In this quick guide, we are going to look at the best scuba regulator available on the market today as well as what you need to know when choosing one that fits your diving style and budget.
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…
Our Top Pick
Scubapro MK25 EVO S620TI
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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
Top 10 Best Scuba Regulator for 2023
Below is our top pick of the best scuba regulators for this year. You can use the comparison chart below to compare their main features as well as find the best prices. If you purchase using the links provided below we earn a small commission at no additional expense to you.
Compare Scuba Regulators
Compare the key features and price of over 20 different Scuba Regulators to find the right one for your diving needs
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.
Best Entry- Level Scuba Regulators
These regulators are generally placed below $400. However, Budget don’ts necessarily mean less performance. The regulators listed here are still high-quality choices and many can perform just as well as most mid-to-high-end regulators.
These are an excellent choice for beginner divers or seasoned divers looking for a great regulator for a redundant system.
Sherwood Brut Pro
Manufacturer: Sherwood Scuba
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Balanced Piston |
Ports | 2 HP / 4 LP |
Environmentally Sealed | Yes |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | No |
Adjustable Flow Knob | No |
![The Best Scuba Regulators For Every Budget [Includes Buying Guide] 1](http://scubadiverhq.com/wp-content/uploads/tcb_content_templates/contentblock/images/Quotation_marks_image_white-opaque.png "Quotation_marks_image_white-opaque")
“I was really impressed with the ease of breathing with this regulator. For the money, I don't think I could have found anything better.”
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What We Like
What We Don't Like
Summary:
The Sherwood Brut Pro has been redesigned from top to bottom to deliver better breathing performance than it’s predecessor while still staying true to the Brut’s reputation as being a rugged and reliable regulator that is easy to maintain.
It features an environmentally sealed first-stage that prevents water and other contaminants from entering the first stage. And, is also completely balanced, a feature not found on more expensive regualtors.
This feature makes it an excellent choice if you are looking for a first time regulator that is easy to breathe.
Read Review: Sherwood Brut Pro Review
Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195
Manufacturer: Scubapro
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Unbalanced Piston |
Ports | 1HP / 4LP |
Environmentally Sealed | No |
2nd Stage Type | Unbalanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | No |
“ I bought 3 of these regulators for my family. They are well built and rock solid. The Venturi switch on the second stage is awesome."
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What We Like
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Summary:
The Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 bulletproof reliability and ease of maintenance make it the system of choice for demanding dive centers as well as new divers.
The MK2 first stage has been around since the early 1960s but has been upgraded many times over the years to improve reliability and performance.
Paired with the upgraded R195, this regulator setup would be perfect as your first regulator or back-up regulator. It also now rated for cold water use due to Scubapro’s XTIS system.
Read Review: Scubapro Mk2 Evo/R195 Review
Mares Rover 2s
Manufacturer: Mares.com
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Ubalanced Piston |
Ports | 1HP / 4LP |
Environmentally Sealed | No |
2nd Stage Type | Unbalanced |
Venturi Switch | No |
Adjustable Flow Knob | No |
“Bought his as my first Req. Finally got into diving. I saw and reviewed many regs. And really for the price you can't beat it. I have taken it up to 112 ft and it works perfectly. From a shore dive, to a deep dive pretty reliable. I haven't really had a bad experience and it's been a year later.”
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What We Like
What We Don't Like
Summary:
The Rover 2s is a great entry-level regulator from Mares.
While the first stage is unbalanced, it’s Dynamic Flow Control (DFC) minimizes the drop in intermediate pressure on inhalation. Mares claims this allows them to use a simpler and reliable second stage without sacrificing performance.
Overall, it is a fantastic entry-level regulator that breathes pretty well and offers excellent value for your money.
Read Review: Mares Rover 2s Review
Best Mid-Priced Scuba Regulators
Moving up from the budget options, these are great if you’re planning on diving more often. In this price range, you can expect a few more features and better performance from your regulator.
Hollis 100LX/DC3
Manufacturer: Hollis
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Overbalanced Diaphragm |
Ports | 1HP / 4LP |
Environmentally Sealed | Yes |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | No |
“I dive cold fresh water quarries,off the coast of North Carolina, Mexico and the Caribbean. I found them to be just as reliable as any Apeks, Atomic or other high end regulator for the fraction of the cost. I have been diving dunce 1997. This is a simple reliable design, that meets the needs for both tech and recreational diving.”
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What We Like
What We Don't Like
Summary:
The Hollis 100LX/DC3 looks more expensive than it really is due to its high polished chrome, smart design, and breaded hose.
The DC3 over-balanced first stage delivers superior performance by providing more gas the deeper you go. While the 100LX second stage is pneumatically balanced for smooth, effortless breathing.
If you’re looking for a simple, high-performance regulator for a fraction of the cost, look no further than this great regulator from Hollis.
Aqua Lung Core
Manufacturer: Aqua Lung
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Balanced Diaphragm |
Ports | 2HP / 4LP |
Environmentally Sealed | |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | No |
“Excellent regulator that breathes very easily. The ports are a bit tight if you have a transmitter, but otherwise, no complaints!”
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What We Like
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Summary:
The Core is Aqua Lung’s new mid-range regulator. Like many regulators in this price range, there is no user adjustment except for a Venturi switch.
However, it does come with Aqua Lung’s ACD system, a feature that is only offered on Aqua Lung’s high-end regulators. This system seals the regulator’s inlet as soon as it’s removed from the dive tank keeping corrosive water and contaminants out of the First Stage.
The amazing breathing paired with an attractive price point gives you the best value for your money.
It is also available in a supreme version that is environmentally sealed, has a lip shield, and detuned for cold water diving.
