Dive Computer Guide: Worth the Investment

Years ago, dive tables were how everyone dived. These days, nearly all recreational divers dive with a personal dive computer and it makes sense.

The computer tracks depth, time, speed of ascent, and no-decompression limits in real-time. Tables give you a static plan. If you change depth during a dive, a computer adjusts. Tables don't.

Watch-style computers are what most people go for these days. They're compact, easy to read, and you'll wear them as a daily watch as well. Console-mount computers are available but less people pick them these days.

Budget computers start around a few hundred dollars and do everything most divers needs. Features include depth tracking, dive time, NDL, log function, and sometimes a basic freediving mode. Stepping up to mid-range includes transmitter compatibility, better screens, find more info and extra gas compatibility.

The one thing people overlook is how the computer handles. Certain models are tighter than others. A cautious algorithm means shorter NDL. Liberal ones give more time but with less buffer. Neither is wrong. It comes down to personal preference and how experienced you are.

Check with someone at a Cairns dive shop who uses a few different models before you decide. Good dive stores will offer honest opinions on what's good versus what's marketing. The better Cairns dive stores have gear reviews and rundowns online as well