Diono outweighs here. But it's worth mentioning that both car seats have been recalled for different reasons in the past, so research on recent recalls is imperative.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a car seat that offers robust safety features, comfort, and ideal for multiple car seat placements in one row, considering Diono Radian 3RXT Safe Plus would be wise. But if you seek a convertible car seat that's easy to install and clean with top-rated safety features and caters to your child from infancy to youth, the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 would be the perfect choice!

Key Details

Radian 3RXT Safe+ 4Ever DLX 4-in-1
Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX 4-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
Weighted Rating 4.58 4.86
1 yr Price Range $259.99 - $349.99 $229.98 - $329.97
Current price
In stock
$299.99
In stock
$279.00
Value

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

The car seat offers longevity and versatility, providing more than just a basic necessity for a reasonable price.

Safety

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

Steel reinforcement and high satisfaction in safety ratings indicate a superior level of protection.

Features

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

Unique features like the rapid-remove cover and no-rethread harness stand out in its category.

Installation

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

Graco's Click Connect feature and overall ease of installation have been well-received by parents.

Cleaning

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

The ease of removing the cover without uninstalling the seat makes cleaning remarkably convenient.

Size

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

Its bulkiness may challenge parents with smaller cars or those needing to fit multiple 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 4Ever DLX 4-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 4-in-1
Height Range 18 - 44 inches 12 - 49 inches
Weight Range 4 - 50 pounds 4 - 40 pounds

Forward-facing

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1
Height Range 30 - 57 inches 27 - 57 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX 4-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 4-in-1
Width 17.0 inches 21.5 inches
Height 28.5 inches 24.0 inches
Depth 16.0 inches 20.0 inches
Weight 30.6 pounds 22.8 pounds

Core Specifications

Diono Radian 3RXT Safe+ Graco 4Ever DLX 4-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 4-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
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 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 5 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 4 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Forward-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 4 out of 5 stars
Booster Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 4 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 3 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 4 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+ Graco 4Ever DLX 4-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 4-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 4-in-1