When it comes to exploring the underwater world, having a reliable and feature-rich dive computer is essential for both safety and enjoyment. With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which device best suits your needs. In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a closer look at seven of the best dive computers, each catering to different types of divers and their specific requirements.
From entry-level models perfect for beginners to advanced units packed with premium features, we’ve carefully selected a range of dive computers that excel in various aspects. Whether you prioritize ease of use, wireless connectivity, color displays, or fitness tracking capabilities, there’s a device on this list that will meet your expectations.
1. Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer: Best for Beginners
The Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer is a user-friendly device designed for beginners in scuba diving. Made in Italy by Cressi, a pioneer in diving equipment since 1947, this dive computer offers a range of features that make it easy to use and read underwater.
Key Features
- Single-button operation for effortless mode setting (Air, Nitrox, and Gauge)
- High-definition screen with large numerical displays
- Adjustable FO2 (21%-50%) and PO2 (1.2-1.6 bar)
- CNS oxygen toxicity graphic indicator
- Three levels of user-adjustable conservatism
- Visual and audible alarms
- User-selectable deep stop function
- Adjustable unit of measure (imperial or metric)
- Battery life indicator and user-changeable battery (CR2431)
- Dimensions: 4″ x 4″ x 4″
Pros
- Easy to use and read underwater
- High-quality construction
- Great value for the price
- Effective in practice
- Good readability
Cons
- Large size may be cumbersome for some users
- Wristband may be too long for some divers
- Backlight display could be improved for low-light conditions
Price
- $239.95
The Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer offers a balance of simplicity and functionality, making it an attractive option for beginner scuba divers. While some users may find the size a bit large and the backlight display lacking, the overall ease of use, readability, and value for money make it a solid choice for those just starting their diving adventures.
2. Garmin Descent G1 Rugged Dive Computer: Best for Fitness Tracking
The Garmin Descent G1 is a versatile and rugged dive computer that doubles as a smartwatch, offering a wide range of features for both diving and fitness enthusiasts. With its durable construction, easy-to-read monochrome display, and long battery life, the Descent G1 is a reliable companion for underwater adventures and everyday wear.
Key Features
- Rugged design with a sapphire lens and silicone bands
- Easy-to-read monochrome display
- GPS/GLONASS/Galileo support for marking surface entry and exit points
- Over 30 built-in sports apps and advanced training features like VO2 Max
- 24/7 wrist-based heart rate, Pulse Ox, Body Battery energy monitoring, and sleep score
- Smart notifications, Garmin Pay, and Connect IQ app support when paired with a smartphone
- Storage for up to 200 dives, with the ability to upload, share, and review dives in the Garmin Dive app
- Support for various types of diving, including recreational, advanced, technical, free diving, and spearfishing
Battery Life
- Up to 25 hours in dive mode
- 21 days in smartwatch mode
- 26 hours in GPS mode
Pros
- Versatile, serving as both a dive computer and a smartwatch
- Accurate tracking for various sports and fitness activities
- Compact and easy to wear and view underwater, even at depths of 130ft
- Instant upload of dive logs via Bluetooth to Garmin and third-party apps
- Competitive features and functionality for its price point
Cons
- Lacks air integration, which some divers may prefer
Price
- $549.99
The Garmin Descent G1 is an impressive device that caters to both divers and fitness enthusiasts. Its rugged construction, comprehensive features, and seamless integration with Garmin’s ecosystem make it a strong contender in the market. While it may lack air integration, the Descent G1’s compact size, readability, and ability to transition smoothly from land to sea make it an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality, multi-purpose dive computer and smartwatch.
3. SUUNTO Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer: Best for Readability
The SUUNTO Zoop Novo is a user-friendly and reliable wrist scuba diving computer that caters to both recreational and technical divers. With its easy-to-read display, multiple operating modes, and programmable features, this dive computer is a popular choice among divers.
