When it comes to choosing the best Diono car seat for your little one, you can trust that you’re making a sound decision for their safety and comfort.
As a mom, I understand the importance of finding reliable and trustworthy baby products, especially when it comes to the safety of our children. That’s why I’ve dedicated my blog, The Stroller Mom, to providing honest and genuine reviews of baby gear from a mom’s perspective. In this post, I’ll share some insights on Diono car seats, emphasizing the importance of car seat safety and giving you an overview of this reputable brand.
Too busy to read through this entire post? Here’s a quick takeaway:
- If you’re looking for the best convertible car seat from birth, I recommend purchasing the Diono Radian 3QXT+ FirstClass SafePlus (click here to learn why I recommend this product).
- If you’re looking for the best car seat from around one and up, I’d recommend purchasing the Diono Radian RXT Safe+ (click here to learn why I recommend this product).
- If you’re looking for a booster seat for your older child, I’d recommend purchasing the Monterey 5iST FixSafe High Back Booster (click here to learn why I recommend this product)
Diono, a leading car seat brand, has created award-winning car seats for over two decades. With their focus on safety, comfort, and innovation, Diono consistently delivers top-of-the-line products that parents can trust. As a mom, I can’t emphasize the importance of car seat safety enough. We all want to do our best to protect our children, and selecting the right car seat is a crucial part of that journey.
Navigating the vast world of car seat options can feel overwhelming, but fear not! I’ve spent countless hours researching and reviewing Diono car seats to bring you an honest and comprehensive look at their offerings. So buckle up, and let’s dive into the best Diono car seats of 2023.
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Table of Contents
Why Should I Choose Diono?
Regarding car seats, Diono has consistently proven to be a top choice for parents like us. Here are a few reasons why you should consider a Diono car seat for your precious cargo:
- Safety First: Diono car seats are designed with your child’s safety as the top priority. They undergo rigorous testing and meet or exceed all federal safety standards. With features like a steel alloy frame, EPS foam, rear-facing mode up to 50 pounds, side-impact protection, and secure installation options, you can trust that your little one will be safe and sound in a Diono car seat.
- Longevity: They are built to grow with your child (all-in-one car seat), accommodating them from birth up to 120 pounds. The adjustable headrest, harness, and seat positions ensure the perfect fit for every stage, so you won’t have to buy multiple car seats as your child grows. All said, I am a proponent of using an infant car seat for the first six months of life. They’re just so convenient from a transportation standpoint.
- Style and Convenience: Diono car seats come in a variety of styles. In addition to their excellent looks, the ease of use is another big selling point. Finally, it even folds in on itself, making for easy travel (FAA-approved) and storage.
- Three Across: Maybe I should’ve started with this point since it’s one of Diono’s best features, but Diono’s slim fit design allows you to put three children across in the middle/back seat of most cars.
Best Diono All-In-One Car Seats
Ok, you’ve decided to purchase a Diono car seat. You head to their website, credit card in hand, and you’re ready to make a purchase. And then you realize how CONFUSING their convertible seat selection is—what are we car shopping?! So you navigated away and quickly Googled to learn more about the differences. Well, good news, this is why I made this blog post. Before we dive in, there are two things to understand:
- Diono makes two primary models: The QX Series and the R Series.
- Once you decide which series is best for your family, you then have to navigate all the extra letters on the end of the car seat name (much like trim levels when you’re car shopping).
In this post, I want to make this as simple as possible, so I decided to cover the base models for both series in detail and then tell you what additional features each variation gets you.
What are the differences between the QX Series and R Series?
While the QX Series is newer than the R Series, it doesn’t mean it’s the better option for all parents. Here’s a short list of the minor differences:
- The QX Series comes with extra side impact protection features
- All models of the QX series come with an anti-rebound bar, while only the highest-end model of the R series includes one
- The infant support cushions for the QX series are made of memory foam, whereas the R series is not. Also, the QX series includes harness pads.
- The QX series is pricier than the R series.
The primary differences between the two come down to a few additional safety features, comfort features, and price. So who’s it for?
If you plan to use the car seat from birth, I would spend the extra money and invest in the QX series due to the added newborn comfort and safety features. If you plan to use it from one year old or later, I would go with the R series since the differences are minimal and the cost is lower.
Diono QX Series All-In-One Convertible Car Seat
To recap, I recommend going with the QX series if you plan to use the car seat from birth rather than purchasing an infant car seat. If you are planning to use it from 1+, I’d click here to skip down to the R series section to save some money.
