15 Best Dive Computers in 2023

The best dive computers are indispensable items in the diving kit of any diver, from the most amateur to the best professional.

A dive computer is a compact piece of equipment that provides you with vital specs during your dive to ensure that you have a safe dive. Whether you are a novice, intermediate or advanced diver, there’s always a model that’s perfect for you.

Buying a dive computer is not easy as a piece of cake. Therefore, I have managed to compile a list of the top 15 best dive computers that come with a wide range of prices, various functions, and designs. All of them are available and trendy on the market today.

My Top Picks

This part offers some key features about the best dive computers on my list to help you avoid buying one with the wrong intention.

• Best Overall: Cressi Leonardo
  “One gigantic center button, adjustable FO2 and PO2, three levels of conservatism, battery saver mode.”
• Best Budget: Mares Puck Pro
  “Battery power indicator, Mountain Lake mode, resettable average depth, and stopwatch.”
• Best for Beginners: Suunto Zoop Novo
  “Customizable oxygen mixtures, adjustable unit measurement, D-shaped button arrangement, matrix screen.”
• Best Air Integrated Dive Computer: Suunto D5
  “Full-color display, changeable bracelet, wireless tank pressure, vibration alarms.”
• Best Console Dive Computer: Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0
  “Bluetooth connectivity, console design, 22% bigger font size.”
• Best Under $500: Shearwater Research Peregrine
  “LED LCD colored display, Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm, USB charging cable included, two years warranty.”
• Best for Advanced Divers: Shearwater Research Teric
  “AMOLED screen, optional air integration, cloud control, rough construction.”
• Best with Compass: Suunto Eon Core
  “Five dive modes, 45-degree tilt-compensated 3D compass, comfortable to wear, compact size.”
• Best Under $300: Mares Puck Pro Plus
  “99% oxygen compatibility, scratch resistance screen, function as a digital watch, designed particularly for novice divers.”
• Best Under $1000: Garmin Descent Mk1
  “Surface GPS sensor, trimix, apnea, and closed-circuit rebreather mode, Elevate wrist heart rate technology, up to 1000 hours of logbook memory.”
• Best for Technical Diving: Shearwater Research Perdix
  “30% longer battery life, a bungee mount, 3D digital compass, easy to use.”
• Best for Freediving: Cressi Giotto
  “Deep stop function, gas-switching feature, built-in calendar and clock, effortless to navigate.”
• Best Value for the Money: Mares Smart Apnea
  “LCD sectioned display, reviewing mode, two-button interface.”

Comparison Chart

To make the right buying decision and choose the most suitable model, you need to compare critical features across all the top 15 best dive computers. The table below will help you do that!

The 15 Best Dive Computers Reviews

Is it a bit early for you to come to the final decision after reading the above sections? I seriously believe you would want to understand the top 15 best dive computers’ insights to the utmost extent.

Let’s dive into researching each of their aspects with pros and cons to make any changes in the buying decision process.

1. Cressi Leonardo

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

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The Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer features all special functions to make it regarded as the best overall choice. Its single-button interface combined with huge digits enables divers to read the information easily and quickly.

Besides, the backlight system integrated with a high-resolution screen also greatly contributes to readability at night. The light lines divide the data into separate sections for reading under emergencies at ease.

In addition, the Cressi Leonardo offers you three modes, including air, nitrox, and gauge. It also allows for adjustment between three levels of conservatism, providing the perfect protection for beginners.

One selling point of the Cressi Leonardo is its battery which can be user-changeable without tools. Ađitionally, the dive computer comes with a USB cable to support the PC connection.

Key Features:

• One gigantic center button
• Adjustable FO2 and PO2
• Three levels of conservatism
• CNS oxygen toxicity graphic indicator
• Battery saver mode
• Two years battery life

Product Specifications:

Here is a video review of the Cressi Leonardo Dive Computer. Watch it and see for yourself how to set up the model before your dive.

2. Mares Puck Pro

(Best Budget)

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At a glance, the Mares Puck Pro may be similar to the Cressi Leonardo in some fundamental features. For example, both have a one-button display, three dive modes, and a user-replaceable battery.

