Mares Puck Pro Plus Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Overall Value

• Mares-Wienke RGBM Algorithm
• Air, Nitrox and Gauge modes
• 2 Gasses, up to 99% O2
• Plan Mode
• User-replaceable battery (battery life approximately 2 years)
• 492 ft / 150 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Large, clear display
• Simple computer with a single-access interface perfect for new divers
• Individual adjustment to more conservative dive profiles if needed
• Bluetooth connectivity (no need to buy a USB cable for connection)
• Attractive price point

Cons:

• No built-in digital compass
• No depth alarm function
• Memory capacity could be bigger
• Too bulky to be worn as an everyday watch

Mares Puck Pro Plus is a super intuitive, easy-to-use, and full-featured RGBM Nitrox computer at an extremely wallet-friendly price.

Compared to the original Mares Puck Pro, this computer has the added benefits of an upgraded interface, a 3-level salinity function for fresh, salt, and aquarium diving, as well as a new metal button for greater durability. The device also has the same large display but in a slimmer design. Additionally, the Puck Pro Plus has superior display readability. The computer features a mineral glass display with illuminated, oversized digits. Another key feature that sets the Mares Puck Pro Plus apart from its forebear is the wireless connectivity. With this device, you can easily connect to your smartphone or computer via a Bluetooth clip connector.

Thanks to the upgradeable firmware and multi-gas capability, the Puck Pro Plus is the computer that can accompany you through years and years of diving adventures. Moreover, it will make an excellent backup computer someday when you enhance your skills.

Cressi Neon Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Versatile and Stylish Entry-Level Computer

• Cressi Wienke RGBM algorithm
• Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Freedive modes
• 2 Gasses, up to 99% O2
• Plan Mode
• User-replaceable battery (battery life approximately 4 years)
• 394 ft / 120 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Very intuitive menu navigation
• Possibility to deactivate dive functions to avoid unnecessary alarms during snorkeling or swimming
• Possibility to switch between air and Nitrox even immediately after a dive
• Small and sleek, can be worn as an everyday watch
• Attractive price point

Cons:

• No built-in digital compass
• Lack of Bluetooth out of the box (the optional PC cable is necessary for downloads)

The Cressi Neon is a stylish wristwatch sized dive computer with Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Free modes, which makes it a great option for scuba divers and freedivers alike. Furthermore, the watch works great for other underwater activities. Thanks to the deactivation option of the 'dive' functions, you won’t be bothered by the unnecessary alarms while you're snorkeling or swimming.

With the new high-performance, low-power processor, Cressi Neon boasts much faster data processing, more power backlighting, and doubles the battery life compared to similar entry-level models.

The computer’s display is made of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal mineral glass which is extremely durable. Another thing that makes Neon stand out from many other budget dive computers is its pleasing ergonomics. The device is a pleasure to use and wear. Despite its compact sizing, Neon features a fairly large display with clear easy-to-read units.

All in all, Cressi Neon is a solid, entry-level computer that includes everything the recreational scuba diver or freediver needs and comes at a very competitive price.

Suunto ZOOP Novo Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Best Dive Computer Under $300

• Suunto RGBM algorithm
• Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Freedive modes
• 2 Gasses, up to 50% O2
• Plan Mode
• User-replaceable battery (battery life approximately 2 years)
• 330 ft / 100 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Simple and easy to use
• Very robust and can withstand intense wear and tear
• Phosphor-luminescent display retains a glow after shining a dive light on it
• Possibility to deactivate dive functions to avoid unnecessary alarms during snorkeling or swimming
• The price point makes it a good option for a back-up computer

Cons:

• No built-in digital compass
• The USB cable necessary to synch your dive data to PC has to be purchased separately
• Too bulky to be worn as an everyday watch

Suunto Zoop Novo is the best choice for divers who are looking for a simple, reliable and affordable dive computer. It is one of the most basic models on the market, yet has everything a beginner diver needs. Furthermore, the oversized, easy-to-read display and intuitive four-button navigation make this dive computer perfect for those wearing prescription lenses.

In addition to the Air, Nitrox, and Gauge, the Zoop Novo does include freediving and off modes. That being said, the device is a bit too bulky for serious freedivers and definitely too big to be worn as an everyday watch.

It is also worth noting that the Zoop Novo offers a highly conservative preset dive profile, which may feel a bit limiting to more seasoned divers but is a great added safety feature for newly certified divers and students. Last but not least, this model has a super tough exterior and a sturdy dry suit compatible wrist strap.