The Lowdown on the Diono Radian 3QX:
Price: $399.99 on Amazon | $399.99 on Diono
Specifications:
- Child Height Limit: 57 inches
- Child Weight Range: 4-120 pounds
- Rear Facing Weight Limit: 4-50 pounds
- Forward Facing Weight Limit: 22-65 pounds
- Booster Weight Limit: 40-120 pounds
- Car Seat Measurements: 28.5” Height x 17” Width x 16” Depth
- Car Seat Weight: 31.3 pounds
Safety Features:
- Steel Reinforced Frame
- 3 Stage Newborn Protection (newborn travel high wedge, 2-in-1 infant positioning liner, anti-rebound bar)
- 6 Layers of Side Impact Protection
- Side impact and rollover tested
- 12 headrest positions
Additional Noteworthy Features:
- Washing machine safe for easy cleaning
- One XL Cup Holder included
The Lowdown on the Diono Radian 3QXT:
Price: $449.99 on Amazon | $449.99 on Diono
This car seat has the same specifications as the 3QX above and the following additional features:
- Side impact management pod for an extra layer of side impact protection
- 4 Stage Newborn Protection (newborn travel high wedge, 2-in-1 infant positioning liner, anti-rebound bar, newborn protection insert, newborn harness pads)
- 8 Layers of Side Impact Protection
- Side impact, rollover, rear impact, and 2x impact force of crash tested
The Lowdown on the Diono Radian 3QXT+ FirstClass SafePlus:
Price: $529.99 on Amazon | $529.99 on Diono
This car seat has the same specifications as the 3QX and QXT above and the following additional features:
- Anti-rebound panel (instead of the bar) and adjustable calf support
- Premium air-flow mesh panels and fabrics
- 2 XL cup holders
- Ultra mat car seat protector
- Calf support liner
Diono R Series All-In-One Convertible Car Seat
The Diono R Series is perfect for anyone planning to use this car seat after the newborn stage (around 1-year-old or older).
The Lowdown on the Diono Radian 3R:
This is the barebones model and doesn’t include many of the features the other models do. I highly suggest purchasing the RXT Safe+ model if your budget allows it.
Price: $199.99 on Amazon | $199.99 on Diono
Specifications:
- Child Height Limit: 57 inches
- Child Weight Range: 5-120 pounds
- Rear Facing Weight Limit: 5-50 pounds
- Forward Facing Weight Limit: 22-65 pounds
- Booster Weight Limit: 40-120 pounds
- Car Seat Measurements: 28.5” Height x 17” Width x 16” Depth
- Car Seat Weight: 25.9 pounds
Safety Features:
- Steel Reinforced Frame
- Memory foam cushion
- Tested over and above safety standards
Additional Noteworthy Features:
- Washing machine safe for easy cleaning
- Memory foam seat
- One XL Cup Holder included
The Lowdown on the Diono Radian 3RX:
I’d recommend spending the extra $30-40 and purchasing the RXT Safe+ for the additional safety and comfort features.
Price: $319.99 on Amazon | $399.99 on Diono (This price is constantly in flux)
This car seat has the same specifications as the 3R above and the following additional features:
- Infant head support liner
- 12-Position Headrest (easy adjust)
- Cup holder
The Lowdown on the Diono Radian RXT Safe+:
Please be very careful when purchasing this model. There is an RXT that doesn’t include the Safe+ features for the SAME price. Why, you might ask? I honestly have no idea. I have heard that the RXT without Safe+ is easier to clean, but that’s about it. Do yourself a favor and go with this model instead.
Price: $349.99 on Amazon | $349.99 on Diono
This car seat has the same specifications as the 3R and 3RX above and the following additional features:
- Anti-rebound bar
- Storage compartment for latch & rear-facing position top tether
- Extended sidewalls for enhanced SIP
- 3 Stage Newborn Protection (Newborn travel high wedge, 2-in-1 infant positioning liner, and anti-rebound bar)
- 6 layers of side impact protection
- Side impact and rollover tested
- XL Cup holder
Best Diono Booster Seats
Diono has numerous highback booster seat options, and choosing the best option for your family can be confusing. I mentioned earlier that the convertible car seat options are as confusing as trim levels on a car, and the booster seats are no exception. In this section, I’ll break down a few of my favorite options.
