A sleek design makes it perfect as a daily timepiece. As such, a dive computer is a personal item, and as such, you should own one yourself. However, it is never a bad idea to own a backup dive computer. The rechargeable battery is a big hit with divers in remote areas, while vibrating alarms ensure a peaceful underwater experience. The rugged and bright display shows everything I need to know during my dive. The SUUNTO Zoop Novo is a popular dive computer thats super straightforward to use and offers all features beginners need and more. I dont think so. However, lets say you got your dads old Aladin from 20 years ago. The Mares Matrix includes a unique In Case of Emergency (ICE) feature thats programmable to show your personal information, emergency contact numbers, insurance policy, and even allergies. It is an essential part of the scuba gear setup and you need to use one on every dive. The function allows multiple divers to use the same computer without account for previous dives. Should you get a watch-sized dive computer or not? Included in the package are configurable haptic and audible alerts and rebreather capability. The computer connects directly to a phone and other smart devices via Bluetooth, while a large text display makes it easy to check it underwater. This Geo 4.0 computer offers recreational divers watch, normal scuba activity, gauge, and freediving modes. Plus, Mares Puck Pro makes for an excellent backup dive computer after enhancing your skills. The Aqualung i300c is easy to use for beginners and allows for gas switches and entry-level decompression dives (just like all other Aqualung dive computers). These suggestions will help prevent decompression sickness or the bends.. Dont waste your time on one, we used to get by without them, too.. If you already own an old dive computer, check how old it is and if it is still applicable to the kind of diving you do. Especially for vacation divers, who always dive in warm water, this is super important. Join the email list to get regular diving tips, tricks, insights, and news straight to your inbox! A single button dive computer makes it effortless to set air, nitrox and gauge modes. However, please dont buy an air-integrated dive computer that uses an extra hose instead of a transmitter. My top recommendations like the Shearwater Teric or the Garmin Descent offer technical diving capabilities such as multiple gas switches, smartwatch features, and nice displays that make your life so much easier underwater. The model connects your diving activity with social media through an app that lets you post pictures, stories. The Suunto Zoop Novo is a super popular dive computer for beginners and more experienced divers alike. LCD Backlit (Enlarged Segment Matrix Screen), 5.59 centimeter (2.2 inch) LCD, customizable, Air, nitrox (to 40%), three gas nitrox (to 100% O2), Gauge, Single-gas, multi-gas, apnea, apnea hunt, gauge, plan & custom, Single-gas, freediving, gauge, apnea, customizable, Single-gas, multi-gas, freediving, gauge, apnea, customizable, Bhlmann ZHL-16C with adjustable gradient factors, Residual Nitrogen Reset (great for instructors and dive centers), PO2 adjustable between 1.2 bar and 1.6 bar, For less than 100$ more you can get the Aqualung i200 which is a fully-featured 4 button alternative, A little hard to use underwater with thick gloves, Would not recommend for tech/ decompression diving. All in all, the Shearwater Teric is the best dive computer of 2022 and way beyond. The manufacturer uses a two-button design for this model and the Shearwater Perdix AI model, which helps prevent accidental activation by other instruments pushing them on a busy wrist. Dive computers are among the most expensive items you can rent with prices between 10-20 per day. The backlight is not bright and can be difficult to read in some environments. A multi-button interface allows simple control of the dive computer whether youre on land, before a dive, or underwater. Stay up to date with our news, promotions, and announcements by Battery lasts for 19 days in watch mode and 40 hours in dive modes. Technical divers should look for dive computers handling between six and eight gasses, 100% O2 levels, and trimix. Therefore, set a budget for dive equipment, and then see how much you can spare for a good dive computer. Does not have advanced diving modes such as CCR and trimix. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Find the highest quality content, reviews, and recommendations - from the front lines of the diving community. This one is important, especially when you become more advanced. If you belong to one or both of these groups, you might be better served with a console-sized dive computer such as the Shearwater Perdix or the Shearwater Petrel 2. Does not include a high-altitude diving mode. Let me get this out of the way first: Indeed, every scuba diver should have their own dive computer. If you give it to anyone else, the computer does not use their personal data but yours. A computer thats compatible with your smartphone, Mac, and PC device makes logging and planning your dives easier. These are my picks for the best dive computers in 2022 with no limitations on budget etc. You never run the risk of forgetting your dive computer in a bag or suitcase. A dive computer must be worn by you on every dive during a dive trip and cannot be shared with anyone else. Auto activation once contacts in the unit are immersed in water and sense a depth of five feet. The type of computer you choose depends on the information you want it to generate. It comes with a digital compass that behaves and looks like a physical compass. However, I usually