Aqua Lung i300C Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Budget Option for More Demanding Recreational Divers

• Buhlmann ZHL-16C algorithm
• Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Freedive modes
• 3 Gasses, up to 100% O2
• Plan Mode
• User-replaceable battery (battery life up to 300 dive hours)
• 330 ft / 100 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Visual graphs of how close the diver is to their NDL
• Bluetooth access to data and settings
• Data retention feature saves past settings and calculations between battery changes
• Automatic altitude adjustments
• Good value for money

Cons:

• No built-in digital compass
• The screen is on the smaller side
• The buttons can be difficult to push with wetsuit gloves on

The i300c dive computer by Aqua Lung features a simple design and an intuitive interface that will be easy to understand even for a brand new diver. Notably, the manufacturer also put some thought into computer maintenance and, thanks to the device’s user-changeable battery (the box even includes the tool needed to safely open the computer) and downloadable software, made it a breeze for casual divers.

While this computer is made to appeal to entry-level divers, the i300c certainly packs a punch in terms of features and is versatile enough to keep up with the needs of more demanding recreational divers as well. The computer offers gas switching, multiple dive modes, pre-dive planning feature, automatic altitude adjustment, and more.

With the Bluetooth connectivity feature, you can not only use the DiverLog app to share your log information but also control all your computer settings in-app, rather than having to navigate the various menus on the computer itself.

Overall, this reliable, versatile, and affordable dive computer is a great tool that will be a pleasure to use for new divers but will also offer quite some room for growth.

Oceanic GEO 4.0 Wrist Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Best Dive Computer Under $500

• Dual Algorithm (Pelagic DSAT or Pelagic Z+)
• Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Freedive modes
• 3 Gasses, up to 100% O2
• Plan Mode
• User-replaceable battery (battery life up to 300 dive hours)
• 330 ft / 100 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Oceanic’s patented Dual Algorithm
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Data retention feature saves past settings and calculations between battery changes
• Automatic altitude adjustments
• Stylish and sporty look

Cons:

• No built-in digital compass
• No air integration

Oceanic’s Geo 4.0 is a wrist style dive computer that combines a smart, sleek design with a host of powerful features. Thanks to its compact size, the GEO 4.0 is comfortable for daily use and is a great option if you dive frequently. Considering the computer’s reduced dimensions, Oceanic did a good job maximizing the screen space, which together with enlarged font size, provides excellent readability.

The GEO 4.0 has an intuitive interface that can be navigated with the help of 4 buttons around the sides of the watch. With Bluetooth connectivity feature, this computer connects to your smartphone through the DiverLog+ App, where you can switch the Dual Algorithm, gas mixes, adjust user display, alarms - all on the go pre- and post-dive.

While due to the lack of air integration and Trimix capabilities the GEO 4.0 is not the best choice for professional divers, it caters to recreational divers of all types. So, if you want a stylish, reliable, and easy-to-maintain dive computer GEO 4.0 is a good option to consider.

Mares Quad Air Wrist Scuba Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Easy to Read Screen

• Mares-Wienke RGBM Algorithm
• Air, Nitrox and Gauge modes
• 3 Gasses, up to 99% O2
• Wireless Air Integration
• User-replaceable battery (battery life approximately 150 dives)
• 492 ft / 150 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Oversized, easy-to-read display with jumbo-size digits
• Three-sector layout with two customizable fields for auxiliary information
• Air integrated with up to three transmitters
• Four buttons for an intuitive user interface with mirror function of buttons while diving
• Good value for money

Cons:

• No built-in digital compass
• Bluetooth requires an optional clip-on interface
• Plastic computer body makes it lightweight but feels a bit cheap, the finishes could be nicer

The first thing you’ll notice about the Mares Quad Air is its size. Though this is hardly the most fashionable model on the market, the Quad Air’s monster display with jumbo-size digits makes it an excellent option for divers who wear prescription lenses, struggle to read smaller screens, or frequently dive in poor visibility. Furthermore, a straightforward three-row layout, allows you to view all relevant dive data at a glance.

The Quad Air is jam-packed with features for intermediate and advanced divers. The device comes with hoseless tank data integration for up to three transmitters, it is multi-gas capable, and there is a decompression dive planner with user-adjustable surface interval. The four buttons provide an intuitive interface and are easy to use even with gloves.

Overall, Mares Quad Air is a great air-integrated computer for the price point.

