If you’re looking for a way to track your diving progress, dive computers are the perfect gadget for you. However, with so many options in the market and a wide variety of features available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best option, especially if you're a beginner.
Before investing in a dive computer, it’s crucial to consider a few factors. Firstly, your diving experience and skill level are essential. As a beginner, you may not need the most advanced features. Instead, opt for a simple and easy-to-read display, reliable depth and time monitoring, and a comfortable fit. Additionally, pay attention to battery life, durability, and ease of use. Ensure that you feel comfortable using the device while you dive, and it doesn't distract you from enjoying the experience.
Are you wondering about the benefits of using dive computers for beginners? How do they work, and what makes them different from regular watches? Did you know that some dive computers come with air integration, allowing you to monitor your air consumption in real-time? How can you choose the best dive computer that suits your needs and budget? Find out by reading on!
10 Best Dive Computers For Beginners
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Ideal for scuba divers who want a reliable and user-friendly device to track their vital information during dives.
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The product is ideal for securely attaching dive computers to bungee cords for underwater diving.
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The product is ideal for divers who want a durable dive computer with multiple modes and activity tracking features.
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Ideal for professional scuba divers who require accurate and reliable dive information in a compact and convenient wristwatch design.
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This product is ideal for divers who want a wrist computer that can monitor up to 3 different gases and provide vibration alerts.
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The product is ideal for monitoring and tracking diving metrics such as depth, time, and decompression limits.
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The product is ideal for tracking essential information while scuba diving, such as depth and dive time.
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The product is ideal for providing bright and intense light in dark environments, such as when camping or during nighttime activities.
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The product is ideal for attaching a wristwatch to a bungee cord for improved dive security and comfort.
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The product is ideal for divers who want a reliable and feature-rich wrist-mounted dive computer.
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1. Shearwater Research Peregrine Dive Computer
The product comes with a USB wireless charging station for easy charging. The package dimensions are 6.69 inches in length, 4.45 inches in width, and 4.33 inches in height, making it compact and portable. The two-button interface is designed to be simple to navigate with a state-aware menu structure, ensuring that users can operate it with ease. The buttons are made of 316 stainless steel, which is durable and resistant to corrosion. The battery life of the product per charge is up to about 30 hours on medium brightness level, providing long-lasting use.
With its compact size, state-aware menu structure, and durable buttons, this product is perfect for outdoor activities or for use in any environment where durability and ease of use are important.
- Compact and portable
- Simple to navigate state-aware menu structure
- Durable 316 stainless steel buttons
- Long-lasting battery life
2. Suunto Zoop Novo And Vyper Novo Bungee Adaptor Kit
The Suunto Bungee Adapter Kit is a must-have accessory for Suunto Zoop Novo and Vyper Novo diving watches. This kit includes bungee cords, bungee adapters, and spring bars that make attaching adapters easy. With this kit, divers can easily replace their old watch straps with new bungee cords that provide a comfortable and secure fit.
Suunto is a trusted name in the world of diving accessories, offering a range of products for divers of all levels. From beginner to advanced diving, Suunto dive products and accessories provide all the features you need to enhance your diving experience. Suunto's range of straps, cables, heart rate belts, dive accessories, and battery kits ensure that you have everything you need to make the most of your diving adventures.
Suunto dive products are precision-engineered and built in Finland using ultra-durable materials. The company's commitment to advanced engineering and thoughtful design ensures that all Suunto dive products are of the highest quality, providing data you can trust. Suunto dive computers, watches, gauges, and other diving gear and accessories are extensively tested to ensure they meet the needs of divers of all levels.
Founded in 1936, Suunto has over 80 years of high-quality heritage craftsmanship, relentless accuracy, and pioneering innovation behind it. Suunto watches, compasses, and dive products are built to last and provide divers with the tools they need to explore the underwater world with confidence.
- Easy to use bungee adapter kit for Suunto Zoop Novo and Vyper Novo diving watches
- Suunto offers a range of products for divers of all levels
- Suunto dive products are precision-engineered and built in Finland using ultra-durable materials
- Suunto has over 80 years of high-quality heritage craftsmanship, relentless accuracy, and pioneering innovation behind it
3. Descent™ G1, Rugged Dive Computer, Multiple Dive Modes, Activity Tracking, Slate Gray
The Garmin Descent MK2S is a rugged and durable watch-style dive computer designed for all types of diving – recreational, advanced, technical, free diving, and even spearfishing. The device boasts an easy-to-read monochrome display with a sapphire lens and silicone bands for added durability.
