Top 15 Best Dive Computers in 2023 (Tested and Reviewed)
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Dive computers have become an essential piece of equipment for divers around the world. With the rapidly advancing technology, 2023 has brought us some of the best dive computers we've ever seen. In this article, we'll take you through the top 15 dive computers, their features, and how they can make your underwater adventures even better.
Best Dive Computers: What to Consider When Buying
When selecting a dive computer, it's crucial to consider factors such as:
- Display readability and size
- Battery life and type
- Dive modes and features
- Price and budget
- Connectivity and integration options
- Durability and water resistance
We will provide guidance on these factors in our buying guide, ensuring you choose the right dive computer for your needs.
How We Tested and Reviewed Each Dive Computer
Our team of professional divers and tech enthusiasts tested and reviewed the dive computers by putting them through various real-life diving scenarios. We evaluated the performance, user-friendliness, accuracy, and durability of each dive computer, taking into consideration factors like water temperature, depth, and diving environments.
Top 3 Dive Computers Overview
Brand and Model
Before we dive into the full list of the top 17 dive computers, here's a quick overview of our top 3 picks:
Top 3 Dive Computers
Best Overall
Garmin Descent Mk2
The Garmin Descent Mk2 is a top-of-the-line dive computer with advanced features such as multiple gas capabilities, surface GPS tracking, and air integration. It is ideal for serious divers who want a reliable and versatile device.
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Top 15 Dive Computers
In this section, we will provide a detailed review of each of the top 15 dive computers, discussing their unique features, pros, and cons. This will help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect dive computer for your needs.
1. Garmin Descent Mk2 - Rating: 5.0
The Descent Mk2 is a versatile dive computer that comes with GPS surface navigation, multi-gas support, and smartwatch capabilities. Garmin is a leading brand in the world of GPS navigation and wearable technology, known for its innovative and reliable products.
Performance
The Garmin Descent Mk2 delivers top-of-the-line performance, providing accurate readings and reliable dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
Featuring a high-resolution color display and easy-to-navigate interface, the Descent Mk2 ensures excellent readability and simple operation.
Durability
The Garmin Descent Mk2 is constructed with a fiber-reinforced polymer case and a stainless steel bezel, providing a robust and lightweight design. The sapphire crystal display offers excellent scratch resistance, making the dive computer suitable for various diving environments.
Price
While the Garmin Descent Mk2 comes at a premium price, its range of features and exceptional performance make it a worthy investment for divers seeking a top-quality dive computer.
What we like
- High-resolution color display
- Intuitive interface and easy navigation
- Multiple dive modes, including air, nitrox, trimix, and freediving
- GPS and GLONASS support for surface navigation
- Integration with the Garmin Connect app
What we don't like
- Premium price point
2. Apple Watch Ultra Dive Computer with Oceanic+ - Rating: 4.6
The Apple Watch Ultra Dive Computer: Oceanic+ is a sleek, modern dive computer with a high-resolution display, built-in GPS, and wireless air integration. Apple is a leading brand in technology and innovation, bringing its expertise to the world of dive computers.
Performance
The Apple Watch Ultra Dive Computer: Oceanic+ is a unique dive computer that integrates seamlessly with your Apple Watch, making it perfect for tech-savvy divers who appreciate a stylish and convenient dive companion. The Oceanic+ app's performance is reliable, providing accurate depth, temperature, and dive time readings. It also tracks your dive profile and logs your dives, making it easier to review and share your experiences.
User-friendliness
The Oceanic+ dive computer is extremely user-friendly, as it utilizes the familiar Apple Watch interface, which most users will already be comfortable navigating. With an intuitive and easy-to-read display, the Oceanic+ offers a great user experience for divers of all levels.
Durability
Durability is a crucial factor for any dive computer, and the Apple Watch Ultra Dive Computer: Oceanic+ delivers in this regard. The Apple Watch's water-resistant design and robust construction provide a solid foundation for the Oceanic+ app, ensuring that the dive computer can withstand the rigors of underwater exploration.
Price
Considering the integration with the Apple Watch and the numerous features it offers, the Oceanic+ is reasonably priced. However, the cost of the Apple Watch itself should be taken into account when evaluating the overall expense.
What we like
- Seamless integration with the Apple Watch
- Stylish and convenient design
- User-friendly interface
- Accurate and reliable performance
- Dive logging and sharing capabilities
What we don't like
- Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices
- Requires an Apple Watch for full functionality
- Potential battery life concerns during extended dive trips
3. Shearwater Research Teric - Rating: 4.9
The Teric is a high-end, full-color wristwatch-style dive computer that boasts an intuitive interface and multiple diving modes. Shearwater Research is a renowned brand in the technical diving community, known for producing reliable and user-friendly dive computers.
Performance
The Shearwater Research Teric delivers top-notch performance in various diving environments, providing accurate and reliable dive data.
