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 Main Category: Scuba Gear

 Sub Category: Dive Computer

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Dive Computers

Shearwater Perdix 2 Computer
Sale

Shearwater Perdix 2 Computer

4.6 

Free 2 Day Air

$1,195.00  $895.00 Add to Cart

Cressi Goa Dive Computer
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Cressi Goa Dive Computer

5.0 

Free Shipping

$299.95  $269.99 Add to Cart


Key Takeaways

  • A dive computer monitors depth, bottom time, ascent rate, no-decompression limits, and safety stops in real time.
  • Garmin computers are known for advanced dive modes, GPS functionality, and smartwatch integration, while Aqua Lung models are popular for their intuitive operation and recreational diving performance. On the other hand, Cressi computers are preferred for their reliability, ease of use, and excellent value.
  • Modern dive computers have the capacity to store detailed dive logs, so that divers can review previous dives, track experience, and analyze performance over time.
  • Beginners typically benefit from simple, easy-to-read models with Nitrox compatibility, while more experienced divers look for air integration, digital compasses, and multi-gas capabilities.
  • Divers Supply carries wrist-mounted models, console dive computers, air-integrated systems, and accessories from many of the most trusted brands in scuba diving.

Dive computers monitor and manage dive data in real time, significantly improving safety and convenience underwater. Your scuba gear should include a dive computer to maximize your diving experience and your safety underwater. At Divers Supply, we carry more than 100 top-quality dive computers from trusted manufacturers, including Garmin, Aqua Lung, Cressi, Oceanic, Sherwood, Suunto, and TUSA, so you can easily find a model that fits your experience level, diving style, and budget.

Compared to traditional dive watches, which primarily tell time and sometimes include depth-pressure gauges or bottom timers, air dive computers provide detailed dive information and automate decompression time calculations. They also track dive time, depth, and ascent rate, and integrate with dive tables to minimize the risk of decompression sickness (DCS).

Here's an overview of the key features and functionalities of diving computers.

Popular Dive Computer Brands at Divers Supply

With so many options available, choosing the right brand for you is just as important as choosing features.

Garmin

Garmin dive computers are popular among divers looking for premium functionality and versatility. Many Garmin models combine advanced dive modes, GPS navigation, fitness tracking, smartwatch features, and air-integration features, making them an excellent choice for divers who want one device for both underwater adventures and everyday use.

Aqua Lung

Aqua Lung dive computers are known for their intuitive operation, easy-to-read displays, and dependable performance. These models are ideal for recreational divers who want straightforward functionality, reliable dive data, and a user-friendly experience both in and out of the water.

Cressi

Cressi computers have built a reputation for simplicity, durability, and outstanding value. Models such as the Leonardo and Goa remain popular choices for both new and experienced recreational divers, as they offer dependable performance without unnecessary complexity.

Suunto

Divers worldwide trust Suunto dive computers for their diving heritage and proven reliability. From beginner options to advanced models with digital compasses, air integration, smartphone connectivity, and multiple dive modes, Suunto is synonymous with solutions for divers at virtually every experience level.

Oceanic

Oceanic dive computers stand out with their innovative technology, air-integrated systems, and user-friendly interfaces. Models such as the Oceanic Geo Air and Oceanic Pro Plus remain popular among divers who prefer a balance between advanced functionality and ease of use.

What Does a Dive Computer Do?

The purpose of a dive computer is to provide real-time information on your dive.

Depth & Time Monitoring

Dive computers continuously monitor your depth and time underwater. This matters because a computer can manage no-decompression limits (NDLs) and safety stops. With this real-time data, divers stay within safe diving limits.

Decompression Status

An air-integrated dive computer can calculate decompression status based on the diver's depth and time underwater. Its algorithms estimate nitrogen absorption in the body and provide safe ascent rates and necessary decompression stops to avoid DCS.

Ascent Rate Monitoring

Dive computers warn divers if their ascent rate is too fast to prevent DCS. The computer provides visual and/or audible alerts to slow down, contributing to a safer ascent.

Nitrox Compatibility

Many dive computers allow divers to enter their oxygen mix percentage to adjust decompression calculations for nitrox diving. This extends the remaining bottom time compared to standard air diving.

Dive Planning & Log Function

Dive computers can store data from multiple dives. They also often include planning functions and operating modes that let divers input future dive profiles and manage residual nitrogen levels.

Divers can download this historical log data to a computer or smartphone, allowing them to track diving activity, conditions, and performance over time.

However, modern dive logs do much more than record basic dive information. Many scuba diving computers store detailed dive profiles, including maximum depth, water temperature, ascent rates, gas consumption, and bottom time. And depending on the model, this information can often be transferred to a smartphone, tablet, or computer via Bluetooth or USB connection.

Air Integration

Some advanced models offer air integration to measure tank pressure wirelessly from a transmitter attached to the dive tank. With this feature, divers can monitor air consumption in real time, calculate remaining air time (RAT), and better manage their air supply.

Air-integrated systems provide an alternative to relying solely on a traditional pressure gauge or submersible pressure gauge. Thanks to a wireless tank pressure transmitter attached to the regulator's first stage, these systems display information directly on the computer screen. Some advanced models even estimate remaining gas time based on breathing rates. This way, divers make more informed decisions during their diving session.

Multi-Gas Capability

Advanced dive computers can manage multiple gas mixes, helping support complex dive planning and technical diving operations.

Digital Compass & GPS

High-quality dive computers may include a digital compass, which is useful for underwater navigation. Some models also feature GPS for surface navigation, allowing divers to mark dive sites and locate entry and exit points.

