One of the questions I’m asked most often is:
“Which GUE rebreather should I buy?”
The short answer is that there isn’t a wrong answer.
GUE currently supports both the JJCCR and the Symbios CCR. Both are excellent rebreathers, capable of taking you from your first CCR class all the way to the most demanding exploration dives. More importantly, both are backed by the same training philosophy, procedures and standards that make GUE CCR so effective.
So how do you choose?
Why choose the Symbios?
The Symbios is the newer of the two systems, and it’s immediately obvious that it was designed with simplicity in mind.
It’s compact, lightweight and much easier to travel with than many traditional CCRs. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time getting on aeroplanes, that’s a significant advantage.
For divers already using a GUE single-tank or twinset setup, the Symbios also integrates naturally with much of your existing equipment. You don’t need to reinvent your entire kit configuration.
Another area where the Symbios really stands out is its breathing performance. The entire design has been optimised to minimise work of breathing, making it feel remarkably effortless underwater. While it’s hard to quantify in a short article, it’s something that many divers notice from their very first dive.
In short, the Symbios is an elegant, modern design that prioritises simplicity, travel and outstanding ergonomics.
Why choose the JJCCR?
The JJCCR has one enormous advantage: experience.
It has been used on thousands upon thousands of dives over many years, in every environment from recreational diving to some of the world’s most ambitious exploration projects.
That long history means the unit has earned a reputation for reliability. Problems have been identified, refined and solved through years of real-world use, giving many divers confidence in the platform.
It also has one of the largest communities of CCR divers anywhere. That means it’s easy to find instructors, teammates, spare parts, advice and people with extensive experience on the unit.
For many divers, that mature ecosystem is a compelling reason to choose the JJCCR.
So... which would I recommend?
I’d be happy diving either.
If you value a lightweight, streamlined system that’s easy to travel with and integrates neatly into existing GUE equipment, the Symbios is a fantastic choice.
If you like the reassurance of a platform with an exceptionally long operational track record and a huge user community, the JJCCR remains an outstanding option.
The good news is that whichever you choose, you’re learning the same GUE CCR system. The skills, procedures and mindset are identical, and you’ll be training to exactly the same standards.
In the end, the best rebreather is the one that gets you out diving.
Thinking about GUE CCR?
At Zero Gravity, we teach both the JJCCR and the Symbios, so you can train on the unit that best suits your needs. If you’re still undecided, we’re always happy to talk through the strengths of each system and help you make an informed choice.
We also offer training packages that include cylinders, diluent and oxygen fills, and site entry fees, with accommodation available if required. That means you can focus on learning and diving, without worrying about the logistics.
If you are considering either unit, you can find more information about GUE CCR training on the JJ-CCR and Halcyon Symbios on my website.