Best dive computer: a must-have for scuba divers

The dive computer is a device that can replace many other gadgets and make diving more interesting and exciting, but it is very difficult to choose the right one.

In this article, we will tell you about the best dive computers. Here are computers of different price categories from budget dive computers to more expensive and with different functionality. However, there is no doubt that these computers will not let you down and will serve you well.

Let’s get started!

What is a dive computer?

A basic dive computer is as essential to a scuba diver as a dashboard is to a car driver. Modern dive computers are multipurpose devices that are capable of supplying the scuba diver with a wealth of information, replacing the depth meter and thermometer altogether.

All best dive computers show the depth and surface times and help control the ascent rate. Based on depth, time, number of dives, and surface interval times, they help to plan dives, inform when to make the ascent, schedule safety stops if necessary.

To say more, most dive computers are designed for scuba divers swimming with both air integration options: air and mixes.

There are certain no-decompression limits, and overstepping can lead to serious consequences. And the dive computer just helps to control the limit of the dive.

If the diver descends below such a limit, the device will be able to calculate the decompression stops for a timely rise to the surface, because if you rise before time, there is a risk of nitrogen bubbles forming in the circulatory system, and as a consequence, the development of an illness.

In general, the best dive computers are capable of supplying the scuba diver with a large amount of more complex additional information.

Before computers were around, divers relied on dive tables and dive watches to plan and carry out their dives safely. Such dive tables were used to calculate no-stop bottom times for recreational dives at various depths, and watches enabled divers to stick to these times underwater.

Nowadays, it is obvious that a good dive computer is a must. Sometimes a diver’s health, or even life, depends on it.

Types of dive computers

The variety of dive computers can be divided into 2 main groups:

1. Conventional decompression dive computers.
2. Decompression dive computers with an air integration system.

The first group of dive computers is the low-budget group. Such computers are equipped with all the necessary functions and at the same time, they are not expensive.

Their features include:

• Monitoring the depth and temperature of the surrounding water.
• Displaying dive time.
• Calculating ascent time and optimal speed.
• Determining the number and duration of decompression stops.
• A digital compass change.
• Trajectory change control.
• Dive data saving.
• Allows using both air integration options: air and Nitrox-mixture (special gas mixes for diving under the water, which has more oxygen than usual air).

For simple scuba diving or spearfishing, these options are usually enough.

The second group of devices is more complex and high-tech. Accordingly, they have multiple diving modes. They are connected to the breathing system by linking directly to the cylinders, or in a non-contact way, through a transmitter and a pressure sensor.

In addition to the usual options, such a dive computer provides:

• Data on the pressure and amount of air in the oxygen cylinders.
• The diver’s breathing rate.

The advantage of such devices is also their compactness because they do not exceed the size of a watch, and similarly, they are put on the diver’s hand.

How to choose the right dive computer

Before visiting the nearest specialized dive equipment store, decide on some important things first:

• Be clear about what features you will need – this will determine the complexity and price of the dive computer.
• Decide on the type of scuba diving you intend to do.
• Decide on the depths you intend to dive.
• Once you have decided on the depth, find out what you need to breathe at that depth – plain air, Nitrox, or Trimix.
• Don’t get a cheap and bulky computer. A compact size of watch-style dive computers will prevent a number of inconveniences in use.

Once these questions mentioned above have been resolved, it is necessary to consider whether the dive computer has several little useful features.

What are they? Let’s see!

An easy-to-read display

One of the most important functions that must be present in a new dive computer is clear and concise all your dive data. Therefore, there should be exactly as much dive data as required, and it should be displayed in a simple way. This is ensured by a good display and its high-quality backlight.

Backlight

Speaking of backlights – they come in different colors. The best colors for diving are blue and yellow, but sometimes you can see red backlights, which have a couple of specific properties.

It was originally designed for military-technical diving, so the factor of good dispersion of red color in water was taken into account. In this way, the red color reduced the chance of the enemy noticing you.

But for advanced divers, its other property deserves close attention – the red color “turns on” a mode of “night vision”. That is why after switching off such a backlight, there will be a certain “glare” in the eye.

Audible alarms

Many dive computers have alarms that alert the diver to such things as:

• Excessive ascent rate.
• Missed decompression stops.
• Exceeded maximum operating depth.
• Exceeded oxygen toxicity limits.

