Best Scuba Diving Regulator: Top Rated and Reviewed Dive Regulators
I am often asked which is the best scuba diving regulator. It is not an easy question to answer since there is not "one fits all" dive regulator. Someone may rate a regulator top notch while the next diver gives it a thumbs down.And of course, it all depends on what type of diving you do as I explain on my scuba regulator page.
However, in an effort to try and answer the inquiries, I have chosen what I consider to be the best regulator at various price points - entry level, mid range and high end.
Along this line, I have read many ratings and reviews of various scuba regulators. I have only chosen those models which have received many top reviews from lots of different users. If it has universal good marks, chances are you will be happy with it too.
Personally, the regulator I am using is no longer available. And it is not the best anyway. However, after reading all the dive regulator reviews and choosing the top models, I am waiting for my reg to die so I can replace it with one of these models!
Here are my picks of the best dive regulators - from entry level to midrange to top of the line.
If money was no object, this titanium model is the regulator I would be purchasing.
It has an over-balanced composite/stainless steel piston construction. It has 2 high pressure ports and five low pressure ports and is good for both warm and cold water diving. You are able to adjust the air flow easily to make it more comfortable for you. It is nitrox compatible and also lightweight so it is good for travel.
This model gets high marks for breathing easy (which I am envious of), comfort and adjustability. You can read all the details, specifications and user reviews here.
Best Scuba Diving Regulator: Mid Range
There are alot of models to choose from in the mid-range category which made this a tough choice. However, in the end I chose the MK25/S600 Regulator as the top reg in this category based on the overwhelming number of positive reviews.
The first stage has a balanced composite/stainless steel piston setup. Like the titanium model above, it has 2 high pressure ports and 5 low pressure ports. It is also nitrox compatible.
It gets high marks for comfort, effortless breathing, ability to adjust and reliability.
Some reviews from LeisurePro users include:
"Hands down the easiest breathing regulator I've every used.
From the rotating turret that allows your hoses to settle into the most comfortable configuration however you move, to the effortless breathing from a truly balanced system, this is a magnificent piece of equipment that will never go south on you.
I can look up or swim on my back and the air still flows without a problem."
"Best regulator I have used so far and I have been diving for 36 years and have used and owned a lot of different regs in that time...Its Very easy to breath and is adjustable. It just dont get any better."
"My dive partner and I both have this reg. It's a great regulator. Very comfortable and adjustable.Have over 300 dives with this reg with no problems what so ever from 30 ft. to 150 ft. Would recommend it for any diver.Have search everywhere for price. Lowest price at LeisurePro!"
You can check out all the details and other reviews here.
Best Scuba Diving Regulator: Entry Level/Lower End
If you don't want to shell out alot of cash on a regulator, there are some very decently priced models around that get good reviews. The one I have chosen as the best in this category is this Genesis model. It is very affordable at just over $200 and get high marks for comfort and adjustability.
While some reviews state that it is nitrox compatible, in the "ask a pro" section, it says that based on the manual, this model is not nitrox ready. This reg has 2 high pressure ports and 4 low pressure ports.
A couple of reviews from LP users:
"Just finished a one week trip in Bonaire and used my Genesis GS2000 for the first time....I've been diving for over 30 years and this is a GREAT little regulator; super performance and easy breathing down to 137 ft. The diver adjustable parts on the second stage are easy to use.
Great regulator, esp for the price. I highly recommend it!!"
"Was skeptical due to the price, but not after using it - this reg breathes very easy, the free-flow switch works very well - none at the surface. My wife has an Oceanic GT3 DVT and I experienced NO noticeable difference in breathing thru my GS2000 and her GT3 - except hers was more expensive!"
Hopefully, these recommendations will make your search for the best scuba diving regulator a little easier. Please let us know which regulator you use and how you like it. You can leave your scuba gear review here. Hey, you might even win a $50 gift card from Amazon.
Don't forget, you are going to need to buy an octopus too if you don't already have one. This Cressi sub model gets top reviews and is currently on sale for a great price.
Have fun shopping for the best scuba diving regulator for you!
And of course, it all depends on what type of diving you do as I explain on my 
.
