Mini scuba tanks are practical, efficient and lightweight. Unlike large scuba tanks, they offer a great perspective on what is possible with a minimalistic design, mainly suitable for recreational use. While they might not be an option for cave diving, mini scuba tanks work fine for the average diver on salt water and in rivers.
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Mini Scuba Tank Benefits
Online forums tell tales of mini scuba tank benefits which are hard to overlook. Even new divers need their reliability. Diving for a few minutes becomes a different experience and the benefits include those listed below.
- Lightweight practicality
- Quick oxygen charging
- Compatibility with K-connectors and DIN connectors
- Fitted with gauge meters
- Added comfort with silicone mouthpieces
- Oxygen reserve in case of fire emergencies
Most mini scuba dive tanks can actually be used for other purposes as well. However, unlike large scuba oxygen tanks, they cannot be used in long diving sessions. With 50 to 60 mouths of airs to rely on with the average product, it’s clear that these tanks are not made for deep dives. However, they add to the scuba diving freedom and experience as all divers can go deeper than simply relying on holding their breaths.
The following scuba tanks are among the few designs which offer a total freedom for those seeking to dive for a few minutes. Most of them need air added to them and this can be done at most local dive shops.
1. GOYOJO Mini Scuba Tank
GOYOJO Mini Scuba Tank stands out as the best overall in our 10 top mini scuba tanks list. The mini scuba tank offers a great portability, safety, and functionality balance. With the mini design, the tank is ideal for certified divers looking for highly portable scuba tanks. The portable scuba tank features clear use details and provides clear guidelines for safe handling. According to the manufacturer, the oxygen cylinder pressure should not exceed 20 MPa.
With an ultra-compact design, the portable scuba tank offers a 0.5L capacity that provides a decent 6 to 12 minutes of underwater time. However, the time it lasts depends on the diver’s air consumption and depth. The miniature size makes it ideal for travel and other situations where bulk is a concern.
Additionally, the mini oxygen tank comes with an integrated valve that features a luminous pressure gauge for easy readability in low-light conditions. It also includes a pressure relief valve for easy and safe pressure release and an effective air filter system to ensure clean air intake. The mini scuba tank features detailed instructions on air travel precautions, which demonstrates a strong focus on safety and convenience.
According to these instructions, you should separate the bottle and the breathing valve by pressing the top. Unfortunately, the mini scuba tank requires you to buy an inflatable hose separately, as it doesn’t come with one.
Finally, the GOYOJO Mini Scuba Tank features a solid construction made of 6061 aluminum alloy, making it durable and robust. The multi-layer treatment and mirror finish help enhance the aesthetics and, most importantly, offer corrosion resistance for underwater use. It also comes with a custom-made dust cap that guards the air inlet nozzle to maintain performance and prevent bumping.
Pros
- Highly portable
- Includes great safety features
- Features a robust and durable aluminum alloy construction
- Multi-layer treatment for high-pressure and corrosion resistance
- Comes with a custom-made dust cap
- Smart mouth design
- Smart and convenient design
Cons
- No included inflation hose
- Not ideal for deep divers (offers 6 to 12 minutes)
2. Spare Air Original Mini Scuba Tank
The Spare Air Original Mini Scuba is another popular choice for divers looking for a compact and reliable emergency air source. According to the manufacturer, the mini scuba tank is designed to also act as a backup as it is easily accessible and convenient to carry around. Besides, the refillable scuba tank is also easy to use and can also be used in rescue missions as it can be handed off to drowning divers in record time.
With its low profile and compact size, the Spare Scuba tank doesn’t disrupt divers and is easily accessible. The tank measures 2.25” in diameter and is 13.4” tall, and weighs just 2.2 lbs. The manufacturer claims that the tank offers approximately 30 breaths (depending on depth and lung capacity).
Moreover, the black anodized aluminum mini scuba tank features a black holster that easily attaches to the dive gear. It also comes with a refill adapter for refilling the air and a leash that protects it against accidental loss. The mini scuba tank provides a crucial line of defense, but it doesn’t replace air management and careful dive planning.
