8 best diving regulators

Diving regulators are crucial pieces of equipment used by divers to control the pressure and airflow of the breathing gas from the scuba tank to the diver's lungs. They play a vital role in maintaining a diver's ability to breathe comfortably and safely underwater. Here are key points about diving regulators:

Purpose and Functionality: Diving regulators are designed to reduce the high-pressure air from the scuba tank to a pressure suitable for breathing.They consist of two stages - the first stage, which attaches to the tank, reduces the pressure from the tank to an intermediate pressure. The second stage, connected to the first, further reduces the pressure for inhalation.
First Stage: The first stage of the regulator is connected to the scuba tank and reduces the high-pressure air to an intermediate pressure. It typically has one or more high-pressure ports for gauges and low-pressure ports for hoses.
Second Stage: The second stage is the part the diver places in their mouth to breathe. It further reduces the air pressure to ambient pressure, allowing the diver to inhale comfortably. The second stage also includes features like an inhalation valve, exhalation valve, and mouthpiece.
Alternate Air Sources: Diving regulators often include alternate air sources, such as an octopus (an extra second stage) or an integrated alternate air source, providing an option for a buddy to share air in case of an emergency.
Pressure and Depth Compensation: Regulators are designed to compensate for changes in pressure and depth to deliver a consistent breathing experience regardless of the diver's depth. This is achieved through a mechanism that adjusts the airflow based on the surrounding pressure.
Materials and Construction: Diving regulators are constructed using durable materials like chrome-plated brass, stainless steel, and high-quality plastics to ensure they can withstand the demanding underwater conditions.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing of diving regulators are crucial to ensure their proper functioning and safety. This includes cleaning, inspection, and replacement of parts as needed.
Regulator Configurations: Divers can choose from various regulator configurations, including single-hose regulators, which have a separate hose for inhalation and exhalation, and twin-hose regulators, which have a single hose for both.

In summary, diving regulators are essential devices that provide a controlled and comfortable breathing experience for divers, allowing them to explore the underwater world safely and enjoyably. Understanding their components, functionality, and proper maintenance is fundamental for any diving enthusiast.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best diving regulators on the market

HPDAVV Diving Equip Set: 145PSI Scuba Second Stage Regulator22 & PVC Air Hose(50ft, 100ft) & Diving Mask - Octopus Hookah Mouthpiece Free Flow Resistant

Based on 54 reviews Check latest price

【22" low pressure hose】145 PSI Explorer Scuba Diving Dive 2nd Stage Regulator Octopus Hookah
【Scuba Diving Equipment- Second Stage Regulator 】With brass connector, mouthpiece and orthodontic mouthpiece for added comfort
【Free flow resistant】Under-chin exhaust system, directing bubbles to the sides.With light and unobstructed breathing naturally supple.
【Silicone mouthpiece】Mechanically balanced for smooth and easy inhalation and exhalation
【Application】Applicable in recreational diving ,snorkeling, underwater production areas,underwater rescue, fisheries breeding

User questions & answers

Question:	Can i buy the quick disconnect to the 1st stage for a scbub tank from Amazon
Answer:	Hi, Thanks for your question. yes, the hose is included. Thanks Divemaster Chris 866-728-2293 Onlinescuba
Question:	Is this food grade
Answer:	Hello, This is assembled and ready to dive out of the box and it includes the first stage, second stage and hose. That said, the other components will need to be added like an octo, gauge and lp hose for your bcd. Hope this helps, Happy Diving, Instructor Bill OnlineScuba 1 866 728 2293
Question:	What size connections do I need for the ends of the hOses
Answer:	4 LP ports which 2 ports are high flow, and 2 HP ports
Question:	Can air hose connect directly to dive tank
Answer:	Yes, it has a few.

Cressi Intense Use Scuba Diving Regulator | Piston 1st Stage, Compact 2nd Stage | AC2/Compact: Made in Italy

Cressi

Based on 48 reviews Check latest price

Ideal scuba diving regulator for beginners and travelers at an affordable price. Piston 1st stage plus a compact single-hull second stage. 1 HP and 4 LP ports. Weight: 923 g - 32.6 oz. Made in Italy.
A heavy-duty piston 1st stage, affordable, simple, reliable and robust, suitable for intense use. Appreciated by Dive Centers and specialized companies who consider it to be a very reliable device, due to the surprising level of performance.
Conical filter with large filtering capacity, essential for preventing infiltration of particles from the tanks. Exterior LP regulation with a common hexagonal key, greatly facilitates managing adjustments and technical maintenance.
Asymmetrical frontal 2nd stage cover drilling. The water flow pushes the diaphragm anti-clockwise direction to create its retraction in a flat position and to make the lever decrease gradually in precise perpendicularity, regardless of condition.
The specific calibration of the inhalation mechanism slightly changes the personality of the air outlet by rewarding an abundant flow without the need to exploit the Venturi effect, beyond the exquisite touch and sensitivity of this type of regulator
The AC2/Compact regulator 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.