Data memory

The second important feature, the best dive computers have, is a sufficient amount of physical memory of the dive computer. This is necessary to prevent the situation when after a long swim you simply do not have half of the data, which would be very useful for the analysis of the dive.

It is better to read the data through the screen of your own dive computer, and it is easier and more effective to save the history on it. Therefore, pay attention to dive computers that support connection with a PC.

Air integration

Air integration is the latest technology used to check the air pressure left in the tank with a quick glance at a dive computer.

Air integration makes it easier for the diver to see all their essential data in one place. For example, one display shows all the necessary dive information such as depth, no-deco time, and the remaining air supply at a glance.

Two air integration systems are commonly used: the air-integrated console dive computer and the hoseless air integration, which uses a transmitter attached to the first stage.

Thus, the air-integrated dive computer with a remote transmitter is a convenient device because you can avoid the need for an extra high-pressure hose since you do not need a pressure gauge.

The disadvantage of an air-integrated dive computer is that if there is electromagnetic radiation underwater (on a sunken ship, for example), the computer may give the wrong information.

On the other hand, it is possible to use a watch-sized dive computer with a remote device and a gauge at the same time. When using the air-integrated dive computer, you will get all the information about the dive, including the amount of air in the cylinder, on the computer screen.

Battery life

Before purchasing a dive computer, definitely be sure to read up on the battery life. While some dive computers are rechargeable with decent battery life, others require you to change the battery entirely when they die.

Most modern dive computers provide user-replaceable batteries. Therefore, it is not worth paying attention to models that can be recharged only at special service centers of the manufacturer.

Out of the two types of batteries currently in use, conventional alkaline fingers and lithium tablets, the first option is preferable. A battery charge indicator is a must!

Battery life can last from a few hours to a few days, and you may find those high-end dive computers die faster than more basic dive computer models.

So, keep in mind that the more “smart” features you want, the bigger the power draw. Don’t forget about it when choosing your best dive computer.

We’re not saying that relatively short battery life is negative. Just make sure the dive computer gives a clear indication of the charge level and makes it easy to charge or switch the battery.

Data personalization

Data personalization is a very useful feature. It is useful in two cases: if there is an accident and if your dive computer is stolen. Although you don’t want to think about that at all, be careful with this question.

Preplanning

A rather rare but very useful of advanced dive computers preplanning feature is available in the best dive computer models. It helps to plan all aspects of the dive, and if your budget allows – choose the device with this function.

Which dive computer is best?

There are a lot of different dive computers on the market. The best dive computers have a large easy-to-read display, intuitive menus, and color graphics, and offer additional features that you won’t find in other computers. Such dive computers are called, in common parlance, supercomputers.

In fact, it is difficult to determine the best dive computer. Much depends on your goals.

We will tell you about the best dive computers according to user reviews.

Image	Product	Features
	Shearwater Peregrine	2.2” LCD display Intuitive dive planner Wireless Charging
	Mares Quad	Dive planning mode Individual settings Easy operation
	Aqua Lung i300C	User-changeable battery Pre-dive planning function Backlight
	SUUNTO D5	Digital compass Rechargeable battery Upgradable software
	Garmin Descent Mk2i	Long battery life IQ STORE Connection 1.4″ color display

How much is a good dive computer?

Although computers for diving are not the cheapest thing – do not hurry frustrated. They have a wide range of prices, averaging from around $150 to $1,500. That’s a huge jump, and every kind of dive computer you can think of fills the space between.

Keep in mind – less expensive doesn’t necessarily mean a poor product. Equally so, an extravagant price tag doesn’t always make something the best. Best dive computers are computers that are the best for you – simple as that.

Once you’ve considered your budget, search within that range and try to find everything you need within that number. Don’t worry, whatever your budget is, you should still be able to find the best dive computer with a variety of features.

In our article, we will analyze the best dive computers in different price categories so that everyone can find the equipment they can afford. Let’s get started!

Shearwater Peregrine dive computer

The new Shearwater Peregrine recreational dive computer is a fantastic choice as your first dive computer if you are looking for a really worthwhile dive equipment option.

And due to the fact that this model supports up to 3 Nitrox mixtures at the same time, it is also suitable for more advanced divers and technical divers.

