Best Scuba Regulator DEALS
When I first started scuba diving, I had no choice but to borrow or rent out my equipment.
Not only was this is a costly practice it was also quite unappealing.
On a whole, I am not a big fan of reusing things that have been previously used by hordes of strangers.
More than anything, I was always a bit squeamish of using the regulators.
This was why when I began my PADI certification, one of the first things that I did was to get my own gear.
It was only then that I realized just how difficult to find the best scuba regulator.
Being older and wiser, however, I now have the experience to help out others in this situation.
Best Scuba Regulators
1. Scubapro MK25/S600 Scuba Diving Regulator
Scubapro MK25/S600 Scuba Diving Regulator
Features
- New Extended Thermal Insulating System (XTIS), plus 30% resistance to freezing
- Air Flow at 200bar: >8500 l/min - 301 SCFM
- Balanced flow valve provides constant & effortless air flow.
- Air balanced flow-through piston
- Externally adjustable intermediate pressure
Scubapro is all about improving on what is great so that they can achieve perfection.
This is why this is the fifth edition for this model.
Now, this is not to say that the MK25/2600 is perfect. I do feel, however, that it is pretty close to that.
Let me explain why…
I really liked the fact that it was easy to breathe with this regulator. This is due to several components including the extremely stable intermediate pressure offered by the MK25 first stage as well as the air performance of the S600 second stage. This results in a constant and high air flow at all times.
The diver adjustable inhalation control feature also allows you to customize your breathing effort to make your diving experience more comfortable.
There is also a VIVA dive/pre-dive switch that you can utilize when you are not in the water to prevent the free-flowing of air.
I also found that super flow hose means that the air delivery to you is also incredibly smooth.
Inhalation and exhalation is also improved with the means of the high flow exhaust valve.
If you are headed towards chilly waters, then the MK25/2600 is what you need. There is anti-freeze protection to help you overcome the elements.
It is also extremely corrosion resistant, making it quite resilient as well.
Specs:
- Diver Adjustable venturi
- Diver adjustable airflow
- Balanced first and second stage
- Ergonomic safegrip mouthpiece
2. Atomic Aquatics Z3 Regulator
Atomic Aquatics Z3 Regulator
Features
- High performance regulator, Nitrox compatible to 40%
- "Seat Saving" Orifice for extended service intervals
- First stage is made from chrome-plated brass and stainless steel
- Comfort swivel 2nd stage hose, Diver Adjustable Airflow
- All internal components are made of Corrosion resistant machined brass with zirconium and titanium plating
The Z line in the Atomic Aquatics range is the cheapest option.
The ‘Z’ denotes the use of the cheaper zirconium and the Z3 regulator is the latest of its designs.
This regulator is a great example of how the price is not always an indicator of performance. While you may be paying less, you are not losing out on any of the performance typically expected from Atomic Aquatics. The most significant feature of the Z3 first stage is the Atomic Jet Seat high-flow piston. This means that you are treated to a high flow of air that continues to be steady throughout your entire diving expedition. The first stage materials are made from chrome plated brass and stainless steel.
The second stage components are titanium and zirconium plated. There is a new high flow second stage case. This allows divers to reduce their breathing efforts at a variety of depths beneath the surface. Regardless of if you are only a couple of feet down or much further below, you will find it equally easy to breathe.
The Z3 also comes equipped with the Comfort Swivel. This gives divers greater freedom to move their head while their regulator is in their mouth. The mouthpiece is dual silicone complete with tear resistant bite tabs to make it last longer.
Specs:
- First stage Atomic Jet seat high flow piston
- High flow Second Stage Case
- Comfort Swivel
- Dual silicone mouthpiece with tear resistant bite tabs
3. Aqua Lung Legend LUX – Yoke Regulator
Aqua Lung Legend LUX - Yoke Regulator
Features
- Safer for elevated percentages of oxygen
- Compatible with up to 40% O2 right out of the box
- Safer for elevated percentages of oxygen
- Pneumatically-balanced second stage results in smooth, easy breathing
- The Comfo-bite mouthpiece virtually eliminates jaw-fatigue
With the Aqualung Legend LUX regulator, it is easy to feel like the manufacturers have thought of everything.
