Throughout history, divers have been planning dives, calculating bottom times, and estimating no decompression limits using a bit of math and an RDP (repetitive dive planning) table. Now, we have a dive computer that does this all for us; all we have to do is take it diving with us!

If you’ve caught the dive bug then a dive computer is definitely a good investment to consider.

Dive computers are especially useful for deeper dives, repetitive dives, and multiple days of diving. By using the same dive computer on all of your dives, you will be able to receive an accurate reading of your dive profile and monitor your nitrogen loading to ensure that you stay within safe diving limits and do not succumb to decompression sickness.

Standard Features

The standard display features of dive computers include a no decompression limit that indicates the safe amount of time you have left at your current depth, a depth gauge, dive time, temperature, the actual time, and a surface interval time when you are in between dives - essentially providing you with real-time information so that you can dive easily and safely.

Most dive computers today have a backlight option, no flight time, a battery indicator, and an ascent rate index that will show you if you are ascending at a rate which is considered unsafe. They are also programmed to include timed safety stops for when you ascend from a deeper dive, or when you have exceeded the safe ascent rate.

Considerations

There are many different types of dive computers with unique features, that come in different sizes and vary in price. Some of the most popular and commonly found brands of dive computers include Suunto, Mares, Cressi, Garmin, Shearwater and Scubapro.

Prices of dive computers can range between 150 USD to approximately 2,000 USD. For a recreational diver beginning their journey in the underwater world, durable and effective dive computers can be found in the 200 to 500 USD range. Once you delve into the tech diving world, become a serious scuba diver, or desire more features, the price range begins to change.

For example, a dive computer console instead of a wrist computer attaches itself directly to the first stage to monitor your air levels and consumption. This feature is likely to cost more, however also provides a one-stop interface for NDL, dive time, and air consumption. However, this option can also be less versatile if you are planning on renting equipment from dive schools and therefore might be a better option if you are also planning on purchasing all your own dive equipment. Thus, something to consider when choosing a dive computer is what kind of diving you think you will be doing, and what type of equipment you see yourself using in the future.

It is worth thinking about; how clearly and swiftly you can read the display, whether you understand the way that a specific dive computer conveys information, are comfortable with the button configuration (some have one and some have many), or are concerned with the purposes of a dive computer outside of diving. For instance, if you are looking solely for a dive watch, a Suunto Zoop Novo is a basic and simple option however, very bulky. Whereas if you are in search of a dive computer that can also act as a day-to-day sports watch, then the options provided by Garmin might be a better marketplace for you.

If you’re on the hunt for deals, keep an eye out for seasonal sales and especially dive conventions and expos. In addition to discounts, these are places where you can test out many different kinds 

If you’re on the hunt for deals, keep an eye out for seasonal sales and especially dive conventions and expos. In addition to discounts, these are places where you can test out many different kinds of dive computers, speak to professionals in the business to get their insight based on your personal dive journey and plans, and choose the best dive computer for you!

Written by Kayli Wouters

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