This device has all the main advantages of Shearwater dive computers, such as a large and easy-to-read screen, an intuitive interface, and high reliability. 

Advantages of Shearwater Peregrine dive computers:

High-quality screen

The dive computer features a high-resolution color screen, and the user can adjust the brightness of the screen to personal preference. A customizable information display is also available. The computer is controlled with two buttons.

Steel buttons

The two steel buttons of a dive computer are located at the bottom left (menu) and right (functions). Therefore, they should be easy to press with the thumb and/or index finger of either hand with support on the housing and without the risk of accidentally pressing the opposite one.

This also works well with gloves and by pressing with cold fingers.

Bullman algorithm

The Shearwater Peregrine dive computer uses the ZHL-16C Bulman algorithm and also allows you to take gradient factors into account, to make your dive safe. Vibration alarms provide additional safety.

Dive mode

The dive computer can handle up to 4 gas switch modes: Air, Nitrox, Gas Nitrox, and Gauge.

Air mode is for air diving, and Nitrox mode is for diving with up to 40% Nitrox the best option for recreational divers and technical divers.

The Gas Nitrox mode provides support for three gas mixtures with oxygen content up to 100% with the ability to switch underwater.

In Gauge mode, the dive computer works as a bottoming timer with dive logging in the logbook, so a diver can review, edit and synchronize dive logs.

Computer power

The dive computer is powered by rechargeable batteries, which have a runtime of up to 30 hours in medium brightness screen mode. A battery charger is supplied in the package. The device is fully charged in 2 hours, using a USB cable to connect to a computer, power bank, or mains.

As with all Shearwater dive computers, here you will be able to offload all your dive data to the mobile phone or computer. The possibility of wireless data transfer makes it convenient to analyze the dive on mobile devices and PC.

Other technical characteristics: 

• Working depth – 120 meters.
• Screen resolution – 320 x 240 QVGA.
• Vibration alarms.
• Dive planner.
• USB cable included.
• Free software update.
• Logbook for 200 hours.
• Weight: 122 g.
• Nylon ballistic pouch included.
• Hand strap included.
• Color: black; white or blue colored straps available as an option.

Disadvantages of Shearwater Peregrine dive computers:

• Lack of digital compass.
• Lack of air integration.
• Not suitable for free diving.

Is the Shearwater Peregrine worth it?

Nowadays, the cost of this dive computer is about $700, and beginner divers may have a question about whether the Shearwater Peregrine is worth the money. We’ll give as detailed and complete answers as possible to dispel all your doubts.

Although Shearwater itself advertises this computer as an entry-level dive computer, the Peregrine is actually quite advanced. With an entry-level dive computer, you are buying a basic dive computer with all the necessary functions on board. A computer like this will meet all demands of a beginning scuba diver.

It may seem to underperform its competitors in some aspects, but when it comes to basic decompression power, it surpasses most dive computers: decompression, 3 open loop gas technologies, customizable deco profile, fantastic color display – all features you would normally find in much more expensive computers.

As you gain skills and expand your dive scope, you can outgrow an entry-level dive computer fairly quickly. But with the advanced features of the Peregrine dive computer, you don’t need to buy a new dive computer. This model is also suitable for advanced technical diving and therefore will stay with you for a long time.

However, as we noted above, there are a couple of features that it lacks – air integration and a digital compass. These features are certainly nice, but keep in mind that most other dive computers with these options are much more expensive and may not have the same decompression capabilities.

When it comes to compromises, we think that the price-to-quality ratio is quite good. By choosing this dive computer model, you get a much more advanced computer and save a significant amount of money, but give up a couple of nice but not necessary features. Whether that’s a fair compromise depends on your personal preference.

Mares Quad computer

The Mares Quad is the worthy successor of the famous Nemo Wide 2, the dive computer equipped by many divers all over the planet. The screen is enlarged by 15%, goodbye corrective lenses, and new features have been added. The menus are identical and remain as intuitive as the Nemo Wide 2.

New features include:

• “Runaway Deco Alarm”, which alerts the user when staying at the current depth, will result in a significant increase in mandatory deco stages.
• “Deco Dive Planner” with the ability to enter a surface interval that adapts to the user’s needs.
• Dive time can be displayed with or without seconds.
• Multimixing capability.
• User-replaceable battery.

