Dive Computer Buyer's Guide: Do You Need One

Tables used to be the only option. Today, nearly all scuba divers use a personal dive computer and for good reason.

A dive computer calculates your depth, bottom time, ascent rate, and NDL in real-time. Dive tables are a fixed calculation. When you change depth partway through, a computer adjusts. A table can't.

Watch-style computers are what the majority of divers go for now. They're small enough, readable underwater, and you'll use them as a watch as well. Console computers are an option but fewer people choose them anymore.

Entry-level computers start around a few hundred dollars and cover everything the average diver would need. They give you depth, time, NDL, a logbook, and often an entry-level apnea mode. Mid-range adds wireless air monitoring, improved screens, and more nitrox compatibility.

What people forget is conservatism settings. Some computers are more conservative than others. A conservative algorithm gives you cairns dive computer guide shorter bottom time. Looser algorithms allow longer time but at reduced buffer. Both work. It's what you're comfortable with and your diving background.

Check with people at a dive shop who's used various brands before you decide. Good dive stores will give you honest opinions on which ones hold up versus what's just marketing. Most good dive stores publish buying guides and comparisons online too