With its next-generation integrated-weight system, wraparound air cells and high-performance air control, the Avid CQR-3 has the buoyancy, stability and comfort to make it a great all-around choice for any diver — and our overall Editor’s Pick. Bonuses: big pockets and lots of D-rings and sizes. sherwoodscuba.com, MSRP: $588 ($617 2XL; $647 3XL-5XL)

The X-Wing offers advanced tech features in a streamlined design worth considering for any diver who wants a full-function back-inflation BC. A clever harness arrangement eliminates tank roll and provides stable comfort, and TUSA’s innovative integrated-weight system and Active Purge Assist are top-notch. tusa.com, MSRP: $629

Built around a high-lift air cell, the ranger LTD combines Navy SeaL looks with the flexibility to customize it to any diving style. Dive it with single tank or dual, add D-rings with the new threading arrangement if the standard eight isn’t enough, and quickly add or swap accessories with zip-mount attachments. zeagle.com, MSRP: $949.95

The combination of front and rear air cells provides stability and balance at depth or on the surface. The shoulder straps and an adjustment band offer an excellent range of adjustability for comfort. and the integrated-weight system is secure, easy to lock, and smooth to deploy. seacusa.com, MSRP: $675

With its compact design and impressive list of features, the redesigned Air Travel is easy to pack and delivers on performance; this earned it our Editor’s Pick in the travel BC category. The Lock-Aid weight system is easy to ditch, the inflator is responsive, and a restraint system keeps the rear-inflation bladder contained for a streamlined profile. cressi.com, MSRP: $449.95

Simplicity, light weight and compact design are the hallmarks of the F-Light. There’s no integrated-weight system, but the inflator and the exhaust-valve system are excellent, and you get a boatload of buoyant lift by travel-BC standards: 37 pounds in size medium and 45 in large. mares.com, MSRP: $425

An innovative tank attachment — with a main strap low on the tank and a second around the valve — gives the Zuma surprising stability for a soft backpack. Flat valves give a smooth profile, and the Sure-Lock II weight system is simple and secure. The Zuma rolls up tight and weighs less than 5 pounds. aqualung.com, MSRP: $425

The R1 is nicely padded in all th right spots for comfort, and boasts large, gusseted cargo pockets. Even with these nice extras, it has a compact profile, thanks to the Lock-aid integrated-weight system, which is secure and accessible but tucked in out of the way. The price is comfortable too. cressi.com, MSRP: $379.95

The Prime is designed for entry-level divers, but with its rugged dive-it-for-years construction, new divers might find that they need a new logbook long before they need a new BC. Plus, you get impressive buoyant lift: The MRS system handles up to 26 pounds of integrated weights in larger sizes. mares.com, MSRP: $370

The features don’t matter much unless it fits right. The Pearl’s low-cut cells and scalloped lower edges are designed to fit the female shape, and new neoprene sports-bra panels provide comfort and durability. The hybrid-jacket/back- inflation Pearl is also now available in the new twilight color. aqualung.com, MSRP: $560