Read Review: Aqua Lung Core Review
Cressi MC9-SC Compact Pro
Manufacturer: Cressi
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Hyper-Balanced Diaphragm |
Ports | 2HP / 4LP |
Environmentally Sealed | |
2nd Stage Type | Unbalanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | No |
“I'm a Cressi fan all the way, tried many others to be sure, but came back and and purchased this regulator for it's durability and ease of use”
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What We Like
What We Don't Like
Summary:
The Cressi MC9-SC Compact Pro offers maximum performance in a compact package.
The MC9 SC first Stage has a compact, hyper-balanced, environmentally Seal, chrome-plated brass body covered by an Elastomer skin to prevent scratches and dings.
The Compact Pro second stage is also very lightweight with an easy to use purge cover and Venturi lever.
An excellent buy if you’re looking for an all-around regulator, as well as one that is more suited for traveling.
Best High-End Scuba Regulators
These are generally the flag ship regulator of their respective brands. They are generally designed using the best materials and technology to delivery the best performance in any dive condition.
They generally have user adjustable settings for diver who like to fine-tune there breathing. These are great for technical divers or serious recreational divers who dive in a variety of dive conditions.
Scubapro MK25 EVO S620TI
Manufacturer: Scubapro
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Balanced Piston |
Ports | 2HP / 5LP |
Environmentally Sealed | |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | Yes |
"I have been a dive instructor for 39 years. Over the years I have the opportunity to try many brands, but Scubapro is still the best. It also what I recommend for my students. You cannot go wrong with this regulator."
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What We Like
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Summary:
The Scubapro MK25 EVO S620 TI pairs the high performance MK25 first stage with the all new S620 TI second stage, the result is a easy breathing high responsive regulator that’s also excellent at resisting freezing.
It has five low-pressure ports on a swivel and opposing high-pressure ports that allows for multiple how routing and give you the ability to mount the regulator either up or down.
The New S620 Ti second stage is now smaller and lighter the the popular s600, but with the same size diaphragm for effortless breathing. It also features a Titanium inlet tube that is very light and corrosion resistant for carefree reliability.
This is a great buy if you’re looking for an all around regulator that’s also great in cold water conditions.
Read Review: Scubapro MK25 A700 Review
Aqua Lung Legend Elite
Manufacturer: Aqua Lung
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Overbalanced Diaphragm |
Ports | 2HP / 4LP |
Environmentally Sealed | |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | Yes |
“This regulator is smooth as silk across a range of temperatures and depths. Gives plenty on-demand air without free flowing. The purge button is solid and large, but easier to press than you think. The Venturi switch is solid and a great addition, and the first stage with DIN valve is strong and lightweight for its features. A superb piece of engineering.”
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Summary:
The Leg3nd Elite is Aqua Lung’s new flagship regulator and is in its third iteration.
It comes equipped with Aqualung patented Auto-Closure Deve that seals the first stage inlet fitting as soon as it’s removed from the dive tank preventing corrosive water and contaminants from entering the first stage.
The second stage is pneumatically balanced and outfitted with an independent Venturi lever and Air Flow Knob to customize your breathing performance.
This is a great choice for advanced divers who like to make independent micro-adjustments to fine-tune their breathing preference.
Read Review: Aqua Lung Legend Review
Atomic Aquatics T3
Manufacturer: Atomic Aquatics
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Balanced Piston |
Ports | 2HP / 5LP |
Environmentally Sealed | |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | Automatic |
Adjustable Flow Knob | Yes |
“The Atomic T3 is by far the absolute best I've ever used, and I've used many on my way up through the certifications. It breathes like nothing I've used before , light weight very comfortable , it's an extremely well made piece of equipment . Yes, it is expensive, but once you own one you'll see where that money went..”
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What We Like
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Summary:
The Atomic T3 Regulator is precision machined from titanium to make it one of the lightest full-sized regulators today.
It also provides the same unprecedented performance and reliability the Atomic “T” series is famous for, and now comes with a three years/300 dive not contingent on the service lifetime warranty.
This is the regulator to get if you’re looking for the very best. It’s lightweight, and corrosion-free characteristics also make it the perfect reg for traveling divers.
Read Review: Atomic T3 Review
Sherwood SR2
Manufacturer: Sherwood Scuba
Specification:
1st Stage Type | Balanced Piston |
Ports | 2HP / 5LP |
Environmentally Sealed | |
2nd Stage Type | Pneumatically Balanced |
Venturi Switch | Yes |
Adjustable Flow Knob | Yes |
“It is smaller and lighter then I expected which was a very nice surprise. I personally didn't find any issue with the mouthpiece, referenced in another review, it works well for me. The 1st stage is a little on the heavy side but that should be expected since it does swivel.”
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What We Like
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Summary:
The SR2 is the top-performing regulator in Sherwood Scuba’s regulator line.
An upgrade version of the SR1, it’s more technologically advance and attractive than its predecessor, offering superior berating performance.
It features a sealed first stage with a 360° swivel, and a single adjustment knob to control both Venturi and breathing resistance.
The Sherwood SR2 is an excellent regulator that may surprise you with its compact size and effortless breathing.
Read Review: Sherwood SR2 Review
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 Regulator will work flawlessly in warm water.
- Cold water: When planning to dive in cold water, dives 50°F (10°C), and below, it 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:
![The Best Scuba Regulators For Every Budget [Includes Buying Guide] 11](https://pxl.host/j79bqfz3bj18iiuko4.png "The Best Scuba Regulators For Every Budget [Includes Buying Guide] 4")
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 adapter 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 than can adjust breathing resistance on the fly.
- Unbalanced: An unbalanced regulator generally loses performance deeper you go and when there is less air remaining 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 is 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 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 spaces 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.