This is because, for the most part, they really have.
The Legend LUX has opted for an over-balanced diaphragm design instead of a piston feature. The advantage here of allowing a greater volume of air to pass through the system to compensate for increased gas density at greater depths. This means that even when you dive deeper, you will still find it quite easy to breathe.
I also like that the first stage is environmentally sealed, protecting it from water, sand, silt, and other contaminants.
Not only does this cut down on maintenance, it can also prevent the buildup of ice. This actually makes the Legend LUX quite useful in colder climates. This is compounded by the presence of the Auto-Closure Device system as well.
Now, what I would applaud about the second stage is the Master Breathing System which is essentially a combination of the venturi effect with the inhalation adjustment. This is merged with a knob that can be toggled between Min and Max for the desired effect. One of the reasons that you will find it easier to breathe with the Legend LUX is the pneumatically balanced second stage.
The jaw fatigue that is associated with holding a regulator in your mouth for a long time is negated with the Comfo-bite mouthpiece.
Specs:
- Over balanced diaphragm feature
- Environmentally sealed first stage
- Auto-Closure Device system
- Master Breathing System
- Comfo-bite mouthpiece
4. Huish Outdoors Atomic T3 Titanium Regulator
Huish Outdoors Atomic T3 Titanium Regulator
Features
- Nitrox ready for mixtures up to 40%
- All titanium diving regulator
- Dependable system makes it good for travel
- The most reliable seat system in the industry
- Durable with low maintenance requirements
I talked about one of the cheapest Atomic Aquatics regulator with the Z3. Now it’s time to discuss the decidedly pricier T3 regulator.
The T series fancy themselves as being regulators that are considerably lightweight. Well, the T3 is the lightest of them all, which is no small feat.
After all, if you could reduce the amount of weight that you need to take on every time you dive, most divers would jump at the opportunity.
You also get the Atomic Aquatics patented Jet Seat piston. This works on a variety of levels including allowing the diver to breathe more smoothly and naturally. It also reduces the amount of maintenance that the regulator has to undergo.
The factory sealed first stage means that the system is protected from contaminants, sand, and also from freezing.
The second stage follows the same themes as the first stage – weight saving and reduced maintenance.
The reduced weight is due to the majority of the components being made from titanium. As for the lowered servicing need, this is where the Seat Saving Orifice comes into play. A valve moves the orifice away from the seat when the regulator is not being used. Therefore, there is less wear and tear over time.
In terms of comfort, the balanced valve system minimizes the breathing restriction that you experience. The comfort swivel also allows for greater movement and less resistance.
My other favorite feature would be the Automatic Flow Control which is used instead of the venture. This means that you don’t need to manually adjust anything when diving or ascending.
Specs:
- Lightweight titanium components
- Factory sealed first stage
- Atomic Jet Seat piston
- Seat Saving Orifice feature
- Automatic Flow Control element
5. Scubapro MK21/S560 Regulator
Scubapro MK21/S560 Regulator
Features
- New compact sized piston -controlled first stage
- Close to 20% smaller than our MK25
- Mid-range piston 1st stage offering the best compromise for the right price and the right performance.
- Lightweight techno-polymer barrel
- Second Stage
Can’t afford the MK25/S600 but still want to enjoy what Scubapro has to offer?
Well, then the MK21/S560 may be right up your alley. This model is also great if you are looking for a lighter alternative as well.
Although compact, the MK21 still has that air balanced flow through piston in the first stage. This means that regardless of far down you are diving, what your tank pressure is like, or what your breathing rate is, air flow will be consistent.
The MK21 has external fins on the chrome brass body. This results in a thermal exchange which greatly helps with the resistance to freezing.
Moving onto the air balanced S560 second stage, you are able to equalize the inhalation. This is despite the pressure in the tank or the depth which you are diving at. The high flow exhaust valve allows you to minimize the amount of the effort that you expend with breathing, particularly during exhalation.
Your inhalation rate can also be customized with the help of a diver-adjustable inhalation effort knob. To avoid the free flowing of air when the regulator is not be used, the dive/pre-dive switch can be used.