Considering the competition, it’s hard to find such a great dive computer with as readable, complete, and reliable, a design as the Quad, and its price-to-quality value puts it at the top of the list.

Advantages of Mares Quad dive computers:

Four handy buttons

The Mares Quad is a very popular dive computer with a relatively large screen. The numbers are huge and therefore easy to read for everyone.

The advantage of the Mares Quad is that it has four buttons (two buttons on the top side and two buttons on the bottom side).

With these buttons, you can navigate the menus very easily. The software is very user-friendly and therefore most divers find the setup very easy. Only two of the four buttons work during a dive.

Additional screen protection

The screen is made of scratch-resistant mineral glass, but all professional divers know that there is nothing that can resist friction against a rock or something like that. Mares offers an additional plastic film to protect the screen.

Other technical characteristics:

• Bulman model with 16 fabrics and gradient factors.
• Individual settings.
• Easy operation.
• Unmatched screen clarity.
• Powerful backlight.
• The original battery of these dive watches should last for 200 hours of free diving (about 2 years). It also has a battery charge indicator and a user-replaceable battery.
• Mineral glass.
• Allows software upgrades.
• Maximum depth – 150 m.
• Dive planning mode (no decompression and decompression) with variable surface interval.
• Altitude settings.
• Memory capacity – 38h.
• Automatic clock.
• Stopwatch.
• Temperature display on the screen.

Disadvantages of Mares Quad dive computers:

• No interface is included for logging your dives.
• No digital compass.
• No Bungee mount is available.
• No Trimix option.

Aqua Lung i300C dive wrist computer

Thankfully, a less expensive dive computer doesn’t have to be a frustratingly awful dive computer. The i300C’s simple, intuitive, and rugged design allows you to focus on your dive, not your dive gear.

With an easy-to-use interface, flexible operation modes, a built-in backlight, and a water-operated switch, the i300C watch-style dive computer helps you quickly get into the water and down to your next adventure.

This rugged, flexible, and budget dive computer is great to be your first dive computer, as well as a must-have for scuba diving centers and dive professionals. Users will appreciate the data-saving feature that allows you to save past settings and makes your life easier with a rechargeable battery.

Advantages of Aqua Lung i300C dive computers:

Bluetooth connectivity

The ‘killer feature’ that elevates this dive watch is its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to download your data or update the computer’s programming via your smartphone – a nice way to change Nitrox settings.

It also allows an easy and quick wireless sharing of dive log information with the DiverLog app and quick communication with your friends on social media.

Modes

It has 4 modes of operation: Air, Nitrox, Gauge (with start timer), and Free Dive (tracks calculations, allowing unlimited switching between Dive, and Free modes on the same day).

Software

User upgradable software provides access to the latest features and updates on both Mac or PC platforms that allows you to control all dive computer settings, view log and profile data, add locations, notes, and other details, and store and share photos and videos.

DiverLog must be purchased separately at ediverlog.com.

Other technical characteristics:

• Backlight for easy reading in low light conditions.
• Alarms and optional high visibility LED for added safety.
• Pre-dive planning function allows you to preview your next dive.
• The history mode includes the total number of dives, the maximum depth, the total number of dive hours, and the lowest temperature.
• User-changeable battery.
• The computer has a maximum reading depth of 100 m.

Disadvantages of Aqua Lung i300C dive computers:

• Bulky.
• Doesn’t compete with the best entry-level dive computer option.

SUUNTO D5 wrist computer

Suunto is catching up with the new super-trend in the best dive computers: a rechargeable battery device with a color, customizable display, and in wristwatch package. The SUUNTO D5 is their first model in this trend. The SUUNTO D5 dive computer is a must-have for those who value functionality, multitasking, and stylish design.

Advantages of SUUNTO D5 wrist dive computers:

Material

The basic version uses a stainless steel bezel and ordinary mineral glass, which looks quite dull. The more expensive version with a titanium bezel has a sapphire crystal. The models will differ in the color of the bezel and the colors of the straps. There are no functional differences, as it happens in the sports lineup.

Button placement

SUUNTO D5 is the first wrist dive computer in which you can safely press the control buttons without risking accidentally pressing the opposite: all the buttons are on the right side, and only the body is on the left. You easily grip the device with your thumb and press the desired button with your index finger.

