Dive Computers: Practical Guide for Reef Divers

Tables used to be the only option. Today, nearly all scuba divers use a wrist-mount computer and it makes sense.

A dive computer monitors your depth, bottom time, speed of ascent, and no-deco limits in real-time. Tables can't do that. If you change depth mid-dive, a computer adjusts. Tables are set before you get in.

Watch-style computers are what most people buy now. These are small enough, readable underwater, and you'll wear them as a daily watch between dives. Console-mount computers are available but not as many people choose them these days.

Entry-level computers go for around $300-odd and handle everything the average diver needs. visit this They give you depth, bottom time, no-deco limits, log function, and often a simple apnea mode. Mid-range includes transmitter compatibility, improved displays, and extra gas compatibility.

What new divers don't think about is conservatism settings. Certain computers are more cautious than others. A cautious computer gives you reduced NDL. Liberal ones extend bottom time but with less margin. Both work. It's your style and how experienced you are.

Worth talking to someone at a Cairns dive shop who uses various computers first. Staff will give you a straight answer on what works and what's hype. Most good dive stores put out buying guides and comparisons online too