Best First Diving Regulators of 2026

Luke Dobson Avatar
Luke Dobson
Last Updated: 9 Feb 2026

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Diving regulators are essential equipment for scuba diving, as they allow divers to breathe compressed air at ambient pressure. The first diving regulators were developed in the 1940s and have since undergone significant advancements in technology and design. These regulators feature a first stage that attaches to the scuba tank and reduces the high-pressure air to an intermediate pressure, which is then delivered to the second stage that the diver breathes from. With the right regulator, divers can enjoy a safe and comfortable diving experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SEAC PX100 Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator Set Cover #TOP 1
SEAC PX100 Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator Set
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Mares First Stage R2S Membrane Cover #TOP 2
Mares First Stage R2S Membrane
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mares Regulator SXS 62X Underwater Dispenser DIN Cover #TOP 3
Mares Regulator SXS 62X Underwater Dispenser DIN
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 First Diving Regulators

#TOP 1

SEAC PX100 Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator Set

0350097000004A
nero
230 INT
SEAC PX100 Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator Set Cover
SEAC SET PX100, Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator and Octopus

The SEAC PX100 Regulator Set is designed for divers seeking reliability and performance. Its simple piston first stage features one high-pressure outlet and four low-pressure outlets, ensuring a consistent air supply during your dives. You can adjust the breathing effort and the Venturi Effect, which helps optimise your air intake based on your activity level. Additionally, the exhaust duct effectively prevents water from entering the second stage, even in strong currents, enhancing your safety and comfort underwater.

What We Like
Reliable performance underwater
Adjustable breathing effort
Water infiltration prevention
Functional design
Made in Italy quality
#TOP 2

Mares First Stage R2S Membrane

Mares
416232
Black / Black
Size INT INT
Mares First Stage R2S Membrane Cover
Mares First Stage R2S Membrane - Black/Black, Size INT INT

Features
Lightweight, Resistent And Compact
Int - Din
One High Pressure Port, 4 Low Pressure Ports
#TOP 3

Mares Regulator SXS 62X Underwater Dispenser DIN

Mares
416269DIN
Multi-coloured
standard size
Mares Regulator SXS 62X Underwater Dispenser DIN Cover
Mares, Regulator Sxs 62X, Underwater Dispenser, Multicoloured, DIN, Unisex Adult

The Mares SXS 62X Regulator is an ultra-compact underwater dispenser designed for divers who travel or prefer lighter, slimmer gear. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and handle, ideal for those on the move. The regulator combines a reliable and durable 62x level, ensuring it withstands regular use. It also guarantees a steady and high air flow at any depth, providing you with consistent breathing comfort while diving.

What We Like
Ultra-compact design
Lightweight and slim
Reliable and durable
Consistent air flow
#TOP 4

Cressi AC2 Compact Plus Diving Regulator Set

HY787051
Black
Cressi AC2 Compact Plus Diving Regulator Set Cover
Cressi AC2 Compact Plus Octopus XS Int Diving Regulator - Black

The Cressi AC2 Compact Regulator is an excellent choice for divers, offering maximum performance in a compact design. This regulator features a first stage AC2 and two second stages, making it suitable for beginners, diving schools, and rental use. Its octopus model has a distinctive yellow front cover, ensuring easy identification under water. Additionally, the longer hose length of 100 cm provides greater flexibility and comfort during dives, enhancing your overall diving experience.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Ideal for beginners and rentals
Easy identification with yellow cover
Longer hose for added comfort
#TOP 5

Cressi AC2 XS2 Int Diving Regulator

HX780000
Black
Cressi AC2 XS2 Int Diving Regulator Cover
Cressi AC2 XS2 Int Diving Regulator - Black

The Cressi AC2 Regulator is designed with the diver in mind, featuring a traditionally sized second stage made from high-tech polymers for durability. You will benefit from a pilot air flow that is injected directly to the mouthpiece, enhancing your breathing performance underwater. The flow deviator utilises the Venturi effect, allowing for seamless transitions between dive and pre-dive functions. Additionally, the regulator is built on the trusted Cressi AC2 piston model, ensuring reliability as one of the strongest first stages available.

What We Like
Durable hi-tech polymer construction
Enhanced breathing performance
Seamless dive/pre-dive function
Reliable Cressi AC2 piston model
#TOP 6

Cressi Octopus Compact Scuba Regulator

HX789000
Yellow
Standard
Cressi Octopus Compact Scuba Regulator Cover
Cressi Octopus - 2nd Stage Scuba Diving Regulator

The Cressi Octopus Regulator features a compact design with a distinctive yellow front cover and a longer hose, measuring 100 cm for added convenience. This longer hose allows for greater flexibility during dives. Also, it channels a flow of pilot air to the mouthpiece, enhancing your breathing performance underwater. Additionally, the upper part includes a flow deviator that optimises the Venturi effect, giving you better control over your inhalation efforts with a dive/pre-dive function. This means you can adjust your breathing with ease, making your diving experience more enjoyable.

