Dive Computer Guide: Do You Need One

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Back in the day, tables were the standard. These days, the majority of scuba divers use a wrist-mount computer and it makes sense.

Your computer calculates depth, bottom time, ascent rate, and NDL in real time. Tables can't do that. When you move between depths mid-dive, the computer recalculates. Tables don't.

Watch-style computers are what most people buy these days. These are compact, readable underwater, and you'll wear them as a watch as well. Console computers are an option but less divers choose them these days.

Budget computers go for around $300-odd and cover everything a recreational diver needs. You get depth, time, NDL, a logbook, and often an entry-level freedive function. Stepping up to mid-range adds wireless further reading air monitoring, better screens, and more gas options.

What people overlook is how the computer handles. Some models are tighter than others. A cautious setting results in shorter NDL. Liberal settings extend bottom time but with less safety margin. It's not right or wrong. It comes down to personal preference and how experienced you are.

Ask the staff at a Cairns dive shop who dives with various brands first. They'll offer honest opinions on which ones hold up versus what's marketing. Most good dive stores have gear reviews and comparisons on their websites too

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