Your scuba regulator is one of the most essential pieces of dive gear you can own as a diver. It is your lifeline underwater, allowing you to breathe safely and comfortably from the high-pressure gasses stored in your dive tank. Therefore, it’s imperative that you pick the right scuba diving regulator for your needs.
Buying a new regulator is not as easy as it sounds. There are hundreds to choose from, as well as many different brands, styles, and features to consider. The whole thing can seem overwhelming at first.
By the end of the guide, you should know what’s a scuba regulator system, its parts, what features work best for you, and our review of the best dive regulators.
Let’s get dive in…
What Is The Best Scuba Regulator?
There is no one single best scuba regulator, the regulator that will work best for you is determined by where you do most of your diving, dive experience, personal preference, and budget.
If you don’t know what to look for when selecting a scuba diving Regulator read our detailed buying guide below.
For other great scuba regulator recommendations, read these other articles:
Cold Water Regulators | Travel Scuba Regulators | Titanium Scuba Regulators
Scuba Regulator Reviews
Warm-water recreational diving
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Cressi AC5 Zen at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage reduces jaw fatigue; intuitive controls and clean hose routing.
Performance & Ease of Use
Smooth, steady airflow for recreational depths; Venturi control helps reduce free-flow.
Build Quality & Durability
Solid materials and simple piston design; holds up well with proper care.
Maintenance & Servicing
Easy to service with external IP adjustment; parts widely available.
Value For Money
Excellent entry-level regulator under $400 offering dependable performance.
Overall Rating:
4.3/5
Manufacturer: Cressi
The Cressi AC5 Zen is a practical, entry-level regulator that combines reliability, comfort, and low maintenance in one compact package. Its unbalanced piston first stage and downstream second stage deliver smooth airflow for recreational diving, while the Venturi control adds a touch of breathing customization.
Built with durable materials like chrome-plated brass and thermoconductive polymer, it holds up well against corrosion and wear. The lightweight design makes it ideal for travel, and the external intermediate pressure adjustment simplifies service and tuning.
While it lacks features like environmental sealing or balanced airflow, the AC5 Zen’s real strength lies in its simplicity and dependability. At around $389, it provides excellent value for warm-water divers, beginners, and anyone looking for a trustworthy backup regulator.
Read the full review
✅ Simple and reliable unbalanced piston design
✅ Easy maintenance with external pressure adjustment
✅ Lightweight and comfortable second stage
✅ Durable materials for saltwater use
✅ Excellent value for under $400
❌ Not suited for cold-water diving
❌ Slightly higher breathing effort at low tank pressure
❌ No inhalation adjustment knob
❌ Only one high-pressure port
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Cressi AC5 Zen at these recommended retailers:
Lightweight travel performance
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro MK11 EVO/C370 at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight design and Hi-Flow mouthpiece reduce jaw fatigue; clean hose routing adds comfort.
Performance & Ease of Use
Consistent airflow at all depths; adjustable inhalation and Venturi switch work smoothly.
Build Quality & Durability
Chrome-plated brass first stage and reinforced technopolymer second stage feel rugged and reliable.
Maintenance & Servicing
Easy to service with external pressure adjustment and wide parts availability through Scubapro dealers.
Value For Money
Mid-range price with premium features makes it one of the best travel regulators for recreational divers.
Overall Rating:
4.3/5
Manufacturer: Scubapro
The Scubapro MK11 EVO/C370 is a balanced regulator that delivers reliable performance in a compact and lightweight design. It provides smooth airflow at all depths, making breathing easy and natural for recreational divers.
Built with chrome-plated brass and reinforced technopolymer materials, it holds up well to repeated saltwater use and travel. The adjustable controls give divers flexibility, and servicing is simple through Scubapro’s global dealer network.
Although it is not intended for very cold water, it performs strongly in warm and temperate conditions. The firm stock mouthpiece and fixed port layout are small compromises compared to its overall comfort and value.
This regulator is ideal for divers who want dependable performance, strong build quality, and easy maintenance without the cost or weight of higher-end models. It is a trusted and versatile choice for travel and everyday diving.
