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"A dive computer is a scuba diver's best friend."

Have you ever heard this one? 

"A dive computer is a scuba diver's best friend." 

That's because we scuba junkies like to keep things simple. 

We'd much rather spend our time enjoying the wonders of the ocean and less making dive table calculations. 

Do you agree? 

Have you ever used a dive computer before? 

If not, here's a short overview of what it does.

A dive computer takes depth and time information and applies it to a decompression model to track the dissolved nitrogen in your body during a dive. 

Your computer continuously tells you how much dive time you safely have remaining. 

A computer combines a depth gauge, timer and sometimes a submersible pressure gauge (SPG) into a single, useful instrument.


Today we're going to go over what to look for when choosing the best dive computer for you.

Dive Computer Buying Considerations

1. Ease of Use & Readability

The computer’s display should be easy to read. 

That means big numbers, high contrast colors and backlit displays. 

Ask yourself a few questions: 

  • Does the data display make sense to you – do you prefer numbers, or do you like graphics or charts?

  • Do you understand how to get the dive information you need?


2. Features 

Most dive computers on the market come with a set of standard features such as...


  • Depth

  • Time 

  • No stop limits

  • No stop time remaining

  • Ascent rate

  • Previous dive info

  • Emergency decompression 

  • Enriched air options

Technical divers or people who want to dive in special conditions such as altitude or ice might consider getting a computer with more advanced features such as:

  • Air integrated to display how much air is in your tank

  • Automatic or manual adjustments for altitude diving

  • Rechargeable batteries

  • Multiple gas computers for technical diving or some tec diving computers have a CCR (Closed-Circuit Rebreather) mode

  • Electronic compass or built-in thermometer

  • Dot matrix screens with menus that allow you to play games to pass the time at safety or decompression stops


3. Budget 

Expect to pay between $300 to $500 for a basic computer and $800+ for one packed with features. 

If you’re just getting into diving and don’t have a big budget you’re in luck because there are plenty of good quality entry level computers that offer all the modern features.

 

Suunto D6i Novo

The Suunto D6i Novo combines a quality computer with an sporty watch design. 

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