Investing in the best scuba diving computers is one of the best ways to ensure that you remain safe under the waters. With a good device, you will not have to worry about calculating your nitrogen levels using complex dive tables. Being able to keep track of information during your underwater adventure is the only sure way to avoid decompression sickness. Moreover, you will be in a better position to fill your dive efficiently.
When you have a nice dive computer, you really do not need to buy a dive watch, unless you want to have one for back up. A dive computer will let you know when you have to go up, when your air is running out, your depth and many more details. Having a good scuba tank is good, but you need a computer to manage your diving experience.
Best Scuba Diving Computer Reviews
Cressi Leonardo Diving Computer
If you are looking to purchase an entry level dive computer, then you should go for the Cressi Leonardo. The Leonardo was my first device to buy after I got certified as a scuba diver and I wouldn’t mind to recommend it to beginners.
Most dive watches including the Cressi Leonardo have advanced over the years. Today, this model is one of the most powerful scuba accessories you can own. The device comes in form of a wrist mounted watch designed and produced by Cressi which is an Italian company that deals with diving gear like wetsuits for diving, scuba booties, snorkeling sets and scuba tank regulators. They also make fantastic and durable buoyancy control devices (BCD).
Capabilities
The Leornardo watch has a large interface that displays a lot of data simultaneously. You’ll note that it can function in three different dive modes which include:
- Air
- Gauge
- Nitrox
The oversized display allows you to access all the important information such as mode and time. The only problem that I noted about the display is that it becomes hard to read when the waters get dark and murky.
Cressi Leonardo scuba diving computer is designed to supply you with information on decompression status, depth, time between dives, ascent rate, and dive times. Additionally, it also displays the battery status to keep you aware when to switch off the computer before the battery runs out.
This computer features a one-button menu navigation system that makes it easy to use. You can press to toggle between the menus and hold to select menu. At least you won’t get lost in between the menus if you are a new diver.
The other awesome features are the screen warnings and audible alarms that are meant to alert you about safety stops and when approaching deco. For starters, the device has an ascent-rate indicator that uses an ascending stack of arrows to alert you. Secondly, it features an oxygen-toxicity bar graph as well as an audible alarm that informs you about toxicity levels.
Technical Capabilities
The Cressi Leonardo features marvelous technical capabilities that will help you become a better diver. For starters, you can use a connection device to transfer your dive log to your computer. This way, it will be easy for you to change that’s data to run dive simulations and help you in planning future dives.
The computer comes with a built-in dive log that has the ability to record data for 60 dives which is approximately 75 hours. This data is sampled at an interval of 20 seconds during a dive so as to provide a credible record of your historic dives.
Cressi features a Haldane algorithm which is programmed to calculate safe decompression limits even when you undertaking multiple dives within a few days. The algorithm is able to process your system’s nitrogen absorption and release continuously to ensure that you have a safe dive.
Pros
- Multiple modes
- Cressi’s own RGBM algorithm
- Connects easily to your computer
- Can be reset after each dive
- Simple one button navigation
- Features safety factory settings
Cons
- Dull backlight
- No Air integration & compass
- No Safety-stop timer
Oceanic Geo 2.0 Dive Computer Watch
The Oceanic Geo 2.0 is a top contender in the best scuba diving computers for beginners. Besides, it is an ideal device for divers looking to upgrade their diving gear.
Unlike other entry-level watches, this dive computer features dual algorithms which include the Pelagic Z+ and the Pelagic DSAT. This device is sold at an affordable price that is a clear reflection of the market it targets, as well as the features.
You do not expect to find high end features such as compass or air integration but it will definitely fulfill the needs of a recreational diver
Capabilities
To cut the long story short, let’s delve into the features and capabilities of the Oceanic Geo 2.0. For starters, this computer has a small display although it is easy to read and understand. It comes with four buttons that are meant to help you navigate through the menu items with ease. The size of this dive computer will allow you to use it as an everyday watch, you just need to switch off the other functionalities and use it as a normal watch.
Its display is visible when diving in clear waters. However, you might encounter difficulties when swimming in murky and dark waters. The fact that the Oceanic Geo 2.0 has a small sized display means that the data will be a bit smaller than large sized devices.
One of the features that I love about the Geo is that all the important information will be displayed on the screen thus; you do not have to navigate through the menu when under the water. Once you purchase this device, you’ll get to enjoy four different dive modes which include:
- Free diving
- Watch
- Gauge
- Norm
With the Veo 2.0, you do not have to take it to a service center for battery replacement because you can do it by yourself. This will save you a lot of time and money.