Best Overall Diono Booster Seat: Monterey 5iST
As a mom, I always want peace of mind that my little one is as safe as possible, and this booster does just that. If you have the budget for it, the Diono Monterey 5iST is a fantastic option. It’s more than just a booster seat with great safety features; the convenience, portability, and adaptability as your child grows make it a truly practical choice.
Price: $269.99 on Amazon | $269.99 on Diono
Specifications:
- Child Height Limit: 63 inches
- Child Weight Range: 40-120 pounds
- Car Seat Measurements: 24.8” Height x 17” Width x 15” Depth
- Car Seat Weight: 18.7 pounds
Safety Features:
- 8 Layers of side impact protection
- Steel Core (the only booster that has this)
- Tested over and above safety standards
- 12-Position Headrest (easy adjust)
Additional Noteworthy Features:
- Smaller than the average high back booster seat
- Ideal for travel—Integrated carry handle, carry straps, and storage compartment for straps. The seat also folds in on itself, making it smaller and easier to transport.
- Comes with a cup holder
Best Diono Backless Booster Seat: Solana 2
I appreciate the Diono Solana 2 backless booster for what it is. It’s really easy to switch between cars, and it’s comfortable for children. That said, I do personally prefer a high back booster for the added safety features.
Price:
- Without latch: $44.99 on Amazon
- With latch: $59.99 on Amazon | $59.99 on Diono
Specifications:
- Child Weight Range: 40-120 pounds
- Car Seat Measurements: 9.4” Height x 18.5” Width x 16.1” Depth
- Car Seat Weight: 6.1 pounds
Additional Noteworthy Features:
- Fold-away cup holders: Two 2-in-1 cup holders and storage compartments
- Easy to clean: Removable, machine-washable cover for hassle-free maintenance
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to transfer between vehicles or store away
- Comfortable: Ultra-wide design and deep padded cushioning
The Wrap Up
Diono car seats are an excellent choice for parents seeking reliable, safe, and comfortable options for their little ones.
The Diono Radian 3QXT+ FirstClass SafePlus is an ideal choice for those looking for a convertible car seat from birth, while the Diono Radian RXT Safe+ is perfect for those seeking a car seat for children aged one and up. For a booster seat, the Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe is an excellent choice. Each of these options is designed with safety, comfort, and longevity in mind, ensuring that your investment will serve your family for years to come.
Remember, as parents, our primary concern is to keep our children safe and secure, and Diono car seats are engineered to meet this need. I hope this honest review has provided you with valuable information and guidance in choosing the perfect Diono car seat for your family. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the 3QXT FirstClass SafePlus appropriate for my newborn?
The Radian 3QXT FirstClass SafePlus is suitable for newborns weighing at least 4 lbs. It comes with a 4-stage newborn protection system, including a Safe+ newborn insert, Safe+ newborn high wedge, Safe+ 2-in-1 infant positioning liner, and Safe+ harness pads.
When should I stop using the inserts/wedge?
The infant support cushion and Travel High Wedge are meant for comfort and positioning, since each child develops differently, it is up to the caregiver’s discretion. The Newborn Protection Insert for the Radian 3QX, 3QXT, and 3QXT FirstClass SafePlus models should only be used with infants weighing 4-10 lbs.
How much room do I need in my car to fit three car seats across?
To fit three Radian models across, a minimum vehicle seat width of 51 inches (129.5 cm) is required between door handles or other interior structures.
What is the side impact management pod?
The Safe+ side impact pod is a safety feature compatible with the Radian Q Series and Radian 3RXT SafePlus models. It is installed on the side of the car seat closest to the car door and works by redirecting crash force energy away from the seat and child.
Does Diono use flame retardants in their car seats?
While Diono car seat fabrics are tested to ensure they do not contain any legally restricted harmful flame retardants, they do contain flame retardants to meet Federal and Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for flammability.
When can my child start using a booster seat?
Diono booster seats are designed for kids weighing 40-120 lbs and ranging from 38-63 inches in height.
Can three booster seats fit across the back seat of my car?
In most cars, Diono booster seats can accommodate two across. However, each vehicle model varies in terms of seating positions. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for guidance on car seat placement that may allow more than two seats across.
Can Diono booster seats be used on airplanes?
Diono booster seats are not intended for use on planes, as they are intended to help get a child in the proper position using a lap/shoulder belt,
