Are Dive Computers Worth Buying?

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Years ago, dive tables were the standard. These days, nearly all recreational divers dive with a wrist-mount computer and they should.

A dive computer monitors depth, time, speed of ascent, and NDL in the moment. Tables can't do that. If you move between depths during a dive, a computer adjusts. Tables are set before you get in.

Watch-style computers are what the majority of divers use these days. They're compact, readable underwater, and you'll wear them as a daily watch too. Console computers are still around but fewer buyers go that way these days.

Entry-level computers start around $250-400 and do everything a recreational diver would need. You get depth tracking, dive time, NDL, a logbook, and usually a simple freedive function. The $500-800 range adds wireless air monitoring, improved readability, and additional nitrox compatibility.

The one thing buyers don't think about is conservatism settings. Some models are tighter than others. A conservative algorithm results in reduced no-deco time. More aggressive settings allow longer time but at a thinner buffer. Neither is wrong. It just what you're comfortable with and how experienced you are.

Talk to the staff at a local dive store who dives with multiple computers first. They'll offer real-world feedback on what works and what's hype. Most good dive stores put out product guides and rundowns on their websites too discover more

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