User-friendliness
Featuring a high-resolution AMOLED color display, the Teric ensures excellent readability and vibrant colors. The intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through different dive modes and settings.
Durability
The Shearwater Teric is designed with durability in mind, featuring a marine-grade stainless steel bezel and a sapphire crystal display. These materials provide excellent resistance to scratches, corrosion, and impacts, ensuring the dive computer's longevity.
Price
While the Teric comes at a higher price point, its range of features and outstanding performance make it a worthy investment for divers seeking a high-quality dive computer.
What we like
- Robust build quality and sleek design
- High-resolution AMOLED color display
- Multiple diving modes, including recreational, technical, and freediving
- User-replaceable battery and wireless charging
What we don't like
- Higher price point compared to other models
4. Suunto D5 - Rating: 4.6
Suunto's D5 is a sleek, stylish wristwatch-style dive computer with wireless air integration, multiple diving modes, and mobile connectivity. Suunto is a Finnish brand with decades of experience in designing and manufacturing high-quality sports watches and dive computers.
Performance
The Suunto D5 offers excellent performance, providing accurate readings and reliable dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
With its clear and bright color display, the D5 ensures excellent readability. The intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through different dive modes and settings.
Durability
Suunto's D5 is built with a stainless steel bezel and reinforced composite case, making it both lightweight and durable. The mineral crystal display adds an extra layer of protection against scratches, ensuring the dive computer can withstand the rigors of diving activities.
Price
The Suunto D5 offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance, making it an excellent value for divers.
What we like
- Clear and bright color display
- Intuitive interface and easy navigation
- Multiple dive modes, including air, nitrox, and freediving
- Wireless connectivity and integration with the Suunto app
What we don't like
- Battery life could be better
5. AQUALUNG i450T - Rating: 4.3
This dive computer from Aqua Lung features hoseless gas integration, a digital compass, and four operating modes. Aqua Lung is a pioneer in scuba diving equipment, having introduced the first scuba regulator in 1943.
Performance
The Aqualung i450T offers solid performance, providing accurate readings and reliable dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
With its user-friendly interface and clear display, the i450T ensures a smooth diving experience.
Accuracy
The i450T consistently provides accurate readings, allowing divers to trust its data for planning and executing dives.
Durability
The AQUALUNG i450T features a durable design with a corrosion-resistant stainless steel bezel and a mineral glass display. This combination ensures the dive computer can handle the wear and tear of frequent diving activities.
Price
The i450T offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance.
What we like
- User-friendly interface
- Hoseless gas integration
- Multiple dive modes
- Wireless connectivity and integration with the DiverLog app
What we don't like
- Display could be brighter
6. MARES Smart Apnea - Rating: 4.0
Designed specifically for freedivers, the Mares Smart Apnea offers depth, time, and temperature tracking along with a user-friendly interface. Mares is a popular Italian brand that has been manufacturing high-quality scuba and freediving gear for over 70 years.
Performance
The Mares Smart Apnea delivers reliable performance, providing accurate readings and dive data in various freediving conditions.
User-friendliness
Featuring a simple interface and easy-to-read display, the Smart Apnea ensures a hassle-free freediving experience.
Durability
Mares Smart Apnea is built with a durable polycarbonate case and a mineral glass display, making it resistant to scratches and impacts. The dive computer is designed to withstand the rigors of freediving and spearfishing activities.
Price
The Smart Apnea offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance, making it an excellent value for freedivers.
What we like
- Simple interface and easy-to-read display
- Designed specifically for freediving
- Customizable alarms and notifications
- Dive history and logbook
What we don't like
- Limited features for scuba divers
7. CRESSI Leonardo - Rating: 3.9
The Cressi Leonardo is an affordable, entry-level dive computer with a single-button interface and multiple diving modes. Cressi is an Italian brand with a long history of producing top-quality dive equipment at reasonable prices.
Performance
The Cressi Leonardo offers reliable performance, providing accurate readings and dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
Featuring a single-button interface and easy-to-read display, the Leonardo ensures a straightforward diving experience.
Durability
The CRESSI Leonardo is constructed with a durable impact-resistant ABS casing and a mineral glass display, offering resistance against scratches and impacts. This durable design ensures the dive computer can withstand various diving conditions.
Price
The Leonardo offers an affordable price for its range of features and reliable performance, making it a great option for budget-conscious divers.
What we like
- Single-button interface and easy-to-read display
- Affordable price
- Multiple dive modes
- User-replaceable battery
What we don't like
- Limited features compared to higher-priced models
8. SEAC Action HR Dive Computer - Rating: 4.1
The SEAC Action HR is a sleek and stylish wristwatch-style dive computer that offers divers a combination of functionality and ease of use. As a brand, SEAC has gained a reputation for crafting high-quality and reliable dive equipment, and the Action HR is no exception.