Suunto D5 Dive Computer

BEST FOR: High-End Recreational Computer

• Suunto Fused 2 RGBM algorithm
• Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Freedive modes
• 3 Gasses, up to 99% O2
• Wireless Air Integration
• Rechargeable battery (battery life up to 40 hours)
• 330 ft / 100 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Tilt-compensated 3D digital compass
• Wireless air integration (up to 3 different tanks with Suunto Tank POD)
• Full-color display
• Ascent rate controls
• One of the best-looking dive computers on the market (can also be used as a daily watch)

Cons:

• Not a full trimix computer, and not capable of loading 100% Oxygen into decompression gas selection
• The compass needs to be recalibrated after every battery charge

Suunto D5 is a sleek, feature-rich, and easy-to-use dive computer capable of fulfilling the needs of even the most demanding recreational divers. The device boasts a clear, high-contrast color screen, an intuitive, three-button logic, a tilt-compensated 3D digital compass, and Bluetooth connectivity. Furthermore, the D5 offers optional air integration which allows you to view current tank pressure with just a glance at your wrist.

The D5 utilizes Suunto Fused 2 RGBM algorithm. While Suunto’s decompression model is known for being notoriously conservative, the Fused 2 model was developed to maximize bottom times and minimize ascent times, thus giving divers more quality time underwater. Additionally, with the D5 (unlike with most other Suunto recreational dive computers) divers can adjust their conservatism level to be either more conservative or more “aggressive.”

The gadget is equipped with a rechargeable battery that promises 20-40 hours of time on a single charge. Being so gorgeous looking and compact, the Suunto D5 functions perfectly as a wristwatch that divers can wear daily, and with additional strap options, each diver can create their own look to reflect their style.

Suunto D6i Novo Zulu Wrist Computer

BEST FOR: Rugged Recreational Computer

• Suunto RGBM algorithm
• Air, Nitrox, Gauge and Freedive modes
• 3 Gasses, up to 99% O2
• Wireless Air Integration
• Battery Requires Service to Change (battery life approximately 1.5 years)
• 450 ft / 150 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Tilt-compensated 3D digital compass
• Wireless air integration (up to 3 different tanks with Suunto Tank POD)
• Ascent rate controls
• Durable construction with steel case, sapphire crystal glass and Zulu strap
• Look and feel - a classic design that can be displayed in any setting

Cons:

• The anti-reflective coating on the screen could be better - there can be slight glare on shallow dives and under bright sunlight
• Battery requires service to change
• High price point considering that it’s not a full trimix computer

The D6i Novo by Suunto is a good-looking, sturdy and feature-rich dive computer that is simple to use and will fulfill most divers’ needs. With its four well-thought-out diving modes, the device is a good fit for anyone who enjoys a range of diving activities. Additionally, the off mode allows you to enjoy snorkeling or swimming without worrying about accidentally activating dive functions.

Another great feature of the D6i Novo is its integrated tilt-compensated compass. It will provide accurate reading even if the device is not completely level and ensure you can find your way without having to clutter your wrist with extra items.

Just like the other Suunto computers, the D6i Novo boasts a user-friendly intuitive menu design. The device’s clear and uncluttered display gives you exactly the information you need on your dive.

 Last but not least, it is worth mentioning the D6i Novo’s classic design. The computer looks at home wherever you wear it. What’s more, its stainless steel bezel, sapphire crystal screen, and durable Zulu strap make the device sturdy and rugged enough to withstand quite some wear and tear that can come with daily use. All things considered, Suunto D6i Novo is an excellent choice for recreational divers of all skill levels, who are looking for a tool with a variety of features and a possibility to cross between multiple diving disciplines.

Shearwater Perdix AI Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Best Technical Dive Computer

• Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm with Gradient Factors
• Recreational, Gauge, Open-Circuit Tech, and Closed-Circuit/Bail-Out modes
• Air/Nitrox/Trimix capable
• Wireless Air Integration
• User-replaceable battery (battery life approximately 40-100 hours depending on the battery)
• 850 ft / 260 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Lots of innovative features
• High resolution, 2.2” display with automatic brightness adjustment
• Massive user configurability - you can choose which elements are the most important to you
• Tilt-compensated 3D digital compass
• Wonderful customer service

Cons:

• There is a bit of a learning curve with the user interface
• The price point is on the higher end but you get what you pay for

Since it’s debut on the market back in 2015, Shearwater Perdix has quickly earned the title of one of, if not THE best tech dive computer out there. It’s got everything most divers could ever wish for in the computer and even a few extras. Of course, it does air and enriched air Nitrox up to 100% up to three gases but it’s also a full decompression Trimix computer, ready to take on a closed-circuit rebreather with a fixed PPO2, and has full gauge capabilities. There are also a few unique features that Perdix has to offer. Among them are the GF99 and @+5 functions. The GF99 is basically a percentage number that shows you your present tissue supersaturation. The @+5 feature shows you what your TAT (Total Ascend Time) would be if you decided to stay at your current depth for another five minutes.