prefer watch-sized dive computers as I can wear them anywhere. Free dive mode. Tilt-compensated digital compass with bearing function. The battery lasts about 50 hours in watch mode and 30 in dive mode. The amount of information available on the screen is not as detailed as youd expect in a computer in this class. A low-profile design makes the Leonardo a better styling option compared to other options in this class. I cannot find any advantages over the transmitter-receiver combo and they create an extra potential failure point to your setup. Some people will use these computers as their everyday timepiecestheres no denying they have a cool factor! An Air Time Remaining (ATR) feature calculates your tank pressure current depth, ascent time, and decompression status to show how much gas is left. These are the best dive computers in 2022 for under $300-$400. The computer is chunky, which makes it unsuitable for use as a wristwatch. Make sure it has Nitrox capabilities, though, as nowadays it is available at pretty much every dive center in the world. There are options for mounting a dive computer on your hose or clipping onto your Buoyancy Control Device (BCD). This equals about two diving seasons for many professionals and you always have the option to sell your old one. This might sound obvious, but we are all guilty of suffering from shiny-new-stuff syndrome. Do you need to upgrade just for that? At the same time, they are often rather large, and cannot be worn as a wristwatch. Monitoring your air pressure based on air consumption and depth is an important feature thats worth investing in. A high-pressure quick disconnect helps ensure safe storage of this Sherwood Vision computer in between dives. In essence, they are small, often watch-sized, computers worn around your wrist during a dive and show important information such as current diving depth, time, and remaining non-decompression times. Here are more options to consider as you move up the ladder. However, it is not required and especially technical divers should choose an analog pressure gauge instead. I consider this an excellent option when renting out the computer. If you click them and make a purchase, we will earn a commission. If you want a hassle-free dive computer that looks and feels valuable and can even be worn as a day-to-day wristwatch, this might be it. Made with Save yourself the hassle of learning a new one each time and master your own. At least in the 500$+ range. The computer allows resetting between users, making it a popular choice for equipment rental shops and diving schools. The battery is rechargeable, so you wont have to worry about the availability of replacement batteries on vacation. It even features a useful altitude diving mode for exploring mountain lakes up to 3,500m and easy recharging. First and foremost, they calculate your nitrogen saturation in and out of the water and give you the current non-decompression limit (NDL) based on that. The model doesnt include a heart monitor. The massive screen on the Pro Plus X can become so bright you will have no problems reading it, even when diving in a gloomy cave. Bluetooth integration allows switching between three different gasses for each dive, making it perfect for technical applications. So, this dive computer easily claims that title as the top-of-the-line unit. A stylish design that looks good in the boardroom, pub, or while diving all day. Checking all your vital dive data is as easy as a few clicks of a button. This Puck Pro computer is not the most attractive unit on this list, but it is one of the best budget computers with sturdy construction to last for years. Nitrox trimix decompression dive computer in wrist-watch form factor, Bhlmann zhl-16c algorithm with configurable gradient factors. The three-button user menu makes navigation easy. Supports trimix, rebreathers and can communicate with two transmitters. You need to purchase a USB cable separately to sync the watch with your devices. All Rights Reserved. our patented gas time remaining algorithm provides calculations in real ti. Dot-matrix displays work well as long as we can view the data. The included dive plan feature is ideal when youve got multiple dives in a day. The operation of the dive computer may be too complex for beginners. I would like to receive communication from Social Diving via email. These are absolute budget beasts and allow you to buy a dive computer without breaking the bank. The computer has limited smartwatch features. The more you dive, the more I suggest going for a higher-priced dive computer. Extensive logbook functionality (500+ dives). Plus, you get plenty of options to customize the dive computer before setting off, including audio alarms, time zones, three different gas mixes in a single dive, and more. For casual recreational divers, a budget computer between $250 $500 is often all they need. Copyright 2022 Social Diving. A full-color crystal LED-backlit screen that offers rich blacks. Large buttons make it easier to manipulate between tasksremember, youll probably be wearing thick gloves. We pull back the curtain and show you the best places to dive to maximize your travel time. These dive computers let you take a plunge in an icy climate. 