The orthodontic mouthpiece is also quite comfortable when placed in your mouth. This comfort does not in any way inhibit the flow of air to you, however.
If I was going to recommend the MK21/S560 to anyone, I would suggest it to divers who travel a lot. Particularly at this weight, you will be able to cut down on those airline baggage fees.
Specs:
- Lightweight
- Air balanced flow through piston
- External fins for thermal exchange
- Air balanced second stage
- Diver adjustable inhalation
- Dive/pre-dive switch
6. Cressi Sub Elipse Titanium Scuba Regulators
Cressi Sub Elipse Titanium Scuba Regulators
Features
- Ideal scuba diving regulator for passionate divers. Hyperbalanced membrane 1st stage plus the balanced elliptical-design 2nd stage. Designed and made in Italy.
- The hyper compensation of the mechanism guarantees a slight increase of the IP as it gets down the pressure of the bottle. The regulator supplies, therefore, its maximum level of services in the final phase of the dip, undoubtedly the most critical.
- The chamber is designed to canalize the air volume directly to the LP exits for reducing to minimal level the fall of pressure in forced breathing (0.5 BAR), guaranteeing a use with high services in any situation.
- The 2nd stage features an over-sized intake diaphragm for smoother breathing, the best of its kind: 12% more than the high range models offered by competitors. Contact plate with Teflon coated cam to reduce friction.
- The MC9/Ellipse Titanium is designed and manufactured in Italy by Cressi, an Italian brand pioneer in scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming equipment since 1946. The product is covered by a 2-year limited warranty.
The Sub Ellipse regulator can easily be described as the budget option on this list.
It is by far the cheapest option available.
While the Sub Ellipse may be cheaper, there is no denying that it has a lot of merits, even when compared to the other titans in this article.
So, what are they?
This is certainly one a light regulator and this is largely due to the techno polymer elastomer components dominating the first stage system. Although there are titanium parts, many of the elements are made from the polymer material. The first stage has also been protected against both corrosion as well as friction. This allows you to go a longer time without having to service the regulator.
This regulator also minimizes the drop in intermediate pressure. This means that in spite of considerable diving depths and lowered tank pressure, you will still be able to experience superior performance.
This regulator also functions really well in colder climes and will not result in ice buildup.
Overall, for the price that you are paying, you are actually getting a really good deal out of the Cressi Sub Ellipse.
At this price range, of course, there are bound to be a few issues. The most voiced complaint is regarding the mouthpiece, although this is not something that everyone has found fault with. Some find to be a little too small although this can easily be remedied with a larger replacement.
Specs:
- Lightweight
- Anti-friction and anti-corrosion
- Reduced drop in intermediate pressure
- Titanium inserts
7. Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator
Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator
Features
- Diaphragm First Stage, Environmentally Sealed Balance Chamber, Heat Exchangers
- Braided Flex Hose, Venturi Control, 4 Low Pressure Ports & 2 High Pressure Ports
- Auto Closure Device Keeps Corrosive Water out Of First Stage Inlet by Automatically Closing
- Environmental Dry System Keeps Water Out of Main Spring Chamber Thus Preventing Ice Buildup and Keeping Silt and Contamination Out
- Pneumatically-balanced Second Stage Results in Smooth, Easy Breathing
Using a regulator can impose heavy weight that can make it difficult to dive with the regulator on. It is essential to find a regulator that is comfortable to wear and bear the weight during the dive. This Aqua Lung legend Regulator comes in a smaller and lightweight construction than other models you can find on the market. The design makes it an ideal choice for divers that take more extended dive sessions.
The regulator features a diaphragm first stage which provides exceptional performance at any depth, cylinder pressure or the conditions. It has an environmentally sealed balance chamber and heat exchangers for convenience. More to this, the regulator has a braided flex hose with venture control. Also, it has low-pressure ports and two high-pressure points for easy use.
The first stage features an auto-closure device that keeps corrosive water out of the first stage inlet by closing the regulator automatically. This prevents internal lubrication from washing away in the event water makes its access. Also, it is safer for elevated percentages of oxygen. On this note, it is compatible with up to 40 % oxygen right out of the box.
