Amazing compass 3 axis, tilt-compensated. Traditional 'beginner' dive computers like the Cressi Leonardo and Suunto Zoop are cheaper, but they're so frustrating to use that most divers quickly start shopping for an upgrade. $ Bulky Watch-style Not Air-Integrated BW Bluetooth. It's generally easy to go with whatever dive computer you used during your training. We looked at all the current models from top brands globally to find the best dive computers on the market in 2022. You're better to spend a little more at the start and get a much nicer computer that you won't need to upgrade. Some people prefer user-replaceable batteries, in case they forget to recharge (or to bring the charging pad). Her big goal at the moment is to travel around Australia solo. There's two levels of Dive Computers aimed at the entry level market, and this is reflected in both their pricing and functionality. When paired with a compatible smartphone, the Descent Mk1 can receive text messages, emails and smart notifications on the watch face. When it comes to dive computers, we want great functionality, but to be able to quickly see and understand what we need to know. Menu Buttons Adive consolecombines your dive computer with the air pressure gauge and in some cases, an analog compass connected to your first stage via a pressure hose. $$ Watch-style Air-Integrated BW Bluetooth. If you want the smartest dive computer on the planet, the Garmin Descent Mk2i is it. Automatic I think the Shearwater Teric is the better overall dive computer, with a brighter screen and rugged build for a long life, while the Garmin Descent Mk2i is more expensive but adds full smartwatch capabilities it can even link to satellite communicators if youre diving in a remote area. A dive computer allows you to independently track your own dive so you know whats going on. Speaking of battery life, many of the latest dive computers are more like smartwatches. Longer QuickFit straps are included to use over thick wet suits or dry suits. Air integrated (transmitter sold separately). While the Descent Mk2i is expensive, particularly with the addition of the Garmin transmitter, it has the capability to replace multiple devices if youre a technology enthusiast. Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer Dive shops often use this configuration, as students are less likely to lose the computer! No air integration capability. All dive computers measure depth and dive time, making continuous calculations to update your no-decompression time based on internal algorithms. These generally hold their resale value really well. Usability The computer should be intuitive and easy to use. Suunto D5 Dive Computer, The Best Air Intetegrated Dive Computer Under $500 Be aware that the traditional cheap beginner computers, such as the Cressi Leonardo, may have a ton of decent reviews online, but this is because (1) theyve been around since the dawn of time, and (2) theyre that persons first and only computer to date. Its not one youd wear as a watch, but its a great dive computer. Menu Buttons Aqua Lung i300C Scuba Dive Computer Top subscription boxes right to your door, 1996-2022, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. These watches look great if youre into that style, and theyre an excellent choice for surfing, swimming, and watersports. Often these are smartwatch-style devices, typically worn on the wrist, but not always. The Shearwater Peregrine is the best entry-level dive computer. Algorithm leans conservative, which is a pain if your buddys computer uses a different algorithm; see below for a full discussion. That means we might receive a commission, at no cost to you if you purchase a recommended product or service via our link. Thats very convenient if youre in and around the water a lot, such as on a multi-day dive trip; youll never forget your computer when youre wearing it! We are reader supported and earn affiliate commissions when you buy through us. TheGarmin Descentis better in that respect. Extensive strap styles: choose from leather, metal, silicone, and titanium, in various colors. Why we like the Garmin Descent Mk2iDive Computer: New version features SubWave sonar technology aka AIR INTEGRATION - finally, and, WOO! Some of the best in this range are the Cressi Leonardo, theMares Puck Proand theAqualung i100 and i200. That may also be useful for dive guides that want to keep an eye on their clients, or if you want visual confirmation of your buddys air level I can see this offering peace-of-mind for people diving with children, in particular. If you dont care either way, you can save some money and avoid squinting at times by going large. Automatic Both of these do all of the above flawlessly. Dive Modes Simon is a shark conservation biologist and world-renowned underwater photographer who dives, snorkels and freedives for a living. We all want a computer that is easy to use, easy to read underwater (with a