Best Scuba Regulator In 2022

Aqua Lung Core Supreme

Mares Rover 15x Scuba Regulator

Oceanic Alpha 10 SPX

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Best Scuba Regulator Review

A lot of people travel around the world seeking a nice spot to dive. Diving is a beautiful thing to do as it gives you access to many underwater life forms and terrain. The success of a diving expedition depends on many things, majorly the expertise of a professional diver and the quality of equipment being used. When diving, a lot of equipment is needed to keep you safe underwater. When diving, there are varieties of equipment one needs to carry along; some of these include the divers watch, scuba fins, compressed oxygen tank, swimming goggles, and scuba regulator.

All the gears listed above are essential and must be carried by a diver when going on an expedition; the human body is not designed to be underwater for too long; hence man cannot breathe underwater or handle the pressure at the bottom of the ocean. The deeper you dive, the higher the pressure. These gears are designed to help keep you alive when you are underwater. The oxygen tank and the diving regulator are some of the most essential in a diver’s kit. The primary function of the diving regulator is to help deliver and control the pressure of breathing gas carried by the diver; the scuba regulator helps reduce pressurized gas to ambient pressure and deliver it to the diver. With the regulator, you can maximize the use of oxygen underwater.

The regulator is essential to a diver because the compressed air in the diver’s oxygen tank is at extreme pressure; this can be dangerous to the diver if he or she tries to breathe from the oxygen tank directly. The regulator is necessary to reduce the pressure of the compressed oxygen to a pressure the diver can breathe from without worry. The scuba regulator works in two stages in order to reduce the pressure of compressed oxygen for the diver to breathe; the first stage involves the movement of the compressed oxygen in the tank to an intermediate pressure; from the intermediate pressure to pressure, the diver can breathe which is the second stage.

Scuba diving is known to be a fun and adrenaline-boosting sport; however, most people only dive for the fun of it without even knowing it has any health benefits or not. Whether you are a professional diver or a beginner, scuba diving has numerous benefits for you which include, breathing, gaining strength, and helping to boost flexibility, great for heart health, lowers blood pressure, and also helps maintain and increase fitness level.

To know more about diving gears

Best snorkeling fins in 2021

Best scuba diving masks in 2021

Best swimming goggles in 2021

Today there is an array of manufacturers making the scuba regulator; picking the right scuba regulator is vital because this is your lifeline underwater, allowing you to breath safely from the high-pressured gases stored in your oxygen tank. Getting your scuba regulator might not be as easy as it seems because there are lots of regulators from different brands with different features and styles to pick from. This can be overwhelming, especially for beginners.

Most beginners feel diving gears are expensive; however, you can get nice gear at an affordable price. Apart from the purchase cost, there are other things you need to look at before getting your scuba regulator; some of these features include the comfortability of the mouthpiece, the breathing resistance, the yoke, and confirm if the regulator is balanced or not. A balanced regulator provides assistance at depth and shallow water and makes sure every breath you draw is comfortable.

By the end of this article, you should know more about scuba regulators and how to pick the best regulator for you.

8 Best Scuba Regulators Are Reviewed Below

There are various manufactures and types of scuba regulators on the market. Some of the best scuba regulators available on the market have been compiled for your convenience, as well as what they have to offer. Here they are

1

Aqua Lung Core Supreme

The aqua lung core supreme regulator is excellent if you intend on getting one. Although this piece is a bit high on the price tag; however it is made out of quality materials and will last a long time. Also, the manufacturer of this scuba regulator has been producing diving gear for a long time, and the regulator is a strong unit in their diving gear production. This regulator is impressive, and it also boasts a lot of juicy features; this scuba regulator comes with an auto closure device that helps in sealing water out when underwater. The auto closure device helps keep corrosive water out of the first stage inlet by closing automatically as the core is removed from the cylinder valve. This helps prevent internal lubrication from washing away; it is safer for an elevated percentage of oxygen. The aqua lung core supreme also boasts a balanced diaphragm first stage, which provides superior and performance. A balanced regulator makes sure that the breath you draw from the oxygen tank at any depth is comfortable. This is one of the significant benefits you stand to enjoy with the aqua lung core supreme. Also, the pneumatically balanced second stage results in easy and smooth breathing available in the yoke.