The second stage features a master breathing system which is a new and simple way to adjust the breathing performance of the regulator. On this note, the system controls to functions at the same time that is the direction of the air and changing the opening effort.
The pneumatically-balanced second stage of the regulator results in smooth and effortless breathing. The mouthpiece has a unique design to eliminate jaw fatigue when using the regulator for a long session. The hose that comes with the regulator is lightweight and flexible to eliminate any tugging on the mouthpiece. The regulator is a suitable choice for any advanced diver that needs reliability and functionality.
8. Mares MV Octopus Diving Regulator
Mares MV Octopus Diving Regulator
Features
- Lightweight with a minimalist compact design
- Ambidextrous design for ease of use
- Reliable 2nd stage downstream demand valve
- Durable with superior resistance to abrasion
- Low pressure center area for easy breathing
The Mares MV Octopus Regulator is designed to provide you with a seamless diving experience by ensuring smooth and effortless breathing. The regulator is lightweight and comes in minimum dimensions for a compact size.
The regulator has a unique symmetrical shape that makes it easy to use on both left and right sides. This feature makes it simple for most divers and also enhanced safety when diving. It is easy to fix and comes ready right out of the box. One of the features that make it ideal for regular diving is the bright yellow color that makes it easily visible even in murky water.
The second stage of this regulator has a reliable downstream design that delivers the unique patented Vortex assisted design system. The air bypass tube drives air to the included mouthpiece which creates a swirling cortex with a low-pressure area in the center. This, in turn, keeps the diaphragm down as you inhale to ensure easy breathing regardless of the depth.
The innovative diaphragm design and the component layout help to reduce dimensions. Subsequently, the design allows you to enjoy lasting wearing comfort, easy handling and convenient storage of the regulator. The ultra-light techno polymer construction is abrasion resistant which makes it ideal to dive in different water conditions.
It can be challenging to find a reliable regulator at a price you can afford. Depending on what you are looking for, this Mares MV Octopus Regulator is an ideal choice for regular diving. It is light to wear all through and has shown incredible performance for easy breathing.
9. Aqua Lung Core Scuba Regulator – Yoke
Aqua Lung Core Scuba Regulator - Yoke
Features
- Auto Closure Device (ACD) - keeps corrosive water out of the first stage inlet by automatically closing as the CORE is removed from the cylinder valve
- The balanced diaphragm first stage provides superior, consistent performance
- The pneumatically-balanced second stage results in smooth, easy breathing
- Available in yoke (3300 psi / 232 bar max) or din (4350 psi / 300 bar max)
- The T-shape of the first stage optimizes the location of the 4 MP ports and 2 HP ports
The Core Regulator from Aqua Lung has a high breathing performance making it an ideal choice for a regular professional diver. The regulator comes in an attractive design at an affordable price. It provides excellent value and guarantees easy breathing even during regular diving.
One feature that stands out with Aqua Lung regulators is the patented auto-closure device which ensures water does not access the inside of the regulator. This is an essential feature to ensure that you have a smooth flow of air for seamless breathing. Also, it ensures you are safe using the regulator for long diving sessions.
The auto-closure device keeps corrosive water away out of the first stage by closing the regulator as it is removed from the cylinder valve. This mechanism prevents internal lubrication from washing away in case water gets in. Also, it makes the regulator safe for high percentages of oxygen.
The balanced diaphragm first stage provides superior and consistent performance. The send stage is pneumatically balanced which results in smooth and effortless breathing. The regulator is available in the yoke; 3300psi or din; 4350 psi to suit your needs. More on the first stage, the t-shape optimizes the location of the four MP ports and two HP ports.
Over time, you might need to service the regulator. It can be challenging to find parts that are compatible with the type of regulator you have. Luckily, this regulator is compatible with different Aqua Lung models for an easy time when replacing the parts.