We found the navigation buttons easy to master. It has a button, which you can use to switch on the backlight, another one used to save a setting and two other buttons to move back and forth in the menu options.
The Geo 2.0 features visual and audible alarms that will warn you when something is not right. Luckily, you have the freedom to set alarms for air or nitrox diving which include:
- Decompression violation
- Too fast ascent
- PO2 limit violation
- Dive time exceeded
- Maximum Depth violation
- Violation of deep stop
Mares Puck Pro Plus – Best wrist dive computer
The Mares Puck Pro Plus is an advanced model of the Mares Puck dive computer. It is one of the latest dive computers in the market that comes with advanced features.
The first major difference you will note is that the Puck Pro plus model is slightly redesigned. You will note that its bezel and N2 meter bars are somewhat different. Unlike the Puck pro, the new model has their display segments labeled clearly on the frame around the glass. The Plus model is now available in black and white straps.
The good thing about the Puck Pro Plus and is that you can operate it using a single button. This makes it easy for a new diver to operate the computer with ease. The Mares scuba diving computers can be updated whenever an update is released.
Despite the new update, Mares has maintained the technical specifications in both scuba diving computers. Both models will offer the features that a beginner would want from an entry-level dive computer.
One of the major updates that will drive you crazy about the Marres Puck Pro Plus is the ability to connect to your smart phone or laptop via a Bluetooth clip connector. You will no longer have to use cables to download dive data to your tablet, PC, or phone. This connectivity and adaptability upgrade has made data exchange easy and straightforward.
The other aspect that has seen a significant change is the maintenance aspect. With the Puck Pro Plus, you can replace the battery without any problems; this saves you money you could have used in the service center.
Capabilities
The Mares Puck Pro Plus is no different than its old model when it comes to the display. The display is segmented into three sections to display all the information you might require. You will love its super-clear display that is visible even when in dark and murky waters.
This scuba diving computer is designed to handle three dive modes, namely:
- Air
- Nitrox
- Gauge
The device is engineered to deal with different gas mixes meaning you can switch them as you wish. The puck plus model can switch gas mixes when diving with oxygen levels of up to 99%. Just like other scuba computers, you can set the alarms for the normal safety violations which include:
- High PPo2
- Battery low
- High CNS that exceeds over 100%
- Missed decompression stop
- High ascent rate
Technical Specifications
As I mentioned earlier, the technical specifications did not change after the Pro Plus was introduced. Below are the specifications you will find in this deice:
- A sampling rate of 5 seconds
- Capable of working on a depth of 150 meters
- Comes with visual and audio alarms
- One button navigation
- Easy to replace battery
- Features Bluetooth connectivity via BLUELINK SYSTEM
- Switch between metric and imperial display
- Onboard logbook capacity of 36 hours
If you are looking to purchase the Mares dive computers, we would advise you to go for the Puck Pro Plus model. It’s capabilities and features are worth every penny.
Dive Computer Suunto ZOOP – Best wrist computer
If you are new to diving and you are considering purchasing one of the best scuba diving computers, the Suunto ZOOP is an ideal choice. It comes with all the basic features you need in a dive computer.
Capabilities
Suunto dive computer comes with a somewhat smaller display than a couple of dive watches. You will love its super bright phosphorescent LCD display that is readable in dark waters.
Just like other scuba diving computers, the Suunto ZOOP dive computer features a two dive modes which are Nitrox and Air. You can program it for Nitrox mixtures of 21% to 50% oxygen. Moreover, you can adjust it for oxygen partial pressure that ranges from 1.2 and 1.6 bar.
This device also features a full decompression capability that means it is engineered to provide you with years of great fun. Thanks to its RGBM algorithm that calculates decompression for all your dives. The good thing about SUUNTO algorithms is that they are always advancing to perfection.
The other great feature of the SUUNTO watch is the ability to transfer data. You only need a data transfer kit and a good software to download all your dive information to your computer. This way you will have a detailed logbook that features a graphical representation of your dives as well as the diving locations. There is no doubt that the Suunto Zoop is a top contender among the best budget dive computers. You can be sure that you will be able to use the device without having to read the instruction manual!