Customizable Alarms & Display

Many models offer customizable alarms for depth, time, ascent rate, and gas supply, along with adjustable display settings. This way, divers can prioritize the information most relevant to their needs.

Wearability & Design

Dive computers come in various forms, from wrist-mounted models and watch-sized units to console dive computers that integrate with a dive gauge. Whether you opt for a console dive computer or another style, the choice is a matter of personal taste, diving conditions, and portability requirements.

What's the Difference Between a Dive Watch and a Dive Computer?

Should I get a dive computer if I already have a dive watch? That's a common question our customers often ask us. The answer is simple: dive watches and dive computers serve different purposes.

Dive watches are for timekeeping and can withstand underwater pressure. They feature a unidirectional rotating bezel for manually tracking dive time. They can operate as a backup timing device, but do not provide decompression information or depth readings.

Dive computers, on the other hand, are sophisticated electronic devices that monitor and display a wide range of dive data in real time. This includes current depth, dive time, ascent rate, and no-decompression limits. To calculate nitrogen absorption, they use advanced algorithms and release throughout the dive, significantly reducing the risk of decompression sickness.

Their features often include visual and audible alarms for safety-critical information, such as excessive ascent rates or approaching no-decompression limits. Many computers also offer additional functions such as air integration, nitrox capability, digital compasses, GPS navigation, and downloadable dive logs for detailed analysis.

The main difference lies in functionality and purpose. While a dive watch is a durable underwater timepiece, a dive computer is a comprehensive safety and planning tool that automates calculations divers would otherwise perform manually.

Dive watches remain useful as backup devices, while dive computers are key equipment for both recreational and technical diving.

How Do I Choose the Best Dive Computer for Me?

When choosing the best dive computer, consider several factors that align with your diving style, experience level, and future goals.

Diving Experience & Type

Beginners may prefer a simple, user-friendly computer with core features such as depth, time, and no-decompression limit tracking.

Advanced and technical divers often benefit from more sophisticated models with detailed dive data, custom alarms, deep-stop functions, Bluetooth connectivity, multi-gas capability, and deeper decompression information.

Consider Your Experience Level

The right dive computer often depends on both your current experience level and your future diving goals. New divers typically benefit from computers that focus on readability, Nitrox compatibility, and simple navigation. Most recreational scuba divers like features such as downloadable dive logs, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable displays that provide information and have a user-friendly interface.

Divers who pursue Advanced Open Water certification often look for extra capabilities such as digital compasses, air integration, and dive planning tools. A professional instructor may focus on excellent battery life, extensive logging capabilities, and highly visible displays for frequent diving. Technical divers seek advanced features like multiple gas support, decompression planning, and compatibility with specialized equipment, such as systems for closed-circuit rebreather diving.

Ease of Use

A dive computer should have an intuitive user interface and easy-to-read menus. Additionally, a clear, legible display and backlighting can make a significant difference underwater.

Dive Conditions

Consider where you will be diving. Cold-water divers may prefer larger controls that can be operated while wearing gloves, but warm-water travelers often prefer lightweight wrist-mounted models.

Dive Modes & Functionality

  • Air integration provides real-time monitoring of air consumption and tank pressure.
  • Nitrox compatibility is a must-have for divers who use enriched-air nitrox.
  • Multi-gas capability allows the use of multiple gas mixes during a single dive.
  • Downloadable dive logs let you transfer dive data for detailed analysis and long-term record keeping.
  • A digital compass is always useful for underwater navigation.
  • Ascent rate monitor and alarms prevent rapid ascents that may increase the risk of decompression sickness.

Readability

You need a large, clear display with a user-friendly layout. Consider models with customizable screens that allow you to prioritize the information most important to you.

Battery Life & Type

You have two choices: either user-replaceable batteries or rechargeable models. User-replaceable batteries are a convenient option, particularly in remote locations. Rechargeable units are more economical and environmentally friendly over time.

Durability & Build Quality

Look for computers made from durable materials that can withstand demanding diving conditions. Make sure the model is rated appropriately for the type of diving you intend to do.

Brand Reputation & Support

Usually, a reputable manufacturer provides reliability and long-term support. Divers Supply carries products only from trusted brands and manufacturers, so that divers get both performance and warranty support.

Budget

Dive computers range from affordable beginner models to high-end systems with advanced features. Determine your budget early, but also invest in a model that can grow as your diving skills grow.

Future Diving Plans

Think about your future aspirations. If you see yourself progressing into technical diving or specialty diving, investing in a more capable computer today may prove more cost-effective than upgrading later.

The best dive computer is one that fits both your current and future diving levels while providing the features that matter most to you. The ultimate goal is to improve safety and enjoyment without unnecessary complexity.

Dive computers are transforming modern scuba diving by automating calculations and providing critical information at a glance. They make diving safer, more efficient, and more fun for divers of all levels.

For more information, please read our diving computer guide.

Take Your Time to Compare Models and Determine Which Features Best Suit Your Diving Goals

Our team of diving specialists is always available to help you find the right diving equipment and provide full details on any model that interests you.

Explore our wide range of dive computers, including popular models such as the Mares Puck Pro, Cressi Goa, Suunto Zoop Novo, Oceanic Pro Plus, and Oceanic Geo Air. You can find more information on our guide to the best diving computers.

Remember, purchases over $25 qualify for free shipping. Additionally, under our return policy, you have 60 days from the invoice date to return the merchandise for a full refund.

Find your perfect dive computer with the best price guarantee at Divers Supply and begin a new dive adventure with confidence. If you're unsure which model best fits you, our team can help you compare features, evaluate dive computer accessories, understand air-integration options, and select a dive computer that supports both your current diving activities and your plans.

Place your order today!