The best dive computers for 2023

The concept of dive computers dates back to the 1950s when analogue ‘decompression calculators’ were tested by the US Navy. The first digital dive computer as we know it today is credited to Swiss manufacturer Divetronic AG, with the release of its Hans Hass DecoBrain in 1983.

In 1987, UWATEC's iconic Aladin Pro took the market by storm. Using algorithms based on the work of Albert Bühlmann – the godfather of decompression theory – the chunky, grey, wrist-strapped box remains a nostalgic favourite of divers around the world.

During the 1990s, as technology rapidly advanced and scuba diving became a more affordable leisure activity, divers started to ditch their analogue watches and dive tables in favour of computers. By continuously re-calculating no-decompression limits throughout the dive, computers significantly extended bottom time over the maximum depth-based calculations of dive tables.

Nowadays, dive computers are essential pieces of kit, but there is a huge variety to choose from, spanning a wide range of budgets.Here are some of the best dive computers available in 2023, priced (roughly) from low to high.

Aqua Lung's best-selling entry-level dive computer is the i100, a wrist-mounted computer designed to be as simple and user-friendly as possible, with a single-button operation. Unusually for an entry-level computer, it allows for the management of two gases, with nitrox percentages programmable between 21-100 per cent. The display is a simple, segmented LCD display but does not come with a backlight. Dive logs are transferable to personal computers via an optional cable and Aqua Lung's DiverLog software (sold separately)

Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, freeAlgorithm: Pelagic Z+ (Bühlmann ZHL-16C)Max Depth: 100mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: yes

One of the most recognisable computers on the market, the Zoop Novo is the current incarnation of Suunto's entry-level dive computer and one of the most popular dive computers of all time. Similar in design to its Vyper and Gekko predecessors, the Zoop Novo includes gauge and freediving modes with an updated, dot-matrix display with backlight and four-button menu system. The Zoop is a single-gas computer, programmable to 50 per cent nitrox, and connectivity to Suunto's DM5 dive manager is via an optional USB cable.

Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, freeAlgorithm: Suunto RGBMMax Depth: 80mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: yes

Aqua Lung describes its i300C as ‘uncomplicated, intuitive, and rugged,’ allowing divers to focus on their dive, not their gear. Available in wrist-mounted or console versions, the backlit, segmented LCD display presents all the most important dive information with a simple, two-button operation, and the computer is capable of switching between three separate nitrox mixtures (up to 100 per cent oxygen) underwater. Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy data transfer to the free Aqua Lung DiverLog+ app without the need for additional cables or accessories. USB transfer is also possible with the use of an optional cable.

Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, freeAlgorithm: Pelagic Z+Max Depth: 100mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: yes

The Mares Quad and Quad Air dive computers have large and clear displays with ‘jumbo-sized’ numerals displaying all the most important dive information by default, with a limited amount of customisation available such as the inclusion of optional deep stops or the swapping the position of the ascent rate monitor. Four buttons access the menu system at the surface but become two sets of ‘mirrored’ buttons underwater, allowing for ease of use on either wrist. Three gas mixtures up to 99 per cent oxygen are programmable for use during the dive. The Quad comes in slightly cheaper than the Quad Air at the cost of wireless air-integration, possible with the Quad Air through the use of an optional transmitter, available for an extra £195 (MSRP). Data is downloadable through an optional Bluetooth or USB interface.

Modes: air, nitrox, gaugeAlgorithm: Mares-Wienke RGBMMax Depth: 150mAir integration: no (Quad); yes (Quad Air)User-replaceable battery: yes

Now in its 5th generation since its 2019 launch, the Cosmiq+ is remarkably easy to use dive computer which can be set from your smartphone and is fully integrated with an excellent diving app. It has one of the clearest interfaces and is ideal for non-decompression diving – it can handle a simple decompression stop if you overrun your dive time, but is not meant for complex, planned deco diving. This is a new style of dive computer for the iPhone generation.

Read DIVE's review of the Cosmiq+

Modes: dive, gauge, freeAlgorithm: Bülhmann ZHL-16CMax Depth: 100mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: no

As with other models from Oceanic's stable, the Geo 4.0 offers the choice between two algorithms, the Pelagic DSAT or Bühlmann-based Z+. Unrestricted gas switching between two nitrox mixtures up to 100 per cent is possible, with an optional deep-stop setting. The interface is a standard segmented LCD with backlight and a four-button operation, and can be connected via bluetooth via a smart device using the free Diverlog+ App, where divers can adjust the dual algorithm, gas mixtures, display and alarms both pre- and post-dive.