Pros
- Large & Clear display
- Ideal for beginners
- Has a long lasting and durable design
- It is affordable
- Easy to use
Cons
- Cannot be used as a daily watch
- Has no advanced features hence cannot be used by advanced divers
- Can’t switch gas types under the water
Cressi Giotto Dive Wrist Computer Review
Scubadivinglovers considers the Cressi Giotto as the best computer for recreational divers. Being the latest offering by Cressi, it incorporates a wide variety of unique features that you would require as a scuba diver. Cressi is a leading manufacturer when it comes to diving equipment, therefore, you cannot go wrong by investing in this marvelous device.
The main reason we advise beginners to buy the Cressi Gioto is because it features a functionality that accommodates any diver who is looking to advance his or her skills. You can count on this device for many years.
The device comes with a fancy display that shows all important data on a high resolution screen. A quick look is more than enough to view all the information you require.
Unlike some dive watches/computers, the Cressi Giot does not have strange abbreviations that can confuse you. It is available in a wide array of colors; it is up to you to choose the one that catches your eye. The size of this wrist computer is a bit large but that should not worry you since the most important thing is being able to view the information without struggles.
Capabilities
The Cressi Gioto comes in three console versions; the first one comes with a compass, the other one has a mini pressure gauge, and the third one comes in form of a wrist mounted watch. All the versions are reliable and rich in terms of functionality.
Navigating though the menu tree is made easy by three buttons that are easy to access. You can be able to press them even when wearing gloves. We noted that data is clearly separated for any diver to read; thanks to its large display screen.
Cressi Gioto allows you to replace the battery easily; there is no need to spend money on a service center. The battery level is always reflected on the display so that you stay alert whenever the battery level goes down.
This awesome wrist computer is designed to have a number of visual and audible warnings to enhance safety when diving. Below are some of the warnings that you can set:
- Deep stop warning
- Dive time
- High ascent rate
- Decompression air and nitrox warnings
- High PO2
- CNS toxicity alarm
- Maximum depth
- Decompression depth warning alarm
Technical Capabilities
In terms of technical capabilities, this scuba diving computer goes a long way to satisfy the user. For starters, it can handle oxygen levels ranging from 21% to 99% in Nitrox mode. Besides, it can handle two different gas mixes which you can switch when under water. You can adjust the PO2 limits between 1.2 and 1.6 bars.
The Cressi Giotto is capable of operating up to a maximum dive depth of 394 ft or 120 metres. In case you are diving in high altitudes, you can set it to altitude levels of 3,700 meters maximum in four different altitude settings.
This computer features the Cressi’s RGBM algorithm which is based on the Haldane model. You can modify the algorithm in case you prefer using a model with higher safety standards. For your information, Cressi Gioto supports three safety settings, its upon you to choose the one that suits your best.
This computer has a dedicated display that shows the oxygen toxicity level for the Central Nervous System. This display relates to the partial oxygen pressure taking into account the diver’s exposure time.
This device comes with a log that can store 70 hours of dive data which is around 60 dives. Dive data is sampled every 20 seconds. Besides, you can access information data of your past dives on this device. In case, you wish to analyze your past dives, you can link the device using a connector which is sold separately and then download the data to your Mac or PC.
Verdict
Considering the capabilities and features of the Cressi Giotto dive computer, we can conclude that this is the best computer for any recreational diver out there. The wrist watch computer lacks air integration and a compass which you can do without; however, if you need these functions, you can go for the other two consoles.
Best Air Integrated Computers
Our review cannot be complete if we skip the best technical diving computers in the market. Experienced divers who love to explore the unending blue world prefer using computers that will work when during technical dives. These devices have a couple of advanced features that you won’t find in the normal scuba diving computers. In case you are looking to take scuba diving to the next level, then you will find these devices very useful.
Unlike entry-level computers, the technical dive computers will feature one of the most sought after trend which is air integration. This feature allows you to see how much pressure that is remaining in the tank by taking a quick glance at the computer. Instead of scrambling all over your BCD searching for your SPG, we think it is convenient to have all your life support in a dive computer.
Of course landing your hands on an air integrated dive computer means you have to part with a lot of money. This is why we thought it wise to assist you in choosing the most convenient device for your diving activities.
ShearWater Perdix AI dive computer
Having been in scuba diving for long, we have had the chance to test the Shearwater Perdix AI in various technical diving spots such as the Blue Grotto Dive Resort located in Central Florida. We are therefore glad to bring you a detailed review of this air integrated computer.
