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Waydoo Subnado Underwater Scooter Review: The Fun You Didn’t Know You Needed

Testing the Waydoo Subnado Underwater Scooter has been nothing short of an adventure. As someone who loves snorkeling but isn’t exactly Michael Phelps in the water, this little gadget has been a game-changer. Initially skeptical about its size—it’s about the size of a soda bottle and weighs just 3 pounds—I was pleasantly surprised by how much power it packs. Here’s my honest take, with all the highs and lows you need to know.

My Experience: From Packing to Diving

Picture this: you’re on your dream trip to Hawaii, a carry-on bag in one hand and the Waydoo Subnado in the other. Yes, it’s that compact, which makes it perfect for travel. The airline-approved 98Wh battery is a lifesaver for globetrotters. Just make sure you double-check airline rules because not all airlines are on the same page about battery-operated devices.

Once in the water, the Subnado’s 3-speed settings are where the fun begins. The first speed? Smooth and ideal for taking in the underwater scenery. The second speed? A solid boost for when you need to get back to the boat. The third? A turbocharged thrill that made my kids squeal with delight (yes, it’s that family-friendly). However, be warned: the higher speeds drain the battery faster, so save that for short bursts of fun.

My cousin, who has arthritis, found this scooter to be a lifesaver on our snorkeling trip. It allowed her to explore reefs without exhausting herself, and the detachable finger safeguard offered peace of mind against accidental injuries.

Comparing With Competitors

Sure, there are other underwater scooters on the market, but the Waydoo Subnado stands out for its aluminum-alloy housing that feels robust and safe. While popular competitors like Yamaha create sturdy units, they often feel bulky and lack the portability that this model offers. On the downside, Yamaha’s scooters tend to have longer battery lives, but they don’t double as a portable charger like the Subnado, which can even charge your phone or GoPro mid-adventure.

Cost vs. Value

Let’s talk money. The Subnado isn’t cheap, but its proprietary 100W fast-charging system saves so much time that it’s worth the investment. Charging to full in just 1.2 hours while giving you up to 56 minutes of runtime? That’s impressive. Plus, the included accessories—like the arm mount and handle bracket—add versatility that would cost extra with other brands.

Features That Impress

The 197-foot depth rating is a standout feature, especially for scuba enthusiasts. While I didn’t dive that deep, the scooter handled 25-foot depths without breaking a sweat. The O-ring seals and anodized housing kept water out, and the propeller pin design felt secure. On the flip side, it’s a bit underpowered for heavier users or strong ocean currents, so you might need a second unit for optimal performance.

Things That Could Be Better

Not everything’s perfect, of course. The battery life varies significantly depending on speed, and the thrust (14.33 lbs) isn’t enough for advanced diving or technical scuba needs. Also, while the multiple mounting options are great, attaching accessories like GoPros can be a bit fiddly underwater.

Whether you’re a casual snorkeler or someone looking to add a new dimension to your water adventures, the Waydoo Subnado Underwater Scooter delivers an exciting and portable solution. Just be sure to manage your expectations if you’re hoping for pro-level performance.

Pros

Portable and Lightweight: At just 3 pounds, it’s travel-friendly and fits in carry-on luggage.
Versatile Accessories: Includes an arm mount, handle bracket, and finger-ring controller for hands-free use.
Fast Charging: Charges fully in 1.2 hours, significantly faster than competitors’ models.
Reverse Charging Capability: Acts as a power bank to charge devices like your GoPro or smartphone.
User-Friendly Depth Rating: Safe for depths up to 197 feet with a robust design.

Cons

Battery Life Limitations: High-speed modes drain the battery quickly, which can cut your fun short.
Not Ideal for Strong Currents: Struggles to pull heavier users or handle ocean currents effectively.
Accessory Setup Issues: Mounting additional items like cameras can be cumbersome while underwater.
Noisy at Higher Speeds: The turbo mode creates noticeable noise, which might disturb marine life or other divers.
Trim Challenges: Its weight can throw off your trim balance during scuba dives.

What Comes with the Product

Subnado Main Unit
Subnado Accessories Mount
Subnado Wired Thumb Controller (Standard)
Subnado Finger Safe Guard
Subnado Arm Mount
Handgrip
Subnado Handle Bracket
Subnado Wrist Bands
Propeller Pin
Screws and O-rings (various sizes for spares)

How to Use Guide

Charge the Battery: Use the 100W fast charger to fully charge the scooter in 1.2 hours. Ensure you see the indicator light for a full charge.
Assemble Accessories: Attach the desired mount (arm, handle, etc.) and secure any extras like GoPros or lights.
Test the Seals: Ensure the O-rings are properly lubricated and the unit is sealed to prevent water damage.
Power On: Press and hold the thumb controller to activate the scooter. Adjust speed using the three-speed settings.
Underwater Use: Hold the scooter firmly or use the arm mount for hands-free operation. Switch speeds as needed for your activity.
Monitor Battery: Periodically check the battery level using the indicator lights, especially during long sessions.
Post-Use Maintenance: Rinse the scooter with fresh water and dry thoroughly. Store in a cool, dry place.

Warranty & Support Information

The Waydoo Subnado Underwater Scooter offers a 1-year warranty for the main unit and 6 months for accessories. This includes items like the handle bracket and thumb controller. If an issue arises, the manufacturer promises to repair or replace covered defects at no cost. Customer support can be reached through their official website or via authorized retailers. Always keep your receipt and register your product for smoother warranty claims.

Waydoo Subnado 940752 Underwater Scooter Special Version Review