However, the Mares Puck Pro’ screen is larger, meaning divers will find it easier to get the information. It also comes with an intuitive interface, making it effortless to navigate.

The Mares Puck Pro offers upgradeable firmware as well, so it won’t become outdated when you become more experienced. On top of that, a battery power indicator on the screen is accompanied by an audible alarm to let you know when the battery is low.

In addition to tremendous upsides, the Mares Puck Pro still has some downsides. For example, the dive computer lacks the freediving mode and its logbook memory, which is limited to only 36 hours.

Read more: Top 9 Cost-Effective Dive Computers

Key Features:

• Battery power indicator
• The information is displayed in three different sections
• Mountain Lake mode
• The dive data is renewed every 5 seconds
• Resettable average depth and stopwatch

Product Specifications:

The video below gives you in-depth information about the Mares Puck Pro Wrist Dive Computer and how good-looking it is in reality. Let’s check it out!

3. Suunto Zoop Novo

(Best for Beginners)

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The Suunto Zoop Novo is the best choice for divers who are seeking a reliable and low-price model. First of all, it will impress you with its four-button interface, making novice divers feel a little confused. But I’m sure the multiple buttons design won’t make you bored.

Furthermore, it isn’t as time-consuming to cycle through so many menus as the single button display is. Besides, the four buttons are arranged in D-shape logically to help you press smoothly even when wearing thick gloves.

The Suunto Zoop Novo provides an enlarged matrix screen combined with a backlight display to promote readability regardless of light conditions. In addition, it also offers you extra dive options, including freediving and off mode, to meet various requirements of using.

Although not having air integration and a digital compass, the Suunto Zoop Novo is still worthy of experienced divers’ attention due to its excellent connectivity. Thanks to one built-in Suunto DM5 software, the dive computer is straightforward for divers to sync their diving data to the PC.

Check out the 15 Favorite Dive Computers for Beginners here.

Key Features:

• Customizable oxygen mixtures
• Adjustable unit measurement
• Decompression stop data
• Four buttons arranged in the shape of D
• Matrix screen
• Suunto DM5 software

Product Specifications:

Check out the following video of the Suunto Zoop Novo Scuba Diving Computer to learn the way to use its Nitrox mode.

4. Suunto D5

(Best Air Integrated Dive Computer)

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Owning stylish design, gorgeous looking, and compact size, the Suunto D5 functions perfectly as a wristwatch that divers can wear daily. Comes with a changeable wristband; the dive computer may match as well as reflect your style excellently.

To bring divers ultimate experience during their adventure underwater, the Suunto D5 is constructed with an enormous screen and clear-to-see numerical. Besides, its algorithm is adjustable to be more conservative, giving additional protection from unexpected situations.

Unlike most items on my list today, the Suunto D5 offers a rechargeable battery. This smart feature enables it to avoid being sent back to the manufacturer for battery replacement or necessary maintenance.

Additionally, the dive computer also provides premium functions such as air integration and a digital compass that almost all high-end models do. Therefore, it is an appealing option for divers at this price range.

Key Features:

• Full-color display
• Wireless tank pressure
• Vibration alarms
• Wireless mobile connection
• Changeable bracelet
• Adjustable algorithm
• Updatable firmware

Product Specifications:

Watch this video review of the Suunto D5 Air Integrated Wrist Computer and learn basic settings to make everything ready for your air/nitrox dive.

5. Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0

(Best Console Dive Computer)

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The Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0 contains all improvements from its predecessor – the Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0. Its size of digits has widened up to 22% compared to its previous version. Therefore, reading the information even in low light conditions becomes simpler than ever.

Besides, this console dive computer also features the latest Bluetooth technology, enabling it to connect with your electronic devices wirelessly. Thanks to that, you are effortless to share ẹnoyable experiences of expeditions with your friends and family members.

To help you achieve higher performance in diving, the manufacturer makes the Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0 self-customizable as well. Furthermore, its features are adjustable to fit your practice plan purely, contributing to creating efficient results.

Key Features:

• Bluetooth technology
• Console design
• 22% bigger font size
• Dual algorithm

Product Specifications:

6. Shearwater Research Peregrine

(Best Under $500)

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The Shearwater Research Peregrine features four modes which are specially formed for recreational diving activities. The dive computer is easy to see even for divers wearing glasses with an LCD screen and vivid color range.

