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Diving is an activity that many people engage in for fun, for sport or as a career. When it comes to diving, there are certain objects that a person needs in order to make the most out of their dives. One of those necessities is a regulator. While there are several regulators on the market, one that has always stood out (due to its price and quality) is the Zeagle F8 regulator.
Since no one can breathe underwater, using a high quality regulator is incredibly important. In this guide, you will learn what the Zeagle F8 regulator is, the product specs, pricing information and end with a direct comparison between the Zeagle F8 and three other similar competitors. By the end of this guide, you will have all the information necessary to make an informed decision about this regulator.
What Is the Zeagle F8 Regulator?
Completely redesigned from previous Zeagle models, the Zeagle F8 is one of the hottest regulators on the market. Derived from the already well established Zeagle Flathead series, the F8 is built for those who want to take their diving to the next level. Equipped with a balanced diaphragm (that is environmentally sealed), a diver can block out excess water and avoid the effects of corrosion.
The F8 also introduces a new threaded cover ring for improved safety and an internal heat sink which transitions into cold water seamless. With so many improvements in its design, the F8 is a regulator that divers from the skill level of a novice to an expert will love to work with.
Product Specs
The first stage of the Zeagle F8 is a balanced diaphragm design meaning that the regulator can move air easily. This is important for users, especially as they move into colder temperatures and lungs constrict. This apparatus is NITROX compatible up to 40% O2.
Regarding the ports, there are 5 lower ports with a thread size of ⅜ inches. There are 2 high ports that measure 7/16 inches.
The hose thread is ⅜ inches and the hose length is 30 inches. The total weight of the Zeagle F8 is approximately 2.56 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Pricing
Depending on where you purchase the Zeagle F8, the pricing for this regulator can fall around the $550 to $700 range. This regulator can be purchased on general websites like Amazon. This regulator can also be purchased on specific websites like LeisurePro or Zeagle.com, the company website.
How It Compares
To make the most comprehensive comparison, it is important to understand what other brands are out on the market. While there are a plethora of brands out there, three others have been chosen.
Atomic Aquatics T3 Titanium Swivel Sealed Regulator
Scubapro Evo Scuba Diving Regulator
Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator
Zeagle F8 Regulator
Price $
This regulator is of great quality and can be purchased for around $550 to $700. On the cheaper side, this price point is one that can only be described as a steal.
Ease of Use *****
As with most regulators, the Zeagle F8 is simple to use. Once purchased and received, it is a matter of trying it out a couple of times. Each regulator has certain aspects unique to its design and the Zeagle F8 is no different. Taking the time to test it out before a major dive is the best precaution to take.
Assembly Time *****
This regulator comes fully assembled so it can be used as soon as it received. If the regulator does not come assembled, read the manual. The manual comes with detailed illustrations that will show you how the regulator is supposed to look.
Design Quality ****
The Zeagle F8 comes with a conical precision stainless steel high pressure valve and an advanced polymer seat that provides greater reliability and service life compared to other conventionally designed regulators. The Zeagle F8 regulator also comes with a balanced diaphragm design that has a dry environmental seal. This seal diminishes the issues that corrosion may incur after multiple dives.
The diaphragm membrane transmits pressure changes to the internal mechanism of the regulator eliminating excess water. The low pressure hoses stick directly out to the sides which is a pattern and style that most modern divers prefer.
Warranty ****
The Zeagle F8 comes with a limited lifetime warranty. This means that the Zeagle F8 comes with 2-year 200 dive service interval.
Pros
- Balanced diaphragm design keeps it dry and sealed
- Well-designed diaphragm membrane
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some complaints about its overall effect in cold water
https://www.amazon.com/Zeagle-F8-Regulator-DIN/dp/B00UYAYLII?tag=gearweare-20
Atomic Aquatics T3 Titanium Swivel Sealed Regulator
One of the most popular regulators on the market, the Atomic Aquatics T3 Titanium Swivel Sealed Regulator has some of the best features on the market. With its lightweight titanium design, this regulator comes with some clever patents like the seat saving orifice. With its sleek design, this apparatus is fitted with two high pressure ports and four low pressure ports which wrap around the circumference of a swivel turret.
Price $$$
The price point of the Atomic Aquatics T3 Titanium Swivel Sealed Regulator is around the price of the best regulators out there. At around $1300, this regulator is at an expected price point. Since diving is an expensive activity, the apparatus which keeps a diver from drowning has to be high quality. The price is worth what you get out of the experience.
Ease of Use ****
Even for beginners, this regulator is easy to use. After taking it out of the regulator bag, it is ready for use. For those who need a little more help, the regulator comes with detailed instructions.
Assembly Time *****
This regulator comes fully assembled so there is no guess work on the part of the user. Also having automatic features, this regulator is great for everyone from beginners to experts.