User questions & answers

Question:	How long is the hose? Some people have commented that it is short
Answer:	Water sensors are always on.
Question:	What type of vave is this compatible with
Answer:	No, SimpliSafe uses a different method of wireless communication as other companies. Unfortunately, this means that the SimpliSafe system is not compatible with other brands components.
Question:	Is the 2nd stage adjustable for easier/more resistance in air flow
Answer:	Yes you need Simplisafe. Anytime the water sensor comes into contact with water, the sensor will transmit a wireless signal to the SimpliSafe base station, which will audibly announce the water trigger to you. If you are subscribed to our alarm monitoring, you’ll also get a call from our alarm monitoring service to inform you.
Question:	My wife has a small face/mouth. Is the second stage light and how is the mouthpiece for small mouths? Thanks
Answer:	Smart Alerts will be sent to your phone if you are connected to our Interactive Monitoring Plan.

Product features

AC2 COMPACT

TECHNICAL FEATURES 1ST STAGE - Piston design - 1 outlets HP 7/16 UNF - 4 outlets MP 3/8 UNF - Service pressure: 232 bar (3365 psi) Yoke version - Calibration pressure: 9,5-10 Bar - Brass body Electroless Nickel plated - High capacity conical filter electroless nickel plated - Aisi 316 long lasting piston - Extremely easy in maintenance since IP is adjustable from the outside - Stainless steel spring - Flow rate: 2100 l/min - Yoke version weight: 635 gr - 22.4 Ounces CERTIFICATION EN250/2000

HEAVY DUTY PISTON

Piston 1st stage plus a compact single-hull second stage. 1 HP and 4 LP ports. Weight: 923 g - 32.6 oz. Made in Italy. A heavy-duty piston 1st stage, affordable, simple, reliable and robust, suitable for intense use. Appreciated by Dive Centers and specialized companies who consider it to be a very reliable device, due to the surprising level of performance.

ASYMMETRICAL FRONTAL 2ND STAGE COVER DRILLING

The water flow pushes the diaphragm anti-clockwise direction to create its retraction in a flat position and to make the lever decrease gradually in precise perpendicularity, regardless of condition.

Cressi XS Octopus for Scuba Diving Regulators | Light and Comfortable | Made in Italy

Cressi

Based on 89 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The XS Octopus has a body of the 2nd stage of traditional dimensions, made of technopolymers and a downstream delivery system with side valve (adjustable), simple and very reliable. An injection duct that channels a flow of pilot air towards the nozzle enhances its performance. The 2nd stage is equipped with a flow diverter that acts on the Venturi effect, with a dive/pre-dive function. Moved to the (-) position, it works as a pre-dive, for entering in the water and for the initial phases of the dive, while moving it to the (+) position allows the regulator to develop maximum performance. Constantly updated over the years, is a regulator that has many admirers in the world for its simplicity and robustness, which translate into practice in ease and low maintenance costs. The performance is high and suitable for any type of diving. The XS Octopus 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 4-year limited warranty.

The XS Octopus has a body of the 2nd stage of traditional dimensions, made of technopolymers and a downstream delivery system with side valve (adjustable), simple and very reliable.
Downstream system
Adjustable venturi effect
Easy maintenance
Weight without hose: 206 gr - 7. 27 oz
JACKETED HOSE extremely light and flexible weight: 153 gr - 5. 4 oz
CERTIFICATION Annex B EN 250: 2014_ A>10°C
The XS Octopus is designed and manufactured in Italy by Cressi, an Italian brand pioneer in scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming equipment since 1946.

User questions & answers

Question:	can somebody please make video on how to use that exact make and model and put
Answer:	The LP hose is 33.5 in - 85 cm
Question:	Se puede utilizar hasta que mezcla de EANx con esta segunda etapa
Answer:	Hello Kea, You will need the yoke valve. Happy Diving, Cizon Online Scuba on Amazon 1.702.897.5111 or 1.866.728.2293
Question:	How do I contact Cressi for a warranty claim? The octupus did not work properly after purging and a mixture of air/water was delivered through it
Answer:	no...not on this one
Question:	What type of fitting is this , is it a NPT
Answer:	Mine came with a small mouth piece. Or you could buy one they are attached wit a zip tie fairly cheap and easy to install

Scuba Choice Palantic AS206 Black/Yellow Second Stage Regulator Octopus with 36" 350PSI Hose

18 months and up

Based on 70 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Scuba Choice - Top rated dive shop with discounted prices. We have everything you need- Scuba Diving/Snorkeling/Spearfishing/Swimming/Surfing/Bow fishing Gears.