The core supreme chrome coated brass diaphragm first stage also possesses two high-pressure and four low-pressure ports. These ports are paired with a balanced demand valve, it is equipped with venturi control and a big purge button. This regulator is decent-looking, so you don’t have to be bothered about the looks; it also delivers easy and smooth breathing. It is lightweight and durable, representing great value for your money.

The purge of this regulator is easy to locate because of its size and can easily be operated with thick gloves on, same for the venturi lever. The exhaust of the core supreme is compact, and the routing is sound. It disperses and exhales bubbles efficiently; it also comes with a lip shield that helps protect the lips and keep them warm in cold water; however, the lip shield is removable, so if you don’t want it, you can easily remove it. The first stage is made from polyurethane and chrome protector, which is pleasant to look upon; it is also small and lightweight.

Key Features:

  • Auto closure device
  • Chrome coated brass diaphragm first stage
  • Lip shield
  • Polyurethane protector
  • Two high-pressure port
  • Four low-pressure port
  • Large purge button

Specification:

  • Brand: Aqua Lung
  • Model: Aqua lung core supreme
  • Dimension: 11 x 6 x 4 inches; 35.45 ounces
Pros
  • It is made of quality materials
  • This regulator is balanced, which provide comfortable and good breathing in shallow water
  • Lip shield helps keep the lips warm in cold water
  • It boasts an auto closure device that helps in sealing water out of the first stage inlet
Cons
  • The core supreme is expensive
  • Not everyone will find the lip shield convenient

2

Mares Rover 15x Scuba Regulator

The mares rover will provide you with quality at an affordable price. If you are on a budget, the mares rover 15x is one of your best bets. The mares rover is compact, making it easy to pack when one is traveling. It is excellent for divers that move around a lot. This scuba regulator weighs only 10.58ounces. The first stage of this regulator features a balanced diaphragm and dynamic flow control for stable airflow at any depth.

The rover 15x includes a first and second stage in its design and has a low-pressure hose. The second stage boasts a fluid dynamic detector and a vortex assist design; this allows you to get proper airflow and easy breathing. The features of this scuba regulator make it useful in diving in warm and moderate waters. It is also lightweight and compact, making it suitable for traveling; it features an ultralight technopolymer abrasion for a resistant yet affordable regulator—chrome plated marine brass, which gives it a durability boost underwater. No internal parts of this regulator are exposed to sand, salt or chlorine. The dynamic flow control on low-pressure ports guarantees stable performance at any depth. The polyurethane-covered valves offer higher durability when compared with its predecessors. The dynamic flow control helps maximize gas delivery to the diver; this regulator also features an attractive sand blasted finish.

The second stage of this regulator is lightweight; it features a purge behind a flexible mesh grid, which helps in eliminating freeflow in high currents. The mares rover also boasts a comfortable mouthpiece, a fluid dynamic detector that helps direct airflow from the vortex tube to the mouthpiece. The rover has cool styling and an outstanding performance for its price.

In summary, the mares rover 15x is comfortable, lightweight, durable, and it is also fashionable. This regulator is one of the best on the market for a diver that travels a lot.

Key Features:

  • Comfortable mouthpiece
  • Lightweight
  • Ultralight technopolymer abrasion
  • Fluid dynamic detector
  • Vortex assist design
  • Low-pressurehose
  • Chrome plated marine brass
  • Low-pressure-ports

Specification:

  • Brand: Mares
  • Model: mares rover 15x scuba regulator
  • Dimension: 11 x 8 x 4 inches; 10.58 ounces
Pros
  • It features a comfortable mouthpiece in its design
  • It is affordable for almost anybody
  • This scuba regulator is lightweight and compact, making it an ideal regulator for travels
  • The dynamic flow control present in the design of this regulator helps maximize gas delivery to the diver.
Cons
  • Not everyone will like the styling of this regulator

3

Oceanic Alpha 10 SPX

The oceanic alpha 10 is another great scuba regulator. Although this regulator might break your bank, you can rest assured that the oceanic alpha 10 is worth the price and the hype. The oceanic alpha boasts a first stage, a second stage, a low-pressure hose, and an owner’s manual. This regulator is quite fashionable as it comes in a sleek black color. The oceanic alpha comes with an SPX piston in its first stage, four low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports. The low-pressure ports are at an angle for optimum hose routing. The oceanic alpha is made from tripled chromed marine grade brass for long life and durability.