Its interface is intuitive, with two buttons made from 316 stainless steel. Some other wonderful functions are wireless charging and dive planner mode.

Thanks to a USB cable, the Shearwater Research Peregrine’s battery can be charged fully to support divers for about 30 hours.

A dive planner is also a good point to consider for workout needs. Additionally, a modern algorithm is integrated with the model to ensure ultimate safety for divers.

Key Features:

• LED LCD colored display
• Bühlmann ZHL-16C algorithm
• 316 stainless steel buttons
• USB charging cable included
• Integrated with dive planner mode
• Two years warranty

Product Specifications:

The video below will show you how to customize settings of the Shearwater Research Peregrine Dive Computer as well as personalize it maximally for your own diving needs.

7. Shearwater Research Teric

(Best for Advanced Divers)

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The Shearwater Research Teric is a perfect combination of the timepiece design and excellent merits for professional divers. Although its screen is smaller than its counterpart-the Shearwater Research Perdix, the manufacturer uses a high-resolution AMOLED display and enlarged font size.

Accordingly, readability is not a problem for the dive computer. Besides, the Shearwater Research Teric is air integrated, making it compatible with two transmitters. Thanks to customizable features, it is effortless to choose which parameters should be presented on the screen.

I think most divers will favor one appealing aspect: the Shearwater Research Teric’s dressy design to be worn as a digital watch when they are above the surface. In like manner, the dive computer is a perfect companion every day to work, thanks to its durable construction and high waterproof abilities.

However, because the dive computer belongs to the market’s luxury segment, its price is significantly higher than most other items in this list.

Key Features:

• AMOLED screen
• Optional air integration
• Sapphire crystal window
• Cloud control
• Adjustable timers, alarms, and stopwatch

Product Specifications:

Check out this Youtube video of the Shearwater Research Teric Dive Computer and see in detail its amazing features and capabilities.

8. Suunto Eon Core

(Best with Compass)

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It is always a safe choice to select a classic dive computer such as this one from Suunto. The Suunto Eon Core offers five modes that can work perfectly for both novice and advanced divers.

Its three-button interface combined with an intuitive display allows you to easily customize the basic settings and choose which types of information to be shown.

Also, the dive computer equips you with high-end functions consisting of air integration and a digital 45-degree tilt-compensated 3D compass.

The updatable firmware keeps the Suunto Eon Core well-operated even when you become advanced is another bonus. However, its waterproof capability is only limited to 80 meters, so I hope the manufacturer can improve this drawback in the future.

Key Features:

• Up to five dive modes
• 45-degree tilt-compensated 3D compass
• Upgradable firmware
• 20 hours of battery life

Product Specifications:

Here is a video of the Suunto Eon Core Wrist Dive Computer with more information on the Suunto DM5 software and its benefits in improving your performance.

9. Mares Puck Pro Plus

(Best Under $300)

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Wireless connectivity is the principal feature that makes the Mares Puck Pro Plus more cutting-edge than its forebear – the Mares Puck Pro. In the previous version, you had to buy an optional cable for connecting to your smartphone or computer.

But now, with the Mares Puck Pro Plus, the connectivity is a breeze thanks to a Bluetooth clip connector. Although having a slim design as a normal wristwatch, the dive computer still offers a large screen and a backlight system to facilitate readability in numerous light conditions.

Nevertheless, because the Mares Puck Pro Plus is produced uniquely for entry-level divers, it lacks premium functions like air integration and digital compass. Additionally, there are no depth alarms built-in as well.

Key Features:

• Up to 99% oxygen compatibility
• 492 feet maximum depth rating
• Scratch resistance screen
• Visual alarms
• Bluetooth connectivity

Product Specifications:

Here is a YouTube video review of the Mares Puck Pro Plus Dive Computer. Check it out and see if it can become a useful companion for your expeditions underwater.

10. Garmin Descent Mk1

(Best Under $1000)

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The Garmin Descent Mk1 is an elegant dive computer with a gray sapphire crystal window and black bracelet. Its fancy design makes it ideal for wearing as a timepiece without looking out of place on formal occasions.