With ordinary computers in a compact wristwatch format, especially with gloves, especially with dry gloves, this can be a real problem: you simply have nowhere to lean against to press the button.

The buttons themselves are large and metal, which in principle is not necessary, but adds style and a sense of reliability. All this is great when worn on the left hand.

If you are left-handed or if you wear a watch and a watchband on your right hand, it seems that this elbow rotation is quite inconvenient for pressing the button underwater with your left hand. You have to do the opposite – hold the computer with your index finger and press the buttons with your thumb.

Vibration

The device is equipped with vibration alarms, which would be a new standard feature in computers, and seriously makes life easier for the diver and the freediver. This is a very useful thing when scuba diving in a neoprene helmet, especially in a thick 7 mm helmet or in case you can’t hear well underwater. All sound alerts of the computer are duplicated in the Vibro.

SUUNTO D5 charger

The device is charged with its own battery charger. On one side it has its own original connector, on the other side – standard USB to PC port, power bank, car, etc. The charger is attached magnetically, as on “MacBook”, tenacious and firmly fixed to the computer.

Unfortunately, the battery life is only 6-12 hrs in dive mode. So, keep it in mind.

Data sharing

It is very convenient that all data can be transmitted wirelessly. To do this, you need to pair the D5 dive computer with the Suunto Tank POD before diving. With this function, you can effortlessly get the tank pressure data directly on the display.

With Bluetooth connectivity, it is also possible to transfer dive logs to your phone and share photos and information with friends.

Interchangeable straps

The standard silicone strap is wide and comfortable. It proportionally corresponds to the dimensions of the device itself, closes comfortably, and sits “softly” on the hand.

The straps of SUUNTO D5 can be changed in a few movements. To detach the strap from the case, you just need to pull out the pin by the special lever/button. SUUNTO’s accessory catalog will feature a variety of strap options from standard silicone to fabric, military, etc.

The SUUNTO D5 strap is available in several sizes (lengths). This allows you to choose the right length for diving and everyday use without having to trim or adjust anything.

Other technical characteristics of the dive computer are:

• Water resistance up to 100 m.
• Rechargeable battery and long battery life.
• Upgradable software.
• Digital compass.
• Customizable backlight.
• 4 modes, including free diving.
• Low weight.
• 19 menu languages.

Disadvantages of SUUNTO D5 wrist dive computers:

USB cord

The USB cord itself, which can break and spoil, cannot be bought in any electronics store – it is an original SUUNTO accessory, and you will have to buy a spare one at least in a dive store.

For several years of EON models, there are no complaints about the wires. But in the case of cheaper production, some problems with the standard wires are possible in the future, while the charger in the package is one for the whole life.

This, of course, is a potential disadvantage of rechargeable devices. But it’s not as horrible as having to change the battery at service centers.

Transmitter

The air integration uses the new SUUNTO Tank POD transmitter, the same one used for the EON models. Older transmitters are not suitable for the D-Series. The transmitter must be purchased separately.

Garmin Descent Mk2i

The American brand Garmin Descent is a perfect dive computer not only for diving, free diving, and scuba diving, but also for cycling, and other outdoor activities.

Advantages of Garmin Descent Mk2i dive computers:

Data monitoring

The Descent Mk2i dive computer watch is capable of simultaneously monitoring pressure readings from paired Descent T1 transmitters (up to five, each sold separately) via the SubWave sonar data network.

SubWave is a revolutionary sonar-based communication system that provides increased range and reliability over traditional integration systems, especially compared to traditional dive computers.

This allows scuba divers to view tank pressure readings, remaining air time, and gas consumption rate, and to monitor other scuba divers or additional tanks up to 10 meters away. These features are especially useful if you are a dive instructor.

Style

In addition to its functions, the Garmin Descent Mk2i smartwatch dive computer is available with a titanium bezel rather than a steel one, as well as a titanium bracelet in addition to the included silicone strap.

Modes

The Garmin Descent dive watches feature several dive modes with a single or multicomponent gas mixture (including Nitrox, Trimix, and 100% O2), Gauge mode, free diving mode, freediving-hunting, and regenerative closed-circuit breathing apparatus mode.

