Considering the features it provides and its ease of use, it is safe to say that the Zoop Novo delivers the best price to quality ratio at the moment. No matter if you are exploring new territories or diving in a spot that you are already familiar with, it provides you with key data that will make the session a lot safer. It even helps with freediving as it features an integrated apnea timer, which makes it perfect for recreational divers.
Design
The case and bezel are made with composite material to ensure durability, while the glass is made with acrylic. The strap is made with elastomer to fit your hand comfortably. As it is designed to resist water damage when submerged 80 meters, you can go really deep and still rely on it. It weighs only 4.23 ounces, which means that you will barely feel you have it on your wrist. Furthermore, it measures only 2.6 inches by 2.6 inches by 1.03 inches, so it won’t look too big for your hand.
Functions
There are 5 modes that you can select between with it – air, nitrox, free, gauge, and off. When set in the air mode, it shows how deep you go and how long you can stay at that specific depth, focusing on recreational dives. When set in the nitrox mode, it automatically adjusts your decompression algorithm and sounds off an alarm when you go too deep. In the free mode, it records dive times and maximum depths without penalizing you for ascending times, which makes it ideal for snorkeling. In the gauge mode, it acts like a simple depth gauge, without taking into consideration decompression info. Lastly, the off mode deactivates its automatic activation when it gets wet.
Mention Worthy Features and Specs
- Battery level is shown on the screen so that you are alerted of its status and not let the device run out of power when you are in the middle of a diving session.
- It is able to hold up to 140 hours of diving data so that you may keep better track of your sessions.
- Utilizes a continuous decompression algorithm that ensures safer ascents during your sessions.
Warranty
As well designed as it may be, there is always something that could go wrong with the Novo. In the off-chance that this does happen and you need a part to be replaced as it has malfunctioned, or it performs bad to begin with due to a manufacturing mistake, you can have it fixed or replaced free of charge during the first 2 years since the moment of purchase.
| PROS
|
CONS
|
- Allows you to adjust algorithm settings to make it more conservative and enhance safety levels
- Perfect for entry-level scuba divers and hobbyists due to its design and easy-to-read display
- Great value for the asking price
- Generously-sized log book allows you to store numerous information
|
- Large size does not allow you to wear it as a watch
|
| VERDICT
|
|
Great for beginners and hobbyists alike, this wearable is a must-have for scuba divers who want to make sure they are always aware of their surroundings and the time they have left underwater. If you want to spend your money smart, we urge you to put this device at the top of your scuba gear shopping list.
|
2. Cressi Giotto KS740052
The clean display of this wearable makes it easy to use as it is not stuffed and you are not bombarded with abbreviations you would not have understood if you were a beginner. Furthermore, the advanced information it displays makes it equally good for professionals, so there are no limitations when it comes to who it can be used by.
It features three buttons which are easy to access and allow you to press them even when you are wearing thick gloves. The battery of the device can be easily changed, so there is no need to take it to a professional shop or service center. The audible and visual warnings it provides announce you when perilous situations arise so that you are always safe.
It can handle oxygen levels ranging from 21 to 99 percent when it is set in the Nitrox mode, and its pO2 limits are adjustable from 1.2 to 1.6 bars. Operational until you reach a depth of up to 120 meters, you can descend freely without worrying too much about how deep you go. Reasonably priced considering the specs it boasts and delivering a near perfect performance, it is an option we recommend you do not overlook.
| PROS
|
CONS
|
- Visual and audible warnings for ascent rate violation and CNS toxicity
- Available in a wide range of color combinations to suit your scuba diving attire
- Boasts features which make it a perfect choice for entry-level as well as experienced divers
- Three-button design allows an easy navigation and use
|
- Lacks air integration
- Oversized design does not allow you to wear it as a watch when you are out of water
|
| VERDICT
|
|
The functionality of this scuba diving device is enhanced by the multiple features which accompany it, features that make it appropriate for use by experienced and entry-level divers alike. Although it lacks air integration, this is not a big downfall seeing how its overall performance is notably superior to most devices in its niche, making it worth every cent you spend on it.
|
Cressi Leonardo FBA_KS770050
3. Cressi Leonardo FBA_KS770050
Featuring the RGBM algorithm, this device permits safe decompression calculations for numerous descends, making for a great choice when you go traveling and cannot afford to lose time on changing settings or generally tending to it. To enhance your safety while diving, it features an onscreen indicator that displays a stack of arrows, guiding you to ascend in the best conditions possible.
