Dive Computers: A Guide for Scuba Divers

Back in the day, tables were how everyone dived. At this point, most recreational divers use a dive computer and it makes sense.

Your computer tracks your depth, time, ascent rate, and no-deco limits in real time. Tables give you a static plan. If you change depth during a dive, it updates. Tables are set before you get in.

Wrist-mount computers are what most people go for at this point. These are compact, readable underwater, and you'll wear them as a watch additional resources too. Hose-mounted computers are still around but less divers go that way these days.

Entry-level computers run about $250-400 and do everything a recreational diver needs. They give you depth, bottom time, no-deco limits, log function, and often an entry-level apnea mode. Mid-range adds transmitter compatibility, better readability, and extra mix compatibility.

What buyers forget is how the computer handles. Certain models are more conservative than others. A cautious algorithm gives you less no-deco time. Liberal ones give more bottom time but at reduced margin. Neither is wrong. It comes down to your style and experience level.

Worth talking to people at a Cairns dive shop who's used various models first. They'll give you a straight answer on what works versus what's marketing. The better Cairns dive stores put out product guides and comparisons online too