Pros
- Potentially life-saving, acting as a backup in emergency situations
- Compact and comfortable design that doesn’t disrupt your experience as a diver
- Comes in a complete package that features all the essential accessories
- Cost-effective and refillable
- Easily accessible and user-friendly
- Established brand with years of experience in dependability and quality
Cons
- Limited air supply, just like most mini scuba tanks
- Relatively expensive for an emergency tool
- Proper training is necessary for safe and effective use
3. Houvan H300 Plus
If you are looking for a lightweight and compact Mini Scuba Tank, the Houvan H300 Plus is a great option. The mini scuba tank offers an excellent underwater breathing solution that includes multiple safety features. With a 0.5L capacity, the scuba tank offers 6 to 10 minutes underwater breathing. However, the duration that the tank can serve you depends on the diving depth, breathing rate, and other factors.
The lightweight and portable scuba tank weighs just 2.58 pounds, which ensures minimal burden and easy carrying during dives. It also comes with a carrying pouch and anti-loss rope that prevents accidental loss and facilitates hands-free use. The scuba tank features a 6061 aviation aluminum construction for enhanced durability, resistance to corrosion, and performance in underwater environments.
Moreover, the three-layer process, including washing casting, frosting, and sandblasting, protects the tank from damage and enhances corrosion resistance. It comes with a food-grade silicone mouthpiece for safe and comfortable breathing. The Houvan H300Plus is also equipped with a coolant pressure outlet feature that helps prevent overfilling and regulate air pressure. It also has an explosive-proof valve that releases excess pressure in the tank to prevent rupture.
The scuba tank takes approximately 4 to 8 seconds to inflate, and any diver with a diving certificate can inflate it at the dive shop using the Houvan scuba adapter. You can also use a Houvan compressor, which takes about 11 minutes, or inflate it with the mini high-pressure manual pump. The tank comes with a cloth bag, user manual, and other accessories.
Pros
- It is highly portable as it is extremely compact and lightweight
- Corrosion resistant construction
- It comes with multiple safety features
- It provides hands-free capability for safe and convenient underwater use
Cons
- Inflatable methods require diving certification
- Offers relatively short duration (6 to 10 minutes)
- Considerably limited air supply (0.5L)
- Divers might overestimate its capabilities
4. Dxdiver Bailout Pony Bottle Diving Kit with Hose
At 6 cubic feet, the tank is suitable for most beginner divers. It has a standard pressure point of 3.000 PSI with a two-stage pressure gauge. This is why during refills, users will always know what to expect and how much oxygen to actually add to the tank.
With an included regulator, breathing with the tank is easy and constant. While it adds more air than other tanks, it is still small and it can be a top option for the occasional diver and even for enthusiasts who value good mobility.
Made with a nylon sleeve and a Velcro strap, the tank is easy to adjust and mount. But its main advantage remains its larger carry capacity and users can consider it even as an inspired first purchase instead of the rather small 3 cu. ft. alternatives.
Pros
- Stores 6 cubic feet
- Included regulator for easy breathing
- Made with an included fill adapter
- Included strap and nylon sleeve
Cons
- Doesn’t come with air from the factory
5. The SMACO S400
The SMACO S400 is a compact and portable 1L mini scuba tank that is specially designed for snorkelers, recreational divers, and emergency situations. If you are looking for a mini scuba tank that offers more underwater breathing time, SMACO S400 could be worth your consideration. With 20 minutes of underwater breathing time, the scuba tank is ideal for those looking for equipment familiarization, shallow dives, and a backup air source.
It features a compact size of 14.2 and 5.5 inches and weighs about 5.1 lbs. With the enhanced portability and design, the mini tank is easy to carry around during travels. The mini scuba tank is easy to use and simple to assemble and refill with a compatible hand pump and scuba tank. It is also equipped with multiple safety features, including an explosive-proof valve for overpressure safety and an air switch for blocking outflow.