The second stage of this regulator is pneumatically balanced; it also boasts a venturi lever and a shaped purge. The second stage pneumatically balanced demand valve design regulator helps ease breathing in all depths and cylinder pressure, which means the balance feature will perform flawlessly no matter the depth and the pressure of the cylinder, whether high or low. The oceanic alpha boasts a soft and comfortable mouthpiece. The venturi of this regulator is small and attractive when compared with other regulators; the purge is efficient. This regulator will perform well in any water.

The manufacturer makes the oceanic alpha even juicier and harder to resist for divers as it comes with a warranty that lasts a lifetime and free parts. In all, the oceanic alpha is durable and efficient; the lifetime warranty makes it even better.

Key Features:

  • Comfortable mouthpiece
  • Tripled chrome marine grade brass
  • SPX piston first stage
  • Two high-pressure port
  • Four low-pressure port
  • The pneumatically balanced second stage

Specification:

  • Brand: Oceanic
  • Model: Oceanic Alpha 10 SPX
  • Dimension: 6.9 x 13.5 x 3.9 inches; 2 pouds
Pros
  • The oceanic alpha boasts a comfortable mouthpiece
  • This scuba regulator comes with a lifetime warranty
  • The parts of the regulator are free for life
  • It is fashionable and attractive
  • The second stage of this regulator helps ease breathing and can work in all depths
  • This regulator is tough and durable; its performance is efficient
Cons
  • Small venturi lever

4

Scubapro MK2 EVO R195

The Scubapro MK2 Evo is an excellent regulator; however, this regulator is expensive. If you are not working with a budget, you can give this regulator a go. It is packed with nice features that will catch the attention of any diver. The scuba pro mk2 features an efficient piston in its first stage. The piston design features a chrome-plated body; it boasts a high-pressure port and four low-pressure ports. The MK2 also boasts a thermal insulating system in its design; this system fully isolates the mechanical elements from the cold. This helps in increasing the freezing resistance of the regulator in cold water without affecting the breathing performance.

The Evo boasts a fifteen percent more boost in airflow than previous models, all thanks to the larger piston used in its design. Even with the larger piston, the MK2 still boasts a smaller body size when compared with its predecessors. The Evo boasts a compact first stage, a lightweight travel regulator that makes it easy to move around. With this regulator, you can dive confidently, as the second stage is a classic downstream design that combines a venturi lever that is easy to locate even when you are putting on thick gloves. It also features a large circular functional purge button that is easy to locate and operate, a large-diaphragm, and a viva switch that aids in controlling free flow. The mouthpiece of the MK2 is super comfortable, it is easy to grip, and it does not inhibit the flow of air. It also boasts an excellent entry-level regulator.

This regulator is advisable for new divers; although it is a bit expensive, it will provide you with the best diving experience. You don’t have to worry about the internal working mechanism when diving in cold water. It has already been taken care of with the manufacturer’s thermal insulation technology incorporated into this regulator’s design. The Scubapro MK2 EVO is a decent performer all round; a must-get for divers out there.

Key Features:

  • Thermal insulating system
  • Larger piston than older models
  • Smaller body than older models
  • One high-pressure port
  • Four low-pressure ports
  • Lightweight
  • Large circular purge button
  • Venturi lever
  • Viva switch
  • Comfortable mouthpiece

Specification:

  • Brand: Scubapro
  • Model: Scubapro MK2 EVO R195
  • Dimension: 10 x 7 x 4 inches; 2.9 pounds
Pros
  • The thermal insulation technology used in the design of this regulator helps increase the freezing resistance in cold water
  • The mouthpiece is super comfortable for divers
  • It is lightweight and possesses a small body making it ideal for travel
  • The larger piston present in the design help boost airflow
  • It is easy to use for beginners
Cons
  • it is expensive

5

Apeks XL4 Plus

The Apeks Xl4 plus is well suited to divers that prefer cold water climates. The xl4 plus is compact and lightweight, making it easy to travel around with. This regulator helps reduce jaw fatigue during long cold dives. It is designed with an innovative over-molded cap which helps in preventing the buildup of ice. This regulator is one of the newest in the block; this regulator was designed to be lightweight by the manufacturer, travel friendly, and perform well in extreme conditions. The xl4 plus boast a large purge on the front and a venturi lever that is easy to operate. This regulator boasts a balanced diaphragm, one pressure port, and four low-pressure ports that come with a braided hose.

