We tested the XS Scuba Inspire regulator. Offering great performance and comfort at a below-average price, it was our Best Buy for regulators.

We measured regulators’ ability to deliver air at a range of depths and breathing rates on the breathing simulator at Dive Lab in Panama City Beach, Florida.

We also tested regs at Alexander Springs in Central Florida with a team of test divers who scored them in 14 categories including ease of breathing, dry operation and comfort.

The Inspire gave an excellent performance on the breathing simulator, and consistently had some of the lowest work of breathing scores in our test. In the water, test divers described air delivery as “super smooth” and “no abrupt on/off breathing, feels natural.” The reg scored excellent for ease of breathing in normal and head-down. It scored very good for ease of breathing face-up, and very good for dryness in all positions. Testers described it as “super quiet” and “very relaxing and pleasing to dive.”

The knurled breathing adjustment is ergonomic and provides a lot of range. The Venturi operates smoothly and tames free-flows with ease. Divers found the purge required a bit more effort than they would have liked, and scored it just good for stiffness.

The feature-rich second stage is large but lightweight and well-balanced. It earned a very good score for comfort.

The balanced diaphragm first stage has two high-pressure ports and a rotating turret with four low-pressure ports.

A favorite among test divers, the Inspire provides great performance and comfort at a below-average price. It was our Best Buy for regs.

Check out the full 2022 ScubaLab regulator review here.