Exploring the underwater world is an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re floating above coral reefs or diving deep into the ocean. However, your experience depends heavily on the equipment you choose. Two of the most common setups are the full face snorkel mask and scuba gear. At first glance, both seem to offer ways to breathe underwater and see clearly, but they are vastly different in design, function, purpose, and safety.
This article explores the key differences between full face snorkel masks and scuba gear, highlighting the pros, cons, and best uses for each—especially for beginners curious about where to start.
What Is a Full Face Snorkel Mask?
A full face snorkel mask is designed for surface snorkeling. It combines a mask and snorkel into a single unit that covers the entire face. This allows the user to breathe naturally through the nose and mouth while keeping the snorkel tube above the waterline.
Key Features:
Covers eyes, nose, and mouth
Built-in snorkel with dry-top system to prevent water entry
Anti-fog dual airflow design
Wide panoramic field of vision
Best suited for surface-level snorkeling in calm waters
What Is Scuba Gear?
Scuba gear is specialized equipment that allows divers to breathe and move freely underwater for extended periods. "Scuba" stands for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. It’s far more complex than a snorkel mask and requires training and certification to use safely.
Key Components of Scuba Gear:
Mask: Covers the eyes and nose for clear vision underwater
Regulator and Tank: Supplies compressed air for breathing
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD): Helps divers float, sink, or maintain neutral buoyancy
Fins: Improve mobility underwater
Wet suit or dry suit: Provides thermal protection
Weight system: Offsets buoyancy of gear
Purpose and Function
Full Face Snorkel Mask
Designed for surface exploration
Allows swimmers to float face-down and enjoy the underwater scenery without diving deeply
Breathing is limited to the snorkel tube, so you cannot go far below the surface
Best for beginners, casual snorkelers, and vacationers
Scuba Gear
Designed for underwater diving
Enables breathing underwater at various depths
Allows for extended exploration, often 30–60 minutes per dive depending on air supply
Used by trained divers, researchers, photographers, and adventure seekers
Key Difference: Snorkel masks keep you on the surface; scuba gear takes you underwater.
Breathing Systems
Full Face Snorkel Mask: Air enters and exits through the snorkel tube. If the snorkel dips underwater, the dry-top valve seals off to prevent water from entering. Breathing is natural but limited to surface use.
Scuba Gear: Divers carry their own air supply in tanks. The regulator reduces the high-pressure air to breathable pressure, delivering it as the diver inhales. This allows unrestricted breathing underwater at various depths.
Verdict: Snorkel masks are simple; scuba gear is advanced and versatile.
Safety Considerations
Full Face Snorkel Mask Safety
Safe for calm, shallow water when fitted properly
Not recommended for strenuous swimming or diving below the surface
Risk of CO₂ buildup if the mask is poorly designed or doesn’t fit correctly
Should only be used for surface snorkeling
Scuba Gear Safety
Requires training and certification to use safely
Risks include decompression sickness, air embolism, and nitrogen narcosis if rules are not followed
Safety protocols like buddy diving, depth limits, and proper ascent rates are critical
Conclusion: Full face masks are safer for surface fun, while scuba gear, though riskier, is safe when used by trained divers.
Comfort and Fit
Full Face Snorkel Mask: Comfortable for beginners because it doesn’t require a mouthpiece. Breathing feels natural, and the panoramic view is great for sightseeing. However, it can feel bulky.
Scuba Gear: Takes time to get used to the regulator in your mouth and the weight of the equipment. However, once mastered, it allows freedom to move and explore in three dimensions.
Best for Beginners: Full face snorkel mask.
Vision Underwater
Full Face Mask: Offers a wide-angle, panoramic view, perfect for admiring reefs and fish from the surface.
Scuba Gear Mask: Typically smaller in size but provides a clear, focused view underwater. Some scuba masks allow prescription lenses for divers who need vision correction.
Verdict: Full face masks win for panoramic sightseeing, but scuba masks are more practical for deeper exploration.
Mobility and Depth
Full Face Mask: Only suitable for floating and shallow dips. The snorkel tube limits how far below the surface you can go.
Scuba Gear: Enables free movement underwater for extended periods. Divers can reach depths ranging from a few meters to over 40 meters, depending on training and certification.
Conclusion: For true underwater exploration, scuba gear is unmatched.
Cost Comparison
Full Face Snorkel Mask: Typically $30–$100, depending on brand and quality
Scuba Gear: Significantly more expensive. Renting gear for a dive can cost $50–$150, while owning your own setup can run into thousands of dollars
Winner for Budget-Friendly Fun: Full face snorkel mask
Training Requirements
Full Face Snorkel Mask: No training required. A quick adjustment period is all you need.
Scuba Gear: Requires formal certification (such as PADI or NAUI). Training includes classroom sessions, pool practice, and open-water dives.
Best for Beginners: Full face snorkel mask (instant use).
Pros and Cons
Full Face Snorkel Mask
Pros:
Easy for beginners
Natural breathing
Wide field of view
Affordable
Cons:
Only for surface use
Bulky compared to traditional snorkel masks
Risk of CO₂ buildup if low quality
Scuba Gear
Pros:
Enables real underwater exploration
Longer dive times
Professional-level experience
Can dive to significant depths
Cons:
Requires training and certification
Expensive to buy or rent
More physically demanding
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a Full Face Snorkel Mask if:
You’re a beginner or casual snorkeler
You want comfort and simplicity
You plan to snorkel in shallow, calm waters
You want a budget-friendly way to enjoy the ocean surface
Choose Scuba Gear if:
You want to dive deeper and stay underwater
You’re willing to invest in training and equipment
You’re looking for adventure, photography, or marine research opportunities
You want to explore shipwrecks, reefs, and marine life up close
Final Thoughts
The difference between a full face snorkel mask and scuba gear comes down to purpose. A snorkel mask is perfect for surface-level fun, while scuba gear unlocks the underwater world for serious exploration.
For beginners and vacationers, the full face snorkel mask offers ease, affordability, and comfort. For thrill-seekers and dedicated adventurers, scuba gear provides unmatched freedom and access to the ocean depths.
Both are incredible tools—but the right choice depends on whether you want to float above the water or dive into it.