There are a variety of dive accessories important for scuba divers to own, in addition to your necessary mask, fins and wetsuit, there are a number of other gadgets key to making your dive experience both safe and enjoyable. A dive computer is a small but extremely useful dive accessory that many scuba divers, both frequent and recreational, can benefit from. But with several features and prices, how do you choose the best dive computer to suit your diving needs?
Decide of your wish list
There are so many dive computers to choose from, each with a variety of settings and features. The first step in finding the perfect dive computer to suit your scuba diving needs is set a wish list for features. Knowing what features you simply cannot dive without will help you decide which dive watch will best suit you. If you are a recreational diver, opting for a watch with all the features that you will only use a few times doesn’t make much sense. However, for frequent divers, a dive computer will become as commonplace as your air cylinder so opting for a versatile, high quality piece should be considered an investment as it will save you money on additional accessories in the long term.
Level of integration
Some dive computers are independent and whilst they can replace a few pieces of dive equipment like your dive compass or depth gauge, not all dive computers sync with your air cylinder system. Integrated scuba dive computers are more technical (with a few more features) in comparison. These dive computers are better suited to frequent divers who will benefit from the air system integration. Dive computer air system integration means scuba divers can easily track the air in their cylinders with high accuracy, meaning you will need fewer additional accessories.
How deep do you dive?
There are a number of features that your new dive computer could come with, and you will need to decide which are the most important (and applicable) to your diving needs. The type of diving you will be doing will also impact the dive computer features you will need in a dive computer. Water resistance seems like a very straightforward feature to have in a dive computer, however, some differ in the depth and pressure they can withstand. It is important to check this before purchasing a dive computer. Likewise, legibility of the computer screen is key for night and deep divers.
Deciding on a dive computer
Dolphin Scuba has one of Australia’s leading ranges of dive computers, dive watches and accessories. Our staff pick of the month is The Teric dive computer by Shearwater. With features aplenty including custom colours, night mode and freediving settings – this dive computer is as versatile as it is stylish. The Teric is now available six-month interest free in-store or online. For more information on how to purchase or if you want to explore our full dive computer range please visit our online store or call the store on 08 9353 2488 – we’re open seven days a week.