With GPS/GLONASS/Galileo support, the Descent MK2S allows divers to mark entry and exit points, providing a clear picture of where the dive started and ended. This feature comes in handy when exploring new dive sites. The device can store up to 200 dives on your wrist, and you can upload, share, and review your dives in the Garmin Dive smartphone app.
In addition to its diving features, the Descent MK2S has over 30 built-in sports apps that allow you to track your activities. It also comes with advanced training features such as V02 Max, which gives you insights into how your body is adapting to training. 24/7 wrist-based HR, Pulse Ox, Body Battery energy monitoring, sleep score, and more provide a comprehensive overview of your health and wellness. Please note that this device is intended to give an estimate of your activity and metrics, and Pulse Ox is not available in all countries. It is not a medical device.
When paired with your compatible smartphone, the Descent MK2S offers smartwatch capabilities such as smart notifications, Garmin Pay contactless payments (with a supported country and payment network), and Connect IQ app personalization. The device has a battery life of up to 25 hours in dive mode, 21 days in smartwatch mode, and 26 hours in GPS mode, making it ideal for extended use.
- Rugged and durable design with a sapphire lens and silicone bands
- GPS/GLONASS/Galileo support for marking entry and exit points
- Comprehensive health and wellness monitoring features
- Smartwatch capabilities when paired with a compatible smartphone
- Battery life of up to 25 hours in dive mode, 21 days in smartwatch mode, and 26 hours in GPS mode
- Support for all types of diving – recreational, advanced, technical, free diving, and spearfishing
4. Mares Puck Pro Plus Dive Computer Wrist Watch, Yellow/black (414135-Ylbk)
The Super Intuitive, Easy-to-Use RGBM Nitrox Computer is a must-have for any scuba diver. The computer has a larger display and slimmer design, making it easy to read and comfortable to wear. It also has upgradeable firmware and multi-gas capability, allowing divers to use two different gas mixtures during a single dive.
The computer features a precision stopwatch and special function modes for air, nitrox, and bottom time. It also has durable metal buttons and an upgraded interface that is easy to navigate. The computer includes precautionary programs and an ascent rate indicator with a digital display.
The computer has a plan mode, backlighting, and a logbook. It also has a 3-level salinity setting for fresh water, sea water, and aquarium salinity. The residual nitrogen memory reset and quartz clock movement make it easy to use and maintain.
The User-Replaceable CR 2450 Lithium-Ion Battery makes it easy to replace the battery when necessary. The computer is fully altitude adjustable up to 12,100' (3,700m) and has a memory capacity of 36 hours. The superior display readability and mineral glass crystal make it easy to read in any lighting conditions.
The computer has a 492' (150m) depth rating and power indicators. It also has audible alarms, watch, date, and temperature displays, and 12/24 hour formats. The metric or imperial units of measure make it easy to use for divers from all over the world.
- Upgradeable firmware and multi-gas capability
- Precision stopwatch and special function modes
- Durable metal buttons and upgraded interface
- Easy to use with precautionary programs and ascent rate indicator
- Fully altitude adjustable up to 12,100' (3,700m) and has a memory capacity of 36 hours
- Superior display readability and mineral glass crystal
- 492' (150m) depth rating and power indicators
- Audible alarms, watch, date, and temperature displays, and 12/24 hour formats
- Metric or imperial units of measure
5. Shearwater Peregrine Air, Nitrox, 3 Gas Nitrox, Gauge Wrist Computer – 3 Oc Gases Vibration Alerts
The Shearwater Perdix AI Dive Computer is a highly advanced device that offers multiple diving modes including Air, Nitrox, 3 Gas Nitrox, and Gauge. This dive computer uses the Bühlmann ZHL-16C with gradient factors, ensuring that divers can plan their dives with confidence and safety. The 2.2" LED LCD display is vivid and offers an enhanced colour range and saturation, making it easy to read even in low light conditions.
Unlike other dive computers, the Shearwater Perdix AI never locks out for dive plan deviations, providing divers with greater flexibility and control over their dives. The two-button interface is simple to navigate and features a state-aware menu structure. The 316 stainless steel buttons are durable and reliable, ensuring that the device can withstand the rigours of diving.
One of the standout features of the Shearwater Perdix AI Dive Computer is its wireless charging capability. With a battery life of up to 30 hours on medium brightness level, this dive computer is perfect for long dives. The USB wireless charging station is included, making it easy to keep the device charged and ready to use at all times.
