It’s true, dive computers can be incredibly useful for dive planning, navigation, and more, they can help you to get the best out of your scuba diving experience. However, it’s often not that easy to choose the best one from a sea of different manufacturers and models.
A major part of why it is so hard to buy the best dive computer is because they can be complicated pieces of technology and you may find it intimidating when you start reading all the spec, especially if you are relatively new to scuba diving and snorkeling.
We recommend you read what is a dive computer before looking into buying options and adding one to your scuba gear. Perhaps, you know what a dive computer is, but you’re not sure why you should own a dive computer? Don’t worry, we are here to help you find the best option of dive watch for your needs.
If you’re not careful you could end up paying out too much money for a dive watch or computer that has too many features that you don’t actually need or want, alternatively not paying quite enough and having a sub-standard product that doesn’t do the job or really live up to your expectations.
Best Dive Computer Reviews
Despite the fact that there are numerous types and brands out there, at Ocean Scuba Dive we want to help you find the best dive computers that fit both your budget and needs.
As well as the following scuba dive computer reviews you will also find an incredibly useful buying guide that will outline the things you should be looking for before you buy. So whether you are a complete newbie or a seasoned pro scuba diver looking to update your scuba diving gear, here’s our list of top 12 favorites.
1. Suunto EON Steel Dive Computer
The first on our list is arguably one of the most sophisticated diving computer systems in our dive computer reviews and one for the advanced divers. The Suunto EON Steel Dive Computer with compass features a large and clear color screen that is easy to read and the display shows in classic, graphical and prominent view styles.
This is the perfect scuba computer for when you need to just quickly check vital dive information without having to spend longer than a few seconds. It features a wireless tank pressure transmitter and you can connect over Bluetooth to keep your dive log up to date and share your activity.
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It comes with either strap or bungee attachment so it can fit in with your dive style. With 3 buttons on this wrist dive computer and each button is large and spaced out enough for ease of use, even when you are wearing dive gloves, all this giving the ease of mind and the confidence you need while diving.
Although this is a larger unit than a lot of the others on our list it benefits from bigger rechargeable battery capacity and has 20-40 hours of dive bottom time with one full charge. It features the safety feature of RGBM technology (for calculating the decompression stops and intervals needed for a particular dive plan) to ensure against decompression sickness. It is suitable for all diving. with trimix and rebreather capabilities that means even if they are not useful to you in the beginning.
Want to learn more? Check out our full Suunto Eon Steel dive computer review.
Why We Liked It
- Full-color screen
- Easy to read display
- RGBM
- Gauge, Air Nitrox Trimix, CCR (fixed point)
- Tilt compensated 3D digital compass
- Wireless tank pressure transmitter
2. Shearwater Research Teric Wrist Scuba Dive Computer
Shearwater Research is a popular dive computer manufacturer with good reason – they make high quality and user-friendly devices that help make the whole diving experience more enjoyable. That is very much what you get if you invest in the Teric dive watch computer.
There’s a noticeably large, crystal-clear, and vibrantly bright screen that really makes all the readings stand out and easy to read. Obviously, this is about more than just good looks and makes it easy to keep track of important metrics, even while you are diving in dark and cloudier water.
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So that it’s as flexible as possible, you can use Trimix, Air Nitrox and there’s a three-axis digital compass equipped with tilt-compensation. You can switch between Bail-out-Closed-circuit, Open-circuit tech, freediving mode, gauge, and recreational operational modes to suit your needs and it is easy to configure so that buttons can be set to give you access to the tools and features with just one press.
At the end of each dive, you can use the Teric with Bluetooth to connect it to the Shearwater Cloud diving log manager which works with not just Android and Apple devices but also Microsoft Windows too. If your looking for stylish dive computer watches then look no further.
Why We Liked It
- Configurable haptic and audible alarms
- Optional wireless Air Integration can connect with up to 2 transmitters
- Bright and clear easy to read display
- 5 operating modes
- Works with Trimix, Air Nitrox
3. Mares Smart Wrist Diving Computer
Right off the bat, it’s worth noting that the Mares Smart Wrist Computer Dive watch, with its vibrant and appealing color, can record up to 36 hours of dive data and is able to function with a single battery for up to 200 dives. It can handle dives as deep as 150 meters, you have the chance to really grow with this device.
