Dive Computers: Practical Buyer's Guide for Reef Divers

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Tables used to be the standard. These days, nearly all scuba divers use a dive computer and it makes sense.

The computer calculates depth, bottom time, ascent rate, and no-deco limits in the moment. Dive tables are a fixed calculation. When you change depth mid-dive, the computer recalculates. Tables don't.

Wrist-mount computers are what the majority of divers go for at this point. They're small enough, readable underwater, and you'll use them as a regular watch as well. Console-mount models are available but not as many buyers go that way these days.

Basic computers start around $250-400 and cover everything most divers needs. Features include depth, dive time, no-deco limits, a logbook, and sometimes an entry-level freediving mode. Mid-range gets you air integration, improved displays, and extra gas modes.

What people overlook is conservatism settings. Some algorithms are more cautious than others. A cautious computer gives you less bottom time. Liberal ones allow longer bottom time but with less margin. Neither is wrong. It just what you're comfortable with and how experienced you are.

Ask the staff discover more at a local dive store who dives with various models before you decide. Staff will give you honest opinions on what's good versus what's marketing. The better Cairns dive stores publish product guides and comparisons on their websites as well

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