- Multiple diving modes for greater flexibility and control over dives
- Bühlmann ZHL-16C with gradient factors for safe and confident dive planning
- Vivid and enhanced colour range and saturation for easy reading in low light conditions
- Never locks out for dive plan deviations
- Simple two-button interface with state-aware menu structure
- Durable and reliable 316 stainless steel buttons
- Wireless charging capability with up to 30 hours of battery life
6. Cressi Giotto Wrist Computer, Black/white
The product features a unique deep stop function that can be easily turned on or off depending on the user's preference. With the replaceable protective display screen, users can enjoy worry-free use of the device for a longer period of time. The user-replaceable batteries make it easy and convenient to change batteries while on the go. Planning for decompression curve scrolling is made possible with this product, making it a reliable choice for diving enthusiasts. Users can also switch between metric and imperial units of measure with ease, allowing them to use the product with their preferred units of measurement.
- Features a unique deep stop function that can be turned on or off
- Comes with a replaceable protective display screen for longer use
- User-replaceable batteries make changing batteries easy and convenient
- Allows planning for decompression curve scrolling
- Switching between metric and imperial units of measurement is quick and easy
7. Aqua Lung I470tc Wrist Watch Dive Computer
The Aqua Lung i470TC is a dive computer that features the latest Bluetooth Smart technology, allowing it to connect wirelessly to the DiverLog+ app. This app can be downloaded for free on both iOS and Android devices, as well as laptops and tablets. With this app, users can remotely control all of the i470TC's settings, view their log and profile data, add location and notes, and store and share photos and videos of their dive.
The i470TC has four operating modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge, and Freedive. Users can easily switch between modes and customize the settings to their personal preferences. Additionally, the i470TC has a user-changeable standard battery and data retention, allowing it to maintain all settings and calculations between battery changes.
Overall, the Aqua Lung i470TC is a reliable and innovative dive computer that will enhance any diving experience with its advanced features and wireless connectivity.
- Wirelessly connects to the DiverLog+ app using Bluetooth Smart technology
- Four operating modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge, and Freedive
- User-changeable standard battery and data retention
- Maintains settings and calculations between battery changes
8. Princeton Tec League 420 Lumen Light, Neon Yellow
The Princeton Tec flashlight is a great choice for those who require a focused narrow beam of light. This pattern creates a long, powerful beam of light that is excellent for illuminating distant areas or for use during fast-paced activities. The light uses a MAXBRIGHT LED, which is the highest quality LED available. It emits a smooth, powerful, white light that is useful for a wide range of tasks.
The flashlight is IPX8 rated, which means it provides waterproof integrity for continual submersion in water at depths down to 100 meters. This makes it an ideal choice for diving or other water-based activities. In fact, if Atlantis had flashlights, they would be IPX8 rated! The Princeton Tec flashlight has a burn time of 14 hours and requires 4 AA batteries (included). It has a single mode (Spot High) with a runtime of 3.5 hours. The ergonomic grip and powerful spot beam make this flashlight easy to use and perfect for a variety of outdoor activities.
- The flashlight has a powerful beam that is excellent for illuminating distant areas or for use during fast-paced activities.
- It is IPX8 rated, making it an ideal choice for diving or other water-based activities.
- The MAXBRIGHT LED emits a smooth, powerful, white light that is useful for a wide range of tasks.
- The flashlight has a long burn time of 14 hours and requires 4 AA batteries (included).
- The ergonomic grip and powerful spot beam make this flashlight easy to use and perfect for a variety of outdoor activities.
9. Suunto Eon Core Bungee Adapter Kit , Black
The Bungee Adapter Kit is a complete package that allows you to mount a bungee to the Suunto EON Core dive computer. The cord length can be adjusted easily after the assembly. To assemble the kit, you need a slot head screwdriver. The package includes adapters, spring bars, and instructions for attachment. The bungee cord is approximately 1 meter or 39 inches long.
Suunto dive products are designed with advanced engineering and durable materials, ensuring precision and reliability. All dive products are built in Finland with a focus on quality and accuracy.
Suunto has a heritage of over 80 years of precision craftsmanship, innovative design, and relentless accuracy. The brand brings high-quality watches, compasses, and dive products for all levels of divers, from beginners to the experts.
- Complete kit for mounting a bungee to the Suunto EON Core dive computer
- Cord length can be easily adjusted
- The package includes adapters, spring bars, and instructions for attachment
- Suunto dive products are precise and reliable
- Durable materials used for all Suunto dive products
- Suunto has a heritage of over 80 years of precision craftsmanship and innovative design
Best Dive Computers For Beginners FAQs
Are there any specific brands or models of dive computers that are recommended for beginners?