In addition, the mini tank comes with a luminous pressure gauge that is IPX5 waterproof and can be used in dark environments. The tank features an 8mm inflation interface that offers multiple inflation options, which allows for refilling at most scuba shops using an air compressor, a high-pressure hand pump, or a scuba adapter.
Finally, the SMACO S400 scuba tank features a design that includes a body separate from the regulator. Therefore, you need to assemble them before using the tank. The S400 tank comes with all the necessary accessories, including user’s manual, portable diving vests, and other replacement accessories.
Pros
- Small size and lightweight design, making it ideal for travelers
- Great versatility as it is suitable for different underwater activities such as recreational diving, snorkeling, and emergency air source
- Easy to use and simple to assemble
- A durable and well-constructed build
- Relatively affordable compared to larger scuba tank systems
Cons
- Requires practice and understanding of scuba safety guidelines
- Limited dive time (up to 20 minutes)
- Refilling with a hand pump can be time-consuming and require significant effort
6. UNAROWHALS Mini Scuba Tank
UNAROWHALS Mini Scuba Tank is a flexible, lightweight, and compatible scuba tank. It features a human-centered design that fits most faces. The scuba tank is designed to work with a compatible diving mask. With the mechanism, the snorkel mask collects air from the outside when you are out of the water, and when underwater, the air from the tank automatically fills the snorkel mask. This allows you to breathe comfortably through your mouth and nose.
According to the manufacturer, UNAROWHALS Scuba Tank can be used underwater for up to 5 to 10 minutes. The scuba tank is ideal for various diving activities, including underwater photography, shallow diving, and snorkeling trips. With a small size and compact design, the tank allows you to enjoy easy and quick access underwater for hassle-free diving experiences.
The UNAROWHALS scuba tank is made of aviation aluminum, making it extremely lightweight. It is equipped with great features, including regulators, valves, and pressure gauges. The tank also comes with a breathing valve for enhanced air supply and proper functioning of the device during dives.
According to the manufacturer, the package includes a reliable breathing valve, a 0.5L gas cylinder, a portable bag, a full-face mask, an anti-lose rope, a big handbag, and a mask adapter. The cylinder interface features a multi-layer filtering feature that prevents impurities and dust from getting into the bottle. In addition, the bottle head comes with a switch that freely helps control gas exit and entry, preventing accidental leakage.
Pros
- Human-centered design as the mask fits most faces
- Lightweight and compact
- Multi-layer filtering feature to prevent dust and impurities
- Bottle head equipped with a switch to freely control the exit and entry of gas or prevent accidental leakage.
- Comes with all the necessary accessories, including a portable bag, anti-lose rope, a mask adapter, a breathing valve, and a full-mask
- Great safety features, including reliable pressure valves, regulators, and gauges
- Made of lightweight and robust material (aviation aluminum)
- Switchable gas control
- Reliable customer support (24-hour online service)
Cons
- Extremely limited air supply (5 to 10 minutes dive time)
- Self-assembly and filling required
7. CHIKADIV C700
CHIKADIV C700 is another top mini scuba tank that you should consider if you are in the market for a scuba tank with a larger capacity. With a 1.9L capacity, the C700 offers 25 to 30 minutes of breathing time underwater within a 10-meter depth range. The scuba tank has a smart design that provides convenience, portability, and a reliable solution for shallow water activities.
The C700 scuba tank features a compact design with parts that can be disassembled for enhanced portability. It also comes with a backpack harness, making it more travel-friendly. Besides, the backpack harness secures the scuba tank during dives for a hands-free underwater experience. It is also equipped with an extension tube on the pressure gauge to enhance the readability of air pressure while underwater.
With the 360-degree swivel fitting, the C700 scuba tank design helps ease movement and increase flexibility during dives. It also features an air switch and decompression chamber for enhanced user control and regulator performance. The scuba tank is made of aviation aluminum, making it extremely lightweight and durable. In addition, the tank offers multiple inflation options for convenience. It supports adapter to large cylinder, dive shop inflation, and air compressor inflation.