Designed to be as straightforward as possible to that inexperienced scuba divers won’t have a hard time figuring out its operation, it allows user replacement of the battery. This does not only spare you from time lost going to a professional service shop but money as well. The wide display allows you to easily read the data on it, its segmented dot matrix taking the guesswork out of using the device.
One of its main selling points is the one-button user interface which provides the most simplistic operation possible. In case it gets a bit too dark when you are underwater, you can opt to turn on the backlight and read the info displayed on the screen with ease. Additionally, it puts three operating modes at your disposal so that you may have a smooth experience when diving.
| PROS
|
CONS
|
- Single-button interface makes it one of the easiest to use devices in its niche
- Conservatism can be adjusted to your liking to enhance safety levels as you see fit
- Onscreen indicator displays arrows to help you ascend safely
- You can reset it after each use – great for rentals due to this feature
|
- Does not feature an integrated compass
|
| VERDICT
|
|
This is one of the best devices to opt for if you are looking for a simplistic operation. The performance it delivers matches the asking price, so you will not feel like your money has been spent recklessly on it. Furthermore, its conservative nature makes it one of the safest options to go for as it puts your well-being on top of anything else.
|
Despite the fact that there are numerous notable features which accompany this product and make it perfect for use by entry-level divers, it actually comes at a more than reasonable price. Thus, it is not a significant investment, and one that you will surely not regret making as after your first diving session with it on your wrist you will fall in love with it.
The personal profiles it features allow you to adjust the algorithm however you want, thus enabling you to make it more conservative and enhance diving safety by doing so. Capable of storing numerous information, you will be able to go back and review info about previous diving sessions at any point.
It boasts a single-button navigation that takes all the hassle out of using it, and the strong backlight it features can be set to last from 1 to 10 seconds in order to preserve battery while still making it easy for you to see the displayed data when there are low lighting conditions. Another notable highlight is the fact that it can handle oxygen mixtures from 21 to 99 percent when set on the Nitrox diving mode.
| PROS
|
CONS
|
- One of the most affordable options in its niche
- Single-button interface endorses a smooth and easy operation
- It comes with all the features an entry-level diver could ask for
- Allows you to adjust the algorithm to your liking, enabling you to make it as conservative as you wish
|
- Oversized design does not allow you to wear it as a watch
|
| VERDICT
|
|
Undoubtedly one of the best options on the market, this Mares device boasts an enhanced performance and it comes with a wide array of features, being perfect for entry-level divers. The one-button operation and oversized display are as user-friendly as it gets, and it comes at a highly affordable price as well, so you won’t have to empty your pocket to purchase it.
|
Our last pick comes from Mares yet again. It is the Puck that took the scuba diving world by storm when it first came out as it came with the most innovative features at that time, and its precision and dependability was basically unsurpassable. As time passed, other devices have appeared which are better than it is, yet the Puck still maintains its place among the best entries on the market.
Undoubtedly, this is the best budget option to go for as it comes at a cheap price when compared to its direct competitors. The simplistic yet reliable interface makes it great for hobbyists and inexperienced divers alike. It puts three functions modes at your disposal, and it can support Nitrox between 21 and 50 percent.
To add to its convenience in use and appeal, it comes with watch, date, and temperature functions, so you can use it while you are underwater just as easily as you can use it while you are on land as long as temperatures do not exceed the range it can tolerate. When it comes to its internal descend log, this device shines once again as it can store up to 38 hours of material.
| PROS
|
CONS
|
- Great asking price to quality ratio
- Single-button design makes it a fairly easy device to operate
- RGBM algorithm ensures safety when you are diving
- Built to last – durable and reliable in the long run
|
- Operation makes it too basic for professional divers
|
| VERDICT
|
|
When this Mares device appeared, it truly took the diving world by storm due to its design, features, and overall performance. These days, it still maintains its position at the top of the niche, even though there have appeared some products which clearly surpassed it. Boasting a cheap asking price and a complete operation, it makes for the best budget purchase for beginner divers.
|
In terms of pricing, the i300 is one of the more affordable products, which is a major upside. it puts a total of 4 operating modes at your disposal to select between depending on your needs – Air, Gauge, Nitrox, and Free Dive. It is one of the more convenient to use devices as it features backlighting which makes it possible to read data off of it even in low light conditions. Furthermore, it saves data, settings, and calculations between battery changes so that you won’t lose anything of importance.