During our tests, we put the Perdix Ai and other dive computer into a series of simulated dives to evaluate its performance. We were able to evaluate the presentation of data, ease of use and how well we could see the display screen in various conditions.
To start with we noted that the Perdix AI was easy to read despite having a display that is filled with a lot of data. This advanced device features a 2-inches wide screen that allows you to customize the display colors. It uses the red and yellow colors to capture your attention during warnings
We liked how the alerts and warnings are displayed on an inverted background to help colorblind users. You can choose to personalize the screen to display additional information such as CNS and PO2 levels, dive time, and time. The bright color display allows you to view data easily even when you are in murky and dark waters.
You might think that the Perdix AI is a simple dive computer, but it packs a serious punch under the hood. This device is an incredibly advanced and reliable computer that will serve all the recreational and hardcore divers. The shearwater device comes with four different dive modes, these include: Gauge, Closed circuit, recreational and technical open circuit. In the closed circuit and open circuit modes, divers can make use of 5 gas mixes.
The Perdix AI features a digital compass that is easy to use and supper accurate due to its tilt compensated and 3 axis capabilities. The good thing about this compass is that it doesn’t have wet contacts; however it will turn itself automatically depending on pressure increase. The sensor functions well in depths of up to 130 meters or 435 feet. Beyond this point, the sensors will not function accurately.
Just like other dive computers, you can replace the batteries of this watch on your own. In fact it uses an AA battery which is easy to replace. This computer utilizes the Buhlman GF algorithm, but you can still opt to use the VPM-B algorithm. These programs can be upgraded, which means your dive computer will continue to develop and grow with you. Being a versatile dive computer, the Perdix AI features an integrated bungee mount that supports several languages including: English, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Korean, French and German.
The New Suunto EON Core Dive Computer Review
The much hyped Suunto EON Core is the latest dive computer in the market 2018. Just as the name suggests, this device has so many specifications, features and functionalities that are similar to the EON Steel dive computer. The only difference is that it comes is a much smaller and lightweight format that a recreational diver would enjoy at an affordable price.
Capabilities
Having got the opportunity to test the EON steel dive computer for a week, we are comfortable to recommend this device since its usability matches the build quality. The first impression we got from this computer is how intuitive the menu is to use without the need to refer to the manual instruction. You’ve probably bought a new computer and encountered difficulties operating it.
As soon as we got the Suunto EON core, we were able to figure out all the basics within two minutes. It is not the kind of watch that you will have to press buttons randomly in order to see what does what. With this new advanced device, you just have to long or short press to activate various functions.
The Suunto EON core features a large and clear screen that comes with a black, white, or lime green bezel. It has a backlit LED screen that features a 320×240 resolution. You won’t have to struggle to read the information display when under the water. This is because the numbers are displayed in high-contrast and bold colors. The colors change depending on violation or proximity to various diving limits.
When you are diving in normal parameters, the display is usually in green, white and blue while the notifications are always in yellow. Alarms or warnings are always in red so that you do not confuse NDL violation and time to deco. You can adjust the brightness of the display to suit the conditions that you will be diving in.
Another advantage is that you can flip the display so that the buttons stay on whichever side you prefer. In case you wish to customize or re-program your display, you can do so using the Suunto’s Dive Manager Software. With this dive computer, you will have 17 different language settings available. Moreover, it also has a long but standard elastomer strap, which is so comfortable.
The EON core has a strong battery to support all the functionalities. It takes around 5 hours to charge the device fully. With the highest brightness setting, the charge will last for 14 hours, 27 hours in low brightness and 19 hours in default. Make sure you battery level does not drop below the minimum charge of two hours since the device will switch into gauge mode and lock all decompression calculations for 2 days.
This air integrated computer connects wirelessly with a maximum of 10 Suunto tank PODs to show gas and tank information. You can transfer your dive data or modify your settings using the Suunto Movescount App; you only need to connect using your Bluetooth with a mobile device. With the Suunto EON core, you can share your underwater adventures on Suunto Movescount.
Suunto D6i NOVO wrist computer
The Suunto D6i Novo computer is popular for its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass and a tough steel case. It also has a protective coating that will shield your device from grease and dirt.
It is a stylish and smart every day dive watch that will transform into a complex dive computer. The D6i is the new version of the Suunto D4i that comes with the ability to switch 3 different gas mixtures, and a tilt-compensated 3D digital compass.
