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Dive Computer Review: The Best Options for Underwater Exploration
Published: February 21, 2024
Discover the top dive computer options for underwater exploration. Find the best gear and make the most of your diving adventures. Explore our reviews now!
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Are you an underwater enthusiast looking to explore the depths of the ocean? In this Dive Computer Review, we will be discussing the best options for underwater exploration. A dive computer is an essential tool for any diver as it provides important information such as depth, time, and decompression limits. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, having a reliable dive computer can enhance your underwater adventures and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Join us as we explore the top options for dive computers that are perfect for all your underwater exploration needs.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Shearwater Research Peregrine Dive Computer in Classic Black is an outstanding dive computer that is easy to read, program, and understand. It features a large, easy-to-read screen and comes with a wireless charging pad. The menu system is easy to learn, and it is simple to set up for Nitrox or air. The dive log is very complete and detailed, making it ideal for both new and experienced divers. It is a great value for the money, making it well worth the investment, especially for recreational divers and early tech divers.
Key Features
- Package dimensions: 6.69 inch L x 4.45 inch W x 4.33 inch H
- Two-button interface: simple to navigate, state-aware menu structure. 316 stainless steel buttons
- Battery life per charge is up to about 30 hours on medium brightness level
- USB wireless charging station is included
Specifications
- Color: Classic Black
- Dimension: 3.03Lx3.46Wx0.98H
Pros
- Large, easy-to-read screen
- Complete and detailed dive log
- Simple to set up for Nitrox or air
- Great value for the money
Cons
- Does not have audible alert, only vibration
- No fly time after diving not shown
- Menu system may not be intuitive for some
The Shearwater Research Peregrine Dive Computer is a top-quality product that caters to the needs of both beginner and experienced divers. Its user-friendly design, clear display, and comprehensive dive log make it a reliable and valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their diving experience. With its impressive features and great value for the money, the Peregrine Dive Computer truly stands out as a must-have device for divers of all levels.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Cressi Leonardo dive computer is a single-button device that makes it effortless to set Air, Nitrox, and Gauge modes. It's ideal for beginners in Scuba Diving due to its easy-to-use nature and high-definition screen. The large numerical displays make it easy to read all the information required for a dive. The computer offers several features such as FO2 and PO2 adjustability, user-selectable deep stop function, visual and distinct alarms, and more. It comes in white/black color and has dimensions of 4.00Lx4.00Wx4.00H. With a customer rating of 4.3/5, it is often marked as a good starter or backup dive computer and is praised for its reliability and ease of use. However, some users have reported concerns with the battery life and the size of the watchband.
Key Features
- Single-button Dive Computer
- Ideal for beginners in Scuba Diving
- High-definition screen with large numerical displays
- FO2 and PO2 adjustable
- User-selectable deep stop function
- Visual and distinct alarms
- Adjustable unit of measure: imperial or metric
Specifications
- Color: White/Black
- Dimension: 4.00Lx4.00Wx4.00H
Pros
- Praised for its reliability and ease of use
- Good for beginners to intermediate divers
Cons
- Some concerns with battery life
- Issues with the size of the watchband
The Cressi Leonardo dive computer is a reliable and easy-to-use option for beginners and intermediate divers. Its single-button functionality and high-definition screen make it effortless to set and read crucial diving information. However, potential buyers should consider the reported concerns with battery life and the watchband size before making a purchase decision.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Mares Puck Pro Wrist Dive Computer in Red is regarded as a great product. With a customer rating of 4.5/5, this dive computer is a hit. It comes complete with a full manufacturer's warranty, making it a reliable choice for any diver. The large, readable display makes it easy to navigate, and the rubber strap is of high quality. Easy to set up and use, this computer stores all your dive data for later. There are also a few drawbacks, such as the lack of USB charging and the need for extra accessories for data transfer. At an affordable price, the Mares Puck Pro provides great value for beginner and recreational divers.
Key Features
- Complete with full manufacturer's warranty
Specifications
- Color: Red Pro
- Dimension: 7.00Lx5.00Wx5.00H
Pros
- Large, readable display
- Easy to set up
- Great value
Cons
- No USB charging
- Extra accessories needed for data transfer
The Mares Puck Pro Wrist Dive Computer in Red is a fantastic, budget-friendly option for beginner and recreational divers. Its easy-to-read display, simplicity of use, and great value make it a top choice, despite some minor drawbacks. If you can handle the limitations, this dive computer is a reliable and practical companion for your diving adventures.