Moreover, the Garmin Descent Mk1 uses the Bühlmann ZHL-16c algorithm and user-customizable vibration alarms to give you a sense of ultimate safety. Besides, its modes enable you to choose single or multiple gases to dive freely.

The dive computer is integrated with a tilt-compensated 3D compass for excellent navigation as well. It can also track and mark your entry and exit points, thanks to the GPS. However, in the GPS mode, its battery life is limited to only 20 hours.

In addition to serving for diving activities, the dive computer includes a fitness feature too. The Garmin Elevate technology tracks the heart rate by directly contacting the skin, which is useful for divers to monitor their health.

Additionally, unlike most models in this list, the Garmin Descent Mk1 allows you to touch the screen for accessing functionality as soon as possible without pushing the buttons.

Read more: the 15 Premium Dive Watches Under $1000

Key Features:

• Silicone wristband
• Surface GPS sensor
• TOPO mapping
• 3-axis compass
• Gyroscope and barometric altimeter
• Trimix, apnea, and closed-circuit rebreather mode
• Elevate wrist heart rate technology
• Up to 1000 hours of logbook memory

Product Specifications:

See how efficiently the Garmin Descent Mk1 Dive Computer operates with the following video.

11. Shearwater Research Perdix

(Best for Technical Diving)

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The Shearwater Research Perdix features a sleek design but still ensures adequate functions for technical diving. It contains a simple interface with two buttons for effortless navigation but does not bring boredom as a single-access item does.

The screen is high-resolution and colorful, so it’s easy to read even under the darkness of the ocean. Besides using the standard AA battery for available replacement, the battery life is updated to be longer, up to 30%, compared to its predecessor-the Shearwater Research Petrel 2.

What’s more, the Shearwater Research Perdix comes with a new bungee mount and offers you an enormous memory capacity of up to 1000 hours. Also, the Smart Bluetooth technology supports wireless connectivity to backup your dive data more easily.

Despite not being air integrated, the dive computer’s digital compass is still a plus point worthy of your consideration.

Key Features:

• 30% longer battery life
• A bungee mount
• AA battery
• 3D digital compass
• Five gases

Product Specifications:

12. Cressi Giotto

(Best for Freediving)

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The Cressi Giotto’s interface has three buttons, which means navigating through the menu is simple and fast. Moreover, with a high-definition screen and huge digits, the dive computer can offer you an excellent display.

Furthermore, the backlight system is integrated as well to increase your readability underwater. In addition to using a modern algorithm, the Cressi Giotto also applies the PCD system for displaying divers’ data clearly and intuitively.

Some other attractive technical features are adjustable unit measurement, user-replaceable battery, and safety audible alarms. Additionally, the Cressi Giotto allows for diving with plentiful gas options. Also, it can function as a normal watch with a built-in calendar and clock features.

Key Features:

• Deep stop function
• Dual mixture
• Gas-switching feature
• Three levels of safety factor
• Built-in calendar and clock

Product Specifications:

Watch this video review of the awesome Cressi Giotto Scuba Diving Computer for all-inclusive information about its installation.

13. Mares Smart Apnea

(Best Value for the Money)

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Although containing limited memory capacity, the Mares Smart Apnea’s benefits still make it a good deal that none dives should skip. The dive computer has a mineral glass window which enables it to withstand scratches and ensure exceptional readability.

Moreover, the LCD screen provides divers with a clear screen to see. Therefore, you can get critical information such as dive time, recovery time, water temperature, and descent/ascent rate effortlessly.

Besides, the review mode allows you to use it for planning workouts. In addition, you should consider the Mares Smart Apnea’s customizable alarms because they have a great impact on keeping you always secure while diving.

Key Features:

• LCD sectioned display
• Mineral glass window
• Customizable depth alarms
• The newest generation depth sensor
• A performance microprocessor

Product Specifications:

14. Mares Quad

(Best Comfortable)

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The Mares Quad Computer will be a superb choice for recreational and technical divers thanks to offering three modes. Also, it’s great for divers of all levels because its four-button interface is so intuitive.