This dive computer is a good choice for people who take diving seriously. Just like the Suunto EON core, the D6i will synch with Movescount.com so that you can share and log videos, pictures and dive information with other divers.
The Suunto D6i Novo computer features five dive modes, which include the standard air, gauge modes, nitrox modes and a free dive mode. This scuba computer provides optional wireless air integration so that you can track the remaining airtime and cylinder pressure. With the 3D compass, navigation becomes easier giving you full confidence in the bearing accuracy.
Unlike other scuba computers, the Suunto D6i’s batteries are not user replaceable. In case you want your batteries replaced, visit an authorized service agent. This way, you will be able to avoid leakage of water into the battery compartment. You will not lose you logbook data, alarm and personal settings after battery replacement, however, other settings will revert back to default settings.
Best diving computers buying guide
A dive computer is a device that you need to stay safe in the waters. You can choose to do without it and still enjoy your adventures under the water. Dive computers are device that play an important role in scuba diving navigation, gathering log information and decompression stop calculations. Such a tool should be a very convenient tool for all diving levels.
In case you are looking to purchase a good computer, you should take time to do your research and determine the features you would like in your device. At Scubadivinglovers.com, we have conducted our research and compiled a number of the important features. Hope you will find our buying guide helpful in your search for a versatile scuba dive computer.
Navigation
If you are a technical diver, you probably know the importance of having a compass integrated dive computer with you. A compass helps you navigate smoothly under water. Most of the advanced computers will come with a digital compass. It is therefore important to adjust the compass correctly to facilitate smooth operations.
If you are on a budget, you can consider buying the console versions that operate with analogue compasses. They will still work as expected. For beginner dive computers, they do not have an integrated compass. This is why they are sold at an affordable price since they miss out on some serious features.
Air/Nitrox integration
Air integration is also a key feature to look out for when buying a new scuba computer. For the basic dive computers, they do not come with air integration features. This means you have to use a pressure gauge as well as compass. To avoid using all these equipment, you should go for an air-integrated dive computer. Of course you will have to part with a good amount of money to buy such a device.
The good thing about air-integrated dive computers is that they will display important information such as the tank’s current PSI reading, air time remaining and bottom time remaining. In case you own a pressure gauge, you can opt for the non-air-integrated dive computers because they are less expensive.
If you opt to go for an air integrated dive computer, it is good that you decide if you will use air or nitrox mix. Make sure you buy Nitrox –compatible computers if you dive using Nitrox or you may need it at some point. With such a computer, you can program the percentage of oxygen in your mix.
Data Transfer
Nowadays, all advanced dive computers will allow you to transfer dive data to your computer or cloud. You only have to connect your computer to your laptop or even smart phone to download all the data you require. You will use a special USB cable to download data to your PC. Some dive computers allow Bluetooth transfer.
Replaceable batteries
Nowadays, most of the modern computers come with replaceable batteries. Unlike the old dive computers that you had to take to a service center for your batteries to be replace, today you can do it by yourself. Make sure that your computer has a watertight battery chamber; otherwise you might ruin your device if water gets into it. This is one of the reasons why divers still rely on service centers to get their batteries replaced.
Screen Guards for the best scuba diving computers
If you want your dive computer to last for long, it is important for you to choose one with a scree guard. The guard protects your device from cracking or getting scratched, meaning it will last for a long time without the need for replacing. In case you buy a computer with no screen guard, you can buy a Perspex one separately.
Readability
It does not make sense to purchase a dive computer that will be difficult to read under the water. This is why we consider readability as a very important factor when buying a new scuba dive computer.
You should be able to read the data on your display even when wearing a mask. Some of the computers have backlight on the display which is very important when diving in murky waters. A readable screen has big digits, a back lit display and a wider angle color screen.
Wrist or console-mounted?
Scuba computers are available in two models; a wrist mounted computer and a console mounted computer. The main difference between the two models is that the console mounted computer is large and is attached to your equipment through a hose. Most of the console dive computers have the air integration feature, although you will find some that don’t have.
The console mounted computers use batteries, which means at one time you will have to replace them. The pressure gauge of these console computers must be connected to your tank in order to show a pressure reading.
Wrist mounted dive computers are great for recreational divers who do not dive too deep. The good thing with the best scuba diving computers (wrist-mounted dive) is that you can use them as day-to-day watches. For people who like to dive in wrecks or caves, it makes a lot of sense to use a wrist mounted computer. You won’t have to struggle to maneuver tight spaces.
