Best Dive Computer For Beginners

The best dive computers for beginners are easily identified by the best characteristics and requirements. One of the best pieces of advice I can give to a newbie is to make sure that the device is easy to use, especially if you’re a beginner. It doesn’t have to be incredibly plain, as long as all of the elements on the display are arranged in an understandable way. The best devices also come with good backlighting. A reliable scuba diving computer should provide critical information that will ensure your safety during each dive and it’s important that you know what they do before you buy one. 

A dive computer is basically a waterproof and pressure-resistant instrument that guides divers in determining their remaining time at a certain depth, whether ascending or descending. In addition, it can also be used to calculate decompression sets and no-decompression limits based on the data provided by the diver concerning the dive while in progress as well as other performance factors. There are several important aspects you need to take into consideration when choosing the entry level dive computer.

Best Dive Computer For Beginners

1. Mares Puck Pro Plus

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2. Suunto Zoop Novo

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3. Mares Smart

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4. Suunto D4i Novo

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5. Cressi Leonardo

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6. Cressi Giotto

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7. Oceanic Geo 2.0

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8. Crest CR4

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9. Atmos Mission One

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10. AQUA LUNG i300

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The Bottom Line

Why do I need a SCUBA computer?

This keeps track of the information you would have never had to find out yourself. With computer technology, it’s guaranteed to increase depth time over the course of the dive. The ability to accurately measure time and depth translates into diving machines warning you at a bottom time or max NDL. You can easily save money that comes with the features that you need for an entrance-level model. There are many different models each with useful options and the main ones have already been explained. If you have enough budget you should buy yourself one or more computers with Dive features. You are able to be more protected underwater over a longer period of time. With scuba diving, it’s important to have a computer that will calculate the dive profile and ensure the user is always within their limits. There are hundreds of options available, so choosing one based on your experience level can be tricky.

Wrist or Console Mount

Modern dive computers are available in two styles: handheld and console. A wrist computer is an independent device that is in a boot and connects through a bungee to the wrist. Mounting a console in an SPG console is typically a replacement for the depth gauge. Some wrist-mounted diving computer systems allow the option to buy an AI transmitter that monitors the tank’s pressure via a wireless link. The PDC is a solid choice for divers looking to update their old console setup or looking for ways to remove hoses from their current regulator setup. It can take advantage of the air integration of pressure and depth sensors in an average console.

Air Integration

Also, provide another layer of security: Scubacomputers with an Air time remainder or Air Integration System provide another security layer. It’s vital to know how much oxygen can be placed in your tanks. The air integration monitor will keep track of such data. This information is used in the measurements to estimate the rate of air usage and the capacity of the Tank to determine how long there is to be left. If a consumption increase or decrease occurs this means the consumption rate gets factored into and displayed in real-time. The PDC also determines how the time remaining changes with change due to turbulent conditions and at different depths. Many divers feel that the AI also features audible low-air alarms transmitter connections, for example.

Functionality and features

The most common dive tools also have the air-nitrox-dive-watch-mode Freedive-Simulation, gauge, and swimming modes. At higher altitudes, the diving level can be set up with most dive PCs taking the height into account in your profile for underwater explorations. Most dive computers for scuba/freediving come with a lower battery warning sign so users have a chance to know before it’s ready for a recharge. The button-type dive computer is popular for Beginners but other dive programs utilize a two one-button interface. You will be looking for a navigation laptop that has this type of compass integration or you will need to use a normal compass or navigation software for skill practice.

More expensive option

The OCI personal wrist dive computer is perfect for beginners as well as pros. It is easy to read and understand and contains additional features for which it comes up as a dive number grows. The most important information appears mainly as an LCD display. There’s a diff mode that’s handy for the breath-holding fanatics. The buddy check feature is available for divers who have Oceanic transmitters. The pair can be matched on the watch so you can monitor your buddy’s air throughout the dive. Also, you can start your dive either with a press of a button or automatically when you are submerged in water.

The perfect calculations

Air mixing/nitrox gases can handle dive computers. The dive watch calculates no flying times for those who dive on a vacation. Some diving computers may show you what time you can fly safely. Computer programs with the help of scuba diving work alongside decompression calculating stops on the decompression machine. dive watches provide diving watches on vacation. They need dive computer equipment to manipulate Air and Nitrox gases. This mixture is used for diving. Dive in enriched air will be a big advantage on the first attempt as a novice but a calculation at a low depth might be hard to do.

Diving log and connectivity

Dive watches provide a diving log as well as connectivity with other divers. Some might have GPS capabilities, but this is usually the case when they’re used for Freediving. Dive computers can be synced to transmitters so you know where your buddies are at all times, or if you just want to track their air usage in real-time. A lot of dive watches also offer notifications about low battery levels on the watch itself so that there’s no risk of getting stranded underwater without any warning. In addition, some devices will alert you when it’s best not to make another dive due to decompression issues. You should always carry a backup computer because accidents happen!