Design Quality ****
With its first stage being made of titanium, the Atomic T3 is a lot lighter than most other regulators that are made from steel compositions or brass. While titanium normally does not perform well in very cold temperatures, the designers of this apparatus have environmentally sealed it and inside is a grease like fixture that resists the cold.
The regulator has all of its low pressure points coming out of a swivel turret, which means that a user can organize and relieve significant amounts of pressure from their hose. This regulator also has a swivel ball joint which allows the user the opportunity to relieve jaw fatigue. Since the hose does not come in at a fixed angle, the user can be more free with their movement.
Warranty *****
This regulator comes with an unheard of lifetime warranty. While some may find the price steep, the warranty is as high grade as its materials.
Pros
- Swivel turret design
- Rubber hoes
- Swivel ball joint design
- Titanium design is anti-rust
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Because of its titanium make, people who dive in very cold temperatures may still struggle with this device
https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Aquatics-Titanium-Swivel-Regulator/dp/B00EATH6AE?tag=gearweare-20
Scubapro Evo Scuba Diving Regulator
The next regulator on the list is another big seller known as the Scubapro Evo scuba diving regulator. Perfect for those who work or like to dive in cold temperatures, the inner part of the first stage is lined with material that protects this apparatus from dwindling in frigid temperatures. Also featuring a swivel turret with five ports, this regulator is one that can be adjusted to whatever position the diver is in. The swivel turrets also allows for a better transfer of air making the diving process that much easier.
Price $$$
As with most scuba regulators, this one lands at around $1400. Though some may find that price point to be absurd, scuba diving is an expensive activity. Since you are submerged underwater, a high quality regulator is not something to be cheap about.
Ease of Use ****
As with most regulators, it will take time to get used to how each individual one works. That being said, even for beginners, this regulator is simple to use. For those that still need help to maneuver the regulator, each comes with a detailed instruction manual.
Assembly Time ****
This regulator comes fully assembled so the user is able to dive as soon as the package arrives to their home or apartment. In the rare case that the apparatus does not come fully assembled, read the manual as assembly is simple.
Design Quality ****
This regulator is one of the best on the market as it comes with a new extended thermal insulating system, making it ideal for people who like to dive or work in areas with frigid water temperatures. This regulator is designed with an innovative swivel turret that has five ports on it. With the swivel turret, the user has access to plenty of flexibility concerning where their hose is routing. The inside of the diaphragm has a titanium barrel which reduces the weight and corrosion effect on the air valve.
Warranty *****
This regulator comes with an unheard of lifetime warranty. While some may find the price steep, the warranty is as high grade as its materials.
Pros
- Insulated inner works perfectly in cold weather
- Swivel Turret with five ports
- Balanced piston
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- The price point might be considered steep
https://www.amazon.com/ScubaPro-MK25-Carbon-Black-Regulator/dp/B01AG075SI?tag=gearweare-20
Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator
The last regulator on the comparison list is the Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator. One of the best priced regulators on the market, do not let its cheaper price lull you into believing the quality is worse. Created to last in cold temperatures, this regulator comes with an auto closure device to keep corrosive water out of the first stage. This regulator also comes with a pneumatically balanced second stage, resulting in smooth and easy breathing.
Price $$
Significantly cheaper than others on the list, the Aqua Lung Legend Regulator is worth around $650 to $700. Still an investment, it does not break the wallet nearly as much as some others of similar quality.
Ease of Use ****
As with most regulators, it will take time to get used to how each individual one works. That being said, even for beginners this regulator is simple to use. For those that still need help to maneuver the regulator, each comes with a detailed instruction manual
Manuals should be read regardless because there are great visuals that can help anyone figure out how to use this regulator.
Assembly Time *****
This regulator comes fully assembled so it is ready to use upon opening. If the Aqua lung does not come fully assembled, refer to the manual. The assembly process is simple if you look at the visuals.
Design Quality ****
Designed for cold weather, the Aqua Lung Legend LX Regulator comes in din 300 bar. The regulator is fitted with a CD that acts an auto closure in order to properly regulate the movement of air as diver moves through frigid waters. The apparatus also comes with an environmental drying system which keeps water out of the main spring chamber. This is important because it prevents ice buildup. This regulator has a braided flex hose, ventri control housing, 4 low pressure ports and 2 high pressure ports.
Warranty *****
This regulator comes with an unheard of lifetime warranty. While some may find the price steep, the warranty is as high grade as its materials.
Pros
- Comes in din 300 bar for extreme cold conditions
- Fitted CD that acts as an auto closure
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Is slightly heavier than other regulators
https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Lung-Legend-LX-Regulator/dp/B0087JCKY0?tag=gearweare-20
Conclusion
As one can see, the Zeagle F8 regulator is one of the best regulators on the market. From its affordable price point to its intricate design, this regulator is one that should be tried. Especially for those that are new to diving, this regulator is a perfect starter as it is provides an easy airflow and is lightweight. Having a limited lifetime warranty, the Zeagle F8 is an investment but one that could take your diving to the next level.
Rating: ****