Non-adjustable second stage
Comfortable silicone mouthpiece
Large purge button
Comes with a yellow 36" 350PSI hose

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this regulator be used as a second stage for a scuba set-up (not air compressor
Answer:	Hello Jason, thank you for your question. The XS Scuba Second Stage Quick Disconnect is a set of both the male and female. It can be purchased in male only but not female only. If we can be of further assistance, please give us a call. Happy Diving, Cizon Online Scuba on Amazon 1.702.897.5111 or 1.866.728.2293
Question:	Will this operate below 40 psi feed? My compressor maximum is 40 psi
Answer:	Hi, Thanks for your question. The 1st stage has 1 HP port on it. If you have any other questions, please let us know. Thanks Divemaster Chris 866-728-2293
Question:	Would this fit with a air compresser
Answer:	Hello James, Yes this is a yoke system but can be converted into Din with a kit. Hope this helps.
Question:	can i use this with a hookah or air compressor (low pressure air system
Answer:	Nothing

Hanperal 145 PSI Explorer Scuba Diving Dive 2nd Stage Regulator Octopus Hookah, Hookah Dive Regulator

Hanperal

Based on 176 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Feature:

145 PSI Yellow 2nd Stage Scuba Explorer Diving Dive Regulator

Material:

PC +ABS

Valve: Electro Less Nickel Plated Brass

Diaphragm: Silicone

Color: Yellow

Quantity: 1 pc

Size: as the picture shows

Pressure hose length: 57cm / 22.44"

Type: downstream demand valve

Maximum Intermediate Pressure: 145 PSI

Inhalation Effort: 1.10 - 1.25 CIW

Exhalation Effort: 1.10 CIW

Flow Rate: 30+ SCFM (air supply: 3000 PSI)

Package includes: 1 x Scuba Diving Dive Regulator

22" low pressure hose.
Silicone mouthpiece.
Free flow resistant.
Under-chin exhaust system, directing bubbles to the sides.
Mechanically balanced for smooth and easy inhalation and exhalation.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can I hook this to t80 compressor
Answer:	No, it does not support Alexa. It can send notification and email to you when the sensor contact water. Need any help, please contact us to [email protected].
Question:	What is the size of the brass tip on the regulator. Or what is it called
Answer:	I have the gateway in my kitchen (middle floor of 4,000 sq ft house) and sensors in both basement and 2nd floor at opposite sides of the house and the connectivity is fine.
Question:	Is this adjustable for input pressure? I see no way to adjust
Answer:	APP can not remotely disable the beep. Since the water-leak detector has sensors on the surface, once it is wet, it will beep, only if there is no water on the sensors, it will stop beeping. Hope we could have your understanding! Need any help, please contact us to [email protected] :)
Question:	can i use this with my scuba tank aluminium 80 3000psi
Answer:	Yes. I believe so. As long as you place it out side the tub wall on the floor where potential water will overflow, it will work. The leak detector 4 sensors at the bottom of the device to alarm you whenever there is a pool of water. Note : There is also a sensor on the top ( two parallel lines) which can detect a drip from the faucet also. Hope that helps.

Scuba Diving Palantic AS207 Spare Second Stage Regulator

Scuba Choice

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Scuba Choice - Top rated dive shop with discounted prices. We have everything you need- Scuba Diving/Snorkeling/Spearfishing/Swimming/Surfing/Bow fishing Gears.

Non-adjustable second stage
Comfortable silicone mouthpiece
Large purge button

User questions & answers

Question:	does it come with a hose
Answer:	Both. 2 blades forn12v battery and the clip for the gator.
Question:	will a 25 psi. air work with this regulatoe
Answer:	These are positive tip.

Mares Scuba Regulator Octo Dive Gear Package

Mares

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Mares Instinct 15X Regulator: Lightweight and Compact Design Great Travel Regulator, Comprehensive Owner's Manual - Balanced Diaphragm First-Stage DFC System, Chromed Marine Grade Brass, Inherently Environmentally Sealed Design, Design Provides Protection from Sand, Salt, Chlorine, Pool Acid and Contaminants, Pre-Oriented Pressure Ports, A.C.T. Advanced Coating Tri-Material Valve Technology, Four 3/8" Threaded LP Port, Two 7/16" Threaded HP Ports - Downstream Demand Valve Second Stage, Material: Techno-Polymer, Small & Compact Design, Side Exhaust, Deflects Exhaled Breath, Compensating Openings, Prevent Free-Flow in Current, Oversized Purge Button, Vortex Assist Design (V.A.D.) System, Fluid Dynamic Deflector (FDD) - Mouthpiece: Soft Hypoallergenic Silicone, Reduced Jaw Fatigue . . . Mares Prestige Octo: The Prestige is a mid-size octopus with a stylish design, strengthened by technology to give steady, natural and effortless breathing. All Mares second stages are a reliable downstream valve design and offer the unique patented Vortex Assisted Design (VAD) system. The air bypass tube conveys air to the mouthpiece creating a swirling vortex with a low-pressure area in the center that keeps the diaphragm down during inhalation, for very sensitive and easy breathing at all depths.

Package includes: Mares Rover 2S Regulator + Mares Rover Octopus
Mares Rover 2S Regulator Reliability, light weight and simplicity.
Mares Rover Octopus Compact and lightweight.

User questions & answers

Question:	How many low abd high pressure ports are there
Answer:	Yes Used this for about 15 dives Works great
Question:	Is this a yoke system
Answer:	no use can use your 1st stage
Question:	What else would need to be added to complete the regulator set other than a computer
Answer:	Not 100% sure but I would probably say no because of the price.
Question:	Does it come with hoses
Answer:	i cannot trust it yet. i just had a pool session .the yellow cap came out.