Whether you are totally new to the world of scuba diving or are already doing your first dives, you will need a dive computer. Among all the scuba gear that you will use, a dive computer is essential as it will allow you to keep track of some of the most important parameters of a dive, tremendously improving your safety.
If you are undecided between buying or renting your first dive computer, I would strongly recommend the first option. If you need help choosing a dive computer, I suggest taking a look at my ultimate guide on how to choose your first dive computer. Having your own dive computer will ensure you will become perfectly knowledgeable with all its features and characteristics and will not need to learn from scratch every time you rent a new one.
Additionally, if you have your own dive computer, you can be sure that all parameters (like no fly time) are calibrated exclusively based on your dives.
As a beginner, finding the right dive computer can be overwhelming. With so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to start. But fear not, because I have done the research for you, tested, and narrowed down the list to the top 15 dive computers that are perfect for those just starting out.
As a dive Instructor, I have the possibility of testing and using many dive computers that are perfectly fit for beginners.
Whether you’re looking for something basic and affordable, or a more advanced model with all the bells and whistles, I’ve got something for everyone on this list. I’ll break down the features, pros, and cons of each dive computer so you can make an informed decision and find the one that’s right for you.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of dive computers! If you need support in choosing a model don’t hesitate to contact me or to post questions in the comments down below.
Mares Puck Pro – Best Overall and Best Value for Money
The Mares Puck Pro is the second generation of Mares’ Puck computers, which were first released in 2008. With so many years of testing, you can be sure that the Puck Pro will not disappoint you. This dive computer boasts an impressive range of features (for a relatively competitive price) that will make your diving experience safer, more enjoyable, and hassle-free.
Given such extensive range of features, the Puck Pro is among the best dive computers for beginner to intermediate divers. Nice thing is that it comes at a very competitive price.
Let’s dive into the key features of the Mares Puck Pro:
- Large Display: The Puck Pro features a large, easy-to-read display that makes it simple to monitor your dive information, even in low-light conditions.
- Multiple Dive Modes: With the Puck Pro, you can choose between air, nitrox, and bottom timer dive modes, making it a versatile option for beginner to intermediate divers.
- Intuitive Interface: The Puck Pro’s intuitive interface makes it simple to navigate through its various settings and features, ensuring that you can easily access the information you need.
- User-Replaceable Battery: Unlike other dive computers that require you to send them in for battery replacement, the Puck Pro allows you to replace the battery yourself, saving you time and money. This is also quite convenient in case you decide to go on a liveaboard or on a scuba holiday in remote places.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of the Mares Puck Pro Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – Easy-to-read display makes it simple to monitor your dive information. – Multiple dive modes allow you to customize your diving experience. – Easy switch from salt to fresh water. – Intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through settings and features. – User-replaceable battery saves you time and money. |
| CONS |
| – Lack of wireless connectivity may be a downside for some divers, however you can download dive data via an optional cable. – Limited dive log memory (35 hours) may be a drawback if you prefer to keep detailed dive records. – No compass feature, which may be important for some types of dives and courses. |
Overall, the Mares Puck Pro Dive Computer is an excellent choice if you are looking for a reliable, easy-to-use dive computer. Its intuitive interface and large display make it simple to access the information you need, while its multiple dive modes ensure that you can customize your diving experience to suit your needs. It can easily assist you from the very first dive of your open water diver course through your advanced open water diver course, including the Nitrox specialty. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some more advanced dive computers, the Puck Pro’s user-replaceable battery and versatile design make it a great value for the price. Given its capability to support nitrox mixes up to 99% (almost pure oxygen), the Puck Pro is also perfect for intermediate divers. As a bonus feature, the Puck Pro is available in 6 color combinations, allowing you to choose the version that best matches with your diving outfit.
Cressi Leonardo – Best for Simplicity
If you’re in the market for a reliable, easy-to-use dive computer, the Cressi Leonardo is definitely worth considering. This dive computer is packed with features that make it a great choice for both beginner and more advanced divers.