bright, clear screen), with a battery that is easy to replace, but ideally lasts for a long time. Read our full review on the Tribord Shearwater Perdix AInow. Ultimately the best dive computer for beginners is one that enhances every dive while never forcing you to upgrade. Yes. Multiple gas capability - up to 3 Nitrox mixes (with 3 transmitters), each with individual PO2 set points. Product Better computers have more ability to set conservatism levels a tropical dive with no current is different to a drysuit dive in Antarctica to reflect your preferences. Simply Scuba also did a great product explainer. Its expensive but, if you want full smartwatch capability, the Garmin Descent Mk2i is in a class of its own. The physical buttons should be big enough to press while wearing gloves (which is normal in cool water). Your recently viewed items and featured recommendations, Select the department you want to search in, Choose the most reliable scuba diving computer, Cressi Goa Dive Watch Computer | 4 Programs - Air/Nitrox, Freediving, Gage | Made in Italy, Cressi Underwater Diving Computer: Four Operative Modes with a Simple Interface - Neon: Created in Italy, Cressi Scuba Diving Computer for Beginners - 4-Dive Modes: Air Nitrox Gauge Free - Long Battery Life - Strong Backlit Display - Donatello: Made in Italy. Weve looked for computers that have a modern clean screen design and simple information layout, without unnecessary clutter or distracting graphics. (Although if you love technicolor, and enjoy diving in sunglasses, theres always theRatio iDive Color Easy). Aqua Lung i300C Dive Computer, Things to considerwhen choosing a dive computer, Dive Computers vs Dive Consolesvs Dive Watches, Dive Computers with anintegrated compass, Dive computerscreen brightnesswhen diving (and on land), Multi-divebattery lifeof your dive computers, SMARTWATCH: Garmin Descent Mk2i Dive Computer, ~$500: Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer, CHEAP AIR INTEGRATION: Aqua Lung i470TC Dive Computer. Quality over quantity though, to a point; recent releases will obviously have fewer reviews. Shearwater Teric Dive Computer, Best Smartwatch Dive Computer A good dive computer means you can independently track important dive information to ensure your safety, and so that you can plan your dive to maximize your time underwater. We identified a range of options that might appeal to different people, as we outlined above. Its not the best option for regular divers, though, as its not as easy to read as a wrist-mounted device. In most new models, youll be able to seehow many minutes left of dive-time remains, not just an air pressure reading. Product While topside, friends and family members can follow your location and adventures online, in real time using the LiveTrack feature on Garmin Connect Mobile. A cluttered dark screen and hard-to-read type is just a pointless frustration. If you like the idea of air integration being able to check your remaining air from your computer then the Aqua Lung i470TC is also under $500 and is a good choice, lacking the beautiful display but coming in a wristwatch-size form-factor. Gas Switching LED screens offer the highest level of brightness and clarity available at this stage. I chose the Shearwater Teric as the Best Dive Computer in 2022. Its deceptively chunky - definitely not a slim watch-style. It's not the cheapest, but it offers the best value overall. Red is not good. Clear, high-contrast, readable display underwater. Perfectly set out display with sharp and clearly visible characters, an ergonomic profile with two buttons for very easy navigation. {{#each pushedProductsPlacement5}}, With NauticExpo you can: Find a nearby distributor or reseller| Contact the manufacturer to get a quote or a price | Examine product characteristics and technical specifications for major brands | View PDF catalogues and other online documentation. Straps can suffer wear quite quickly, too, so easy replacement is great. ), opting to mostly hire dive and snorkel gear wherever she goes. Im a whale shark biologist & marine wildlife photographer from New Zealand. My choice for the best dive computer overall, the Shearwater Teric, has full tech-diving capabilities, although it can only link to two tanks at once (which is fine for most tech-divers). It's got a deep feature set for technical dives that are testing the limits, but still intuitive to use for new divers. JUMP TOWINNER Shearwater Teric SMARTWATCH Garmin Descent Mk2i ~$500 Shearwater Peregrine ADVANCED Suunto D5 AIR INTEGRATION Aqua Lung i470TC CHEAP Aqua Lung i300C BUYERS GUIDE. Menu Buttons Shop products from small business brands sold in Amazons store. You do. Check out these very useful photos in the review section to see it against the i200C. If youre diving in remote areas, the Mk2i offers compatibility with Garmins range of satellite transmitters. The menu navigation can be cumbersome since it includes features for more