Additionally, Perdix AI comes with wireless air integration, a three-axis tilt-compensated digital compass, Bluetooth Smart technology, and an impressive 1000 hours of logbook memory - all wrapped up in a well-thought-out operating system, with a simple two-button interface.

As for the look and feel of this computer, the Perdix is obviously quite large and heavy so it won’t double as a lifestyle watch (If that’s your fancy, check out Shearwater Teric down below) but in exchange, you get perhaps the most readable screen on the market. The full-color LCD display comes with automatic brightness adjustment and is easy to read in all circumstances and at a very wide angle. The casing is solid and bolted down with eight screws. All in all the computer is very rugged and built to withstand rough handling.

Last but not least, a highly user-customizable display, allowing to adjust the colors and brightness and choose which items you want to be shown on the main display, makes Perdix a pleasure to use for divers of all skill levels. So, if the price point is not a hindrance for you, you prefer a device with a large screen and want a rock-solid full-featured dive computer that can last you a lifetime, go for Shearwater Perdix AI.

Shearwater Research Teric Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Best Compact Technical Computer

• Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm with Gradient Factors
• Recreational, Gauge, Freediving, Open-Circuit Tech, and Closed-Circuit/Bail-Out modes
• Air/Nitrox/Trimix capable
• Wireless Air Integration
• Wireless rechargeable battery (battery life 30 hours in dive mode, 50 hours in watch mode)
• 660 ft / 200 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Low profile design - wearable as an everyday wristwatch
• Two adjustable layouts for each dive mode
• Wireless, simultaneous pressure monitoring of up to two cylinders
• Tilt-compensated digital compass with several display options
• Wonderful customer service

Cons:

• Not quite as rugged as the Perdix
• The price point is on the higher end but you get what you pay for

If you want all the bells and whistles of a high-end tech computer but in a compact wristwatch style, look no further than Shearwater Teric. The Teric is almost identical to its predecessor, the Perdix, offering most of the same features but with the difference in build. The Teric can be used as an everyday wristwatch and will look equally stunning in the water and in the corporate boardroom. Although this computer has a smaller screen than the other Shearwater models, thanks to a high-resolution AMOLED display and enlarged font size, the readability is excellent.

Featurewise, the Teric is a full spec, no-nonsense technical dive computer that’s suitable for the most serious tech divers. It has all the modes you want, OC rec, OC tec, CCR/BO, gauge, and even freediving. Notably, the freediving mode hasn’t been added in as an after-thought, instead, it’s designed to meet the needs of even high-level competitive freedivers. For example, it allows you to customized alerts for different types of freediving (there are three default presets: deep, pool, and repetitive).

Besides, Shearwater Teric supports wireless pressure monitoring of up to two tanks. Thanks to an enviable number of customizable options, it is easy to choose which parameters will be presented on the screen. The user can pick between two layouts; ‘big’ and ‘standard.’ In standard, each dive mode’s home screen can be independently customized, and the information that doesn't end up featured can be found by scrolling through the computer. On top of all this, the Teric also offers you a function button. You can configure this to launch your most commonly used tool such as the compass or the gas switch function.

Another great feature that really sets the Teric apart is the wireless rechargeable battery. It uses an induction charger that comes with the computer, and as an added bonus, it can also be charged with Qi-compliant chargers, meaning you can use the same wireless charger for your smartphone and your dive computer, which is a real bonus when traveling.

All in all, this compact watch-sized computer clearly has a lot to offer. So, if you want a versatile tool that will accompany you through all of your underwater journeys - from freediving and relaxing recreational dives to complex tech dives, and will look great on the surface, go for Shearwater Teric.