Let’s take a closer look at the key features of the Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer:
- Large, Easy-to-Read Display: The Leonardo features a large, high-contrast display that makes it easy to read your dive information at a glance.
- Nitrox Compatible: This dive computer is compatible with Nitrox mixes up to 50%, making it a versatile option for divers who want to do recreational dives with Nitrox.
- Multiple Dive Modes: With the Leonardo, you can choose between Air, Nitrox, and Gauge modes, allowing you to tailor your dive to your specific needs.
- Dive Log Memory: The Leonardo can store up to 60 dives, making it easy to keep track of your dive history. This feature comes super handy if you do not want to log your dives right after surfacing the water.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of the Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – Large, easy-to-read display is great for underwater use. – Single, large button to navigate all settings. – Nitrox compatibility allows for a more customizable dive experience. – Multiple dive modes make it versatile for different types of dives. – Dive log memory can store up to 60 dives, making it easy to track your dive history. |
| CONS |
| – Data transfer to other devices only via docking station. – Lack of backlight may make it difficult to read in low-light conditions. – No compass feature. – Limited customization options may not appeal to more experienced divers looking for more advanced features. |
Overall, the Cressi Leonardo is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use dive computer. Its large, easy-to-read display, Nitrox compatibility, and multiple dive modes make it a versatile option for beginners and more advanced divers.
Cressi Goa – Best for Readability
The Cressi Goa is a wrist-mounted dive computer that is designed to be easily readable. It is a compact and lightweight dive computer with large dials and strong backlight, making it the best choice for beginners that are diving in low visibility or low light environments.
Here are some of the key features of the Cressi Goa Dive Computer:
- Large, High-Resolution Display: The Goa features a large, high-resolution display that is easy to read, even in low-light conditions. This makes it ideal for use during night dives or lakes.
- Multiple Dive Modes: The Goa has multiple dive modes, including Air, Nitrox, and Gauge, which allow you to customize your diving experience to your specific needs.
- Wireless Connectivity: The Goa can be connected to your computer or mobile device wirelessly via Bluetooth, making it easy to transfer your dive data and keep track of your diving history.
- Rechargeable Battery: The Goa has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 50 hours of diving time, which is longer than most other dive computers in the market. This is a great option in case you are planning some long diving holidays or liveaboards.
Now let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Cressi Goa Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – The large, high-resolution display is easy to read, even in low-light conditions. – The Goa has multiple dive modes, allowing you to customize your diving experience. – The wireless connectivity makes it easy to transfer your dive data and keep track of your diving history. – The rechargeable battery can last up to 50 hours of diving time. |
| CONS |
| – The Goa does not come with an integrated compass. – The user interface can be a bit complicated, especially for beginners. – The device is reportedly not as durable as some other dive computers, but of course this depends on the use you will make of it. |
Overall, the Cressi Goa is a great choice for divers who are looking for a compact and lightweight dive computer that is easy to read in low visibility environments. Its large, high-resolution display, multiple dive modes, and wireless connectivity make it an ideal option for both novice and intermediate divers. While it may not be as durable as some other dive computers, its advanced features and rechargeable battery make it well worth the investment.
Mares Mission Puck 3 Console – Best all-in-one Console
If you’re looking for a reliable and user-friendly dive computer, the Mares Mission Puck 3 Console may be just what you need. This console combines a compact design with a clear and easy-to-read display, making it a popular choice among divers of all levels. The Mission Puck 3 console is perfect for beginners seeking a console instead of a wrist mounted dive computer. Remember, however, that dive consoles are more delicate as they are more exposed to external shocks.
Key Features:
- Compact Console: The Mares Mission Puck 3 Console is designed to be compact and streamlined, so it won’t take up too much space in your dive gear. The console includes a dive computer and a pressure gauge, making it easy to monitor your depth and air supply at the same time.
- Large Display: The dive console features a large, easy-to-read display with oversized digits, making it simple to read your dive data at a glance. The screen is also backlit, which means you can easily read it even in low-light conditions.
- User-Friendly Interface: The Mares Mission Puck 3 Console is designed with a simple and intuitive user interface. You can easily navigate through the different modes and settings using just three buttons, which makes it easy to set up and use.