It benefits from a clear LCD screen with scratch-resistance and it is easy to read, even when you have the sunlight directly beaming down on you. Thanks to the fact that the large screen displays every kind of metric you could ever need to know including ascent rates, dive depth, and temperature, you stay updated with the stats imperative to your dive.
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Multiple audible alarms can be either programmed or shut-off as required, giving scuba divers even more control over each aspect of your experience underwater. The firmware that the watch uses can be upgraded easily, you don’t need to worry about these scuba dive computers becoming out of date.
This scuba dive computer features a freediving mode like many on our list and the capabilities to handle two different gases. Due to its versatility, it’s perfect for both beginners and more advanced and seasoned divers. Check out the independent review for Mares Smart Wrist scuba dive computer here.
Why We Liked It
- Two gas capability
- Bottom timer functions
- 40 hours of logbook capacity
- Decompression dive planner with extra surface interval functions
- Freediving mode
4. Oceanic Geo 2.0 Air and Nitrox Dive Computer
With this dive computer watch, you benefit from a dual deep stop and algorithm option, so if you are familiar with the other version of the Oceanic Geo, you will be able to spot the additions and upgrades.
It offers four different operating modes so you can quickly and simply tailor it to your specific needs and preferences. The operating options are Free, Norm, Gauge, and Watch.
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Oceanic has made the watch as user-friendly as possible and as a result, you can move through the different menus with the greatest of ease. With its logbook, you can record and assess your activity for up to 24 dives with single button access to the ‘last dive’ display along with a detailed history mode.
The history mode enables you to track the lowest temperature you’ve dived at, the total number of hours you’ve been diving, the maximum depth you’ve dived at, and the complete number of dives you’ve been on.
Why We Liked It
- 4 Operating modes
- Deep stop with countdown timer
- Switch between up to 2 Nitrox gas mixes
- Audible alarm with flashing LED light
- 24 dive on-unit logbook
- Optional interface with OceanLog download and settings upload
5. Shearwater Research Perdix AI Dive Computer
There is simply no better word we can use to describe the Shearwater Research Perdix AI Dive Computer model than exceptional. From its small and compact 2.2-inch screen you can check out every bit of detail you need to know about your dives and it definitely earns its place on our best dive computers list.
This high-tech scuba diving computer has a dual straps that make sure it won’t come off while you dive, while the waterproof plating is screwed in place with stainless-steel fixings. The computer is not only compatible with air nitrox but also Trimix so you have full versatility of gases.
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The onboard logbook will record the data for up to 1000 hours of diving. Clearly, the Shearwater Research Perdix AI Dive Computer, although more expensive, is a multi-faceted and fully functional device that gives 40 hours of battery life from one AA rechargeable battery.
This dive computer has a slimline design with an easy to read display and a two button interface and comes with a user-replaceable battery. This should be in any advanced divers scuba gear with optional air integration and depth, time, resettable stopwatch function, full dive logging, and tank pressure information accessible in the information screens. How much more information could divers have for safety and confidence on dives.
Why We Liked It
- Calculates gas time remaining GTR for assigned tank
- Can connect to two transmitters so ideal for side mounting
- Tank pressure display
- 40 hours of battery life
- Multiple diving operating modes
6. Mares Puck Pro Dive Computer Wrist Watch
Mares are one of the most popular dive equipment manufacturers in the market, and with good reason, because their devices are renowned for their high-quality builds and easy-to-use functionality. This model of the Mares Puck Pro Dive Computer wristwatch is no different.
It features a reasonably large screen that is easy to read and has a lightweight build that makes it the perfect companion for divers at any level of experience. You can select through the various menus easily using the single button and the screen provides you the info you really need and want.
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Mares have incorporated the RGBM algorithm into this computer and it offers the ability to program it from 21% to 50% for Nitrox and features an ascent rate indicator and various other alarms and metric displays.