The easy-to-grip lever prevents unwanted freeflow at the surface while ensuring a high performance at any depth. A patented heat exchanger surrounds the valve mechanism and dissipates the cold caused by the expanding gas while providing warmth in the ambient water. The regulator comes with a mouthpiece and a reusable mouthpiece clamp
10. Aqua Lung Mikron Blue – YOKE Regulator
Aqua Lung Mikron Blue - YOKE Regulator
Features
- The first stage is a balanced diaphragm type that sports 1 HP port (7/16) and 4 MP ports (3/8)
- The reduced size and weight makes the Mikron the ideal choice for young adults
The Micron regulator is the smallest and lightest in the Aqua Lung regulator collection. It is specially made for traveling divers that need a more compact and lightweight regulator for easy transportation. It is a high-performance regulator that works well for any diver regardless of the skill level.
This regulator comes with a patented auto-closure device and a Comfo-Bite mouthpiece for easy use. The first stage of the regulator features reduced size and weight which makes it ideal for travel. Additionally, the auto-closure device still functions as effectively as it does with other intricate designs. It ensures corrosive water does not make its way into the first stage inlet by closing the regulator.
This mechanism prevents the clearing of the internal lubrication which is essential for performance. Also, it comes in handy as a safe piece doe elevated percentages of oxygen. The compact dimensions of the regulator and the low weight bring about comfort for a worthwhile diving experience. The mouthpiece that comes with this regulator is comfortable and has a reusable mouthpiece clamp.
The first stage features a braided hose that is incredibly low weight for flexibility, comfort, and easy transportation. The balanced diaphragm features two HP ports and four MP ports. It is available in yoke or din to suit individual needs. The T-shape optimizes the location of the four MP ports and two HP ports for convenience.
The second stage of this regulator is pneumatically balanced to ensure smooth and easy breathing as you dive. Additionally, it has an adjustment knob that allows the diver to optimize the opening comfort. When used in the mini position, the initial effort increases which come in handy to prevent free flows at the surface. In the maxi position, the inhalation effort lowers which takes away the breathing work from your side.
11. Mares Rover 12S Regulator
Features
- First Stage Features:
- Balanced Diaphragm Design
- Tri-Material Valve
- Dynamic Flow Control (DFC)
- Marine Grade Chromed Brass
The Rover 12S is an ideal choice for an intensive diver that needs a high-performance and reliable regulator for regular use. It works well for professionals and recreational divers who need efficiency in a simple and comfortable regulator. It is a guarantee of quality and durability and has shown to work well with different divers regardless of the skill level.
The regulator has a balanced diaphragm first stage which uses the Mares Tri-material valve. The medium-sized second stage features a cover that is made of soft material. This design makes it easy to push the purge button even when you have your diving gloves on. The advanced technology of this regulator ensures easy, natural and consistent breathing during your dive.
The chrome plated marine brass first stage regulator features a balanced diaphragm which is environmentally sealed. The membrane of the diaphragm transmits the pressure changes to the internal mechanism which eliminates the need for surrounding water to enter the intricate mechanism.
The advantage of this first stage design is that none of the internal parts are exposed to contaminants in the water such as salt, sand or chlorine. These contaminants can cause corrosion and results in mineral deposits on the internal mechanism which can deteriorate the performance of the regulator.
The patented tri-material valve technology of the regulator is created to optimize the performance, safety, and reliability of the regulator. The valve comes covered with a tough polyurethane layer. The sealing surface has a soft PU layer to ensure a perfect seal. This design ensures the regulator reaches maximum durability levels and can withstand regular use in water. It is a high-value regulator that any advanced diver should get.
12. Mares Prestige 15X Scuba Regulator
Mares Prestige 15X Scuba Regulator
Features
- Material: Ultralight Techno Polymer
- First stage: Balanced diaphragm design
- First stage weight (g) DIN300: 598
- Second stage weight (g): 193
This regulator is one of the best as far as professional diving is concerned. It comes with amazing features that enhance its general performance and ease of use. On this note, it works well for all divers regardless of whether you are a beginner or professional. It is easy to use and comfortable at different depths.
The regulator is reliable and compact and features a DFC system. This system satisfies the different demands of divers concerning different depths. It features a new valve which is useful in ensuring advanced performance and longevity of the regulator. That means that you can get the most out of this regulator for years to once without the need for repairs or replacements.
