Ask most divers the one piece of equipment that they will never dive without, and it is likely to be their trusty ol’ dive computer. The dive comp is often the diver’s best friend, containing crucial information that will make the dive safe and enjoyable.
However, not all dive computers are created equal! From the basic comps that give you standard information like NDL and depth to the fancy comps that technical divers use, your choice should reflect on the type of diving you do, your budget, and personal preferences. Also, many dive computers are worn watch-style, but console-type comps will be used as part of your SPG.
Fret not, we’re here to help you out! Here are all of the dive comps that are popular with the diving community that we are proud to be a part of!
1. 🌟 Best Dive Computers of 2024
Mares Genius Air Integrated Computer with LED Transmitter
The Mares Genius Air Integrated Computer is great for technical divers who use Trimix and Nitrox mixtures with multiple changes and want to optimize decompression and bottom times depending on gas supply.
The interface is easy to use, with an intuitive design and large buttons. It also has a Bluetooth connection for your smartphone, and the battery is rechargeable. The kit comes with the Mares LED tank module that allows you to transmit pressure measured from the tanks directly to your dive computer, letting you know the level of gas using a color code system.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer, LED transmitter
Battery Life: 40 hours
Weight: 1.9 pounds
Price: US$1,527.90
Suggested users: Technical divers
Garmin Descent Mk3i
A dive computer is a watch-style tool with an AMOLED display, scratch-resistant sapphire lens, and titanium bezel. With a 200-meter dive-rated case, this watch can satisfy both technical and free divers.
The enhanced SubWave sonar technology allows diver-to-diver messaging for up to 30 meters and monitors the tank pressures and depth for up to 8 divers. The LED flashlight has variable intensities and strobe modes.
There are also DiveView maps that offer bathymetric depth contours and more than 4,000 dive sites. Lastly, the multi-band GPS technology helps you gain positional accuracy while out of water, while its built-in ABC sensors help navigate every part of your dive when you’re underwater.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer, silicone band, adjustment strap, USB-C, documentation
Material: silicone
Weight: 3.72 ounces
Price: US$1,443.75
Suggested users: Experienced divers
Oceanic Pro Plus X Dive Computer with QD Hose
Simple and to the point, this dive computer gives you all the necessary information without being complicated. The display is bright and easy to read, adaptable in both sunlight and night diving.
It has a dual algorithm system where you can choose the best method of measuring your NDL. There’s also a push button ocean glow backlight, a smart glow backlight sensor, and an audible alarm when you get close to any of your limits.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer
Material: Plastic
Weight: 2 pounds
Price: US$1,199.95
Suggested users: All levels
Shearwater Research Peregrine TX Air Integrated Color Dive Computer
With a full-color, large, and easy-to-read LCD screen, the upgraded Peregrine TX is designed for the recreational sport diver. There’s also an option of wireless air integration with a transmitter that allows real-time gas pressure data and accurate time remaining.
It also has a tilt-compensated digital compass, which the original Peregrine doesn’t. The Bluetooth wireless connection will make dive data tracking easier through the Shearwater Cloud.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer, wireless charger
Material: Plastic
Battery Life: 30 hours of diving
Weight: 16 ounces
Price: US$1,000
Suggested users: Sport divers
Aqua Lung i550C Dive Computer
This is an easy-to-use and versatile dive computer that’s suitable for both experienced and new divers. It comes with a pre-dive planning feature that allows you to preview planned dives. The i550C is equipped with gas integration, Nitrox and Gauge modes, backlight technology, and gas time remaining.
There are audible alarms and additional high-visibility LED warning lights. You can access History Mode, which includes your dive data like the total number of dives, max depth, total dive hours, and lowest temperature.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer
Weight: 1.3 pounds
Price: US$699
Suggested users: All levels
Shearwater Tern Color Wrist Dive Computer
Small and compact, the Tern is flexible and can be used whether you’re snorkeling in sunny tropical areas or diving into much deeper explorations. The dive computer will adjust its brightness and sharpness accordingly, making it easy for you to check your status and focus on your dive.
The dive computer also has a Bluetooth integration that can sync effortlessly with your tablet or smartphone, keeping your dive log accessible.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 0.6 pounds
Price: US$650
Suggested users: All levels
Garmin Descent G1
The rugged, watch-style dive computer comes with a sapphire lens and silicone bands for maximum durability. It has GPS/GLONASS/Galileo support, so you can mark your entry and exit for your dive log.
It tracks your activities with 30 built-in sports apps and you can use advanced training features like the VO2 Max to see how your body is responding to diving or training. You can also monitor your heart rate, pulse, and sleep score to give you more insights into your health, in and out of the water.
You can also pair this with your smartphone to give you notifications and access to up to 200 dive logs.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer, charging/data cable, documentation
Material: Silicone
Battery Life: 25 hours of diving
Price: US$549.99
Suggested users: All levels
Cressi Leonardo
This is the second generation of Cressi’s original dive computer, Cressi Leonardo. It comes with better readability and a more audible sound alarm compared to the previous version. The single-button dive computer is an effortless model for divers who only want simple data.
It’s equipped with comprehensive Nitrox management, depth gauge mode, RGBM Algorithm, and Deep Stop feature for safety. You can also get the additional BT Interface to download the dive log to your smartphone via the Cressi app.
Specifications
Included Components: Dive computer
Material: Various
Weight: 0.4 gr
Price: US$239.95
Suggested users: Budget-conscious divers
2. 🤔 Final Thoughts
Whether you want something basic and affordable or treat yourself to something with all the bells and whistles, there’s a perfect dive comp for you out there. Have fun and stay safe diving!