It can be used in both salt and freshwater and the battery can be replaced easily, when necessary. The Puck Pro computer is capable of operating up to 492ft deep and its logbook will record up to 50 dives or a total of 38 hours of dive time info.
Why We Liked It
- Large LCD screen
- Easy to use functionality
- Capable of operating up to 492ft deep
- Record up to 50 dives
- Great watch for all levels of diver
7. Suunto D4i Novo Dive Computer
The second time that Suunto has made an appearance on our list. This Suunto D4i Novo dive computer may look very simplistic in its design, but trust us, it’s full of features and a high-end piece of diving technology.
It has four different dive operating modes, including free, nitrox and air so you are always kept up-to-date with the amount of air that is left in your tank. The computer also includes Suunto’s RGBM decompression algorithm safety feature to ensure your dives are always as safe as possible for doing safety stop procedure.
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There is even an alarm that will sound to let you know you are ascent is too fast, telling you to either slow down or completely stop. When you invest in the D4i Novo, there’s no need to rush out and buy a new one if the firmware starts to become a little out of date, because it is updateable.
To complete the package, it is secured to your wrist with an incredibly comfortable strapping system.
Why We Liked It
- Four dive operating modes
- Innovative apnea timer
- Updateable firmware
- Optional wireless air integration
8. Cressi Leonardo Scuba Diving Computer
If you are a complete newbie to scuba diving and looking to get off to a flying start with an affordable but high-quality diving watch, you should consider this Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer.
Although it’s extremely compact and lightweight, there is still space for an edge-to-edge full HD screen ensuring it is easy to read no matter where you are and how deep you are.
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Despite being under 150 quid, it still offers a maximum diving depth of 120vmeters and 70 hours, 60 dives long book that will help you to record all the important data.
The single button user interface makes it easy to program the various operating modes, including Gauge, Nitro, and Air. Cressi has created, in Leonardo, a watch that will go with you wherever you go.
Why We Liked It
- Ideal for beginners
- User-selectable deep stop function
- Very affordable
- Easy to read full HD screen
9. Deepblu Cosmiq+ Dive Computer
The Deepblu brand has a reputation for innovative design, and this model – the Cosmiq+ – is no exception. Designed for use by anyone from a novice to a seasoned professional, it’s an all-in-one dive computer that does everything you could want in one neat and simple to use package.
The screen is large enough that you can read it under the water with ease – which is where you want it – but on the surface, and especially in bright sunlight, some users have reported it difficult to read. The information displayed is temperature, dive time, NDL, and bottom time, and you can set if for air nitrox or for a free diving mode – but there are no other gas options with this one.
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The two-button control system makes using the Cosmiq+ simple when on the move. Set on either side of the unit – which is compact and fits snugly on the wrist – these allow you to select the operating modes with just one touch.
With a capability log of 25 dives and you can download an app that allows you to upload your dives and post images and text to social media. It’s a good all-around dive computer that is not too expensive, and that lacks nothing that is essential.
Why We Liked It
- Colorful and high-contrast display
- Firmware updates
- Dry Suit Bungee Cord
- Available in different color designs
10. Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer
Completing our list is yet another, but similarly awesome, Suunto model. The Suunto Zoop Novo dive computer is by far one of the most affordable and efficient entry-level computers for users who have limited experience.
It will track your ascent and descent precisely and alert you if you are moving too fast up or down in the water. Your nitrox and air readings are clearly displayed, along with the temperature, depth, time and date.
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It’s secured to your wrist with the easily customizable strap and the large buttons make it quick, easy and efficient to control the interface.
We recommend the Suunto Zoop Novo for anyone that does not want to pay the world for a highly intuitive and easy to use a computer that will help make their dives safe and enable them to effectively track their progress.
Why We Liked It
- Backlit display
- Big and clear digits
- Easier user interface
- Also available in vibrant blue and yellow
11. Aqua Lung i300, i750tc Dive Computer
Aqua Lung are a renowned manufacturer of diving equipment, gear and accessories that we’ve featured several times on Ocean Scuba Dive. This wristwatch-style dive computer is another fine example of the company’s ability to create devices that are simple but effective, built to last devices full of features you need and want.