Overall Score: 8/10
The SUUNTO Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer is an entry-level dive computer designed for beginners and recreational divers. It offers various operating modes, programmable oxygen mixtures, and audible alarms for safe and enjoyable diving experiences. The backlite display makes it easy to read in low light and night conditions. While the majority of users find it easy, practical and reliable to use, some express concerns about button functionality and manual instructions not being clear and user-friendly.
Key Features
- Operating modes: air, nitrox, gauge and freedom modes
- Programmable for 21% to 50% oxygen mixtures
- Imperial or metric programmable, decompression stop data, audible alarms
- Back Lite display, easy to read in low light & night conditions
- Maximum depth display: 330' (100 meters)
Specifications
- Color: Lime, Without USB
- Dimension: 6.00Lx6.00Wx6.00H
Pros
- Easy out of the box for beginners
- Simple and easy to read display
- Suitable for recreational diving
- Good visibility and readings
- Broadens dive information and planning capabilities
Cons
- Difficult to use buttons
- Confusing and unclear manual
- Issues with connecting cable
- May have software bugs
- Not suitable for advanced divers
The SUUNTO Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer is a reliable, entry-level dive computer for beginners and recreational divers. It offers essential features for safe and practical diving experiences. While the majority of users find it easy and satisfactory, some users express concerns about its usability and manual instructions. However, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a practical and affordable dive computer.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Garmin Descentâ„¢ G1 is a rugged dive computer with multiple dive modes, activity tracking, and a slate gray color. It has a monochrome display, silicone bands, and a sapphire lens. The battery life is up to 25 hours in dive mode and 21 days in smartwatch mode. It supports GPS/GLONASS/Galileo, has over 30 built-in sports apps, and is equipped with advanced training features. The device also features 24/7 wrist-based HR, Pulse Ox, Body Battery energy monitoring, and sleep score. It can store up to 200 dives, supports all types of diving, and is compatible with a smartphone for smartwatch capabilities. The G1 is intended for recreational, advanced, technical, free diving, and spearfishing. With a 4.3/5 customer rating, it offers users a comprehensive approach to activity and dive tracking.
Key Features
- Rugged Design: Watch-style dive computer with sapphire lens
- Battery Life: Up to 25 hours in dive mode
- Activity Tracking: Over 30 built-in sports apps
- Smartwatch Capabilities: Smart notifications, Garmin Pay, Connect IQ app personalization
- Dive Tracking: Store up to 200 dives, supports all types of diving
Specifications
- Color: Slate Gray
- Dimension: 1.79Lx1.79Wx0.60H
Pros
- Rugged design suitable for diving
- Extensive activity and health tracking features
- Can store up to 200 dives
Cons
- Battery life could be better in GPS mode
- Issues reported with product delivery and warranty
The Garmin Descentâ„¢ G1 offers a compelling package for divers and fitness enthusiasts. With its comprehensive dive tracking and extensive activity monitoring, it provides an all-in-one solution for users. Despite some reported issues with product delivery and warranty, the device’s rugged design, smartwatch capabilities, and seamless integration with a smartphone make it a versatile and functional choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
Turn your iPhone into an underwater camera and dive computer with the OCEANIC+ Dive Housing. The housing features advanced photo and video capabilities, automatic vacuum pump seal, and a leak detector. It integrates seamlessly with the OCEANIC+ app for dive computer functionality. This housing is compatible with various iPhone models and offers a depth rating of 196ft, making it great for scuba diving and snorkeling. With quality build and ergonomic design, it brings convenience and sophistication to underwater photography and diving experiences.
Key Features
- Take Photos Videos: Turns i Phone into underwater camera
- Dive Computer: Integrates with OCEANIC+ app for dive computer functionality
- Water Tight Seal: Automatic vacuum seal and leak detector
- Compatibility: Works with i Phones running i OS 16 and newer
- Brand Legacy: Built by world-renowned brand OCEANIC
Specifications
- Color: Great White
- Dimension: 7.50Lx4.00Wx12.00H
- Size: One Size
Pros
- Great photo and video quality underwater
- Seamless integration with OCEANIC+ app
- Automatic vacuum seal for water-tight protection
- Compatible with various i Phone models
- Reliable depth rating of 196ft
- Quality build and ergonomic design
Cons
- Issues with image distortion in video mode
- Color correction and image stabilization concerns
- Dependence on native app for functionality
- Priced higher compared to other housings
The OCEANIC+ Dive Housing excels in turning your iPhone into an advanced underwater camera and dive computer. While it has some minor drawbacks, its quality build, photo/video capabilities, and seamless app integration make it a reliable choice for scuba divers and underwater enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 9/10
The SCUBAPRO Luna 2.0 Air Integrated (AI) Wrist Dive Computer is a sleek and powerful device for scuba divers. It features a wide, high contrast black and white LCD display with large characters and a bright LED backlight for easy reading. The slim thermoplastic housing utilizes oil fill technology for reliable performance, and the intuitive menu and control make it straightforward to operate. The computer monitors tank pressure and provides true remaining bottom time (RBT) calculations based on breathing workload. It also offers a choice of two algorithms, three dive modes, and is nitrox compatible. The PDIS function calculates intermediate stops for safer diving, and the optional heart rate monitor (sold separately) records vital signs for decompression calculation. With a convenient Bluetooth LE interface, users can download dives to any iOS or Android device or PC/Mac, and the firmware can be user updated.