What We Like
Enhanced breathing performance
Longer hose for flexibility
Easy dive/pre-dive adjustment
Compact and lightweight design
#TOP 7

SEAC SET PX100, Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator and Octopus

0350097000003A
nero
230 DIN
SEAC SET PX100, Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator and Octopus Cover
SEAC SET PX100, Emergency Scuba Diver Regulator and Octopus

Features
Simple Piston First Stage Consists Of One High-Pressure Outlet And 4 Low-Pressure Outlets. Second Stage Has A Simple And Functional Design.
Set Consisting Of The SEAC PX100 Regulator With INT Or DIN 230 BAR Connection And The SEAC PX100 OCTO Emergency Second Stage
Number Of HP Ports: 1. Number Of LP Ports: 4. All Components Are Made In Italy.
Exhaust Duct Prevents Water Infiltration Into The Second Stage Even In Strong Side Currents
Ability To Adjust Breathing Effort And Venturi Effect (Dive/PreDive)
#TOP 8

SPYMINNPOO 1st Stage Pressure Reducer Regulator

SPYMINNPOOgzk9ve0h3g
#211
SPYMINNPOO 1st Stage Pressure Reducer Regulator Cover
SPYMINNPOO 1st Stage Pressure Reducer Regulator, Aluminum Alloy Diving Regulator Easy Breathing Scuba Diving

Features
Enhanced Safety: The First Stage Dive Regulator Provides A Stable Source Of Oxygen Supply For A Safe Diving Experience, Making It A Suitable Choice For Divers At Varying Levels Of Expertise.
Sturdy Material: Made Of High Strength Aluminum Alloy Material, The Diving Regulator Is Resistant To Rusting Or Erosion, Ensuring Long Term Usability For All Your Diving Adventures.
Versatile Use: The Underwater Diving Regulator Is A Multifunctional Diving Equipment Accessory, Ideal For Scuba Diving And Other Deep Diving Activities. Its Versatility Makes It An Essential Addition To Your Diving Gear.
Stable Airflow: Designed With Precise Manufacturing Technology, The Dive Regulator Ensures Stable Airflow When In Use, Contributing To A Smoother And Better Diving Activity.
Easy To Use: Lightweight And Convenient To Use, This Scuba Diving Regulator Ensures A Breezy Underwater Journey For An Overall Seamless Diving Experience.
#TOP 9

Cressi AC2 Compact Diving Regulator - Black

HX787051
Black
Cressi AC2 Compact Diving Regulator - Black Cover
Cressi AC2 Compact Int Diving Regulator - Black

The Cressi AC2 Regulator is designed for both beginners and experienced divers. Its lightweight construction ensures that you can dive without feeling weighed down, enhancing your overall experience. The excellent performance means you'll have reliable air supply underwater, allowing you to focus on the dive itself. Maintenance is straightforward, making it easy for you to keep your equipment in top shape. Additionally, it comes at an affordable price, making it a great choice for diving schools and rental purposes.

What We Like
Extremely lightweight
Excellent performance
Easy maintenance
Affordable price
Multiple colour options
#TOP 10

Cressi Compact Pro MC9/SC Diving Regulator

HX782100
Metallic
Cressi Compact Pro MC9/SC Diving Regulator Cover
Cressi Compact Pro MC9/SC DIN Hiper Balanced Regulator-Made in Italy

The Cressi Compact Pro Regulator is designed for divers seeking a lightweight and efficient option. The hyper-balanced diaphragm in the MC9-SC first stage ensures smooth airflow, making your dives more enjoyable. Its featherweight second stage, crafted from techno-polymers, helps to reduce jaw fatigue, allowing you to focus on your underwater experience. The self-lubricating internal coating enhances durability and performance, ensuring you can rely on this regulator during your adventures. Ideal for travel, it packs maximum performance into a compact design.

What We Like
Lightweight and travel-friendly
Reduces jaw fatigue
Durable internal coating
Smooth airflow
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our first diving regulator research, we found 34 first diving regulator products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,016 customer reviews through our big data system to write the first diving regulators list. We found that most customers choose first diving regulators with an average price of £274.05.

The first diving regulators are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of first diving regulators, including SEAC, Mares, Cressi, SPYMINNPOO.

Written by
Luke Dobson Avatar

Luke is a runner, a climber, hiker, hunter, and a lot more. Luke Dobson is Celtic-born and has lived most of his life in Scotland. However, his sporting endeavours have taken him to several countries around Europe. He serves as a tour guide for countless companies and owns a couple of gyms and recreational centres in Scotland. Luke Dobson is proficient in 7 different languages. He maintains many sport article columns where he shares his wealth of experience in the sport industry.