Review: ScubaPro MK2 EVO / S270 — The Entry-Level Regulator That Earns Its Reputation
ScubaPro's MK2 EVO piston first stage combined with the S270 second stage has long been the default recommendation for new open-water divers — and it earns that status with genuinely comfortable breathing, easy serviceability, and durable construction that outlasts the learning curve.
Every major dive retailer has an entry-level regulator recommendation, and for a large portion of the industry that recommendation is the ScubaPro MK2 EVO paired with the S270. This combination has occupied the entry tier of ScubaPro's lineup for years, and its staying power reflects genuine performance rather than simply a lack of competition.
The MK2 EVO first stage uses a proven piston design — simple, reliable, and easy to service — with five low-pressure ports and two high-pressure ports, providing ample flexibility for recreational configurations without requiring an additional port splitter. The intermediate pressure is stable and consistent across the depths recreational divers typically encounter. The balanced design maintains steady breathing effort even as tank pressure drops, a meaningful safety margin for newer divers who are still developing attentive air management habits.
The S270 second stage is where this set earns praise beyond its price bracket. The over-balanced downstream design delivers a smooth, effortless inhale that has held its own in side-by-side comparisons against second stages at significantly higher price points. A diver-adjustable breathing resistance knob sits on the front face, and the large purge button is responsive even in cold-hand conditions. Cracking effort on the surface and at depth is low enough that younger divers and those with limited lung capacity find it comfortable for extended sessions.
Serviceability is a practical advantage in the field. The MK2 EVO's internal layout is straightforward, service kit costs are low, and most ScubaPro-certified technicians complete the annual service quickly. This keeps long-term maintenance costs reasonable compared to some competitor equivalents.
The MK2 EVO / S270 is not suited for cold-water diving below 10°C or technical diving applications — its environmental limitations should be respected. But for recreational diving in temperate to warm water within the standard open-water depth range, it consistently performs above its price point.
Bundled together, the MK2 EVO / S270 set typically retails between $350 and $450 depending on region, and is available through authorised ScubaPro dealers worldwide. Many retailers offer complete packages with an octopus second stage and BCD inflator hose included.