The second stage of the regulator comes in a medium size and built from lightweight techno-polymer material. It is easy to use and has a large-sized purge button that you can quickly press even when you have gloves on. The VAD mechanism of the regulator provides natural and excellent inhalation at any required depth.
The regulator has a lightweight hose that brings about comfort and flexibility. It is easy to fix as you dive and ensures you can comfortably reach it if you need to adjust the position. The first stage is environmentally sealed and is chrome plated for durability. Also, the balanced diaphragm membrane transfers pressure modifications to the interior system. This, in turn, reduces the need for the water to go in the complex mechanism.
One of the features that make this regulator a comfortable piece is the mouthpiece design. It is specially made to ensure you do not have to strain or cause jaw fatigue when using the regulator for a long session. Also, the performance of the regulator ensures you have natural and effortless inhalation that you forget you have a regulator as part of your gear.
13. Cressi-Sub Ellipse Octopus (Safe Second) Regulator
Cressi-Sub Ellipse Octopus (Safe Second) Regulator
$219.95 in stock
Features
- The Cressi Octopus MG is a pneumatically balanced valve designed with a Venturi effect adjustment switch, Cressi's patented elliptical membrane diaphragm and patented low-friction lever.
- The Octopus regulator air delivery system without injector has an internal heat exchange, cam-lock system to open the case and a body in noise-absorbent techno Polymer.
- Removable techno Polymer deflector and removable mechanical parts.
- The hose is an extremely light and flexible weighing only 5.4 oz. (153 g) with the regulator coming in at 6.42 oz. (182 g). Regulator is certified to CE standard Annex B EN 250:2014 for cold water.
- The hose and purge cover are in bright yellow color for easy identification in an out-of-air-emergency.
The design of this Cressi Sub Ellipse Octopus Regulator comes with a long low pressure, yellow hose. This feature makes it easily visible underwater. The regulator is packed with fantastic features that ensure you have a comfortable experience as you dive.
The regulator uses an elliptical housing similar to the Ellipse primary model that is made from hi-tech polymers. The threaded hose measures 100 cm in length which is a comfortable length for most divers. The internal components of this regulator are similar to the standard Ellipse model which makes it easy to service.
The regulator comes in a lightweight and compact size which makes it ideal for traveling divers. You can quickly fix it among your diving gear and pack it easily for a dive away from home. The design is simple, and this makes it useful for different divers regardless of the skill level. It can be a great regulator for upgrading equipment for cold or warm diving, with Nitrox and more.
The initial opening effort of the regulator is set high. Once the valve opens, the air is channeled by injection to the silicone mouthpiece. This creates a venturi effect which helps to enhance the performance. On top of the housing, there is a deviator that works on the effect with the switch to prevent free-flow when the regulator is not in use.
The design of the mouthpiece ensures comfort as you use the regulator in your dive. It is made of liquid silicone which is soft enough to hold and ensure you do not strain your jaws. The high-quality standard of the regulator makes it dependable for advanced divers. Also, the ease of use makes it an ideal piece for beginners.
Types of Scuba Regulators
Unfortunately, it is not all that easy to classify regulators into set categories. To make it a little simpler, however, I am going to start off with the first stage of the regulators. Now, the first stage is the part that is attached to the diver’s tank via a yoke or a DIN fitting. It is in control of regulating air pressure.
The first stages can either be divided into piston or diaphragm. They are responsible for making sure that the air pressure is reduced from high pressure to moderate pressure in the first stage. Both piston and diaphragm can also be broken down to unbalanced, balanced, and even overbalanced.
To start things off, let’s discuss the main differences between piston and diaphragm first stages. The piston system uses a rigid piston to move the air. They usually have at least some parts that are exposed to the water. The diaphragm system, on the other hand, has a soft diaphragm move the air. The moving parts tend to be removed from the environment.
As mentioned, these two systems can be further divided into balanced, unbalanced, and overbalanced.
So, what does this mean?
You will first need to understand that both the diaphragm and piston system have a valve-spring construction.
This consists of a high-pressure valve, a seat assembly, as well as a spring. A balanced first stage has an equal amount of pressure on both sides of this valve-spring compilation.