- Nitrox Compatible: This dive console is compatible with Nitrox gas mixes up to 50%, which makes it a great option for divers who like to dive with enriched air.
| PROS |
| – Compact and streamlined design makes it easy to carry and store in your dive gear. – Large display with oversized digits makes it easy to read your dive data at a glance. – Simple and intuitive user interface makes it easy to set up and use. – Nitrox compatible up to 50%, which is great for divers who like to dive with enriched air. |
| CONS |
| – The console may be too large for some divers who prefer a smaller and more lightweight dive computer. – Some users may find the three-button navigation system to be less intuitive than other dive computers with more buttons. – The pressure gauge may be difficult to read for some users, especially in low-light conditions. |
Overall, the Mares Mission Puck 3 Console is a reliable and user-friendly dive console that’s a great option for divers of all levels. Its compact design and large, easy-to-read display make it easy to carry and use, while its Nitrox compatibility and simple interface make it a versatile option for a variety of diving situations.
Suunto Zoop Novo – Best for Ruggedness
The Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer is a wrist-mounted dive computer that is designed to be user-friendly and feature-packed. It is a reliable and easy-to-use device that is perfect for novice divers. It is undoubtedly the most rugged dive computer on the market, and often the preferred choice of diving schools.
Here are some of the key features of the Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer:
- Easy-to-Read Display: The Zoop Novo features a large and easy-to-read display that is designed to be easy to navigate, and set up, even underwater.
- Multiple Dive Modes: The Zoop Novo has multiple dive modes, including Air, Nitrox, and Gauge, which allows you to customize your diving experience.
- Deep Stop Function: The Zoop Novo features a deep stop function that helps you avoid decompression sickness by prompting you to make a deeper stop during ascent.
- User-Replaceable Battery: The Zoop Novo has a user-replaceable battery, which is a great feature for those who don’t want to worry about battery life when they’re out diving. This is particularly handy when you are going on long diving holidays or liveaboards.
Now let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – Undoubtedly the most rugged and durable dive computer. – The large and easy-to-read display is designed to be easy to navigate, even underwater. – The Zoop Novo has multiple dive modes. – The deep stop function helps you avoid decompression sickness by prompting you to make a deeper stop during ascent. – The user-replaceable battery is a great feature for those who don’t want to worry about battery life when they’re out diving. – Audible alarms help you staying within the limits of your dive and experience. |
| CONS |
| – The Zoop Novo does not have wireless connectivity. – The device does not come with a compass. – The device can be a bit difficult to set up initially, especially for beginners. But your dive shop can certainly help you with that. |
Overall, the Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer is a rugged, reliable and user-friendly dive computer that is perfect novice divers. Its easy-to-read display, multiple dive modes, deep stop function, and user-replaceable battery make it a great option for those who want a feature-packed device that is easy to use. While it may not have wireless connectivity and does not come with a compass, its advanced features and user-friendly design make it a great investment for anyone who loves diving.
Sherwood Amphos Air 2.0 – Best for Demanding Beginners
If you do not want to buy a basic dive computer, even as a beginner, the Sherwood Amphos Air 2.0 is definitely for you. It is a versatile dive computer that is packed with features to make your dives safer and more enjoyable. This computer is designed to be worn on your wrist, so you can easily access all of its functions and readings during your dive. Here’s a detailed review of its key features including pros and cons.