Performance
The SEAC Action HR dive computer delivers reliable performance across different diving conditions, giving divers the confidence they need underwater. Its accuracy in providing essential dive data ensures a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
User-friendliness
The user-friendly interface of the SEAC Action HR makes it easy to navigate through the various settings and dive modes. The display is clear and legible, even in low-light conditions, making it a pleasure to use during dives.
Durability
Constructed with a robust polycarbonate housing and a tempered glass display, the SEAC Action HR is designed to withstand the rigors of diving. Whether you're exploring shallow reefs or venturing into deep wrecks, this dive computer will endure the harshest environments with ease.
Price
Considering its range of features and reliable performance, the SEAC Action HR offers excellent value for money. It is competitively priced within its market segment, making it a great choice for both new and experienced divers alike.
What we like
- Intuitive interface and crisp display
- Multiple dive modes for various diving scenarios
- User-replaceable battery for extended use
- Dive history and logbook functionality for tracking your underwater adventures
What we don't like
- Absence of wireless connectivity for seamless data transfer
9. Garmin Descent G1 Solar Dive Computer - Rating: 4.8
The Garmin Descent G1 Solar is an innovative dive computer that combines advanced technology with eco-friendly power solutions. Garmin has long been a trusted name in the world of GPS technology, and their foray into dive computers brings that same level of expertise and reliability.
Performance
The Descent G1 Solar delivers top-notch performance, offering precise dive data and GPS tracking capabilities for a secure and enjoyable underwater experience. Its solar charging feature ensures that you always have power, even during extended dive trips.
User-friendliness
With a user-friendly interface and a vibrant, high-resolution display, the Descent G1 Solar makes it easy to access vital dive information at a glance. The customizable data screens and intuitive menus allow for a seamless diving experience tailored to individual preferences.
Durability
Built with premium materials, including a rugged sapphire glass display and a robust titanium bezel, the Garmin Descent G1 Solar is designed to withstand the toughest diving conditions. Its high-quality construction ensures that this dive computer will serve you well for years to come.
Price
While the Descent G1 Solar is priced higher than some competitors, its range of features, solar charging capabilities, and Garmin's renowned quality make it a worthy investment for avid divers looking for a reliable and feature-packed dive computer.
What we like
- Solar charging for extended battery life and eco-friendly power
- Accurate GPS tracking for improved dive safety and navigation
- High-resolution display with customizable data screens
- Built with premium, durable materials for long-lasting use
What we don't like
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Lacks wireless connectivity for effortless data syncing
10. RATIO iDive Sport - Rating: 4.4
This feature-packed dive computer from Ratio offers a color display, multiple diving modes, and wireless air integration. Ratio is a newer brand in the dive industry, focused on producing high-quality dive computers with advanced features.
Performance
The RATIO iDive offers excellent performance, providing accurate readings and reliable dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
With its color display and user-friendly interface, the iDive ensures a smooth diving experience.
Durability
The RATIO iDive is designed with a stainless steel bezel and a scratch-resistant mineral glass display. This combination offers a durable dive computer that can handle various diving conditions and environments.
Price
The iDive offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance.
What we like
- Color display and user-friendly interface
- Multiple dive modes
- Rechargeable battery
- Wireless connectivity and integration with the DiveLogger app
What we don't like
- Lacks integrated compass
11. TUSA DC Solar Link - Rating: 4.2
The TUSA DC Solar Link dive computer comes with solar charging capabilities, a digital compass, and Bluetooth connectivity. TUSA is a Japanese brand with a long history of producing reliable and well-designed scuba gear.
Performance
The TUSA DC Solar Link delivers solid performance, providing accurate readings and reliable dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
With its easy-to-navigate interface and clear display, the DC Solar Link ensures a smooth diving experience.
Durability
The TUSA DC Solar Link features a durable polycarbonate housing and a scratch-resistant mineral glass display. This design ensures the dive computer can withstand rough handling and the rigors of diving activities.
Price
The DC Solar Link offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance.
What we like
- Easy-to-navigate interface and clear display
- Solar charging capability
- Multiple dive modes
- Wireless connectivity and integration with the TUSA Diving LOG app
What we don't like
- Limited features compared to higher-priced models
12. AERIS A300 CS - Rating: 4.1
This dive computer from Aeris features a large, easy-to-read display, three operating modes, and hoseless air integration. Aeris is a brand known for producing user-friendly and dependable dive computers.
Performance
The AERIS A300 CS offers reliable performance, providing accurate readings and dive data in various diving conditions.
User-friendliness
Featuring a user-friendly interface and easy-to-read display, the A300 CS ensures a hassle-free diving experience.
Accuracy
The A300 CS consistently provides accurate readings, allowing divers to trust its data for planning and executing dives.