Key Features
- Four operating modes: air, nitrox, gauge, and freedom
- Programmable for oxygen mixtures between 21% and 50%
- Customizable imperial or metric units
- Decompression stop data and audible alarms
- Backlit display for easy readability in low light and night conditions
- Maximum depth display up to 330′ (100 meters)
- Available in three colors: black, blue, and lime
- Dimensions: 6″ x 6″ x 6″
Pros
- User-friendly interface and easy setup
- Clear and readable display with large numbers
- Backlit display for low-light conditions
- Versatile operating modes for different diving styles
- Customizable settings for personal preferences
Cons
- Some users report issues with accuracy
- Button responsiveness may vary
Price
- $299.95
The SUUNTO Zoop Novo Wrist Scuba Diving Computer is a reliable and versatile device that caters to a wide range of divers. Its user-friendly interface, easy-to-read display, and customizable features make it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced divers. While some users have reported minor issues with accuracy and button responsiveness, the overall quality and functionality of the Zoop Novo make it a solid investment for those in need of a dependable dive computer.
4. Mares Quad Wrist Computer: Best for Technical Divers
The Mares Quad Wrist Computer is a user-friendly and reliable dive computer suitable for both recreational and technical divers. With its easy-to-navigate four-button interface, three dive modes, and clear display, the Quad is a popular choice among divers looking for a straightforward and efficient device.
Key Features
- Four-button user interface for easy navigation through menu structure and settings
- Three dive modes: Air, Nitrox, and Bottom Timer
- Suitable for recreational and technical diving
- RGBM Mares-Wienke, 10-tissue algorithm
- Available in three colors: black, blue, and white
- Battery: CR2450, approx. 200-300 dives, depending on usage
- Dimensions: 8″ x 7″ x 5″ (L x W x H)
Pros
- Easy to read display with large screen and clear visibility up to 100ft
- User-friendly interface with intuitive buttons and menus
- Versatile dive modes for different diving styles
- Compact size that doesn’t interfere with diving activities
- Great starter scuba computer
Cons
- Screen visibility may be limited at certain angles, requiring wrist or computer rotation
Price
- $349.95
The Mares Quad Wrist Computer is a reliable and user-friendly device that caters to the needs of both recreational and technical divers. Its easy-to-navigate interface, clear display, and versatile dive modes make it a great choice for divers seeking a straightforward and efficient dive computer. While the screen visibility may be slightly limited at certain angles, the overall performance, quality, and readability of the Mares Quad make it a solid investment for divers of various skill levels.
5. Garmin Descent Mk3i Dive Computer: Best for Premium Features
The Garmin Descent Mk3i is a premium, feature-rich dive computer that combines advanced diving capabilities with a stylish, durable design. Boasting a 1.4″ AMOLED display, scratch-resistant sapphire lens, and a titanium bezel, this watch-style dive computer is built to withstand the rigors of underwater adventures while offering a range of features for recreational and technical scuba diving, as well as freediving.
Key Features
- 4″ AMOLED display with scratch-resistant sapphire lens
- 200-meter dive-rated case with metal leakproof inductive buttons
- Multiple dive modes for recreational to technical scuba diving and freediving
- Enhanced SubWave sonar technology for diver-to-diver messaging and tank pressure monitoring
- Built-in LED flashlight with variable intensities and strobe modes
- Dive readiness tool to help make informed dive plan decisions
- DiveView maps with bathymetric depth contours and over 4,000 dive sites
- Multi-band GPS technology and built-in ABC sensors for navigation
- Dive log storage for up to 200 dives, with sharing and review capabilities in the Garmin Dive app
- Built-in sports apps for fitness and training
- 24/7 health and wellness monitoring, including wrist-based heart rate, sleep monitoring, respiration tracking, and Pulse Ox
Pros
- Stunning AMOLED display and premium materials for durability and style
- Extensive features for various types of diving
- SubWave sonar technology for enhanced communication and safety
- Convenient dive readiness tool and DiveView maps for planning and navigation
- Comprehensive health and fitness tracking capabilities
Cons
- High price point compared to other dive computers
- Some features may require additional explanation or tutorials beyond the manual
- Accidentally clicking on certain features before diving can lead to temporary lockouts
Price
- $1599
The Garmin Descent Mk3i is a top-of-the-line dive computer that offers an impressive array of features for serious divers and fitness enthusiasts alike. While its premium price tag may be a barrier for some, the Mk3i’s advanced capabilities, durable construction, and stunning display make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a comprehensive, high-performance dive computer. With its extensive diving features, health and wellness monitoring, and sleek design, the Garmin Descent Mk3i is a strong contender in the premium dive computer market.