The over-balancing features allow the hose’s intermediate pressure gas to increase faster as the diver descends. These features show that the regulator has superior performance at depth. This regulator is decent-looking and fashionable; the styling of the xl4 plus matches its fantastic performance.

The first stage of the xl4 plus is chunky but quite compact. On the other hand, the second stage is small and lightweight that you almost do not feel it in your mouth. It also features the comfo bite mouthpiece in its design which is quite comfortable and easy to use for divers; the large purge in the design of the xl4 plus is easy to locate and use. The venturi of this regulator is a bit small. However, it can easily be operated even when on thick gloves. It also features a wide tee exhaust that disperses bubbles clear of the diver’s face.

Key Features:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Over-molded cap
  • Large purge
  • Venturi lever
  • Braided hose
  • Comfo bite mouthpiece
  • One pressure port
  • Four low-pressure port

Specification:

  • Brand: Apeks
  • Model: Apeks XL4 Plus
  • Dimension: 0.01 x 0.01 x 0.01 inches; 3 pounds
Pros
  • It performs well in extreme conditions
  • It is compact and lightweight, making it easy to travel with
  • It boasts of a comfortable mouthpiece
  • Smooth breathing and performance at a deep depth
Cons
  • Nil

6

Hollis 150lx Dc7

The 150 Lx features a braided hose, a large purge, and a big venturi lever. This regulator features dual-diaphragm that seals the internal working component; it also features an overbalanced diaphragm regulator design. The Hollis 150 can be converted from right hand to left hand. However, this regulator is not advisable for people that are following a strict budget because it is pretty expensive. However, the Hollis 150 will give you value for your money.

This regulator comprises four low-pressure and two high-pressure ports; the DC7 boasts a pneumatically balanced chrome-plated brass. The manufacturer also made this regulator impossible to ignore as it comes with a lifetime warranty; you don’t have to break a back trying to service the Hollis 150 every now and then. It only requires a service every two years. Another juicy fact is that you get service kit free of charge throughout the duration of using the Hollis.

It features a super comfortable mouthpiece, the mouthpiece is soft, but it has harder inserts in the bite. Breathing with this regulator is smooth and convenient; the venturi lever is big and has a built-in rubber grip. It is not hard to use; one can still use it efficiently, even with thick gloves on. The venturi system is also adjustable. The Hollis 150 features a large purge, and it looks really nice with the 316 stainless steel elements. This piece comes in an array of colors, giving divers the choice of picking the color that best suits them; this regulator’s red and black color scheme is one of the most beautiful and is highly recommended if you are after aesthetics also.

Key Features:

  • Pneumatically balanced and chrome-plated brass
  • Soft and comfortable mouthpiece
  • Two high-pressure ports
  • Four low-pressure-ports
  • Over balanced diaphragm regulator design
  • Adjustable venturi system
  • Dual diaphragm system

Specification:

  • Brand: Hollis
  • Model: Hollis 150LX DC7
  • Dimension: 7 x 13.6 x 3.7 inches; 2.9 pounds
Pros
  • This is a good looking regulator
  • The mouthpiece is comfortable
  • It boasts of a dual-diaphragm system that seals and protects the internal working components in extreme conditions
  • It performs well in cold water
  • Provides divers with smooth breathing and diving experience
  • It boasts a lifetime warranty and free service kits
Cons
  • It is a bit costly

7

Atomic Aquatics Z3

The z in the atomic aquatics Z3 stands for zirconium. The zirconium delivers a corrosion resistance that is four times that of the chrome plating. Also, it is much stronger and more efficient than conventional chrome plating. In essence, this helps prevent your scuba regulator from rust and the destructive powers of salt water. The second stage lever of the atomic aquatics is made from titanium; the first stage of this regulator is equipped with a factory seal; it also features a large purge button, a comfort swivel, and nothing less than seven low-pressure-ports with two high-pressure ports. Unique features if you ask me.

This regulator boasts a lifetime warranty and a two-year dive service interval, meaning the internal working components will perform at their peak without servicing for two years.

This regulator is well made, all thanks to the manufacturer; it also boasts a good performance level, a smooth breathing experience when in use. It also has some cool features like the automatic flow control, which sideline the manual venturi lever and offers diver complete control through a single knob and a black PVD coated comfort swivel on the hose. In all, this is a nice, efficient, and one tough scuba regulator.