Durability
The AERIS A300 CS dive computer is built with a durable stainless steel housing and a sapphire crystal display, providing excellent scratch resistance and durability. This robust design ensures the dive computer can handle various diving environments.
Price
The A300 CS offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance, making it an excellent value for divers.
What we like
- User-friendly interface and easy-to-read display
- Multiple dive modes
- Customizable alarms and notifications
- Dive history and logbook
What we don't like
- Lacks wireless connectivity
13. Omer - Mistral - Rating: 4.0
Designed specifically for freedivers and spearfishers, the Omer - Mistral dive computer features a compact design, depth alarm, and surface interval tracking. OMER is an Italian brand specializing in freediving and spearfishing equipment.
Performance
The Omer - Mistral delivers reliable performance, providing accurate readings and dive data in various freediving conditions.
User-friendliness
Featuring a simple interface and easy-to-read display, the UP-X1 ensures a hassle-free freediving experience.
Durability
The Omer - Mistral features a robust polycarbonate housing and a tempered glass display, ensuring a durable design that can handle the rigors of freediving and spearfishing activities. This dive computer is designed to withstand harsh diving conditions.
Price
The Omer - Mistral offers a competitive price for its range of features and reliable performance, making it an excellent value for freedivers.
What we like
- Simple interface and easy-to-read display
- Designed specifically for freediving
- Customizable alarms and notifications
- Dive history and logbook
What we don't like
- Limited features for scuba divers
14. BEUCHAT Mundial 3 - Rating: 4.2
The Beuchat Mundial 3 is an entry-level dive computer for freedivers, offering essential dive data and an easy-to-use interface. Beuchat is a French brand with a long history in the diving industry, known for its high-quality equipment for divers and water sports enthusiasts.
Performance
The BEUCHAT Mundial 3 provides solid performance for freedivers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable underwater experience.
User-friendliness
This dive computer features a user-friendly interface, making it easy for divers to navigate through its functions.
Durability
The Beuchat Mundial 3 is constructed with a durable polycarbonate case and a scratch-resistant mineral glass display, offering a robust design that can withstand the wear and tear of frequent diving activities.
Price
The BEUCHAT Mundial 3 comes at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious freedivers.
What we like
- User-friendly interface
- Affordable price
- Designed specifically for freediving
What we don't like
- Limited features for scuba diving
15. Scubapro Aladin A1 - Rating: 4.4
The Scubapro Aladin A1 is a reliable, mid to entry-level dive computer with a user-friendly interface and essential dive data tracking. Uwatec is a brand under Scubapro, known for producing reliable dive computers at affordable prices.
Performance
The Scubapro Aladin A1 delivers reliable performance for recreational scuba divers, providing essential dive data.
User-friendliness
With a straightforward interface and easy-to-read display, the Aladin Sport ensures a hassle-free diving experience.
Durability
The UWATEC Aladin Sport dive computer is built with a tough polycarbonate housing and a mineral glass display, providing a durable design that can handle various diving environments and conditions.
Price
Offering an affordable price, the Aladin Sport is a great option for divers looking for a reliable, budget-friendly dive computer.
What we like
- Straightforward interface
- Easy-to-read display
- Affordable price
- Suitable for recreational scuba diving
What we don't like
- Limited advanced features
Final Thoughts
Dive computers have come a long way in recent years, and the top 23 models we've reviewed are a testament to that progress. With a wide range of features, price points, and capabilities, there's a dive computer for every type of diver. Whether you're a casual snorkeler or a professional deep-sea explorer, investing in a top-notch dive computer will enhance your underwater experiences.
FAQs
What is the best dive computer for beginners?
For beginners, it's essential to choose a dive computer with a user-friendly interface and essential features such as depth, time, and no-decompression limit information. The CRESSI Leonardo and MARES Smart Apnea are excellent choices for beginners.
Do I need a dive computer with air integration?
Air integration can be a valuable feature for divers who want real-time information on their remaining air supply. However, it's not a requirement for all divers. If you prefer a more straightforward setup, a non-air-integrated dive computer will suffice.
How often should I replace my dive computer?
The lifespan of a dive computer varies depending on usage, maintenance, and the quality of the device. Generally, a well-maintained dive computer should last several years. It's essential to replace the battery and perform regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Can I use my dive computer for freediving?
Some dive computers are designed specifically for freediving, while others offer freediving modes alongside scuba diving functions. Check the features of the dive computer you're considering to ensure it meets your freediving needs.
Is it better to buy a wrist-mounted or console dive computer?
The choice between a wrist-mounted and console dive computer depends on personal preference. Wrist-mounted dive computers offer more mobility and are generally easier to read during a dive. Console dive computers, on the other hand, are typically more budget-friendly and keep all your diving instruments in one place. Consider your diving habits and gear setup when making your decision.
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