Should You Buy Your Own Dive Computer?

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Back in the day, tables were how everyone dived. Now, the majority of recreational divers dive with a wrist-mount computer and they should.

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

Watch-style computers are the most common use now. These are compact, readable underwater, and you can wear them as a daily watch too. Console-mount computers are an option but not as many people go that way now.

Entry-level computers go for around $300-odd and do everything a recreational diver would need. They give you depth tracking, bottom time, NDL, a logbook, and sometimes a simple freediving mode. The $500-800 range includes wireless air monitoring, nicer displays, and more nitrox compatibility.

The one thing people overlook is algorithm differences. Certain computers are more cautious than others. A tighter algorithm means reduced no-deco time. Looser ones give more bottom time but at reduced safety margin. Both work. It's personal preference and how experienced you are.

Ask people at a Cairns dive shop who's used various models before buying. Staff will have a straight answer on what's good and what's just marketing. The better Cairns dive stores have buying guides and honest reviews on their websites as well

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