Read the full review
✅ Smooth and consistent breathing at all depths
✅ Compact and travel-friendly design
✅ Durable chrome-plated brass first stage
✅ User-adjustable inhalation and Venturi controls
✅ Reliable in warm and moderate cold water
✅ Easy to service with global parts availability
❌ Not ideal for extreme cold-water diving
❌ Firm stock mouthpiece may cause jaw fatigue
❌ No swivel turret on the first stage
❌ Authorized servicing can be slightly costly
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro MK11 EVO/C370 at these recommended retailers:
Best All-Around
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro MK25 EVO/S620TI at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage, reduced jaw fatigue, clear field of vision with redesigned exhaust.
Performance & Ease of Use
Smooth, consistent airflow at all depths; adjustable inhalation and Venturi assist work well.
Build Quality & Durability
Chrome-plated brass and titanium components; excellent corrosion resistance and rugged build.
Maintenance & Servicing
Widely available service kits and global support; annual service recommended.
Value For Money
Premium pricing but strong long-term investment for divers needing one regulator for all conditions.
Overall Rating:
4.7/5
Manufacturer: Scubapro.com
The Scubapro MK25 EVO/S620Ti brings together top-level performance, cold-water reliability, and thoughtful design. The MK25 EVO first stage provides consistent airflow in all conditions, backed by freeze protection that makes it dependable in colder environments. The S620Ti second stage keeps weight low with its titanium barrel, while delivering smooth breathing and reduced jaw fatigue.
Divers benefit from flexible hose routing, intuitive breathing controls, and a compact, comfortable mouthpiece. It’s not the lightest regulator for travel, and the price sits at the premium end, but its durability and global service support make it a long-term option you can rely on.
This regulator is ideal for divers who want one setup that covers a wide range of conditions—from warm reefs to cold, deep dives—without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Read the full review
✅ Excellent breathing performance
✅ Reliable in cold-water conditions
✅ Lightweight and comfortable second stage
✅ Flexible hose routing with swivel turret
✅ Strong global service support
❌ High price point
❌ Needs regular servicing
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro MK25 EVO/S620TI at these recommended retailers:
Best for Cold Water Diving
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Apeks MTX-RC at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Compact second stage, comfortable mouthpiece, minimal jaw fatigue
Performance & Ease of Use
Consistent airflow at depth, adjustable inhalation and Venturi controls work smoothly
Build Quality & Durability
Military-tested design, chrome-plated brass, excellent cold-water reliability
Maintenance & Servicing
Service kits available worldwide, requires trained technician
Value For Money
Premium price but delivers unmatched reliability in harsh conditions
Overall Rating:
4.5/5
Manufacturer: Apeks
The Apeks MTX-RC takes the proven toughness of the MTX-R and adds breathing adjustments that make it more versatile for different dive conditions. It’s built for cold water, deep dives, and technical environments where reliability matters most.
Strengths include its rugged first stage, cold-water resistance, and flexible hose routing. The adjustable inhalation knob and Venturi switch give you fine control over breathing effort, which many divers find useful on both shallow and deep dives. Comfort is another plus — the second stage feels compact and reduces jaw fatigue on long dives.
On the downside, it carries a premium price tag, the first stage is heavy for travel, and servicing requires an Apeks technician. For casual tropical divers, it’s probably overkill.
For advanced recreational and technical divers, though, the MTX-RC is a regulator you can trust in the most demanding environments. It’s a solid investment if you want gear that won’t let you down when conditions get challenging.