20 years ago, most divers still calculated every single dive with dive tables and dive watches. In my opinion as a dive instructor for several training agencies, you should not choose a dive computer based on your level of experience, but three factors which are more important: Basic dive computers will give you the following features: They usually only differ in the way they display this info, and in their design. Most modern computers look very much like wristwatches and can double as such when youre not scuba diving. The main screen doesnt include the actual bottom time. Using many different computers also helps me give better service and suggestions to our Social Diving students and clients. On the other hand, a dive computer is responsible for proper decompression in and out of the water and must function at all times. Whether youre looking to get into scuba diving, or are already trained, there are plenty of options available to start or advance your diving education. Air integration allows checking tank pressure from a computer. With so many options on the market, getting the best dive computer can be challenging. This D5 is an excellent option if youre working in the water or want a drive computer that can stand the challenges of daily use. This list will help you make the right decision before your next scuba dive trip. An integrated dual-algorithm feature is perfect for instructors working with students using different gear and need to keep their students safe during the ascent. A Learn what it takes to start scuba diving and getting into the sport. I own one myself from about 2017. Bigger and better than ever, the proplus 4.0 features the latest bluetooth 4.0 technology, Divers can adjust and customize all their dive features on the go pre and post dive, Boasts a new display area, wider font size and 22% larger digits than its predecessor (proplus 3), m. Accurate dive time based on current depth and personal air consumption. The auto-altitude adjust function means you dont manually adjust for a conservative dive profile. Max of 50% O2 and two gasses is enough for recreational divers. Take your underwater photos to the next level. At the upper price range, starting around $600, advanced dive computers start to feature multi-gas support and light technical diving capabilities, although I would not suggest them as pure technical diving computers, yet. Personal dive profiles allow changing the algorithm to suit your needs. A giant menu button offers easy access to computer functions. A larger 2.2-inch diagonal size screen for critical dive info. The most common modes in modern dive computers are gauge and air modes. We walk you through the best options for scuba divers of all skill levels, budgets, and things we like and dont like about each device for a complete list. manage your free diving with depth, bottom and surface times, dedicated free dive me, Multiple gas capability manages up to 3 nitrox mixes (with 3 transmitters), each with individual po2. Some computers allow customizing dive profiles based on a mathematical model you are most comfortable with. The compass is too hard to read and lags during dives. A common question I receive is whats the absolute best dive computer right now. They also add (a little) extra weight to your kit. You need to purchase the USB cable separately. Make sure to consider this efficiency when upgrading your dive computer youll thank me later. Synchronizing dive logs is easy using built-in Bluetooth support to connect to your mobile or iPad. In the ultra-budget section, you will not find many worthy alternatives to the Cressi Leonardo. If you rent them, you never get to keep this data to look at later. Connecting to two transmitters limits tech divers and guides monitoring a group. Here are the best computers when youre new to the diving world. Advanced dive computers include all the basic features from above, plus extra ones that will make your life as a diver easier. Air integrated computers replace the need for a Submersible Pressure Gauge (SPG). Dive computers calculate the decompression limits using algorithms. If not, its time you look at this versatile and potentially life-saving gear. Frequent divers should invest in a better computer to get advanced features like different breathing gases or air integration. Not only will a new dive computer be much nicer to look at and easier to work with, it will also offer many advanced features like Nitrox capabilities and more accurate decompression algorithms. It comes with a ton of features, a hyper-competitive price, and Suunto dive computers are loved all around the world for their absolute user-friendliness. They give you more screen real-estate and are often easier to handle underwater than watch-style ones. The Aqualung i100 is the ultra-budget entry dive computer made by Aqualung and is stripped down to the absolute minimum. What kind of diving are you planning to do? features a north reference, return bearing lock, and declination adjustment. If you dont yet own a dive computer, and you dive at least once per year, then the answer is yes. The sensor relays tank pressure information to your wrist-mounted computer. Weve done some deep diving to find the best selections of dive computers in 2022. Freediving enthusiasts want that mode to be part of the features. Diving requires a fair amount of scuba gear, and some are natural components of any kit. It looks absolutely gorgeous and it comes in a standard version, as well as the more expensive Black Sapphire option with a titanium wrist band. This dive computer is a lightweight and compact unit thats tough enough to withstand air travel abuse and multiple dives a day. Oxygen blends up to 99% O2 are possible, although I cannot recommend such a budget dive computer to anyone wanting to start technical diving. This is purely personal and I dont recommend buying something expensive just based on reviews when it doesnt fit your budget. Push-button activation helps you check air pressure and proper operations, while water activation starts the device upon contact with water. Operating modes: air, nitrox, gauge and freedom modes, Back lite display, easy to read in low light & night conditions, Imperial or metric programmable, decompression stop data, audible alarms, Easy to use, yet very powerful set of features, including backlit display and simple 2-button design, Powerful app backup: connecting to the deepblu app via bluetooth, you can set up your diving computer, An incredibly powerful dive computer with just the right amount of features, I personally dive with this computer, using an Atomic Cobalt 2 as a backup, Supports open-circuit, fixed po2, gauge, and freediving modes, Supports optional wireless tank pressure transmitters, Programmable for 21% to 50% oxygen mixtures. But how much should I spend? A sleek design that makes it wearable as a wristwatch. We hope that this comprehensive list will inspire you to make the best decision when looking for the best new dive computer for your next dive vacation. The Mk1 also comes with a rechargeable battery and charging station. The Cosmiq+ by DeepBlu features a button on either side for switching modes and adjusting settings you want. The screen is hard to read out of the water. If you already own a dive computer that is no older than 5-6 years, I do not believe you need a new one to replace it with. Therefore, buying one will be much cheaper even after only a few diving days. Dive computers are among the more complicated items a scuba diver uses regularly. No instruction manual included, you get a CD instead. Aa battery - 30% longer battery life than the petrel 2, Integrated bungee mount - a new option along with the classic strap mounts, High resolution 2.2 display - vivid, enhanced color range and saturation, 1000-hour dive log - transfers to your pc or mac via bluetooth, Simple to use - intuitive and familiar menu structure. Basic models will come with a USB, while advanced units have Bluetooth. A dive computer can suggest extra deep stops when ascending from deep dives. Dive computers are an essential piece of the scuba gear and you need one on every dive. An air integrated computer will measure the tank pressure and calculate how much time you have left at the current air consumption rate. track the diving information, Smart diving computer: ppo2 adjustable between 1.2 bar and 1.6 bar, nitrox mix adjustable between 21, Powerful app backup: connecting to the deepblu app via bluetooth, you can set up your diving compute. The Mares Puck Pro is a good choice for scuba divers on a budget and those who only do a handful of dives each year. The data and settings on the unit remain the same even after a battery change. A user-changeable battery means you never have to worry about finding a service center. A Cressi Leonardo will work, there is no doubt about it. The Vision from Sherwood is an innovative console computer that features air integrations and a built-in 3-axis digital compass for navigation. These computers come with a pressure gauge and have large readouts for easy viewing. An excellent standalone dive computer that doesnt offer smartwatch features. This is an expensive dive computer, but you are getting what you pay for in terms of quality. A computer with wireless air integration syncs with a Bluetooth transmitter on the first stage of the regulator. Always dive with friends and happy bubbles. More diving often equals more difficult or challenging experiences and a better dive computer will help you stay safe underwater while offering advanced options and easier handling. The Garmin Mk2 Descent is truly one of the best dive computers on the market and if you are an athlete or need a new smartwatch, this is almost a no-brainer. That is to say that although you will find good dive computers at any price point, you get what you pay for. Despite its low price, it comes with 4 buttons which makes navigating and using it much more fun than other budget dive computers. This Perdix model from Shearwater Research brings you a large, easy-to-read screen that reveals the tank pressure and Gas Time Remaining (GTR). privacy policy. Like other budget offerings, it features a one-button design that just works out of the box and gives you all thats necessary to dive right in. A polished metal bezel and scratch-resistant tempered mineral glass display make it look like a wristwatch and can take a thrashing. The Garmin Mk2 Descent is the second version of the popular Mk1 Descent, however, features a few improvements such as air integration, even better battery life and a great inbuilt logbook system. The reason for that is that they calculate your current nitrogen saturation based on all the dives you have done in a certain amount of time. It is a convenient feature that often replaces an additional pressure gauge and can be found on intermediate to high-end dive computers. We think the LED warning light on the strap is a useful additional safety feature, especially when other alarms are ringing around you. This offgassing period reduces the time to make a safe ascent. While its smaller than most starter dive computers, it is not suitable as a daily watch. Basic units can deal with at least one gas or nitrox mix. Especially when packing for your scuba diving trip, you want to stay as lightweight as possible. I just dont think that its fun or convenient to dive with it and its options are very limited. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Make each dive more memorable than your last and dont forget to carry your best dive computer! DiverBelow.com 2022. Priced just below $400, the Aqualung i300c is a good bang for your buck and will last forever. . It also comes in a variety of colors and even a special edition that looks really fancy.