This smart design allows you to navigate forward and backward smoothly without going through all the menus compared to single access models. What’s more, the battery life can support up to 300 dives and be replaceable by users without tools.

Thanks to that, you don’t need to worry about forgetting to bring a charger when you travel. In case the Mares Quad is out of battery accidentally, you can buy a new battery to change because it uses the standard one sold popularly in the supermarket.

Key Features:

• Four buttons
• RGBM Mares-Wienke, 10-tissue algorithm
• A decompression alarm
• Segmented screen
• Plan mode
• Battery power indicator

Product Specifications:

Get to see the Mares Quad Computer with an overview of incredible functions and abilities in the video introduction below.

15. Oceanic Geo 2.0 Air/Nitrox

(Best Fashionable)

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The Oceanic Geo 2.0 has a rugged construction with its bezel made from durable stainless steel. This material not only helps it last for many years of service but also brings a stylish look.

The Oceanic Geo 2.0 gives divers four operating modes, including watch, norm, gauge, and freediving. It also allows for gas-switching between two nitrox mixtures (up to 100% oxygen unrestrictedly).

Besides, the dive computer provides you with a data retention system. This function helps to protect your dive information from being lost every time there is a battery change. Moreover, your settings are maintained as well.

The Oceanic Geo 2.0’s history mode also enables you to review your dive data to calculate different workouts. Additionally, to maximize your safety below the surface, the manufacturer added a flashing LED light to safety alarms for high visibility.

I think this is a real bonus of the dive computer in novice divers’ eyes.

Key Features:

• Oceanic’s Exclusive Dual Algorithm (Pelagic DSAT or Pelagic Z+)
• “Step Back” interface
• 3 minutes stopwatch
• 2 minutes countdown timer
• “Last Dive” display
• Data retention function
• History mode

Product Specifications:

Watch this instructional video of the Oceanic Geo 2.0 Air/Nitrox Dive Computer to pick up tips about replacing the battery without much effort.

How to Choose the Right Dive Computer?

Diving is considered an ideal sport for those who love adventure. However, to ensure safety during your dive, you need a dive computer to support you, no matter what level of experience.

Besides, because of the variety of styles and features of dive computers on the market, you should thoroughly consider several important factors to purchase the best one.

1. Diver’s Level of Experience

The diving level has a great influence on choosing the right dive computer. That’s because when you are new to the sport, you will have different requirements compared to when you are a professional diver.

Beginners usually prefer basic features like a clear and visible display. In contrast, advanced divers often expect sophisticated functions such as air integration and digital compass.

2. Display

Exploring the underwater world is so fascinating but also brings many safety risks. Therefore, divers always need a massive screen with giant digits to monitor important information effortlessly. Thanks to that, they can avoid encountering unexpected accidents.

Most entry-level dive computers feature the LCD screen with two basic colors, including black and white. Meanwhile, some other models nowadays can offer you a full-color display for giving you a charming view.

Each type of screen above has its benefits, so selecting which one is up to you.

3. Number of Buttons

As a beginner, the more buttons the dive computer has, the more complicated you’ll find it to use. Therefore, the models with as few buttons as possible are the most convenient option for you. However, the number of buttons is not a problem in case you are an experienced diver.

4. Operating Modes

Air, Nitrox and Gauge are three basic modes that most dive computers on the market today offer. Depending on the divers’ level of experience, which the gear towards, additional operating modes are added, like freediving, watch, and Trimix.

5. Connectivity

The dive computer needs to be compatible with electronic devices like PC, Mac, and smartphone to log your dive data as well as download firmware for upgrading your equipment.

Currently, most popular models support connections through a USB cable. Unfortunately, this option is not included in the purchase and often requires you to pay an extra charge.

However, thanks to the development of modern technology, some dive computers are able to connect through Bluetooth wirelessly.

Features Explained

Some technical terms of the dive computer can make you confused. That’s why I write this section to help you understand more clearly.

Wireless air integration

A transmitter is connected wirelessly to a dive computer. It can display the information about the remaining air pressure and how much time you have left at your current depth.

Nowadays, most dive computers on the market offer wireless transmitters as an optional choice. However, although it’s considered an extra expense, most seasoned divers find it deserves their investment.