Read the full review
✅ Excellent cold-water reliability
✅ Adjustable inhalation and Venturi controls
✅ Rugged first stage build
✅ Flexible hose routing with turret design
✅ Comfortable second stage for long dives
❌ High price point
❌ Heavy first stage for travel
❌ Requires trained technician for servicing
❌ Overbuilt for casual warm-water diving
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Apeks MTX-RC at these recommended retailers:
Value-conscious recreational divers
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Aqualung Titan at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage, low jaw fatigue, compact hose routing
Performance & Ease of Use
Smooth airflow with Venturi assist, good at depth, limited adjustments
Build Quality & Durability
Solid brass and polymer build, not sealed for cold-water use
Maintenance & Servicing
Global service network, easy access to parts, straightforward upkeep
Value For Money
Excellent price-to-performance ratio for recreational divers
Overall Rating:
4.1/5
Manufacturer: Aqualung
The Aqualung Titan is a straightforward regulator built for recreational diving. It offers smooth breathing, a lightweight design, and dependable performance at a price that’s hard to beat. Its compact size makes it travel-friendly, and Aqualung’s wide service network ensures easy maintenance anywhere you go.
This regulator shines in warm and temperate water environments. It isn’t designed for demanding cold-water use or divers who want extensive adjustability, but that’s not its target audience. Instead, it’s aimed at beginners, casual divers, and travelers who want reliable performance without unnecessary complexity.
With a strong balance of comfort, serviceability, and value, the Titan remains one of the best entry-level regulators available today.
Read the full review
✅ Smooth, reliable breathing
✅ Lightweight and comfortable
✅ Easy to service worldwide
✅ Excellent value for money
❌ Limited adjustability
❌ Not suited for cold-water diving
❌ Polymer parts show wear faster
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Aqualung Titan at these recommended retailers:
Cold-water Workhorse
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Mares Abyss 22 Navy at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Well-balanced metal second stage; comfortable mouthpiece and minimal jaw fatigue during long dives.
Performance & Ease of Use
Exceptionally smooth airflow at all depths; VAD and DFC systems keep inhalation effortless even in freezing water.
Build Quality & Durability
All-metal construction with chrome-plated brass and fluoropolymer coating; designed for extreme conditions and long-term reliability.
Maintenance & Servicing
Simple design, easy to service; Mares service kits widely available; routine maintenance keeps performance consistent.
Value For Money
Premium regulator with military-grade certification; excellent long-term investment for serious or cold-water divers.
Overall Rating:
4.5/5
Manufacturer: Mares
The Mares Abyss 22 Navy II is a regulator made for divers who need reliability and performance in tough conditions. Tested and approved by the U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU), it has proven its ability to function flawlessly in near-freezing water and at depths greater than 190 feet or 58 meters.
Its all-metal second stage, environmentally sealed first stage, and CWD cold-water kit make it one of the most dependable regulators for cold environments. Breathing remains smooth and consistent at all depths, with the VAD and DFC systems maintaining steady airflow when you need it most.
It is heavier than travel regulators and has no adjustment controls, but that simplicity is part of its strength. There are fewer moving parts to fail and no unnecessary settings to manage. It delivers clean, reliable performance every time you dive.
The Abyss 22 Navy II is best suited for technical divers, cold-water enthusiasts, and professionals who work in demanding environments. It is built to handle ice, depth, and extended use. For divers who want confidence in their gear no matter the conditions, this regulator remains one of the most trusted options available.
Read the full review
✅ Proven cold-water performance below 38 °F (3 °C)
✅ All-metal second stage resists freezing and damage
✅ Smooth, natural breathing at all depths
✅ Durable and corrosion-resistant build
✅ Simple, reliable design with no adjustment controls
✅ U.S. Navy tested and AMU certified
❌ Heavier than most travel regulators
❌ No user-adjustable breathing controls
❌ Higher price compared to recreational models
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Mares Abyss 22 Navy at these recommended retailers:
Budget-Conscious Recreational Divers
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Mares Rover 2S at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage, comfortable mouthpiece, minimal jaw fatigue.
Performance & Ease of Use
Reliable airflow at recreational depths, but lacks adjustability.
Build Quality & Durability
Proven design used in rental fleets worldwide; very rugged.
Maintenance & Servicing
Simple piston design, service kits widely available, low upkeep cost.
Value For Money
Simple piston design, service kits widely available, low upkeep cost.