Key Features
- Easy to Read Screen: Wide, high contrast black and white LCD display screen with large characters and a bright LED backlight.
- Thin, Low Profile: Slim thermoplastic housing utilizes oil fill technology for reliable performance.
- Simple Two Button Control: Intuitive menu and control makes it straightforward to operate.
- Wireless Air Integration: Monitors tank pressure and provides true remaining bottom time (RBT) calculations based on the workload from breathing.
- Choice of 2 Algorithms: Predictive Multi-Gas Buhlmann ZH-L16 ADT MB PMG or ZH-L16+GF (Gradient Factor).
- Three Dive Modes & Nitrox Compatible: Scuba, Gauge & Apnea. Nitrox compatible (100%) with 3 selectable gases.
- PDIS (Profile Dependent Intermediate Stops): Calculates an intermediate stop based on N2 loading, current and previous dives, and breathing mixes for safer diving.
- Personalization: MB (Microbubble) Levels lets you adjust the level of conservatism in the ADT algorithm to match your experience level, age and physical conditioning.
- Human Factor Diving: Optional heart rate monitor (sold separately) records heartbeat and skin temperature that can be factored into the decompression calculation along with workload.
- Convenient Bluetooth LE Interface: Lets you download dives to any i OS or Android device or PC/Mac. Firmware can be user updated.
Specifications
- Color: Blue
- Dimension: 9.00Lx7.00Wx4.00H
- Size: None or Other
Pros
- Easy to read screen with bright LED backlight
- Option to adjust conservatism level
- Convenient Bluetooth interface for dive data transfer
Cons
- Heart rate monitor sold separately
The SCUBAPRO Luna 2.0 Air Integrated (AI) Wrist Dive Computer is a top-notch choice for scuba divers, offering a wide range of features and customization options. Its easy-to-read screen, wireless air integration, and versatile algorithms make it a reliable and user-friendly device. The addition of Bluetooth LE interface for data transfer and personalization options further enhance its value. While the need for a separate purchase of the heart rate monitor may be a downside, the overall performance and functionality of the Luna 2.0 make it an excellent investment for diving enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti Dive Computer is a top-of-the-line 3 gas nitrox computer intended for the serious recreational diver. It is an air integrated, trimix enabled dive computer with a 2.2" high-resolution display and a thin, low-profile design. The computer also features vibration warning alerts and user-replaceable batteries. The Perdix 2 is well-loved by divers for its versatility and ease of use, along with its advanced dive logging capabilities. Despite some minor issues with the downloadable app, the Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti Dive Computer is highly recommended by most divers due to its quality and functionality.
Key Features
- 3 gas nitrox computer
- Customizable display layout
- Full dive logging
- Vibration alert system
- User-replaceable batteries
Specifications
- Color: Ti Black
Pros
- Versatile and customizable
- Easy to read and operate
- Advanced dive logging capabilities
Cons
- Outdated downloadable app
The Shearwater Perdix 2 Ti Dive Computer is a top-notch, feature-rich device that meets the requirements of both recreational and technical divers. With its easy-to-use interface, advanced features, and excellent build quality, it stands as a solid choice for any diver looking for a reliable and advanced dive computer.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Mares Quad Computer in Black is a versatile and easy-to-use dive computer for both recreational and technical divers. With three dive modes, a long-lasting battery, and a large, easily readable display, this dive computer is perfect for divers of all levels. The black faceplate is a shiny plastic that scratches easily and the screen is difficult to see at angles, but overall, it is a great dive computer for anyone looking for a reliable and user-friendly device.