Finally, the scuba tank offers high working pressure of up to 3000PSI/200bar/20Mpa, which allows it to store an adequate amount of air. The C700 comes as a complete package with all the necessary accessories, including a vest, tank, and other essential components. It offers versatile applications ideal for recreational diving, teaching, snorkeling, and other underwater tasks. Besides, the manufacturer offers 24-hour customer service to ensure all the issues facing users are addressed.
Pros
- Relatively larger capacity (up to 1.9L)
- Provides 25 to 30 minutes of dive time
- Airline travel friendly as it can easily be disassembled
- Offers hands-free design
- High working pressure for adequate air supply
- Provides a full package with all the essential accessories
- Supports multiple inflation options
- Aviation aluminum construction for enhanced durability and portability
Cons
- Limited depth (10-meter depth range)
- Considerably expensive compared to most scuba tanks on our list
- Limited customer feedback
8. The SMACO Mini Scuba Tank
The SMACO Mini Scuba Tank is a compact, portable, and reliable scuba tank from a popular brand. With 0.5L capacity, the tank is designed to offer short-duration underwater for snorkeling and shallow dives. The smart design emphasizes ease of use and portability for a convenient solution. It is also relatively affordable compared to most scuba tanks in its category.
Additionally, the air diving kit provides 6 to 12 minutes of dive time, making it suitable for short dives and emergency situations only. The scuba tank can be used for underwater photography, snorkeling in shallow water, or as a backup air source in emergencies. It features a user-friendly design that allows for simple operation, making it suitable even for individuals who are new to scuba. The scuba tank can be disassembled for travel, and it’s also easy to hold in one hand as it has a compact 0.5L capacity and weighs 2.38 lbs.
The scuba tank is made of 6061 aviation aluminum, which is strong and corrosion-resistant. It is also equipped with a regulator that includes an inflation interface, explosive-proof valve, mouthpiece, and pressure gauge. In addition, the SMACO tank features a double filtration system for healthier breathing and 3000 psi working pressure. The high working pressure ensures that you have adequate air storage.
Unfortunately, the scuba tank doesn’t come as a complete package, as the hand pump is sold separately. The cost of the SMACO Tank is already relatively high, and the hand pump is sold separately, which adds to the overall expense. It offers multiple inflation options, as it can be inflated with an air compressor, a high-pressure hand pump, and scuba adapter.
Pros
- Ultra-portable with a compact design and 2.38lbs weight
- Offers 6 to 12 minutes of breathing time underwater
- Ease of use as the tank is designed for simple operation
- Made of aviation aluminum material for enhanced durability and portability
- It can be easily disassembled
- Suitable for various water activities, including underwater photography, snorkeling, and emergency situations
- It comes with a double filtration system for healthier breathing
Cons
- Limited depth of up to 100ft
- Hand pump sold separately, which adds to the overall expense
- Considerably short dive time (6 to 12 minutes)
9. The BICKKOMG Scuba Tank
The BICKKOMG Scuba Tank provides a reliable and affordable option for short dives and emergency situations. With the budget-friendly price, the scuba tank is an ideal choice for those looking for an entry-point product. The air diving tank comes with a lightweight and compact design, which makes it easy to handle and transport. It also features a strong construction made of stainless steel, rubber, a protective coating, and 6061 aviation aluminum alloy. These materials enhance durability and corrosion resistance and help maintain practicality and aesthetics.
According to the manufacturer, the air diving kit features a high-quality pump, a one-way inflation nozzle, a long high-pressure pump (about 19.69 inches), and 20Mpa maximum pressure in the storage. It also comes with a complete package of accessories, including a shock absorber, comfortable anti-slip handle, instructional videos, and two English manuals. With the detailed English manuals and the videos, you can effortlessly complete the installation and start using it in record time. The air diving kit provides three inflation options: electric inflation, water lung converter, and high-pressure cylinder pump.
