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What's the Best Scuba Regulator
There are many different breathing devices on the market with varying designs and features suited for a range of specialised diving activities.
The information, evaluations, and customer reviews listed below will help divers (especially beginners) choose the best dive regulator to suit their needs and price range.
Which Regulators are Good for New Divers?
You can rent a diving regulator from most dive schools. But, there are several valid reasons for owning a personal reg set.
After all, the pressure regulator is a vital component that controls the pressure of your breathing gas underwater.
Here's the thing:
It's fair to say that some rental regs will be troublesome. You may also find them difficult to breathe through, and putting a 'dirty' mouthpiece inside your mouth may feel downright unhygienic.
Whereas, experienced divers will have some preferences for a specific brand, be it for scuba regulator servicing, ease of breathing, reliability, style, or an affordable price range.
Of course, it makes sense that beginners do not overspend. Likewise, you want to avoid buying a scuba regulator that needs replacing after using it for only a few years.
It's also important to understand the benefits you may get from a balanced vs. unbalanced regulator. Do you want the first stage to be diaphragm-based or piston? Which is best suited to your area, DIN or yoke?
Some of the Key Features We Tested
The gear testers at Private Scuba Divers in Thailand are always excited to evaluate and review different makes and models of scuba regulators within a given price range (even the cheap brands).
Overseen by our PADI® Master Instructor, the staff based this buyer's guide and scuba regulator appraisals on the following factors:
- Using a handheld gauge to test the intermediate pressure of the first-stage assemblies.
- Assessing the 'cracking' pressure of the second stages to determine the minimum upstream pressure required to open a check valve (e.g. how easy was it to get a breath).
- Breathing through the regulators in a swimming pool, followed by a deeper dive in open water (following the dive limits for recreational divers).
- Judgments were made on (all):
- Comfort
- Ease of breathing
- Technological advances
- Price
- Overall performance
- Would we recommend this piece of dive gear to a learner diver if they were looking to buy a scuba regulator for the first time? If not, why not?
Pro Tip: The list of best regulators for scuba diving that we reviewed is meant to be a helpful guide. We have not based it with any particular bias towards any specific makes or models. Please "send us an email" if you have any questions or comments.
SEAC PX100 Regulator Set
Many would rate the SEAC PX100 as being a 'budget' priced, strong, entry level scuba regulator set. Thus, it could be ideal for new divers.
The durable first stage assembly combines with a light and comfortable second stage. It comes available with DIN or INT 230 bar connection and an octopus PX OCTO.
Furthermore, the design of the second stage is simple and functional with a large diaphragm to ensure the feeling of natural breathing.
Key Features and Specifications
- Hoses with M 3/8 "" connection with braided lining.
- EAC PX100 is also optimal for colder waters
- Simple Piston First Stage
- No. Of Hp Ports: 1. No. Of Lp Ports: 4
- Adjustable Venturi Effect (Dive / Pre Dive)
- Second Stage Is A Simple And Functional Design
- Braided Coated Hose
- All components are Made in Italy
Customer Comments
"Met my expectations perfectly. Breaths smoothly at depth. Would order again."
"The item is exactly as described and pictured. It is a top regulator, there is nothing to complain about. I would only have wished that an LP hose would also be attached. Unfortunately not like that. So remember to order a suitable hose, otherwise you will have to wait a second time."
"I used an Aqua Lung Titan in my Class. Mine had an adjustable venturi. I didn't notice a difference between High and Low settings."
Mares Dual ADJ 62X Regulator (DIN)
Our scuba regulator reviews analysed several devices that are extremely light and compact. But, we have to say the Mares Dual ADJ 62x is one of the lightest - ideal for divers who travel with their gear.
In addition, scuba diving for kids is a lot easier for small divers because of this lightweight unit (weighing less than 780 grams).
Key Features and Specifications
Hose: 3/8 inch thread high flow superflex 29.5 inches (75 cm)- Max working pressure: 300 bar/4350 psi (DIN): 232 bar/3364 psi (yoke)
- Weight: 27.5 ounces (779 grams) with hose
- Nitrox ready up to 40% oxygen
- First Stage: Balanced diaphragm
- Material: Pearl chrome plated marine brass
- 4 LP and 2 HP Ports
- Second Stage: Downstream demand valve
- Vortex Assist Design (V.A.D.) system
- 77% Increase Flow Cross Section & Double Curvature for Smoother Flow (delivery rate of gas from natural breathing to power breathing)
- Soft hypoallergenic, techno polymer construction silicone mouthpiece (e.g. provides less jaw fatigue)
- Pneumatically Assisted Designed (P.A.D.) with adjustable breathing knob for ultimate breathing comfort and oversized silicone purge button
Note: Another section contains more information about scuba regulator styles and features, including the general parts that make up a reg set.
Related Information and Help Guides
- Beginners Guide to Scuba Regulator Parts and Gauges
- How Does a Scuba Regulator Work Underwater?
- What is the Most Important Feature of a Scuba Regulator?
Note: The short video presented by Simply Scuba explains what to look for when buying a new regulator with tips on how to assemble the separate parts together.