Type of diving

The Professional Association of Diving Professionals (PADI) can teach beginning divers how to dive at the beginning. PADI is now introducing an Open Water certification which requires that beginners be using their own diving computers. At this level, it is probably best to buy a simple dive computer. A basic dive computer will need the ability to track distance depth or times and no-stop limits. It is required for Nitrox to carry an integrated computer for scuba diving so there is a choice of the enriched air mode or the percentage of oxygen based on the mix in the scuba tank. If you like black water diving, the expensive one tent to get you brighter screen.

Size and style

Size and style of a scuba dive computer matter. The best scuba dive watch will have a big screen for easy reading, be customizable, come with an alarm system, and have a backlight for night diving. Some people also prefer watches that are wireless or waterproof. The best scuba computer is often best viewed in person before making the purchase. The best option available would be to find a bestseller list and then go to that company’s website to find out more about the product.

Technical Capabilities

It is built for operating fully until erect a maximal of 120m (393 feet below the surface). It considers how much inert gas and other mixtures can be used. It allows you to customize the way that the algorithm calculates data resulting in the most secure diving experience. In particular, the nitro level is controlled between 21 – 50% ie: the limits to PO2 can be switched back up to 1.2 – 1.6 bars. The Leonardo will monitor your body’s Nitrogen levels constantly. It will also control how much Nitrogen is absorbed and how it’s being released from it.

Technical Details of a Diving Computer

During your open water certificate, you’re taught a lot about the different things that happen to your body as you descend beneath the surface of the water. Especially, the way the body absorbs Nitrogen as it moves in the depths of the water. There are a lot of things that influence the rate of absorption your body experiences, specifically weight and body type. The amount of Nitrogen your system absorbs will determine the duration of time you must wait between dives.

Dive Computers are ideal for divers since they measure all of your gas prices for you keeping you at a healthy level. Algorithms are put in place to calculate your absorption and discharge of Nitrogen in half-life intervals. When 50 percent of your own body’s Nitrogen amounts are published, this becomes the half-life. Your dive computer will calculate the strain at the onset of your dive and measure the Nitrogen saturation of every body structure. Assessing the time and strain of your dive, the dive computer then uses the maximum ascent rate to calculates the percentage of safe Nitrogen absorption. The dive computer then goes on to assess the amount of off-gassing, the amount of Nitrogen the body discharges, to figure out the quantity of time that’s needed to diving data stays at the surface between dives. It’s obvious to see why this is much too complex for a very simple dive table to calculate.

Diving computers are one of these pieces of equipment which are far safer to have yourself than to lease. When used properly, they’re an amazing safety feature that may make your dive much more comfy. This is particularly important for novice divers as dip tables can be overly confusing to use. For people who dip regularly, owning your own wireless dive computer is extremely important as it will accurately list all spares from previous trips helping to ensure your body Nitrogen levels remain within safe limits. Some places, such as live aboard dive trips, need that you have your own dive computer to make sure your dip is as secure as you can. Dive Computers are something which you are able to continue to use as you gain more experience with the sport. Almost every experienced diver will possess their very own computer.

Kinds of Scuba Diving Computers

As the demand for wrist computers has become, there are more and more options of computers to choose from. In general, there are three chief types of dive computers all with unique features and options to help you to get a computer that’s ideal for your needs. Wrist-mounted machines are highly popular amongst beginner divers as they’re easy to monitor and use. Console mounted dip computers have larger screens and are rather a popular option amongst divers. Additionally, scuba mask computers are available and will be the most uncommon choice of the 3.

The Wrist Watch Style Dive Computer

This really is the most commonly used dive computer design since it’s easy to use and much easier to wear. The convenience of having your information displayed on your wrist makes this an appealing solution for divers of all skill levels. Looking just like your daily watch this fashion is packed with technology which makes it a divers dream. Using wireless technology this wrist dive computer is easy to see when exploring the depths of the ocean. Dive watches tend to be mistaken for wrist machines but feature far less technology. The dive computer correctly measures their air intake and remaining amounts of atmosphere in the tank.

Dive computers designed for beginner’s feature all of the need to have technology dimensions needed for fundamental diving. Accurately measuring and demonstrating the total dive time, the thickness of your dive, ascent rates, no stop limits, no stop time remaining, and emergency decompression. It also has a memory which records all the data from previous dives. To make certain you don’t run into an emergency below the surface, these watches have low battery warnings which help to remind you of any battery shortages. Generally, the screen on those models is simple to read and simple to program.

Features of an Advanced Dive Computer

More experienced sailors frequently prefer high quality gear with added features. Having all the same functions as a newcomer dive computer, these ones tend to incorporate a few more attributes. All advanced dive computers have air integration so they work together with your own air tank to give you real time information regarding the rest of the air. These are also excellent for those diving over sea level since they can be manually or automatically adjusted to compensate for pressures. Thermostats, clocks and a digital compass help to offer you even more info while you’re diving below the water.

This style of dive computer is compatible to connect with your home computer letting you download your information to better keep track of all your dives. Rechargeable batteries help regular divers reduce costs and eliminate waste. Some advanced dive computers even have special screens that enable divers to play games through decompression and safety stops.

