I wrote an article a while back giving some general advice on which computer to buy. Thankfully, looking back through this, all the advice still seems correct, but as technology moves on, so do the products that manufacturers release.
There are hundreds of websites that give very detailed reviews of the various computers available, as well as many ranking the “best” of a particular year. I don’t want to repeat this info, but rather give a concise guide as to the types of computers you can look into, as well as some general trend changes.
Basic Computers (Recreational)
We’re still using some tried and trusted models, and they continue to do the job they were designed for. The Suunto Zoop and the Cressi Leonardo remain relevant in 2025 and still perform well. For your basic dive computer at the lowest cost, they are tough to beat.
Mid-Level (Recreational & Basic Tec)
This is where things seem to have developed quite a lot in the last couple of years. Aimed at recreational divers who want a few more features, the range in this segment has grown massively.
If you’re looking at dive only computers, you now have the Tern and Peregrine from Shearwater. One is watch style, one is large display (think mini versions of the Teric and Perdix 2 respectively). They also both come in TX versions which add Air Integration (AI) and electronic compasses.
If you want a dive computer and smart watch, you then have the Suunto Ocean (essentially replaces the D5), Garmin Descent G2 and the Apple Watch Ultra. These are everyday watches that can also be used for diving. Some might say they are dive computers that can also be used as everyday watches. These computers have the advantage of using things like GPS to monitor where you started and finished your dive, and the Suunto Ocean will even produce a map of your dive.
Top end (Full tec computers)
This is where we are looking at computers that do full tec including CCR (and obviously they can do any recreational modes too). The main options are now the Shearwater Perdix 2 & Teric, and the Garmin Descent Mk3i and X50i. There are then a fair few specific options but you wouldn’t be reading this site for advice if you wanted one of these. These units are at least USD 1,000, so I’d advise some quality research before deciding which one you need (and bear in mind you’ll possibly need two if you are planning to tec dive).
What next?
It seems that whilst there are new features being added all the time, the technology of the actual dive computer hasn’t changed that much. For some reason, AI is still an option that you have to pay more for, meaning even the mid-range models are several hundred USD. Do you have to “upgrade”? I’d say there is no need unless your computer isn’t performing like it used to, or doesn’t have a feature that you think is essential.
After lots of research and time diving, I’m still using the Suunto Zoop, Cressi Leonardo, Suunto D5, Shearwater Perdix 2 and the Shearwater Tern TX. Not all at the same time of course!
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you want any advice on which dive computer might suit you.