Do You Need to Buy Your Own Dive Computer?

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Back in the day, tables were the only option. At this point, nearly all scuba divers dive with a wrist-mount computer and for good reason.

The computer monitors your depth, bottom time, ascent rate, and no-deco limits in real time. Dive tables are a fixed calculation. If you change depth partway through, a computer adjusts. Tables don't.

Wrist-mount computers are the most common go for at this point. They're small enough, easy to read, and you'll wear them as a regular watch as well. Hose-mounted computers are still around but not as many divers pick them anymore.

Budget computers start around $250-400 and cover everything most divers requires. You get depth tracking, dive time, NDL, a logbook, and usually a simple freedive function. Mid-range gets you air integration, better readability, and extra nitrox options.

Something people don't think about is conservatism settings. Certain computers are tighter than others. A cautious setting results in less NDL. More aggressive ones extend time but at a thinner margin. It's not right or wrong. It comes down to personal preference and experience level.

Talk to people at a Cairns dive shop who uses multiple models before you decide. They'll offer honest opinions on what works versus resources what's just marketing. Most good dive stores put out gear reviews and comparisons on their sites as well

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