sports, such as swimming etc. New version has doubled the battery life in dive mode from 40hrs to 800 hrs. 10 minutes of focused attention should be fine to get comfortable with at least the basics. Once youre knowledgeable about diving, better computers will allow you to start customizing their algorithms based on the type of dive youre doing. Scuba, Freedive and Bottom Timer Altitude Adjustment Author Web Link. Buy on Amazon You need to keep an eye on the price for the i200 as it jumps around a bit. 3 - Button Also, a lot of new divers are unsure how far they're going to take their diving and may not want to spend big bucks on features they may not ever use. At this point, though, all of the best dive computers have air integration with multiple tanks (with optional transmitters), with the Garmin Descent Mk2i pairing to up to five tanks. As they gain more experience, most divers want more features and customization options. The wait is over, and the future is now. Everyone who buys any of the Shearwater dive computers raves about them. Details There's usually a bit of a compromise when it comes to watch-sized dive computers. Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer The Bluetooth integration to DiverLog+ provides wireless connectivity to your dive log. Click the link below to read our detailed review of the Shearwater Teric. If you're about to buy your first dive computer or you're on the hunt to upgrade to one with more features, then hopefully my list will take some of the hard work out of comparing these for you. With great power, comes great battery drain. A lot of rental computers are battered and hard to read, and if youre not used to the information display it can be hard to immediately determine the important metrics. Shop the Waterlust Whale Shark Collection. The included charging dock allows you to easily top up the Terics battery every few days without having to access a waterproof compartment to charge the computer. The i470TC doesnt compete with the big, beautiful color display of the Peregrin, but if air integration is a must-have feature for you, or you want a computer that doubles as a wristwatch, this is the better option at a similar price point around $500. Real Diver feedback: Overwhelming positive diver experience, feedback, and reviews. Beats out most other dive computers at any price point. I want to be looking at awesome ocean animals, not trying to interpret screen hieroglyphics. Altitude Adjustment The Shearwater Peregrine is a fantastic choice as your first dive computer. For the majority of new divers, entry level dive computers are the best place to start. The sleek edge-to-edge screen allows for big, clear text. Overall Winner: The Best Dive Computer These watch-sized dive computers have more features than their entry-level counterparts, plus the option for wireless air integration. Thoughtful packaging. This is something worth knowing if you're considering buying a dive computer at this end of the price spectrum, but aren't sure if it's 'too much' dive computer for you right now. Leave that to the noobs. They exclude delivery charges and customs duties and do not include additional charges for installation or activation options. These algorithms will determine your safety stop schedule, no-fly time, surface interval time, and total dive time allowance. Menu Buttons Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. The important features we recommend are an easy to read, full-color backlit screen, air integration to monitor your tank pressure, the ability to change the tank oxygen level so you can calculate dive time with nitrox mixes, a freedive mode, simple ascent speed monitoring, a long battery life (depending on how many smart features are built-in) and an easy-to-charge or replaceable battery, and it should be easy to navigate through the computers menu system and make the necessary changes (like date and time, and tank oxygen levels). Seriously. The Suunto Zoop Novo is okay, but the whole sub-$300 class of dive computers is generally populated by older models that really need a Viking burial. Deepblu Cosmiq+ Dive Computer Adive watchis a waterproof fashion watch that displays depth when diving. I prefer the Shearwater Teric as a standalone dive watch due to its brighter screen and general user interface, as well as the likelihood that itll continue to receive firmware updates for longer. Bluetooth Transfer Broadcastallows you to pair via 20 or so frequencies at the start of your dive, just be sure you are not pairing to another divers frequency. The image below shows theShearwater Tericand its air integrated transmitter. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. Preview The Suunto D5 has many advantages over the D4i and D6i. Once youre qualified, though, Id suggest that your first two purchases should be your own dive mask, then a dive computer. Manual Discover more about the small businesses partnering with Amazon and Amazons commitment to empowering them. The NiTek Q Advance Diving Computer is a wrist-mounted, seven-gas Trimix dive computer designed with numerous features and functions that are easy to use making it a dive hours of dive time per charge and a charging adapter that gives the user the option of USB or AC sources. A lot of people ask me about the gear I recommend so, with that in mind, Ive created this independent guide to the best dive computer for 2022. Leisure Pro have recently rebranded themselves as Scuba.com. The Teric is packed with features that are appreciated by both recreational and technical divers. Bluetooth Transfer To fit into the watch-size category though, the display is smaller so these may be more suited to younger eyes. Copyright 2022 Sea Dragon Life, all rights reserved. Her big goal at the moment is to travel around Australia solo. It's really nice to use, has an excellent information display, and does everything you'll want to do. This makes keeping an eye on navigation more natural and intuitive as, traditionally, a compass is most-often located on the cumbersome air pressure gauge and dive console unit, or as a stand-alone piece of kit attached to your BCD or strapped on the wrist. SCUBAPRO G2 Console Dive Computer with Quick Release, Black, One Size, SEAC Action HR, High Resistance Dive Computer with Scuba and Freediving Mode, Dive Logbook, Dive Planner, Safety Alarms, HR Black/Red, Shearwater Research Peregrine Dive Computer, Aqua Lung i750 Wrist Dive Computer, Pink,X-Small, Sherwood Scuba TFT Color Screen Air Integrated Dive Computer, with Locking QD and Bluetooth integrated Dive Log, Shearwater Teric Wrist Computer w/Transmitter, Sponsored | Based on star rating and number of customer ratings, Cressi Leonardo Underwater Single Button Diving Computer, Created in Italy, Quality Since 1946, Shearwater Research Perdix AI - w/ Transmitter, SUUNTO Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer, Descent G1, Rugged Dive Computer, Multiple Dive Modes, Activity Tracking, Slate Gray, Deepblu Cosmiq+ Dive Computer Bluetooth, Rechargeable Diving Wrist Watch 200 Logbook for Freediving Scuba Men Women, SHEARWATER RESEARCH Teric Wrist Dive Computer (Blue), SUUNTO Eon Core Wrist Dive Computer with Transmitter & USB, Shearwater Research Perdix-AI Dive Computer, Scubapro Aladin A1 Dive Wrist Computer Watch, Shearwater Research Teric Wrist Dive Computer (Silver), Scuba Dive Computers, Bluetooth, Rechargeable, All customers get FREE Shipping on orders over $25 shipped by Amazon. Multisport smartwatch with loads of features. Wireless bluetooth connectivity with free smartphone app. The Teric combines my must-have features, such asair integration, with asleek designand abrightand easy-to-read screen. The Descent is far more than a dive computer, however. Shes been sampling the worlds equipment for over a decade. Shearwater Perdix AI with Bluetooth & Air, Best Watch Sized Dive Computer with Air Integration. Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer, The Best Looking Dive Computer Youre seeing this ad based on the products relevance to your search query. The Galileo HUD Dive Computer is an innovative mask-mounted, hands-free dive computer designed to keep you fully immersed in your dive, so you can experience outstanding color contrast in direct sunlight. Customization options If you want to make your computer look more distinctive, or just fit better, changing the straps is often a good way to accomplish that. My top choice for beginner divers, the Shearwater Peregrine, has a big, beautiful color display, which does make a difference underwater. Well be watching carefully to see how this smart integration works in practice. Deepblu Cosmiq+ Dive Computer The screen is cluttered, the layout doesnt utilize the whole screen, and the numbers are smaller and harder to read. Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer If you're after a cheap computer, the Aqua Lung i300C is very functional and minimizes the compromises made to reduce the price. If the Peregrin had that, it would rival the Shearwater Teric as my overall top pick. Thus if you think you may want one in the future you are better off getting at least a computer that is compatible with the transmitters. Some computers sound good, by reporting battery life with screen brightness at minimum, but youll want a bright screen while youre diving. These really hit the mark when it comes to having both the functionality and the look of an everyday watch. Thats okay in theory, but in practice, it can make people more likely to ignore their computer, and its annoying to always be the person that has to end the dive first. 