Key Features:
- Display: Large, easy-to-read display with a backlight for low-light conditions
- Multiple dive modes: Multiple operating modes, including Air, Nitrox, and Gauge
- Battery: User-replaceable battery with a long life
- Alarms: Audible and visual alarms for safety and convenience, adjustable ascent rate indicator, safety stop timer, deep stop reminder for dives greater than 80 feet
- Logbook: Logbook that stores up to 50 dives with data like maximum depth, dive time, and temperature
| PROS |
| – Simple and intuitive operation with clear menus and buttons. – Comfortable and secure wrist strap that can be adjusted for different wrist sizes. – Durable construction. – Large display with big numbers that are easy to read even in low-light conditions. – User-replaceable battery that saves time and money in the long run. – Audible and visual alarms that can be customized to suit your needs. – Deep stop reminder that promotes safer and more conservative diving practices. – Logbook function that stores all the necessary data from your dives. |
| CONS |
| – No wireless connectivity or download options to a computer or app, you can however buy a USB cable to transfer your data. – No compass function or integrated digital compass |
Overall, the Sherwood Amphos Air 2.0 is an excellent choice for divers who want a reliable and user-friendly dive computer that won’t break the bank. With its large display, audible and visual alarms, and multiple operating modes, this computer is perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike (I do not recommend it for technical divers) . While it lacks some advanced features found in more expensive models, its simplicity and affordability make it a great value for recreational divers. Its extensive set of visual and audible alarms make it the perfect option for demanding beginners.
Seac Screen Dive Console – Best large monitor console
If you are more oriented towards a dive console, rather than a classic wrist mounted computer, the Seac Screen Console is a good option to consider. It is particularly good if you are looking for a console with a large screen. The Seac Screen Console also comes with a submersible pressure gauge.
The Seac Screen Dive Computer console is a two-in-one device that combines a dive computer with an analog pressure gauge. It is designed to be easy to use and versatile, making it a great option for both beginner and intermediate divers.
Here are some of the key features of the Seac Screen Dive console:
- Large Display: The device has a large, easy-to-read display that shows all your dive data at a glance.
- Multiple Modes: The Seac Screen offers multiple modes, including air, nitrox, and gauge, making it a versatile option for a range of diving situations.
- User-Friendly Interface: The device has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for beginners.
- Dual Pressure Gauge: The Seac Screen combines a digital dive computer with an analog pressure gauge, making it a great all-in-one device for divers.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Seac Screen Dive Computer console:
| PROS |
| – The Seac Screen combines a dive computer with an analog pressure gauge, making it a versatile all-in-one device. – The large display is easy to read and provides all your dive data at a glance. – The multiple modes make it a versatile option for a range of diving situations. – The user-friendly interface is easy to navigate, even for beginners. |
| CONS |
| – Like all dive consoles, the Seac Screen is more exposed to external shocks. – The digital display may be difficult to read in low-light or low-visibility situations. – Some users may prefer a more compact and lightweight dive computer. |
Overall, the Seac Screen Dive Computer console is a versatile and user-friendly option for divers who want an all-in-one device that combines a dive computer with an analog pressure gauge. While it may not offer some of the advanced features found in more expensive dive computers, its large display, multiple modes, and easy-to-use interface make it a great option for both beginner and intermediate divers. the console is directly attached to your first stage, with little possibility to forget on a dive boat.
Garmin Descent G1 – Best for surface and underwater activities
If you are looking for something more than a simple dive computer, the Garmin Descent G1 is definitely for you. Sure it is more pricey than other dive computers for beginners, but the Garmin Descent G1 can perfectly support you in entry level technical dives as well. It offers a range of advanced features that make it a great option for those who want the most accurate and detailed dive data possible.
Here are some of the key features of the Garmin Descent G1 Dive Computer:
- Multiple Modes: The Descent G1 offers multiple modes, including air, nitrox, trimix, and CCR, making it a versatile option for technical divers.
- GPS Connectivity: The device has GPS connectivity, allowing you to track your location and mark dive sites.
- Full-Color Display: The Descent G1 has a full-color display that is easy to read and provides detailed dive data.
- Customizable Screens: The device allows you to customize the data screens to suit your personal preferences.
- Surface Activities: The garmin descent G1 is also the perfect companion above the surface. If features a fully fledged running and swimming tracker.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Garmin Descent G1 Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – The Descent G1 offers a wide range of modes, making it a versatile option for beginner to technical divers. – The GPS connectivity allows you to track your location and mark dive sites. – The full-color display provides detailed dive data that is easy to read. – The customizable screens allow you to tailor the device to your personal preferences. |
| CONS |
| – The device is quite expensive compared to other dive computers on the market. – The battery life may not be as long as some other dive computers. – The device may be a bit complex for beginners to use. |
Overall, the Garmin Descent G1 Dive Computer is a high-end device that offers a wide range of advanced features for beginners to technical divers. Its multiple modes, GPS connectivity, full-color display, and customizable screens make it a great investment for those who want the most accurate and detailed dive data possible. While it may be more expensive than other dive computers and may be complex for beginners to use, its advanced features (including running tracker and swimming tracker) and accuracy make it a great option for serious divers who want the best technology available.