It offers four operating modes, giving you the option to use it with free diving, using a gauge, Nitrox or just air. As it tracks diving calculations, it means you can also change between modes on the same day.
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Depending on what you prepare, you can have the i300 set to give metric or imperial readings for your diving data and you can even log your diving information on a computer via a USB cable (need to purchase it separately though).
A great feature that you get with this computer is the fact that it can retain the data it had collected, even when you need to change the battery. Its screen is very clear and easy to read anyway, but when conditions are murkier and darker there is backlighting to help you stay safe and in tune with the details of your dive.
Why We Liked It
- Free Dive, Gauge, Nitrox and Air diving modes
- Data retention when changing batteries
- USB connectivity for computer
- Backlit for easy reading in low light or murky water conditions
12. Scubapro G2 Wrist-only Scuba Diving Computer
Last, we have another popular diving accessories and equipment manufacturer, Scubapro, and one of their latest dive computers, a worthy follow-up the immensely popular Galileo range. There have been many improvements made to make this cutting-edge and industry-leading, including the brand-new TFT color screen that comes with a selection of customizable options.
You can choose the amount of data you want to display on the home screen and can even change the color scheme. Scubapro products are normally noted for their user-friendly design and this is no different. There’s extra-large buttons, that can be pressed easily even when you are wearing gloves.
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In terms of operating modes, there are several options to choose from. The computer has a predictive algorithm that allows you to dive using a total of 8 different gases, such as enriched air and Trimix to name two. You can also use closed-circuit rebreather systems and participate in free diving using this dive computer.
Another key component of any dive computer and one that we’re sure you will appreciate this is the rechargeable battery that will last a long time on one charge. What’s more, the charging cable can also be used to update the computer and you can transfer information collected via Bluetooth
Why We Liked It
- Long-life rechargeable battery
- Oversized buttons spaced wide enough apart
- The multi-gas algorithm means it’s compatible with 8 gases
- Customizable TFT screen
For a quick recap, here the 3 most popular dive computer picks:
- 4 Operating Modes
- Innovative Apnea Timer
- Updateable Firmware
- Wireless air integration
- Full Color Display
- Easy Press Buttons
- Trimix & Rebreather
- Genuine Cressi
- Large Display
- Easy To Use
- Nitrox Programmable
- 10+ Colors
How to Choose the Right Dive Computer
Now that you know what our top picks available on the market right now are, it’s worth discussing some things that are worth considering if you are buying one.
The first thing you need to think about is the level of diving experience you have, now that you’ve decided you do want to buy a dive computer and are not sure which is best from our selection.
This is why we noted in the opening paragraphs that it’s less about buying what other divers and your friends have or the most comprehensive system, and more about buying exactly what you need for your ability and experience.
Although dive computers are mostly used for the same reasons, different models vary greatly when it comes to features. Your level of diving will help you choose the best scuba computer for you.
Beginners and Novice Scuba Divers
We would recommend that if you are a complete beginner in scuba diving, that you get a scuba diving computer that is relatively simple, easy to use, and has a large display.
When you first start diving, you’ll find that a lot of your time is spent getting comfortable swimming and breathing underwater and you won’t want to be fiddling around with a high-tech piece of kit.
Advanced Technical and Recreational Divers
Obviously it follows that your needs are different from that of a beginner if you are more advanced. Having additional features such as trimix capabilities is crucial and you will want one of the diving computers that can handle deeper dives too.
Must-Have for Dive Watches and Computers
Easy to Read
Regardless of what level of experience and ability you have as a diver, your dive computer display should be very easy to read. Therefore, backlit displays, high contrast, and large numbers are what you should look out for.
Set-up and Style
Generally speaking, there are two different types of setups – console and wrist. All of the computers featured on our list are the wrist variety.
Wrist computers enable you to have access to all the crucial data about your dive right there on your arm. The most obvious advantage of this style over a clunky console is the fact that they are slicker, more streamlined and much easier to read.