Yes, there are plenty of dive computers available in the market that are recommended for beginners. The choice of dive computer depends on the individual's preference, budget, and diving skills. Some of the popular brands that offer dive computers for beginners include Suunto, Cressi, Oceanic, Mares, and Scubapro. These brands offer a range of models with different features and functionalities to cater to the diverse needs of beginner divers.
When choosing a dive computer, it is essential to consider the display, ease of use, battery life, and durability. A simple and easy-to-read display is important for beginners as it helps them understand the data displayed on the screen. The ease of use is also a crucial factor as beginners may find it challenging to operate complex dive computers. Battery life and durability are also important to ensure that the dive computer lasts for a long time and can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
In conclusion, there are several brands and models of dive computers available for beginners. It is important to choose a dive computer that meets your specific needs and requirements as a beginner diver.
How do beginner divers properly use and maintain their dive computers?
For beginner divers, a dive computer can be a valuable tool for ensuring safety and maximizing enjoyment during their underwater adventures. Proper usage and maintenance of the dive computer are essential to make the most out of this device.
Firstly, beginners must understand the basic functions of their dive computer, such as how to read the display and interpret the information provided. They should also ensure that the device is set up correctly, with accurate personal and diving parameters, before entering the water.
During the dive, divers should regularly check their dive computer to monitor their depth, dive time, and decompression limits. It is crucial to follow the device's instructions and adhere to the safety limits programmed into the computer.
After the dive, divers must rinse and dry their dive computer thoroughly to prevent corrosion or damage to the device. It is also crucial to store the device in a safe and secure place to prevent damage.
In summary, beginner divers should take the time to learn about their dive computer and its functions, follow the safety guidelines, and maintain it appropriately. By doing so, they can have a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using a dive computer as a beginner?
As a beginner, using a dive computer can be a bit overwhelming, and making mistakes is common. However, some of these mistakes can be dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. The first mistake to avoid is not understanding how to use the dive computer correctly. It is essential to read the manual and understand how to set it up and interpret the data displayed.
Another mistake is not setting the dive computer correctly. Different dive computers have different algorithms and settings, and it is crucial to set it according to the type of diving you are doing. Failing to do so can result in inaccurate readings and potential risks.
It is also essential to avoid relying solely on the dive computer. A dive computer is a tool to assist you, but it should not be the only means of monitoring your dive. Always keep an eye on your depth, time, and air supply and monitor your body for any signs of discomfort or fatigue.
Lastly, do not neglect the maintenance and upkeep of your dive computer. Regularly check the battery level, and have it serviced according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
In conclusion, using a dive computer as a beginner requires caution and diligence. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
What are the key features to look for in a dive computer for beginners?
When it comes to selecting a dive computer for beginners, there are a few key features that you should consider. Firstly, it should be easy to use and understand. A complicated interface can be overwhelming and confusing for beginners, so it's best to opt for a device with a simple and intuitive interface.
Another important factor to consider is the display. A clear and easy-to-read display is essential, especially when diving in low light conditions. The screen should also be able to display important information such as depth, time, and decompression stops.
Durability is also an important factor to consider. A dive computer should be able to withstand the harsh underwater environment and be resistant to water, pressure, and impact. It should also have a long battery life to ensure that it doesn't run out of power during a dive.
Finally, it's important to consider the price. While there are many high-end dive computers on the market, beginners may not need all the features that come with these expensive devices. It's best to look for a dive computer that offers the necessary features at an affordable price.
What is the importance of dive computer training for beginner divers?
Dive computer training is an essential component of scuba diving for beginner divers. A dive computer is a device used by divers to monitor their dive and ensure they stay within safe diving limits. It tracks depth, time, and decompression status, and provides real-time feedback to divers.
Without proper training, beginner divers may not understand the importance of using a dive computer, or how to properly read and interpret the information it provides. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as exceeding safe diving limits, which can cause decompression sickness or other injuries.
By undergoing dive computer training, beginner divers can learn how to properly use a dive computer and interpret its data. This training also emphasizes the importance of safe diving practices, such as planning dives in advance, monitoring depth and time, and taking required decompression stops.
Ultimately, dive computer training is crucial for beginner divers to ensure their safety and enjoyment while exploring the underwater world. It provides them with the knowledge and skills necessary to dive responsibly and confidently, while minimizing the risk of injury or accident.