Scubapro Aladin 1 Matrix – Best for Bluetooth Connectivity
The Scubapro Aladin 1 Matrix Dive Computer is a wrist-mounted device that is designed to be user-friendly and highly customizable. It offers a range of useful features that make it a great option for both beginner and intermediate recreational divers.
Here are some of the key features of the Scubapro Aladin 1 Matrix Dive Computer:
- Large Display: The Aladin 1 Matrix has a large, easy-to-read display that makes it easy to see your dive data at a glance.
- Multiple Modes: The device offers multiple modes, including air, nitrox, and gauge modes, making it a versatile option for a wide range of diving situations.
- Customizable Alarms: The Aladin 1 Matrix allows you to customize the alarms and notifications to suit your personal preferences.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The device can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to download and analyze your dive data.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Scubapro Aladin 1 Matrix Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – The Aladin 1 Matrix has a large, easy-to-read display that makes it easy to see your dive data at a glance. – The device offers multiple modes, including air, nitrox, and gauge modes, making it a versatile option for a wide range of diving situations. – The customizable alarms allow you to tailor the device to your personal preferences. – The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to download and analyze your dive data, providing a useful record of your diving history. |
| CONS |
| – The device may be a bit more expensive than some other entry-level dive computers. – The battery life may not be as long as some other dive computers on the market. – The device does not have a built-in compass. |
Overall, the Scubapro Aladin 1 Matrix Dive Computer is a versatile and reliable device that offers a range of useful features for divers. Its large display, multiple modes, customizable alarms, and Bluetooth connectivity make it a great investment for anyone who loves diving. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other entry-level dive computers and lack a built-in compass, its ease of use and versatility make it a great option for those who want a reliable and customizable dive computer.
Aqualung i300C – Best for user changeable battery
The Aqualung i300C Dive Computer is a wrist-mounted device that is designed to be easy to use. It is a versatile and reliable dive computer that caters to both recreational and technical divers, making it a great investment for anyone who loves to explore the underwater world.
Here are some of the key features of the Aqualung i300C Dive Computer:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The i300C features Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect your dive computer to your smartphone or tablet for easy logging and sharing of your dive data.
- Multiple Diving Modes: The i300C features multiple diving modes, including air, nitrox, and gauge modes, making it a great option for divers of all skill levels.
- User-Friendly Display: The i300C has a user-friendly display that is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
- Battery Life Indicator: The i300C features a battery life indicator that lets you know when it’s time to replace the battery.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Aqualung i300C Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – The i300C features Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to log and share your dive data. – The multiple diving modes make it a great option for divers of all skill levels. – The user-friendly display is easy to read, even in low light conditions. – The battery life indicator lets you know when it’s time to replace the battery. |
| CONS |
| – The i300C does not have a built-in compass. – The device is not as feature-packed as some other dive computers on the market, which may be a concern for advanced divers. – The device may be a bit bulky and heavy for some divers. – The i300C does not have the option to switch to metric units, which may be a disadvantage for divers who prefer to use metric measurements. – The Aqualung i300C comes with a standard medium sized strap. |
Overall, the Aqualung i300C Dive Computer is a versatile and user-friendly device that caters to divers of all skill levels. Its Bluetooth connectivity, multiple diving modes, user-friendly display, and battery life indicator make it a great investment for anyone who loves diving. While it may not have a built-in compass and may be a bit bulky and heavy, its advanced features and versatility make it a great option for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use dive computer.
Genesis Centauri – Best for scuba diving and freediving
The Genesis Centauri is a wrist-mounted dive computer designed to be easy to use and feature-packed. It is a versatile and reliable dive computer that caters to both beginner and advanced recreational divers, making it a great investment for anyone who loves to explore the underwater world.