Overall Rating:
4.0/5
Manufacturer: Mares
The Mares Rover 2S is a regulator that keeps things simple while still giving you useful technology. With the DFC first stage and VAD second stage, you get smoother breathing than you’d expect from a budget-friendly model. It’s tough, reliable, and easy to service, which is why many dive shops trust it for rentals.
This regulator is best for beginners, casual divers, or anyone who wants an affordable setup without unnecessary features. It’s not meant for cold water or advanced divers who want adjustability, but it excels as a warm-water recreational reg that delivers consistent performance.
If you value durability, low cost of ownership, and straightforward use, the Rover 2S is a solid option that gives you confidence underwater without stretching your budget.
Read the full review
✅ Affordable price
✅ VAD second stage for smooth breathing
✅ DFC first stage for consistent airflow
✅ Durable construction
✅ Easy to service
❌ No breathing adjustments
❌ Not suitable for cold water
❌ Standard mouthpiece comfort
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Mares Rover 2S at these recommended retailers:
Mid-range buyers wanting performance
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Atomic Aquatics Z3 at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Swivel hose reduces jaw fatigue. Lightweight and well-balanced for travel or long dives.
Performance & Ease of Use
Smooth, consistent airflow at all depths. AFC adjusts automatically for effortless breathing.
Build Quality & Durability
High-quality materials like titanium and zirconium-plated brass resist corrosion. Excellent long-term reliability.
Maintenance & Servicing
2-year or 300-dive service interval. Easy servicing and durable design minimize upkeep.
Value For Money
2-year or 300-dive service interval. Easy servicing and durable design minimize upkeep.
Overall Rating:
4.7/5
Manufacturer: Atomic Aquatics
The Atomic Aquatics Z3 stands out as a well-balanced regulator offering high-end performance, strong durability, and great comfort at a mid-range price. Its balanced piston design provides smooth, consistent airflow, while the Automatic Flow Control handles depth changes automatically.
Built from corrosion-resistant materials like zirconium-plated brass and titanium, it’s made to last in demanding saltwater conditions. The swivel hose adds comfort and flexibility, and the optional sealed first stage extends its versatility to colder or silty environments.
With its long service interval, effortless breathing, and solid build, the Z3 is ideal for recreational and advanced divers looking for reliable performance over many years of diving.
Read the full review
✅ Smooth, effortless breathing at all depths
✅ Durable zirconium-plated brass and titanium construction
✅ Swivel hose reduces jaw fatigue
✅ Long 2-year/300-dive service interval
✅ Optional sealed first stage for cold or silty water
❌ No manual Venturi adjustment
❌ Pricier than other mid-range options
❌ Slightly heavier than compact travel regulators
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Atomic Aquatics Z3 at these recommended retailers:
All-around performance
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro MK25 EVO/S600 at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage reduces jaw fatigue, swivel turret helps with hose routing
Performance & Ease of Use
Consistent airflow at all depths, inhalation adjustment and VIVA controls work smoothly.
Build Quality & Durability
Solid chrome-plated brass and stainless build, XTIS improves cold-water reliability.
Maintenance & Servicing
Widely supported worldwide, service kits available in most dive hubs.
Value For Money
Premium regulator with high performance, priced at the upper range but worth it for versatility.
Overall Rating:
4.5/5
Manufacturer: Scubapro
The Scubapro MK25 EVO/S600 stands out as one of the most versatile regulators on the market. Its balanced piston first stage delivers high airflow with excellent cold-water resistance, while the S600 second stage offers precise control over breathing effort. Together, they create a system that works just as well on tropical reefs as it does in icy lakes.
Its strengths lie in breathing performance, rugged construction, and adjustable controls. Divers who log many dives a year, or those who want one regulator that can handle any condition, will find strong long-term value here.
The higher price and slightly heavier build may not appeal to casual or budget divers, but for those who prioritize reliability and performance, the MK25 EVO/S600 remains a benchmark in the diving world..
