Is a Dive Computer Worth the Money?

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Years ago, dive tables were how everyone dived. These days, nearly all scuba divers use a wrist-mount computer and they should.

The computer calculates depth, bottom time, speed of ascent, and no-decompression limits in real time. Tables give you a static plan. When you move between depths during a dive, it updates. Tables are set before you get in.

Watch-style computers are what most people use these days. These are small enough, easy to read, and you'll wear them as a watch too. Hose-mounted here are the findings computers are still around but less people pick them these days.

Basic computers start around a few hundred dollars and handle everything the average diver needs. Features include depth, time, NDL, a logbook, and usually an entry-level apnea mode. Stepping up to mid-range gets you air integration, better readability, and additional mix modes.

Something people forget is conservatism settings. Some models are more cautious than others. A conservative computer gives you reduced NDL. More aggressive settings allow longer bottom time but with less safety margin. Neither is wrong. It's personal preference and how experienced you are.

Talk to people at a dive shop who's used a few different models before buying. They'll give you real-world feedback on which ones hold up and what's marketing. Most good dive stores put out product guides and rundowns on their sites too

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