Here are some of the key features of the Genesis Centauri Dive Computer:
- Multi-Gas Capable: The Centauri is capable of handling up to 5 gas mixes, making it a great option for recreational divers that are planning to approach the world of technical diving.
- Advanced Dive Planning: The Centauri features advanced dive planning tools that allow you to plan and execute complex dives with ease.
- User-Replaceable Battery: The Centauri has a user-replaceable battery that eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming battery replacements.
- Customizable Display: The Centauri’s display is customizable, allowing you to choose what information you want to see during your dive.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Genesis Centauri Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – Multi-gas capability makes it ideal for beginner technical divers – User repleacable battery will make you save money on servicing – Customizable display |
| CONS |
| – Initial set-up is not super intuitive – No integrated compass – Some divers reported low durability |
Overall, the Genesis Centauri Dive Computer is a versatile and reliable device that caters to both recreational and technical divers. Its multi-gas capability, advanced dive planning tools, user-replaceable battery, and customizable display make it a great investment for anyone who loves diving. While it may not be as user-friendly as some other dive computers and does not come with a compass, its advanced features and versatility make it a great option for those who want a feature-packed device that can handle complex dives.
Cressi Giotto – Best for travel
The Cressi Giotto is an entry-level dive computer with many useful features given its relatively low price. It is easily operated via 3 front buttons and can be reset after every use if needed. Its ruggedness and ease of reset make it a great choice also for rental operations. Given its ruggedness, this is definitely a good option if you are looking for a dive computer to carry along your diving trips.
Here are some of the key features of the Cressi Giotto:
- Large, High-Definition Display: The Giotto features a large, high-definition display that is easy to read even in low-light conditions. This makes it ideal for use also in low visibility conditions.
- Multiple Dive Modes: The Giotto has multiple dive modes, including Air, Nitrox, and Gauge, which allow you to customize your diving experience to your specific needs. In case you decide to progress in your diving experience, you will be able to use the Giotto in beginner-level technical diving courses.
- Intuitive User Interface: The user interface of the Giotto is very user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through the menus and access the information you need quickly and easily.
- Dive Log Memory: The Giotto has a large dive log memory that can store up to 70 hours of dive data, allowing you to keep track of your diving history.
Now let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Cressi Giotto:
| PROS |
| – Large and backlight display make the Giotto easy to read in low visibility – Rugged – Multiple dive modes and gasses available – Storage of up to 70 hours of dive data -User replaceable batteries (no need to ask your dive shop) |
| CONS |
| – No wireless connectivity – No integrated compass – Battery is non-standard (3-Volt CR2430) |
Overall, the Cressi Giotto an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and user-friendly dive computer. Its large, high-definition display, multiple dive modes, and intuitive user interface make it an ideal option for both novice and experienced divers.
Cressi Neon – Best for managing uncontrolled ascents
The Cressi Neon is a wrist mounted dive computer designed to be compact and easy to use. It offers a range of useful features that make it a great option for beginner divers:
- Compact Design: The Neon has a compact and lightweight design that makes it comfortable to wear and easy to travel with.
- Nitrox Compatibility: The Neon is compatible with nitrox mixes up to 50%. You will therefore be able to use it once you will have taken your Nitrox Specialty.
- User-Friendly Display: The Neon has a large, easy-to-read display that is easy to navigate. The computer is operated via two side buttons.
- Dive Logbook: The Neon features a dive logbook that allows you to store up to 70 hours of dive data.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Cressi Neon Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – Compact and lightweight design – Algorithm for managing uncontrolled ascents, and alarm in case of breach of ascent speed, decompression or PPO2 – Nitrox compatible – Backlight display – 70 hours of dive data |
| CONS |
| – Lack of built-in compass – You cannot switch between metric and imperial units – Battery life can be relatively low |
Overall, the Cressi Neon is a compact and versatile computer. Its compact design, nitrox compatibility, user-friendly display, and dive logbook make it a great investment for any novice diver. Its algorithm for managing uncontrolled ascents together with several integrated alarms will support you in the ending phase of your dives.