The mini diving kit comes with an engineering exhaust switch and a metal pressure valve that helps reduce excess air pressure. It offers a 0.53-quart tank and 3.0 cubic feet gas capacity to stay underwater for approximately 10 minutes comfortably. The tank offers high working pressure of up to 4500 psi, which ensures that divers have enough air supply.
Pros
- Relatively affordable compared to most scuba tanks in the market
- Lightweight and compact design for enhanced portability
- Comes with multiple safety features, including an engineering exhaust switch and metal pressure valve
- Durable and lightweight materials
- Offers three inflation options for convenience
- Simple and convenient design for easy installation
- Provides detailed user guides in videos and English manuals
- High working pressure of up to 4500 Psi
- High efficiency
- Waterproof pressure gauge
- Complete kit
- Practical regulator
Cons
- Limited user reviews
- Limited depth range
- Relatively short dive time (10 minutes)
10. OIOEEP (Mini Scuba Diving Kit)
OIOEEP is a top mini scuba diving kit that seems to prioritize a sleek aesthetic and great performance. It features a human-centered design that is ideal for diving enthusiasts. The scuba tank stands out from the competition for its color options and stylish design. Therefore, if you are in the market for a mini scuba tank with sleek aesthetics, this might be a great option for you.
With a compact and portable design, the OIOEEP scuba tank is easy to store and transport. The air diving kit offers 10 to 15 minutes of breathing time and 33 feet (10 meters) of diving range, but the dive time depends on your lung capacity. Besides, the tank is equipped with professional features such as a comfortable and lightweight diving mask that includes a food-grade silicone mouthpiece. It is also equipped with a luminous barometer that helps monitor oxygen levels underwater.
The OIOEEP tank is easy to use as it comes with all the necessary accessories, including a sub mask, a submersible pump, and a mini diving tank. It also comes inflated as well as ready to use as a diver in your underwater exploration.
Additionally, the air diving tank is made from robust aviation aluminum material with a corrosion-resistant, waterproof exterior. With its premium features, the scuba tank is ideal for underwater parties and family trips. Besides, the mini diving tank is ideal for enthusiasts of all levels.
Pros
- Universal diving system ideal for enthusiasts of different levels
- Long-lasting and lightweight material
- Professional design that includes a comfortable and lightweight diving mask with a food-grade silicone mouthpiece
- Made of robust aviation aluminum material
- Easy to use
- It comes as a full package that has all the essential accessories
Cons
- Considerably short dive time of up to about 10 to 15 minutes
- Limited depth range (10 meters)
How to choose a mini scuba tank
Choosing the right mini scuba tank might be easier than many think. There are not too many small designs to really consider, which simplifies the snorkeling gear choice even further. However, the following guiding lines are a must-read before any purchase.
Size
The size of the mini scuba tank plays its role. The smallest tank fits about 6 cu. ft. and it is still available to purchase. It might only last for a few minutes, but these small scuba tanks are the easiest to handle. They are also the lightest as they are normally made from aluminum.
Mouthpiece
The mouthpiece also needs to be comfortable. Old plastics are old for a reason. Silicone mouthpieces are the new norm for the best mini scuba tanks pressure control and comfort of breathing underwater. A mouthpiece cannot be replaced. However, it needs to be cleaned properly after every use to kill bacteria and diminish smells.
Connector’s compatibility
The compatibility of the connections is important for the right fit. DIN and K-type connectors are mostly suitable for the mini scuba tanks seen above. However, adapters can be found for all types of connectors.
Final considerations
While mini scuba tanks are being replaced by large scuba tanks, they are still available from a number of brands. This is why they are still many divers who want to find their own comfort when it comes to a dive of just a few minutes.
The average mini scuba tank is suitable for dives of just a few minutes. But in other cases, small steel scuba tanks are found with in-between sizes, as those with a higher capacity than 9 cu. ft. Whichever the choice users go for, they still need to be durable as they should not need an upgrade for years.