Read the full review
✅ Smooth, consistent breathing at all depths
✅ Reliable cold-water performance with XTIS system
✅ Flexible hose routing with swivel turret
✅ Lightweight second stage reduces jaw fatigue
✅ Adjustable inhalation knob and Venturi switch
✅ Durable build with chrome-plated brass and stainless steel
❌ High price point
❌ Slightly heavier first stage for travel
❌ Not fully environmentally sealed
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro MK25 EVO/S600 at these recommended retailers:
Best for Lightweight and Durability
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Atomic Aquatics T3 at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage with swivel hose reduces jaw fatigue
Performance & Ease of Use
Smooth airflow at all depths, AFC keeps breathing consistent
Build Quality & Durability
Solid titanium construction, exceptional corrosion resistance
Maintenance & Servicing
Long 3-year/300-dive service interval, though parts access limited
Value For Money
Expensive, but features and longevity justify cost for frequent divers
Overall Rating:
4.8/5
Manufacturer: Atomic Aquatics
The Atomic Aquatics T3 is a flagship regulator that focuses on performance, comfort, and long-term durability. Built almost entirely from titanium, it’s lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and designed to last through years of saltwater diving. Features like the comfort swivel hose, automatic flow control, and balanced piston first stage keep breathing smooth and reduce strain on long dives.
Its extended 3-year/300-dive service interval is another major advantage, cutting down on maintenance compared to most regulators. These strengths make it especially appealing to frequent travelers, advanced recreational divers, and those diving in harsh marine environments.
The downside is its premium price and limited global service access. For divers who only dive a few times per season, more affordable regulators will meet their needs. But for serious divers who want one of the lightest and most durable options available, the T3 is a standout choice.
Read the full review
✅ Titanium build resists corrosion
✅ Ultra-lightweight for travel
✅ Consistent breathing at all depths
✅ Swivel hose reduces jaw fatigue
✅ 3-year/300-dive service interval
❌ Very expensive compared to most regulators
❌ Limited service availability worldwide
❌ Premium features may be unnecessary for casual divers
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Atomic Aquatics T3 at these recommended retailers:
Solid entry-level performance
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro Mk2 EVO/R105 at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Compact and well-balanced second stage. Comfortable mouthpiece reduces jaw fatigue on long dives.
Performance & Ease of Use
Consistent airflow and reliable performance at recreational depths. Slight increase in breathing effort as tank pressure drop
Build Quality & Durability
Chrome-plated brass and stainless-steel components resist corrosion. Proven design that lasts for years under heavy use.s.
Maintenance & Servicing
Simple construction, affordable parts, and service kits available worldwide. Excellent for dive schools and travelers.
Value For Money
Outstanding reliability and low maintenance at a budget-friendly price. Ideal for beginners and rental fleets.
Overall Rating:
4.3/5
Manufacturer: Scubapro
The Scubapro MK2 EVO/R105 is built for divers who want a regulator that just works. It combines Scubapro’s proven MK2 EVO first stage with the newly updated R105 second stage to create a simple, rugged, and easy-to-service setup.
The XTIS insulation system gives it better cold-water performance, while the downstream piston design keeps maintenance quick and inexpensive. Its durable metal components stand up well to heavy use, making it a favorite among dive centers and frequent travelers.
This regulator is best for recreational divers, students, or professionals who need reliable gear that performs consistently without complex adjustments. It is not the smoothest or most feature-packed regulator in Scubapro’s range, but its reliability, comfort, and value make it a solid long-term investment.
If you want a regulator that is tough, easy to maintain, and ready for any dive, the MK2 EVO/R105 continues to prove why it is one of Scubapro’s most trusted designs..