4 - Button Functionality must-haves: Air-integration, bluetooth, long dive mode battery life, tilt compass, customizations. I like the look of the D6i Novo with a Zulu strap. Even if you think you'll move towards a more technical style of diving, entry level dive computers hold their value well. If youre on the fence about air integration, keep in mind you cannot upgrade anon-air-integrateddive computer to anair- integrateddive computer. Rechargeable internal battery to maintain full waterproofing. Shes a minimalist and likes to travel light (which Simon encourages, as he can then use her baggage allowance!! For instance, Simon prefers to strap his large-screenedShearwater Perdix AIcomputer to the strobe arm on his camera. Best Dive MaskBest Dive FinsBest Dive RegulatorBest Dive ComputersBest Snorkel MaskBestSnorkel FinsBest Kids Snorkel Set, Wildlife TravelScienceConservationUnderwater PhotographyWildlife Photography, Who We AreDr. Most people will keep the same dive computer for many years, so its a worthwhile purchase even early on. Buy on Amazon Have a look at the table below to see how the 3 different Suunto models compare. If you have poor eyesight youll want an uncluttered screen with big clear text. Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer That said, the Teric should be watching its back. Altitude Adjustment $299.95 Preview It does everything a recreational diver would ever want, with the addition of GPS and other data to your digital dive logs. Computers under $200 often lack key features and are a pain to use; as you get over $800 or so, check youre not paying more for functions youll probably never need. This dive computer does things that even the Shearwater Teric can only dream of. 21% oxygen in air to 32% nitrox) fast? Big, beautiful color screen. It also gives you access to automatic uploads with Garmin Connect, audio prompts, and music controls. 4 - Button Air integration pairs for up to 5 tanks - excellent for dive guides and instructors. Price not available A dive computer tracks your depth through time and continually recalculates how long you can safely stay there alerting you when it's time to start ascending into shallower water. Some algorithms are more conservative than others, and some dive computers allow you to select your choice of algorithm, or even design your own. You can set up alerts for 100 bar, 50 bar, or any other pressure level to save you constantly checking throughout your dive. Sharon has always enjoyed family holidays at the beach and spent in the water. Themenu systemandinterfaceshould be intuitive and easy to understand. Sad to say, most older (and sometimes cheaper) dive computers are terrible at this. The login page will open in a new tab. For instance, when you purchase the titanium strap model youll receive dive-friendly silicone in the box with both long and short straps. These dive computers aren't big and bulky and most can easily pass as an everyday watch during vacation. Similarly, if theres a particular layout of dive information you like or beeps etc check that you can adjust the interface to your liking. Gas Switching I dont, as the battery compartment becomes a point of vulnerability for water entry. Click the link below to read our detailed review of the Perdix AI. Air, Nitrox, Free and Gauge Made in Finland. Dive Modes Manual Thankfully, a less expensive dive computer doesnt have to be a frustratingly awful dive computer anymore. That said, dive computers arent a product youre likely to upgrade often. While some bigger dive computerslike SimonsShearwater Perdixdisplay clear text, there are some that use the extra space to cram in more confusing unnecessary graphics and data,decreasinglegibility. If you're ok with this extra expense, then the dive computers listed below might be just what you're looking for. Uses the Bhlmann ZH-L algorithm as standard (you dont need to understand that, but its a good thing). Heres a short promo video from Shearwater that explains how integrated air dive computers work: This functionality is extremely useful, and we thoroughly recommend it. The Aqua Lung i470TC, a 2020 update to the much-loved 450 model, looks like a well-made dive watch but is, in fact, a sophisticated dive computer offering air integration (with up to three transmitters, sold separately) with an excellent user interface and display. 2 - Button Youll probably want high brightness for diving. The killer feature that elevates this model is its bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to download your dive data or update the computers programming via your smartphone a nice way to change nitrox settings. Buy on Amazon Air, Nitrox, Gauge Ultimately, though our top choices are expensive, we think theyre worth it. You can keep renting the other gear, some people never buy gear, but most people will even travel with a mask and dive computer. If you do decide to upgrade, a quality dive computer will serve you well as a back-up. The Aqua Lung i300C is a very functional computer for the price, with a two-button interface with an easy-to-read display. Manual However, its genuinely worth spending a bit more for my top Beginners Choice, the Shearwater Peregrine, which is chunkier than