Are Dive Computers Worth It?

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Back in the day, tables were how everyone dived. Today, nearly all divers use a personal dive computer and it makes sense.

A dive computer monitors depth, time, speed of ascent, and NDL in real time. Tables can't do that. When you change depth partway through, the computer recalculates. Tables don't.

Wrist computers are the most common buy these days. These are compact, readable underwater, and you'll use them as a daily watch too. Console-mount models are available but not as many people choose them now.

Budget computers start around a few hundred dollars and handle everything most divers requires. You get depth, bottom time, no-deco limits, a logbook, and often a simple freediving mode. Mid-range gets you transmitter compatibility, improved readability, and more gas modes.

Something buyers don't think about is algorithm differences. Some algorithms are more cautious than others. A cautious algorithm gives you less bottom time. More aggressive settings give more time but at reduced margin. It's not right or wrong. It just your style the full details and how experienced you are.

Worth talking to someone at a dive shop who uses multiple computers first. Staff will give you a straight answer on which ones hold up and what isn't just marketing. Most good dive stores put out gear reviews and comparisons online too

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