Read the full review
✅ Excellent cold-water performance with XTIS system
✅ Durable chrome-plated brass and stainless-steel construction
✅ Simple design that’s easy to maintain and service
✅ Comfortable second stage with smooth breathing
✅ Great value for beginners, dive schools, and travel
❌ No inhalation adjustment
❌ Unbalanced first and second stage
❌ Not fully environmentally sealed
❌ Limited features and plain appearance
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Scubapro Mk2 EVO/R105 at these recommended retailers:
Reliable and Durable Workhorse
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Sherwood Brut Pro at these recommended retailers:
Our Ratings:
Comfort & Ergonomics
Lightweight second stage and dual-compound mouthpiece reduce jaw fatigue; hose routing is clean with T-shaped first stage
Performance & Ease of Use
Smooth, steady airflow at recreational depths, but lacks adjustment features found on higher-end models
Build Quality & Durability
Chrome-plated brass first stage and rugged polymers hold up well for heavy use in training and rentals
Maintenance & Servicing
Simple piston design is easy to service; Sherwood kits are widely available worldwide
Value For Money
Affordable price with reliable performance makes it a strong entry-level choice
Overall Rating:
4.1/5
Manufacturer: Sherwood Scuba
The Sherwood Brut Pro is a straightforward, no-nonsense regulator built for recreational diving. Its mechanically balanced flow-by piston first stage and pneumatically balanced second stage provide dependable performance for dives within sport-diving limits. The dry-sealed chamber helps protect against corrosion, and the rugged build makes it a trusted choice for training centers and rental fleets.
It’s not loaded with features, there are no adjustment knobs or Venturi switches, but that simplicity is part of its appeal. You get reliable airflow, a comfortable mouthpiece, flexible hose routing, and the reassurance of Sherwood’s service network.
Strengths include durability, comfort, ease of service, and affordability. Weaknesses are its limited adjustability, heavier build compared to travel regulators, and average breathing performance when stacked against premium models.
For new divers, casual warm-water explorers, or shops that need a workhorse reg, the Brut Pro offers strong value and proven dependability.
Read the full review
✅ Reliable airflow at recreational depths
✅ Rugged construction with dry-sealed piston first stage
✅ Comfortable dual-compound mouthpiece
✅ Clean hose routing with six ports
✅ Affordable price for beginners and rental fleets
❌ No adjustment features on the second stage
❌ Not designed for cold-water diving
❌ Breathing performance lags behind premium models
❌ Heavier than lightweight travel regulators
Where to Buy:
Get a great deal on the Sherwood Brut Pro at these recommended retailers:
What Is A Scuba Regulator?
Without a scuba regulator scuba diving as we know it wouldn’t be possible. Simply put, it regulates the high-pressure gases stored in the cylinder so you can easily breathe from it underwater. Hence the name, regulator.
Together, your scuba regulator and dive tank make up the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCUBA) that allows you to breathe safely underwater.
It is also the hub that links many of your dive gear. It links your dive tank to your submersible pressure gauge (SPG) or integrated dive computer, BCD, your alternate air sound, and your primary air source.
What Parts Make Up A Scuba Regulator?
To ensure your safety, it is important to know the parts that make up a scuba regulator system as well as how they work.
Your standard regulator consists of 5 main parts:
- The first stage – attaches directly to the scuba tank valve (DIN or Yoke), reduces the high pressure in the cylinder (300psi) to intermediate pressure (120 – 150psi), and routes it to several houses via ports.
- Primary second stage – breaks down the intermediate pressure and delivers it to your mouthpiece for you to breathe from. It uses a demand valve that only gives you are when you need it (inhale) at a pressure you can breathe comfortably.
- Alternate air source – is a spare second state that can be used in case you need to propel another diver. Sometimes, this can be built into your BCD Infarction system.
- Low-pressure BCD inflator – connects the first stage to your BCD for easy inflation. If you dive with a dry suit, you will also need to have another inflator hose to connect to it.
- Submersible Pressure Gauge (SPG) – is connected to the high-pressure port on the first stage and is used to know exactly how much air pressure you have remaining in your dive tank.
Check out the video below to get a better understanding of the different parts that makes up a scuba regulator system and who they work.
Note: When buying a new scuba regulator often only the first stage and primary second stage are included. You will have to buy the alternate and submersible pressure gauge separately. The inflator hose is normally included when you buy a new BCD or Drysuit.
How to Assemble A Scuba Regulator?