This means that regardless of the external conditions, the pressure sent to the diver remains constant. With an unbalanced system, however, the pressure is unequal. This means that if the diver is diving deeper or if the tank pressure drops, the diver will have to make a greater effort to breathe.
Overbalanced is something that is becoming more popular, especially amongst deep divers. Here, instead of keeping the supplied air constant, you get more air supplied to you the deeper that you dive. This, in turn, makes it easier to breathe.
The second stage system can also be differentiated into balanced and unbalanced.
I will not go into this too deeply as your first stage choice largely impacts the second stage choice as well. There are some regulators that allow you to essentially mix and match. For the most part, however, divers do tend to prefer to get them as a set.
Most second stage systems do offer user adjustable settings. The most typical one that you can find is the venturi setting. This is also known as the dive/pre-dive setting. This prevents the free-flow of air when you are on the surface. It can also help you if the currents in the area are particularly strong.
How To Choose The Best Regulator For You
There is no getting around the fact that scuba gear is not cheap and regulators certainly aren’t.
Therefore, I would start off by saying that you should choose the regulator that you can afford.
The list above shows that saving money does not mean compromising quality.
You can manage to find a balance between the two.
In terms of piston vs. diaphragm, I would say that the choice is largely up to what you feel comfortable with. More often than not, you are likely to pick a particular system solely based on your appreciation for the manufacturer’s designs or features. It also largely depends on the quality of the regulators that you are comparing.
If they are both high in quality, you will find that they perform quite similarly. If they are not, however, you may find that the piston system will offer you greater air flow.
For the balanced, unbalanced, and overbalanced, it is a matter of price and what you are looking for.
As you can imagine unbalanced systems tend to be cheaper. If you are going to be diving deep, however, or don’t want breathing to get difficult when tank pressure drops, you should go with a balanced or overbalanced system.
Before deciding on a regulator, you should decide what kind of environment you will be swimming in.
For instance, are the temperatures going to be quite low or is the water going to be dirty?
To your advantage, most regulators come equipped with anti-freezing abilities and environmental kits. That being said, there are some that are a little more up to the task than others.
Last but not least, I would focus on the mouthpiece. If you are planning on diving for a couple of hours at least, you are going to need a comfortable mouthpiece. Otherwise, you will experience discomfort and perhaps even fatigue.
How to Use Your Regulator
I would caution you to always learn how to scuba dive with a professional instructor.
This ensures that you will learn how to do it properly and will also learn about the important safety information. This includes how to use your scuba regulator.
Nonetheless, here are some key points that you need to know;
The first is to always make sure that the regulator is placed the right way up. A quick and easy way to do this is to glance at the logo on your second stage system. If it is facing the right way up, you are good to go.
Once the mouthpiece is in your mouth, exhale. This will clear out any sand or water that may be residing in it. Then you can take your first breath underwater. Try to breathe a little slower as well as more deeply while you are diving. This will help you to conserve your air.
Now, there is one thing that must never do while you are underwater and the regulator is in your mouth. You should never hold your breath. This could be quite dangerous while diving.
So this is what you need to know about regulators including which ones that you should get.
Remember to get your regulator maintained whenever the manufacturer says that you should.
Not only will this help you use it for longer, it will also keep you safe.
Have I missed anything out?
Have you bought any from the lists above?
Please drop me a line below to contribute.
The Review
Best Scuba Regulator
Choosing the best scuba regulator is easy with our detailed reviews!
Review Breakdown
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Scubapro MK25/S600 Scuba Diving Regulator
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Atomic Aquatics Z3 Regulator
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Aqua Lung Legend LUX - Yoke Regulator
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Huish Outdoors Atomic T3 Titanium Regulator
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Scubapro MK21/S560 Regulator
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Cressi Sub Elipse Titanium Scuba Regulators
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Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator
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Mares MV Octopus Diving Regulator
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Aqua Lung Core Scuba Regulator - Yoke
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Aqua Lung Core Scuba Regulator - Yoke
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Aqua Lung Mikron Blue - YOKE Regulator
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Mares Rover 12S Regulator
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Cressi-Sub Ellipse Octopus (Safe Second) Regulator
Best Scuba Regulator DEALS
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