the i200C but has a gorgeous color screen and much-improved navigation. Product Details Core tasks are: can you change the date and time easily? One of the great things about both ends of the dive computer spectrum is that both the entry level DC's and the high end dive computers are always in demand. For the purposes of this review, were applying a 10-minute rule, i.e. You simply can't go wrong with these. Cheaper dive computers, like the Aqua Lung i300C, can save money while retaining functionality by now trying to double as a watch. Made in Finland. Often the last generation will have a price drop too, sometimes offering great value. You'll want to throw it off the boat after a few dives, or the strap will break and solve the problem for you. Gas Switching 2 - Button The Garmin Descent Mk1 provides real time data for Recreational, Technical and Free Diving. Get the best computer you can afford: itll probably last longer, and youll enjoy using it more. Wesurveyed our extensive network of professional divers(scuba instructors, professional underwater photographers, marine biologists etc) to get their opinions and feedback. {{#pushedProductsPlacement4.length}} Buy on Amazon Made in Finland. Can you switch gas mixture (i.e. The Shearwater Teric is the Best Dive Computer in 2022. A great dive computer will communicate vital information quickly and clearly when youre at depth. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for details on how NauticExpo processes your personal data. A color screen This does make the computer more expensive, so we let theMares Puck Prooff on this one, but color is often useful. Dive computers use algorithms tocalculate a personalized no decompression schedulesby using depth, time, and pressure data points. Please log in again. Price! The price of the computer makes no difference to its level of safety. Monitor air in up to three tanks (with optional transmitters) great for diving with kids or beginners. TheShearwater Perdix AIis by far the best dive computer for Technical divers and Recreational divers alike. Price Of course, these do come with an additional price tag, but many older transmitters work just as well with new computers. My top dive computer choices, the Shearwater Teric and the Garmin Descent Mk2i, are both dive computer watches with the Descent Mk2i also being a full smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts. All recreational dive computers will be safe when you dive well within their limits. Interchangeable watch straps to suit your style. Simple to change from air to nitrox and to set oxygen percentages. The first level are priced around the $200 USD mark and have all the basic functions, which cover everything new divers need. Manual Easy-to-navigate two-button interface. No, not straight away most people rent gear from a shop for their first few dives. Read our comparison on the Aqua Lung Dive Computer Range. $$$ Watch-style Air-Integrated Color LED Bluetooth. Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Free While you can measure air pressure using a traditional pressure gauge, many divers are moving towards an air integrated dive computer system. Beginner computers are often the worst. She has opinions. The D6i Novo now comes with a range of Zulu straps which really appeals to a lot of people. A nice feature is the customizable vibration alerts that alert you to whatever requires attention, even through a thick wetsuit or drysuit, while avoiding the annoying beeps that many other computers use. Details Hismarine researchand photography are routinely covered by major media outlets, including theBBC,National Geographic,Discovery Channel,andNew York Timesamongst many others. Shearwater dive computers have long been a high-end choice, and the Teric is the best on the market right now. Please see ourfull disclosure for further information. Technical divers love Shearwater computers. The Suunto D5 didnt make my top two this year, as it has less battery life than the Teric and isnt a smartwatch like the Descent, but many people think its a better-looking watch than both! Dive Modes The Shearwater Teric offers (optional) wireless air integration with a separate transmitter, which you can take advantage of in this package. As a dive computer, the Garmin Descent Mk2i offers full tech-diving capabilities, including trimix, and the ability to pair with up to five tanks. Products, and especially dive computers, don't become best sellers unless they offer good value for money. This is common and understandable, as it's the first one you'll have gained some familiarity with. Preview Many of our friends that work as dive instructors level dive friends also use conservative algorithms to increase their safety margins. Being 'watch sized' though, also means they're more expensive than other wrist mounted dive computers. ThisSuunto D5is an extremely popular, good-looking and full-featured dive computer at a reasonable price.