Is a Dive Computer Worth the Money?

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Years ago, dive tables were the standard. Now, nearly all divers wear a wrist-mount computer and they should.

The computer monitors depth, time, ascent rate, and no-decompression limits in real time. Tables can't do that. If you change depth partway through, it updates. Tables don't.

Wrist computers are what the majority of divers buy these days. They're compact, readable underwater, and you can wear them as a daily watch as well. Console-mount models are available but less divers pick them these days.

Basic computers run about $300-odd and cover everything most divers needs. They give you depth, bottom time, no-deco limits, dive logging, and often a basic apnea mode. Mid-range gets you wireless air monitoring, improved readability, and additional nitrox compatibility.

The one thing new divers don't think about is how the computer handles. Certain computers are more conservative than others. A cautious algorithm means less no-deco time. Liberal ones allow longer bottom time but with less margin. Both work. It just what you're comfortable with and experience level.

Talk to the staff at a Cairns dive shop who's used various computers before you decide. They'll have a straight answer on what's good and what's marketing. Decent dive shops put out product view more information guides and honest reviews on their sites too

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