Modes: watch, air, nitrox, gauge, freediveAlgorithm: Pelagic DSAT or Z+Max Depth: 100mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: yes

Following in the footsteps of the Descent Mk1 and Descent Mk2/Mk2S, the Garmin Descent G1 dive computer comes packaged with 24/7 health and wellness features, smartwatch functionality and optional solar charging, all packed into a compact, rugged design. The high-contrast display is built into a 45mm watch case and customisable to user preference, with accompanying vibrating alerts keeping the user up-to-date on dive limts. The Descent G1 handles muiltiple gas mixtures, including trimix and 100% 02, with modes for freediving and CCR use also available. The computer is compatible with Garmin's interchangeable QuickFit watch bands and contains a multitude of built-in sports and fitness apps, and can be paired with smartphones to receive notifications and satellite communications for emergencies. GNSS tracking is built in.

Modes: air, nitrox, trimix, gauge, apnea, apnea hunt and CCRAlgorithm: Bühlmann ZHL-16c with gradient factorsMax Depth: 100mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: no

Suunto's EON Core is a slimline version of its popular tech-oriented EON Steel, retaining many of the same features and the same sized screen, but less than half the weight of the Steel and a significantly lower RRP. The menu system is extremely intuitive and the bright TFT display is user-customisable to display preferred information in classic or graphical formats, and the screen can be flipped to place the three buttons on either side of the display. Out of the box, the EON Core operates in a standard recreational mode, but advanced modes for multiple gases (including helium) and rebreathers (CCR) can be activated as required by the user. Up to ten optional wireless tank PODs can be monitored by a single EON Core, and 17 languages are programmed as standard. Suunto's DM5 software allows for dive log transfer, firmware upgrades and full customisation of the computer.

Modes: air, nitrox, trimix, gauge, CCRAlgorithm: Suunto fused RGBMMax Depth: 80mAir integration: yes, optionalUser-replaceable battery: no, rechargeable

Scubapro's G2 is an updated version of the Galileo SOL, the first dive computer on the market with the ability to calculate tailor-made decompression profiles based not only on a diver's depth, time and air consumption but also on their personal physiology and work effort through the use of an optional heart-rate monitor and skin temperature sensor, priced around £110. Wireless air-integration via an optional transmitter is built into the solid design with support for up to 11 different transmitters. A choice of user-customisable screens with 19 languages accompanies the three-button navigation system. The G2 can be used as a basic recreational computer, or with up to eight gas mixtures, including helium. CCR capability can be activated when needed. Data transfer is via Bluetooth or USB to Scubapro's LogTRAK software.

Modes: air, nitrox, trimix, gauge, CCR, freeAlgorithm: Uwatec Predictive Multi-Gas ZHL-16 ADT MBMax Depth: 120mAir integration: yes, optional (wrist), standard (console)User-replaceable battery: no; rechargeable

The Apple Watch Ultra already contains a range of features for health and fitness tracking, on top of its ability to sync with other Apple products. The watch itself is already 100m water resistant and contains a depth gauge with water temperature sensor, but the new Oceanic+ app transforms the Apple Watch Ultra into a fully-functional recreational dive computer. The app functions as both dive planner and tracker, providing all the relevant no decompression time, adn the watch's haptic feedback provides vibration alerts as well as audible alarms. GPS entry and exit data is automatically added to the dive log. The Oceanic+ app is free to download and includes basic dive functions. but access to decompression tracking, tissue loading, the location planner, and an unlimited logbook capacity requires a subscription to Oceanic+ at £9.99 per month, or £81.99 per year, with a £113.99 annual family subscription (for 5 people) is also available.

Modes: air, nitrox, snorkellingAlgorithm: Bühlmann ZHL-16C with gradient factorsMax Depth: 40mAir integration: noUser-replaceable battery: no

One of the most iconic dive computers within the technical community is the Shearwater Perdix, updated during 2022 to the Perdix 2 Ti. The new model's armoured casing is constructed with a titanium bezel and touch buttons, which the Canadian manufacturer claims makes the Perdix 2 Ti its ‘toughest and most reliable computer yet’. An aluminosilicate glass lens guards a large 5.59cm (2.2") bright screen with improved clarity, impact, and damage resistance. The simple 2-button menu system remains, with user customisable displays and strong vibrating alarms for critical points of the dive. 5 open and 5 closed-circuit gas mixtures are programmable, with optional air-integration monitoring up to 4 transmitters simultaneously. The simple, user-changeable AA battery ensures easy availability of replacements, and desktop connection is via a Bluetooth interface

Modes: air, nitrox, trimix, gauge, CCRAlgorithm: Bühlmann ZHL-16C with GF / VPM-B (optional)Max Depth: 260mAir integration: AI model only, optionalUser-replaceable battery: yes, AA

The new Italian Ratio iX3M 2 is an update to the very well received iX3M, one of the most versatile dive computers on the market. Like its predecessor, the iX3M 2 is available in Pro (air + nitrox; 3 mixes), Deep (air, nitrox, normoxic trimix; 3 mixes) and Tech+ (air, nitrox, full trimix & CCR; 10 mixes) versions, packaged in a single computer with the different models available for purchase through firmware updates rather than disctinct pieces of hardware. The high-resolution colour display has been packed into a lighter but more robust casing, and the four-button navigation system has been updated with menu labels. Up to 4 different algorithms with user-programmable gradient factors and critical bubble radius settings are available. Air integration is through optional colour-coded transmitters which flash green, yellow or red to provide a visual indication of tank pressure, with up to 10 tanks able to be monitored.The iX3M 2 can be turned into a nitrox analyser with an optional accessory cable; data transfer and battery charging is via USB.

Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, free, trimix, CCRAlgorithm: Bühlmann ZHL-12/16B/16C or VPM-B (depending on model)Max Depth: 220mAir integration: yes, optionalUser-replaceable battery: no, rechargeable

Suunto's EON Steel is functionally identical to its EON Core derivative but designed to withstand the rigours of technical diving or recreational diving where conditions are more challenging than fair-weather resort-based holidays. The bezel is constructed of brushed stainless steel with a tougher, Xensation glass screen, and the addition of an optional rubber boot and bungee adapter complete the package. The intuitive, three- button menu system is user-customisable and designed for ease of use with thick gloves. As with the EON Core, menus for tech or rec or CCR diving can be activated or deactivated at the diver's leisure, with up to ten gas mixtures programmable, and support for the monitoring of up to ten optional wireless tank PODs. Connectivity to Suunto's DM5 and Movescount log-sharing software is via Bluetooth.

Modes: air, nitrox, trimix, gauge, CCRAlgorithm: Suunto Fused RGBMMax Depth: 150mAir integration: yes, optionalUser-replaceable battery: no; rechargeable

Shearwater's Teric does everything the Perdix does – and more. Above the surface, the Teric is a timepiece with a customisable watch face that would look just as at home in the boardroom as it would in the water, where it functions equally well as a dive computer for recreational, deep tech, or CCR diving. The display is smaller than the Perdix but is of a much higher resolution AMOLED design, with the ability to increase font size to make it easy to read. All of the Perdix features are present, with the addition of a new freediving mode, user-configurable audible and haptic alarms, and a wirelessly rechargeable battery. Air integration is standard, with the wireless transmitters an optional extra, and Bluetooth connectivity allows data transfer to all smart devices. The Teric is available with a variety of different coloured bezels and straps, including the 2022 bronze-faced Journey's Edition.

Modes: air, nitrox, trimix, gauge, CCR, freeAlgorithm: Bühlmann ZHL-16C with Gradient FactorsMax Depth: 200mAir integration: yes, optionalUser-replaceable battery: no; rechargeable

The most important factor in deciding which dive computer to buy is what features you need from it. A high-end computer will do everything an entry-level diver requres, but may be disadvantageous for divers without the requisite training and experience. For easy, recreational diving then pretty much any budget model will suffice, but diving in deeper or harsher conditions may warrant more customisable planning options and alarms for increased safety. Some newer models are designed to ‘grow’ with your diving experience, with more advanced settings disabled until they become necessary, a useful option for divers who know they will progress, but are not entirely certain in which direction they will do so.

All the latest models of computer are compatible with recreational, 21–40 per cent ‘enriched air’ nitrox. Most also have a gauge mode which simply measures depth but does not calculate decompression limits. Technical divers require computers that are capable of switching between mixtures that fall outside of these limits, or involve the use of helium (eg trimix), during a dive. There are no recreational dive scenarios that truly require gas switching during a dive, so unless you’re planning to go tech, air and nitrox compatibility is all you will need.

Some people love it, some people don't. On the plus side, all the information you need is in a single device, with remaining dive time calculated both in terms of nitrogen loading and and air supply. On the minus side, battery failure in either computer or tank transmitter means no diving unless you are able to either change or charge your batteries. Having a backup analogue pressure gauge is advised.

Mostly down to personal preference. Consoles can bash into things, wrist-mounted computers can fall off, wristwatch-sized computers may be hard for some divers to read. Wrist-mounted models with large displays are most common. The choice is yours.

Haldane, Bühlmann, RGBM (and others), algorithms are the mathematical models used to calculate nitrogen exposure, based on your depth and time underwater. Technical divers may have a preference, but for most recreational diving it really doesn't matter. There will be small differences in when decompression limits kick in, and surface interval credit, but don't listen to people who say their computer is ‘better’ because it allows them to stay at depth for longer.

Computers do not make your diving safer. Read The FULL Manual before you jump into the water, and don't expect that your buddy or instructor will know how to work your computer. Dive computers will not prevent you from doing stupid things, such as making ‘sawtooth’ dive profiles, an easy way to end your vacation in the chamber. Remain conservative, don't push limits, adhere to safe diving practices.

Filed Under: Equipment, Kit Reviews Tagged With: Dive Computers