With a industry so heavily saturated, it’s crucial to know some essential characteristics that are important for you at a dive watch. Broadly, there are 7 key factors to consider when searching for your next computer.

1. You’ll have to ask yourself exactly what your degree of skill for a diver is. Professional divers obviously demand a whole lot more advanced technology than a person new to the game. Beginners are likely to overpay for features they won’t ever use should they choose for the best of the best. Make sure you not just consider the now and rather plan for how you anticipate your diving to progress in the not too distant future. Advanced divers may wish to elect for a diving computer that is more in their ability level by ensuring it has the key features they need, such as air integration.

2. Plan According For Your Budget

Before beginning your search for a dive opinion, it’s important to take into consideration how much you are willing to spend. This can help to narrow down the watches which are available within your budget. We advocate trying to be flexible with your dive watch as possible as this is not something you are going to want to cheap out on. Being a great security feature in the sport, it is crucial to buy depending on your skill level so that you receive the most amount of efficacy and use from your watch. If your budget is not an issue, then you can enjoy a complete assortment of the dive computer universe.

3. A dive computer is only useful if you’re able to read and get the information it is giving you. Paying attention to the display of the computer when choosing the ideal one for you is very important. While it might be simple for you to see with your bare eye above water, it can be far more difficult when wearing a mask and in underwater conditions. Make sure to check that your computer has a backlight which makes it more easily readable as well as a wide-angled color screen. Make sure you check that the digit size is large enough for you to easily read also.

4. Whether you are utilizing nitrox for your dives currently or contemplating a change in the not too distant future, we recommend selecting a wristwatch that is nitrox integrated.

5. A Data Transferring Choice Is An Added Bonus

Many anglers like the option of uploading the log of their dives into a home computer or laptop. This allows you to safely move all your data and charts to your computer to supply you with a simple monitoring tool to realize your dip progress. This allows you to upload your time, depth, ascent rate, air intake rates and percentage of nitrogen.

6. Digital Compass

A digital compass will allow you to observe the direction you are headed without a dedicated analog setup. Having it built into your computer lets you save space. Analog versions need extra space on your arm. The only downfall to getting this built in is that it can be thrown off by any type of magnet.

7. Batteries Have to Be Replaceable

We strongly suggest that your dive computer have a replaceable battery system. This will ensure that you have sufficient energy for all of your dives during the day. You can even have another set that can replace a dead battery as well.

Ease of use

Even if the dive computer has the latest technologies along with a crystal clear LCD display if it is not easy to use it isn’t worth the money. Having the ability to navigate through the menus using gloves is an integral aspect you should think about while buying a dive computer. Large, space out buttons will make your trip submerged easier and exude confidence in your equipment.

We recommend spending some time learning your system before going into the water. This will help save you time, energy and confusion whilst on your dive. We propose reading the testimonials of the product on the watch for how simple the computer would be to learn.

There is no use in spending the cash on a dive computer if you’re unable to read the display with your mask on. It is highly suggested to discover a computer that has a multi colored or bright display that lets you easily see the readouts. A dark text colour on a light background additionally creates enough contrast to see the critical writing. Not having to shine a light on your display will save a measure and allow you to spend your time on anything else. It is also important to get one with a large enough screen to readily read.

Gauges

A few gauges you can live without but in thickness, just how much air you’ve time and left are ones that you can’t. Being kept updated in real time about your dip is essential for not only security but peace of mind. Knowing how much battery and air you have left is not something that may not be accurate since it may impact every aspect of your dive.

Some diving computers can help you with your decompression time. They are going to have specially designed algorithms that factor in the thickness and decent time which will output how long your ascent should be. If you are traveling too quickly they can even let you stop and maintain your thickness while your entire body becomes accustomed to the change in altitude.

Having the ability to easily see your personal computer is a key aspect to consider when seeking to purchase a dive computer. Many are worn on your wrist although some attach to your match. Having the ability to just turn your wrist and have all your information available to you is a sought-after feature. While others enjoy their stats more out of their way enabling their arms to be liberated from the extra weight. This is a personal preference but should be considered out to your next dip.

Warranty

One way to tell the quality of your scuba gear is by the guarantee. All diving computers will include a one-year warranty while well-made ones will include around a two year. Longer guarantees indicate higher substances used to make the product. Look for diving watches that have a two-year warranty whenever possible.

A dive watch can cost anywhere from $199 to upwards of 1700. If you’re just entering the sport of diving you might not need a fully equipped dive computer. Finding one that has the gauges and specs you need is essential. Sacrificing high-tech features can save you some money but might be missed when you create more expertise. Color screens will also raise costs and aren’t necessarily essential.

Having the capability to connect your dive watch to your own computer will permit you to compare your dives over time. This will explain to you how you’re progressing and stats you never thought of throughout your dive. You’ll be able to see everything in the depths you travel to your time submerged. This shouldn’t break or make your choice but is a nice feature to have at the close of the day.

Most diving computers include memory card logs built into the device. This may be measured by time in use or number of dives but is still a wonderful feature to have if tracking your driving progress. It allows you to conserve your dives and compare them with each other.

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