Garmin Descent Mk2i Titanium Carbon Gray DLC with Black Band

BEST FOR: Best Multisport Computer

• Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm
• Single-Gas, Multi-Gas, CCR, Gauge, Apnea, Apnea Hunt modes
• Air/Nitrox/Trimix capable
• Wireless Air Integration
• Rechargeable battery (up to 80 hours in dive mode, up to 16 days in smartwatch mode and up to 15 hours in GPS mode with music)
• 330 ft / 100 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Subwave sonar technology on Mk2i integrates tanks 30 feet away
• Smartwatch and multisport capabilities are amazing
• The compass works very well and the computer tracks entry and exit points
• Wrist-based heart rate monitoring and Pulse Ox
• Sleek and swish looking, a perfect daily timepiece

Cons:

• Hefty price tag

Garmin Descent Mk2i is a dream for every gear geek in the diving community. It is not just a dive computer that is wearable as an everyday wristwatch, it represents a whole new concept - a full-featured smartwatch, elegant daily timepiece, and tech dive computer - all in one.

Clearly, the Mk2i packs a punch in terms of functionality. Like a few other computers in this selection, Garmin is a Trimix-capable, CCR-capable device with a 3-axis digital compass, built-in plan mode, adjustable salinity settings, and automatic altitude adjustment. But besides that, it offers about a thousand things that other dive computers just don’t - like fitness tracking, NFC pay system (Garmin Pay), a pulse oximeter, phone notifications (call, text, and calendar), the ability to store and listen to music, and much more.

It’s also got a few exclusive features for dives. For example, with the GPS system and Garmin Dive app, you can easily go through the preloaded dive data for wrecks, reefs, and tides, choose the desired dive spot, mark it and your Mk2i will show you the way. What’s more, it will track and map your entry and exit points. Another unique feature is the air integration with SubWave technology, which means that transmitters use a sonar-based communication technology instead of the radio-frequency method used by most other computer manufacturers. This means increased range and signal strength underwater (Garmin claims up to a 30-foot (10-meter) range), as well as support for up to 5 transmitters. Between all of these features and compatibility with up to six gasses in a single tank, the Mk2i is one of the most well-rounded dive computers on the market.

Last but not least, we just couldn’t leave out the look and feel of the device. The Mk2i has a rugged yet sophisticated design, and the details are incredible - the titanium bezel, the easily accessible buttons with a solid feel to them, and a high-resolution screen with vivid colors.

All things considered, Garmin Descent Mk2i is a qnuqie phenomenon in the world of dive computers. With its multitude of functions and touchscreen user interface, it truly bridges the gap between a technical dive computer and a smartwatch with everyday applications and health tracking. As Garmin themselves so aptly put it, go for the Descent Mk2i if you need “a do-it-all GPS watch-style computer that is built for your life above and below the water”.

ScubaPro G2 Dive Computer

BEST FOR: Advanced Adaptable Algorithm

• Scubapro's Customizable ZH-L16 ADT MB algorithm
• Air, Nitrox, Trimix, Gauge, Freediving, CCR and Sidemount modes
• 8 gasses, up to 100% O2 and 92% Helium
• Wireless Air Integration
• Rechargeable battery (battery life up to 50 hours)
• 394 ft / 120 m maximum depth rating

Pros:

• Big, easy-to-read display
• Customizable display layout, colors, orientation
• Can monitor breathing rate, skin temperature, and heart rate
• Full-tilt digital compass
• Ability to upload pictures - great for taking sitemaps or fish guides with you on a dive

Cons:

• Slightly bulky
• The price point is on the higher end

ScubaPro G2 is a full-featured dive computer capable of handling whatever diving scenario you throw at it. In addition to air, freediving, and gauge modes, the G2 has options for CCR and Sidemount diving, and is fully mixed-gas compatible. You can program up to eight different gases, including Nitrox and Trimix, and the Predictive Multi-Gas (PMG) feature will automatically alert you when it is time to switch. What’s more, it will also take into account unplanned (or failed) gas switches and will display predicted decompression stops based on which mixture is current and which have already been used.

Another unique feature the G2 has to offer is the Human Factor Diving technology, which is basically the ability to adapt the algorithm to the diver’s workload. With the optional heart rate monitor belt that straps around the chest, you can monitor your heart rate, breathing rate, skin temperature, and water temperature. The G2’s algorithm will then use this data to adjust decompression calculations using the real-time state of a diver’s theoretical physiology.

With the optional air integration feature, the G2 allows to monitor the pressure in up to nine tanks to provide true remaining bottom time and continually factor the air-consumption into deco calculations.

As for he G2’s usability, the menu layout is intuitive and easy to navigate thanks to the three buttons with clear graphics labelling what each button does on each screen.

The G2 is clearly not trying to be anything but a solid and reliable dive computer. It is a bit bulky and doesn’t win any points for style, but its holistic approach to decompression profiles through wearable tech, and its ability to re-write those profiles ‘on the fly’, makes it a strong contender for active and technical divers.