Choosing an octi

Choosing the alternate air supply that's right for you

Your octi is a vital piece of gear and choosing the right one for you is important. The goal of all alternate air supplies is the same: to provide a second chance air supply if your regulator or your buddy's fails during a dive. Octis then deliver air on demand at ambient pressure, but are usually set to reduce freeflow when not in use. Only you know which alternate air supply suits you. Only you know your budget and what other features are important to you and your style of diving.

Some divers simply advise - get the most expensive octi you can afford - but here’s some other considerations:

	Atomic SS1	Sherwood Gemini	Seac Sub Synchro	Atlantis Icon O1
Does it have ergonomic low-profile design?	Yes	Yes	Classic design	Classic design
Is the purge button easily pressed even when wearing thick neoprene gloves?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Is it an integrated power inflator inline octo?	Yes	Yes	No	No
Materials?	Titanium, chrome plated brass and stainless steel	Chrome plated brass and stainless steel	Chrome plated brass and technopolymers	Chrome plated brass, 303 stainless steel, passivated internal parts
What BCDs does it connect to?	Most	Most - 26mm hose	No	No
What’s the warranty?	Lifetime of original owner limited warranty	Lifetime of original owner limited warranty	Lifetime of original owner limited warranty	Lifetime of original owner limited warranty
What’s the service schedule?	1 year service or 150 dives	1 year service	1 year service	1 year service
Which Dive Alert air horn fits?	DA2, DP2	DA2, DP2	N/A	N/A