Mares Smart – Best for beginners aiming at technical diving
If you have just started diving and already decided that you would like to become a technical diver, the Mares Smart is one of the best options as first dive computer. Although I would not define it as a technical diving computer, it still has some advanced capabilities that will be able to support you in beginner to intermediate level technical diving courses.
Most importantly, the Mares Smart comes at a very competitive price.
- Clear Display: The Mares Smart Wrist Computer has a large, easy-to-read display that shows all the essential dive information at a glance. The display is backlit for easy viewing in low-light conditions, and the digits are large and easy to read.
- Multiple Dive Modes: This dive computer offers multiple dive modes, including Air, Nitrox, Gauge, and Free Dive. This allows you to customize your dive profile based on your diving needs and preferences.
- Wireless Connectivity: The Mares Smart Wrist Computer can be connected to your computer or smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to download dive data and update firmware quickly and easily. This feature is especially handy for logging your dives and keeping track of your progress.
- User-Friendly Interface: The computer’s four-button interface makes it easy to navigate through the menus and settings, even when wearing gloves. The intuitive user interface is designed to be user-friendly and simple to use.
| PROS |
| – Large display with backlit digits is easy to read, even in low-light conditions.· – Multiple dive modes allow for customization based on diving needs and preferences.· – Wireless connectivity makes it easy to download dive data and update firmware. |
| CONS |
| – No air integration feature. – Battery life is not as long as other dive computers on the market. – Limited memory capacity for dive logs, which means you may need to download data frequently. – No compass feature. |
Overall, the Mares Smart Wrist Computer is a great option for divers who want a simple, easy-to-use dive computer that offers a range of features to customize their dive profiles. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive dive computers on the market, it’s a reliable and durable option that won’t break the bank.
Mares Quad Air – Best for readability and large screen
The Mares Quad Air is a wrist-mounted dive computer, designed to be easy to use and highly customizable. It offers a range of useful features that make it a great option for both beginner and advanced recreational divers.
Here are some of the key features of the Mares Quad Dive Computer:
- User-Friendly Interface: The Quad has a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy to use, even for beginners. The computer is operated by means of four large buttons, making it easy even if you are diving with bulky dry-suit gloves.
- Multiple Modes: The Quad features multiple modes, including air, nitrox, and gauge modes, making it a great option for a wide range of diving situations.
- Customizable Alarms: The device allows you to customize the alarms and notifications to suit your personal preferences.
- Dive Logbook: The Quad features a dive logbook that allows you to store up to 100 hours of dive data.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of the Mares Quad Dive Computer:
| PROS |
| – The Quad has a user-friendly interface, extremely easy to navigate – Large buttons easy to use with thick gloves – Multiple dive modes (Surface, Dive and Sleep) – Logbook can record 100 dives |
| CONS |
| – Comfortable screen makes the Quad a bit bulky – No built-in compass – Relatively low battery life, particularly if used with the transmitter |
Overall, the Mares Quad Dive Computer is a user-friendly and versatile device that offers a range of useful features for beginner divers. It is relatively more expensive than most entry-level dive computers but comes with many customization possibilities (multiple modes, integrated alarms, transmitter for real time gas monitoring).
Conclusion
Choosing a dive computer is not an easy task given the huge number of models available in today’s market. Of all the scuba gear a diver should have, a dive computer is definitely the single piece of gear that should be owned instead of rented. This is because dive computers store data for each single dive and dive profile and adjust some of the dive information accordingly for your next dives (e.g. no fly time, minimum surface interval).
If you are new to the world of scuba diving and are looking to buy your first dive computer, the Mares Puck Pro is hands down the best option. If however you feel you have some specific needs (e.g. you need a computer that also has smartwatch functionalities, or you need a computer that can also be used for apnea), you will definitely find all the best options available in this post.
If you would like to read more about dive computers or explore different options, check out my ultimate guide on how to choose your first dive computer and my list of top 10 dive computers with integrated alerts.