Compass

Some dive computers are integrated with a digital compass. This is an important feature helping divers get better navigation below the surface.

Adjustable dive profile

The dive computer allows you to customize your dive profile towards more or less conservative. This can be done by using an algorithm, which has a role to guarantee you always dive within your limits.

Optional added deep stop

The deep stops are designed to give your body more time to release the nitrogen stored in your tissue. When you go deeper, you need to add more extra safety stops to ensure that the risk of decompression illness is eliminated maximally. Check out some other risks of scuba diving here!

Coldwater compatible

The dive computer designed exclusively for icy conditions has some outstanding features. They include oversized buttons for easy to press with thick gloves and a long or adjustable wristband to be worn outside your scuba wetsuit.

Gas-switching

The dive computer usually enables divers to change their gas mix used to breathe during a dive to fit various types of diving. For example, entry-level models often provide a gas mixture of oxygen and nitrogen with customizable percentages.

Keep reading: Complete Guide to Using a Dive Computer

Types of Dive Computer

The dive computers have two primary types, including wrist-mounted and console-mounted styles. The following comparison table will give you a deeper view of the advantages and disadvantages of each form.

Benefits of Using a Dive Computer

Let’s check the part below to grasp the dive computer’s amazing benefits. Then, I hope you will know how to take advantage of them to enhance your performance in diving.

Provides accurate calculations

Even if you are the most knowledgeable, you make mistakes sometimes. So instead of using tables to record your dive profile with tons of complex formulas, you can let the dive computer do that at ease.

The only thing you need to do is interpret what it’s telling you and use the information it displays for planning workouts.

Equips you with safety protection

The dive computer allows for set plentiful audible alarms, letting you know when you are diving out of safe limits. It also uses an algorithm designed to protect you from injuries.

Brings online tremendous storage space

Most dive computers now are compatible with electronic devices, which permit divers to transfer their dive data to the PC or smartphone. In addition, since online storage is forever, you don’t need to worry about losing calculations like they would if they were written on paper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you are seeking answers to your wonder about dive computers, this is the right place. I have listed a few questions which are the most commonly asked by divers.

Nevertheless, since they are mainly written in short answers, I suggest going through the whole article if you need something detailed.

Do I Really Need a Dive Computer?

A dive computer lets divers know how long they have been underwater and how much time they have left. From that, it accurately calculates Nitrogen levels in your body, helping to reduce the risk of decompression sickness.

How Long Does a Dive Computer Last?

The battery life depends much on the frequency you use it for diving and hours of use for a dive. On average, one dive computer can support 50 dives a year.

However, if you can ensure using the item an hour per day, the dive computer may last up to 300 days without battery replacement.

How Much Are Dive Computers?

A dive computer has a variety of price ranges from $200 to $1500. So naturally, the more state-of-the-art functions the model offers, the more extra money you have to pay.

Entry-level dive computers usually come with basic features, and that’s why they often have a more affordable price point than the high-end ones.

Can You Use a Dive Computer as a Watch?

Most dive computers focus on catering to diving activities. Therefore, some of them are bulky and uncomfortable to wear as a wristwatch every day.

Nevertheless, thanks to up-to-date technology, some dive computers are more compact and trendy for wearing daily needs. On top, they are integrated with a detachable bracelet and watch mode to serve as a digital watch.

Do You Need a Dive Computer for Freediving?

A dive computer is a must-have item for any freediver. It not only keeps you secure during your freediving but also helps to boost your performance.

Final Thoughts

The dive computers are essential gear for a secure dive. They provide you with absolute protection and lend a hand in emergencies and make your dives more delightful.

The Cressi Leonardo is the best overall choice out there. Its intuitive interface and easy-to-read screen are benefits you can recognize at a glance. Besides, its user-replaceable battery is another appealing plus.

And if you are looking for a model with an affordable price point, let’s go for the Mares Puck Pro. Its single-button design will give you excellent navigation. The updatable firmware and safety audible alarms will make you satisfied as well.

Does this article help your decision-making become easier? Let us know in the comments section. Also, tell your friends about your ideal dive computer by sharing my writing on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.