This year ScubaLab put a group of new regulators through a grueling test regimen — these four models were the top performers.

We collected 11 new and redesigned models, and tested them in our ScubaLab shop and at Blue Grotto in Williston, Florida.

Aeris dive computers took two of the top spots in ScubaLab's 2012 dive computer testing. Here we highlight two Aeris models that took away a Best Buy and a Testers' Choice prize.

MARES dive computers took two of the top spots in ScubaLab's 2012 dive computer testing. Here we highlight two MARES models that took away the Testers' Choice prize in their categories.

Of the 13 scuba diving regulator models tested for 2012, four models stood out as Testers' Choice or Best Buys. Check out complete info on these two top models from Aqua Lung.

What's new in the world of dive gear for August 2012.

We test more diving equipment and collect more data than anyone else in the industry. The annual best scuba regulator test is our team’s favorite test of the year.

Sure, there might be other dive gear deemed more important to basic survival (a reg) or your general well-being (a dive computer) than a BC. But when it comes to being able to comfortably acclimate to being underwater — to the point where you feel like a resident rather than a clumsy topside tourist — the BC is the most important component of your kit.

This year’s undisputed favorite among test divers, the Aquaride Elite is well built with virtually no inherent buoyancy.