Key Features:

  • Automatic flow control
  • Zirconium
  • PVD coated comfort swivel
  • Two high-pressure port
  • Seven low-pressure port

Specification:

  • Brand: Atomic Aquatics
  • Model: Atomic aquatics Z3
  • Dimension: 10.4 x 9.1 x 3.7inches; 3.2 pounds
Pros
  • It is made out of zirconium which is better than the conventional chrome-plated brass
  • It delivers a good breathing and diving experience
  • It boasts of automatic flow control, which is better than the venturi lever
  • It boasts a lifetime warranty
Cons
  • It is expensive
  • The first stage is a little heavy

8

Zeagle Onyx II

The onyx II uses an environmentally sealed balanced diaphragm brass in its first stage; it also features two high-pressure and five low-pressure ports in its design. A thermoplastic second stage through a flexible braided hose is also present. This regulator features a venturi level and cracking resistance control.

This regulator is good-looking, thanks to a stylish metal inserted into the front of the second stage around the large purge. This regulator breaths efficiently in any condition; the presence of the venturi system and the cracking resistance makes it possible to finetune the airflow. The mouthpiece is also quite comfortable; the exhaust sends exhaled bubbles to the side of your head. The zeagle onyx II is affordable and will not break your bank. In summary, the zeagle onyx II is a great regulator that performs well and is coupled with great aesthetics, making it appealing to the eyes.

Key Features:

  • Two high-pressure ports
  • Five low-pressure-ports
  • Cracking resistance control
  • Venturi lever
  • Sealed balanced diaphragm

Specification:

  • Brand: Zeagle
  • Model: Zeagle Onyx II
  • Dimension: 10 x 7 x 4 inches; 2.9 pounds
Pros
  • It boasts of great breathing and nice performance
  • It is affordable
  • Efficient all-round performance
Cons
  • The first stage is a bit heavy

Buying Guide Questions

The answers to questions frequently asked concerning scuba regulators are provided in this section. This should help potential buyers or divers owners make informed decisions about buying or using them.

what is the most important rule in scuba diving?

The most important rule in scuba diving is for you to breathe. Breathing is the number one rule in diving; breathe continuously and never hold your breath. Beginners are always taught never to hold their breath; holding your breath underwater can come at a costly price. Divers breathe air that is compressed to the pressure of the surrounding water; as the diver ascends, the air in his lungs expands as the pressure reduces, so if you hold your breath, it can rupture the wall of the lungs, which can be very bad for the diver.

Is Sherwood a good scuba brand?

The Sherwood is a great scuba brand; it is a brand that sticks to its philosophy of designing and manufacturing durable and reliable products for divers. Divers appreciate this brand for delivering reliability and safety over and over again.

How much is a scuba regulator?

Scuba regulators vary in prices based on the features present in the regulator, the brand, and the material used in the design. With about two hundred and fifty dollars to six hundred dollars, you will get a nice scuba regulator that will serve you well.

How long does a scuba BCD last?

A buoyancy control device can last a long time depending on how you take care of it; any diving gear can last years, provided that they are well maintained.

What is the best scuba brand?

There are lots of great brands out there, depending on the features they have to offer. However, when you are on the lookout for the best diving gear, the cressi, Scubapro, aqua lung, and the Mares are your best bet.

Can you dive without a BCD?

It is possible to dive without a BCD; however, it is not advisable to dive without one, especially if you are a technical diver.

What is the golden rule of scuba diving?

The golden rule in scuba diving is to keep breathing, never hold your breath when you are underwater because when you ascend, the compressed oxygen in your lungs might rupture the lungs

What should you not do after scuba diving?

It is advisable not to fly immediately after diving. The reason is that flying after diving is equivalent to fast ascension, which can be fatal.

Can your lungs explode scuba diving?

Yes, your lungs can explode while scuba diving. The golden rule in scuba diving is to breathe; holding your breath while ascending can cause your lungs to explode.

Conclusion

Diving is an excellent sport; being underwater is a beautiful experience. For whatever reason, you are going underwater, be it underwater photography, to study marine life, or just for the fun of it. Having nice gear is paramount. Having an excellent scuba regulator will help keep you alive and give you a pleasant diving experience. It can be a major task to get a good scuba regulator. However, the best has been reviewed above for the benefit of our readers.