After purchasing your new dive computer you will need to assemble it. The video below will walk you through step by step how to attach your second stages, low-pressure inflator hose, and SPG or wireless transmitter for your dive computer.
Now that you have a good understanding of what makes up a scuba regulator and how it works, lets look as some reviews of the best scuba regulator.
What To Consider When Choosing A Regulator?
Your dive regulator is the most essential dive gear you can own. You will be trusting your life to it every time you go below the water. However, due to technical advances in materials and manufacturing, regulators have become pretty much fail-safe.
Regulators today go through rigorous safety testing to ensure they work perfectly every time—especially those from top brands. So, as long as you stick to the primary brand, safety should not be much of a concern when choosing your reg.
But first…. There are still a few questions you must ask yourself before making a choice.
What’s The Temperature of the Water?
- Warm water: If you’re planning on doing most of your dives in warm tropical waters, there is not much to worry about. Pretty much all Scuba Regulators will work flawlessly in warm water.
- Cold water: When planning to dive in cold water, dives 50°F (10°C), and below, it is always a good idea to find out if your regulator is rated to perform at these temperatures. These regs are generally environmentally sealed to keep out the cold water from coming in contact with the internal components of the first stage and impeding its performance. Metal second stages are also great for cold water dives because of their thermal conductivity properties.
How Will I Mount My Regulator?
There are only two ways you can mount your dive regulator to a scuba tank, DIN or Yoke. However, almost all regulators on the market today are available in both versions.
- Yoke (A-Clamp): With this system, you mount the regulator over and around the tank valve. It is the most popular of the two mounting options, especially in North America. The only advantage Yoke has over DIN is that it is more popular.
- DIN:
With a DIN setup, you screw the regulator directly into the tank valve. This system makes a more reliable connection, while at the same time being more streamlined. For this reason, they are very popular with tech divers. You will also find this setup more in European countries.
If you do decide to go with a DIN system, there are DIN to Yoke adapters that will allow your DIN Regulator to work on a Yoke valve. This way, you can get the best of both worlds.
What Performance and Breathing Resistance Do I Need?
While all regulators are designed to give you enough air to survive underwater, Not all regulators are created equal, and not all regulators will perform the same.
You might want a regulator that gives you air more readily than others or one that can adjust breathing resistance on the fly.
- Unbalanced: An unbalanced regulator generally loses performance the deeper you go and when there is less air remaining in the dive tank. However, due to technological advances over the years, these changes are hardly noticeable at recreational depths. Unbalanced systems are commonly found on entry-level regulators, and are generally recommended for warmer, shallower dives.
- Balanced: A balanced regulator system will deliver consistent airflow no matter how deep you are or how much air you have remaining in your tank. These are generally found on mid-range to high-end regulators and can either be a Piston or Diaphragm design.
- Diver Adjustable Setting: This feature is generally found on higher-end dive regulators. It allows you to customize your breathing in real time.
- Venturi Switch: Prevents free flows on the surface, while enhancing breathing performance underwater.
- Inhalation adjustment knob: Allows you to fine-tune your breathing by increasing or decreasing your inhalation resistance with the turn of a Knob.
Where Will You Be Doing Most of Your Diving?
- Locally: There is not much to consider if you will be doing most of your diving locally. Pretty much any regulator will work just fine.
- Travel: If you plan on traveling for most of your diving, you might want to consider a compact and lightweight Scuba Regulator. Also, braided hoses save more space than traditional rubber hoses.
Adequate Ports For My Peripherals
Lastly, you want to be sure you have sufficient ports for peripherals. A standard regulator setup for recreational diving as a primary second stage, a backup octopus, a high-pressure gauge, and a BC inflation hose. Today most regulators come with four low-pressure (LP) ports and 1 or 2 high-pressure (HP) ports.
Continue Reading
Do you want more recommendations for scuba diving gear? continue reading these articles below:
Dive Computer | Scuba Regulator | Wetsuits | Scuba BCD | Dive Knife | Dive Mask | Scuba Fins