Key Features
- Easy to Use: Four-button user interface
- Dive Modes: Air, Nitrox, Bottom Timer
- Battery: CR2450, 200-300 dives
- Algorithm: RGBM Mares-Wienke, 10-tissue
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 8.00Lx7.00Wx5.00H
Pros
- Large, easily readable display
- Long-lasting battery
- User-friendly interface
Cons
- Shiny faceplate prone to scratching
- Difficult to see display at angles
The Mares Quad Dive Computer is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced divers. With its user-friendly design, large display, and long-lasting battery, it offers great value for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use dive computer. Despite some minor flaws, it remains a highly recommended product.
Overall Score: 9.5/10
The Shearwater Peregrine Air Wrist Computer is an advanced diving watch designed for both recreational and Tec divers. With an easy-to-read 2.2" LED LCD display and wireless charging, this wrist computer offers multiple diving modes and uses Bühlmann ZHL-16C with gradient factors. The two-button interface and menu structure make it simple to navigate, and its long battery life is perfect for extended dives. The Peregrine is durable, reliable, and has received high praise for its easy usability, excellent customer support, and intuitive dive logging capabilities.
Key Features
- Multiple Diving Modes – Air, Nitrox, 3 Gas Nitrox, Gauge.
- 2.2" LED LCD display with vivid, enhanced colour range and saturation.
- Uses Bühlmann ZHL-16C with gradient factors.
- Two-button interface: simple to navigate, state-aware menu structure. 316 stainless steel buttons.
- Wireless Charging: battery life per charge is up to about 30 hours on medium brightness level. USB wireless charging station is included.
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.00Lx3.00Wx4.50H
Pros
- Easy-to-read display with vibrant colors.
- Wireless charging and long battery life.
- Excellent customer support and intuitive interface.
Cons
- Lacks GPS and air integration features.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
The Shearwater Peregrine Air Wrist Computer is a top-notch dive computer for both recreational and Tec divers. With its easy-to-read display, wireless charging, and intuitive interface, it offers exceptional value for money. While it lacks GPS and air integration features, its durability, reliability, and excellent customer support make it a standout choice for diving enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a high-quality dive computer with a long battery life and easy usability, the Shearwater Peregrine is an excellent investment.
Dive Computer Buyer's Guide
What is a Dive Computer?
- A dive computer is a device used by scuba divers to track their time and depth underwater, as well as other important information like decompression limits and safety stops.
Key Features to Look For:
- Display: Look for a dive computer with a clear and easy-to-read display, especially in low light and murky water conditions.
- Air Integration: Some dive computers can track your air supply and help you manage your air consumption.
- Safety Alarms: Look for a dive computer with audible and visual alarms for important safety features like decompression limits and ascent rate.
- Battery Life: Consider the battery life of the dive computer and ensure it will last for your entire dive.
- Logbook: Some dive computers have a logbook feature to track your dives and provide valuable data for future reference.
Types of Dive Computers:
- Console Dive Computers: These are attached to the diver's regulator and are typically larger and more durable.
- Wrist Dive Computers: These are worn on the wrist like a watch and are smaller and more lightweight.
Considerations for Beginners:
- If you are new to diving, it may be helpful to look for a dive computer with simplified displays and operations to avoid feeling overwhelmed underwater.
Considerations for Advanced Divers:
- Advanced divers may benefit from dive computers with more advanced features like air integration and multiple gas capability for technical diving.
Maintenance and Care:
- It is important to properly maintain and care for your dive computer to ensure its reliability and accuracy.
- Rinse your dive computer with fresh water after each dive to remove salt and debris.
- Store your dive computer in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent damage from extreme temperatures and sunlight.
Budget Considerations:
- Dive computers come in a wide range of prices, so it is important to consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you.
Additional Tips:
- Consider reading reviews and getting recommendations from experienced divers to help with your decision.
- When trying out a dive computer, pay attention to its ease of use and how well it fits on your wrist or attaches to your gear.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dive Computer Review: The Best Options for Underwater Exploration
Yes, you can use a dive computer for snorkeling. It can help track your depth, time underwater, and other important factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
You can choose a dive computer based on your diving experience, budget, and desired features. It’s best to do some research and maybe talk to a professional at a dive shop to find the best fit for you.
Yes, dive computers are designed to be waterproof so that they can be used safely underwater during diving and snorkeling.
It’s best to have the battery in your dive computer replaced by a professional to ensure it is done correctly and doesn’t compromise the waterproof seal.
When buying a dive computer, you should consider factors such as ease of use, screen readability, dive modes, battery life, and durability to ensure it meets your diving needs.