You should note that there are two different kinds of wrist dive computers, one that looks like a hockey puck and the one that resembles a watch.
Wireless Air Integration
Incredibly popular nowadays, wireless transmitter air integration is a fairly self-explanatory function you will find on many modern dive computers. It means that divers can monitor the air and gas consumption on the watch via a transmitter, rather than having to check the gauge on your tanks.
You need to realize though, that as good as wireless air integration technology is, you should not dive without your SPG. In a worst-case scenario, what are you going to do if you are over 100ft below the water surface and lose the signal from your transmitter to your watch? You’d have no way of knowing how much air you have left in the tank, without your SPG as a back-up. Safety should always be your primary concern.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dive Computers
Now that you have looked at our reviews and read our tips and advice, you should find it much easier to choose the best dive computer model for your needs, but remember, once you have this piece of scuba equipment, you’ll need to know just how to care for your dive computer to make sure you get the most out of it.
We have also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about dive computers to help you make the most informed decision.
What is the best dive computer for a beginner?
Not all models are made equally, and as such, some are much easier to use than others. To avoid spending half your time underwater fiddling around, this is one aspect you should consider very carefully.
Many modern computers have very intuitive user interfaces. You also need to consider the type of water you will be diving in. If you are mostly diving in cold water rather than hot water, remember that you may be wearing warm and thick gloves.
Do you need a dive computer to dive?
Do you need a dive computer to dive? They are not mandatory, but they have become a standard piece of scuba gear for frequent divers. This is because a PDC is much more accurate and detailed than alternative dive tables.
You may wonder why divers should bother investing a considerable amount of money when people are still happily diving and using dive tables to work out the information regarding their dives.
Although these tables are useful for calculating the recommended duration divers should spend diving, the surface interval times and Nitrogen levels, technology has advanced a lot over the last few decades and there are now more accurate ways to calculate all that important data related to dives.
What does a dive computer do?
What does a dive computer do? A scuba computer is a digital device that makes real-time calculations on diving information. The device is worn on the wrist, similar to a watch.
As dive tables were not created with the recreational diver in mind, they were designed as a resource for Naval officers and calculate the crucial numbers for very specific dive. They do not, therefore, work as well to help recreational divers who don’t want to just dive down to a specific point and then ascend again.
But they are ideal for those who like to descend and then dive further down or up a little while hunting for wrecks, fish, and coral. Although dive tables can help avoid decompression sickness or ‘the bends’, they are still not accurate enough when compared to even entry-level dive computers.
How much are dive computers?
Although we stated in the opening paragraphs of this post that you shouldn’t base your buying decision solely on budget, it is something you will need to take into consideration along with everything else we’ve discussed.
For one of the basic scuba diving computers, you should expect to pay anything from £100 to £300 and for one jam-packed with features, it could be anything from £500 to £1,000.
Fortunately, if diving is a relatively new pastime and you don’t have a huge budget to play around with, there are still numerous entry-level diving computers from reputable brands that include the most essential modern features. Many of these are actually listed in our top 12.
6 comments
Thanks for sharing this Kirsty, I have been looking for the best dive computer to buy for some time now. Gonna share this list with my wife and hope I get something cool for Christmas
After using this list opted for the Cressi Newton Titanium Dive Computer Watch. And I LOVE it! Can’t wait to put it to some good use in my upcoming trip to Bali
Looking for a new dive computer, the Suunto EON Steel Dive Computer caught my eye, but a little pricey… Is it as good as they say it is?
Great list! Thanks so much for taking the time to put this together. I have wanted a new dive computer for a while now, and this list of best dive computers will certainly help me!
Nice info I have the Cressi leonardo. I’ve just got back into diving after a long time away and I find it does what I need it to. It’s easy to read and use. One tip- wear your dive watch on your right arm if you can, as then when you are inflating or deflating your BCD at the safety stop you can monitor your dive watch and depth at the same time. Keep up the good work x
That’s great advice Sue! Thanks so much for leaving a comment.