6. Shearwater Research Peregrine Adventures Edition Dive Computer: Best for Customization
The Shearwater Research Peregrine Adventures Edition is a versatile and user-friendly dive computer designed for divers of all experience levels. With its full-color display, multi-gas capabilities, and simplified navigation, the Peregrine is an ideal companion for a wide range of underwater adventures.
Key Features
- Two-button interface with state-aware menu structure and 316 stainless steel buttons
- Full-color 5.59 cm LED LCD screen with vivid, enhanced color range and saturation display
- Four diving modes: Air, Nitrox (up to 40%), 3 Gas Nitrox (up to 100% O2), and Gauge
- User-customizable display to prioritize important diving information
- No lockouts for dive plan deviations
- Wireless charging with included USB charging station
- Multiple language support
- Detailed dive log with graphs and information
- Quick NDL planner and intuitive DECO planner
- Buhlmann GF decompression algorithm
- Cloud control via Bluetooth connection for easy data sharing
- Dimensions: 4″ x 3″ x 4.5″ (LxWxH)
- Battery life: Up to 30 hours on medium brightness level
Pros
- Easy to navigate and use
- Large, clear display with excellent readability
- Flawless performance
- Good battery life and convenient wireless charging
- Valuable features for the price
- Comfortable fit
- Vibrant color display
Cons
- None
Price
- $550
The Shearwater Research Peregrine Adventures Edition is a well-rounded dive computer that offers a balance of simplicity and advanced features. Its user-friendly interface, customizable display, and multi-gas capabilities make it suitable for divers of all skill levels. The Peregrine’s large, vibrant color screen, wireless charging, and cloud connectivity add to its appeal, while its reliable performance and comfortable fit make it a top choice for many divers. At its price point, the Shearwater Research Peregrine Adventures Edition offers excellent value for those seeking a dependable and feature-rich dive computer.
7. Aqua Lung i300C Dive Wrist Computer: Best for Wireless Connectivity
The Aqua Lung i300C is a feature-rich dive computer that offers wireless connectivity, multiple operating modes, and the ability to switch between gases underwater. Its user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it a popular choice among divers.
Key Features
- Wireless interaction via Bluetooth Smart technology using the free DiverLog+ app (iOS and Android)
- Four operating modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge (with run timer), and Free Dive
- User-changeable battery with data retention between battery changes
- Supports up to three gases, with the ability to switch gases underwater
- Backlighting for easy reading in low light conditions
- Dimensions: 9″ x 9″ x 7″ (LxWxH)
Pros
- Easy to use and navigate menus
- Reliable performance and does its job well
- Technologically excellent
- User-friendly app for wireless data upload
- Sleek appearance
Cons
- Some users find the size to be larger than expected
- Backlight may not be sufficient for some users
Price
- $292.70
The Aqua Lung i300C is a versatile dive computer that caters to the needs of divers who value wireless connectivity, multiple operating modes, and the flexibility to switch between gases during a dive. Its user-friendly interface, reliable performance, and sleek appearance make it an attractive option for many divers. While some users have noted that the size may be larger than expected and the backlight could be improved, the i300C’s overall ease of use, technological excellence, and wireless data upload capabilities make it a strong contender in its price range. If you’re looking for a dive computer that offers a range of features and reliable performance, the Aqua Lung i300C is definitely worth considering.
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