Dive Computer Buyer's Guide: What to Know

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Back in the day, tables were how everyone dived. At this point, the get more information majority of recreational divers use a wrist-mount computer and they should.

The computer calculates depth, bottom time, speed of ascent, and NDL in real time. Dive tables are a fixed calculation. If you go shallower during a dive, it updates. Tables don't.

Wrist computers are what the majority of divers go for now. They're compact, readable underwater, and you'll use them as a watch between dives. Console computers are an option but not as many divers go that way these days.

Entry-level computers start around a few hundred dollars and do everything the average diver would need. They give you depth tracking, time, no-deco limits, a logbook, and usually a simple apnea mode. The $500-800 range gets you wireless air monitoring, nicer screens, and extra mix modes.

What people overlook is how the computer handles. Some algorithms are tighter than others. A tighter algorithm results in shorter NDL. Looser settings give more time but with less buffer. It's not right or wrong. It's personal preference and your diving background.

Ask people at a dive shop who's used various computers before buying. Staff will give you a straight answer on what works versus what's marketing. Most good dive stores have buying guides and honest reviews on their sites as well

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