Everyday usage

It is a full-featured dive computer for everyday use, as the Garmin Descent has a large display, sealed inductive button technology, customizable data fields, and other features that make this device the most advanced watch-style dive computer on the market today.

To say more, this dive watch supports global GPS systems, tracks heart rate and blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), offers workout functions, and has topographic maps for navigation. Garmin Pay’s contactless payment service is also supported.

Other technical characteristics:

• Underwater 3-axis digital compass.
• Displays depth.
• Long battery life.
• Dive time.
• Wireless air integration
• Temperature.
• Smartphone alerts.
• Animated workouts.
• IQ STORE Connection.
• Dive/ascent rate.
• Gas mixture.
• Decompression/safety stops.
• Clear 1.4″ color display.

Disadvantages of Garmin Descent Mk2i dive computers:

• Requires additional equipment (purchase separately) and pairing with the device.
• GPS tracking does not work underwater. This feature must be connected separately. It requires an active satellite subscription to work correctly.
• Garmin Descent smartwatch dive computer is not medical equipment, and it is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition. The pulse oximeter is not available in all countries.
• A premium subscription to a third-party music provider may be required.
• If you install an optional watch face or widget, it may request your permission to receive GPS location information and run other functions in the background, which will cause an additional drain on the built-in battery. In this case, the battery life of your dive computer cannot be considered by smartwatch mode.

What is the cheapest dive computer?

It’s not a secret among scuba divers that the best dive computers can be the most expensive pieces of scuba gear, but that’s not necessarily true!

Not many dive centers or websites like to share this information because they would rather sell you the most expensive option, but in fact, there are many models of cheap computers that have been designed to function well while not costing much.

The top-of-the-budget segment can be definitely called an Aqua Lung i300C dive computer. It can also be considered one of the best beginner dive computers.

The Aqualung i300, as we have mentioned earlier, is a new dive computer in a low-cost segment and has all the standard features a diver needs: alarms, no decompression stop, Air/Nitrox mode, free dive mode, and gauge mode.

A useful feature not found in many other dive watches is the fact that it retains data even when the battery is changed.

You can communicate with the i300 wirelessly via the latest Bluetooth technology, using your smartphone device and the free Diverlog+ app.

The device has a chic, modern design and a surprisingly large size. It is designed especially for beginner divers: the screen is easy to read, and thanks to the powerful backlight and the one-button user interface it is very easy to operate.

Reasons for the low price

Appearance and style

While computer screens are sized to make it easier to read numbers underwater, they are not the coolest things in the world. Budget underwater computers often lack a classy, 21st-century look.

You might say they look more like a wristwatch worn by Austin Powers than a Bond-style watch, which you can buy by spending a lot more money.

Still, scuba diving is an incredibly cool sport: wear a mask and wetsuit like a ninja, and a belt like Batman, and you’ll still look cool, no matter how big or small your dive computer is.

Additional features

The basic features are there, but they are not enough for more advanced diving. Air integration and digital compasses are two features that are missing. Technical diving is exactly what its name suggests – highly technical diving.

The needs of such divers cannot be met with the basic features and capabilities of entry-level computers. This is a real reason to be tempted to buy more expensive and advanced dive computers.

Conclusion

In the article, we discussed the types of computers, the characteristics of this or that model, as well as their cost.

Our favorite among advanced dive computers was the absolute best dive computer – SUUNTO D5.

As we have already mentioned, this dive watch model has a lot of advantages and different useful features for technical divers: from air integration to a freediving mode.

The new SUUNTO D5 dive computer is designed to be comfortable and intuitive, so you can freely explore the wondrous underwater world and enjoy diving. When you are on land, connect your device wirelessly to the SUUNTO app and receive notifications from the apps you use. Change straps easily, matching the color and material to your unique style.

SUUNTO D5 unites two worlds: your underwater adventures and wonderful memories that you can relive and share with friends.

Clearly, there’s quite a lot to think about before picking up your own dive computer so, to make shopping around that little bit easier, we’ve brought you this selection of the best computers currently on the market.

However, it is important to remember that the popularity of models is not the main indicator when buying. Choose the best dive computer, according to your needs and capabilities. Buying a high-quality device will ensure your safety when diving. Check the device carefully and ask for a certificate of quality from the seller.

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