It boasts a reliable ruggedness which makes it one of the more durable devices. One of its more interesting features is the water-activated “On” switch that makes your life a whole lot easier, ensuring you it will turn on when you start descending even if you forget to turn it on yourself. The easy-to-use interface is another aspect worth praising as it makes it perfect even for first-time owners.
It provides you with easily understandable tissue-loading graphs and ascent-rate graphs. When it comes to the warranty that accompanies it, know that the manufacturing company backs it during the first 2 years after you purchase it.
| PROS
|
CONS
|
- Provides you with 4 flexible operating modes – Nitrox, Air, Free Dive, and Gauge
- It retains your data between battery changes
- Backlight makes it easy for you to read off the screen when it is dark
- Audible alarms and LED warning light let you know when nitrogen levels are low or you are too deep
|
- Some female customers found its design to be a bit too clunky
|
| VERDICT
|
|
The i300 is one of the more affordable selections to go for. Not only this, but it is quite feature-rich, putting no less than 4 different operating modes at your disposal, and ensuring you will keep safe through features like the audible alarm and the LED warning light.
|
Underwater Safety Considerations
While exploring the underwater domain can prove to be one of the fascinating experiences to ever behold, it is just as dangerous. The unmapped territory and the thrill of the unknown are what drive people to spend as much time as possible as often as they can underwater, but they must take a lot of safety precautions when doing so as the water can truly be a cruel mistress to those who are unprepared.
No matter how experienced you are, if you are an entry-level diver or a professional, one gear you should have on you at all times is the diving computer. It prevents decompression sickness and it helps guide you when it comes to the right amount of time you should spend underwater so that all decisions you make when diving are informed and based on precise calculations. It might be a small device, but it really packs a punch, that’s for sure.
We have already explained how the wearable works, so you are aware of why it is trustworthy and just how much more it makes your life easier as it takes complicated calculations off of your hands. Instead of having you slave for hours figuring out how long the diving session should be and how far or deep you should go, it displays in a matter of seconds the information to keep you updated with your situation. Taking into consideration the fact that it automatically picks up time and pressure, safety is further enhanced as these are parameters you are unlikely to guess with a high level of precision on your own before starting the expedition.
| Criteria |
Impact/Importance |
Best Product |
| Water Resistance |
The water resistance rating shows what is the maximum depth you can reach while wearing it. Obviously, for an experienced diver, it is better for the maximum depth to be bigger, while a beginner could just as easily go for a device which does not allow him/her to go further underneath. |
Mares Puck Pro, Mares Puck 414117 |
| Operating Temperature |
Another important rating element which influenced our depiction of the best products in this niche is operating temperature as this stat shows under what conditions the device can be used. Obviously, it is best for the temperature range to be more generous in order for the device to be dependable in all situations. |
Mares Puck Pro |
| Log Book Memory |
The memory of the log book shows how many hours can be stored on the device. When the limit is reached, you must transfer the data in order to not lose it, or delete it completely in case you are not interested in saving it for further evaluation. |
Suunto Zoop Novo |
| Backlight |
The backlight allows you to see what info is displayed on the screen with ease even when there are very poor lighting conditions. Seeing how the underwater environment is quite different than the above ground one, poor lighting being an often occurrence, this is a vital feature. |
Suunto Zoop Novo, Cressi Giotto KS740052, Cressi Leonardo FBA_KS770050, Mares Puck Pro, Mares Puck 414117 |
| Audible Alarms |
Audible alarms are triggered in situations where your attention is needed as it is time to ascend or something else has happened. As you are diving, you won’t always pay attention to the wearable device, so it is important for it to signal you when an unwanted situation arises for you to be kept safe throughout. |
Suunto Zoop Novo, Cressi Giotto KS740052, Cressi Leonardo FBA_KS770050, Mares Puck Pro, Mares Puck 414117 |
| Low Battery Indicator |
When the battery runs out of power, the device obviously turns off. As this happens, you are not aware of the parameters of the diving session anymore and you must get out of the water to not risk running out of air at an inopportune moment. This is where the low battery indicator comes in, announcing you beforehand that the battery does not have much juice left for you to use the wearable and ascend in perfect conditions with its help. |
Suunto Zoop Novo, Cressi Giotto KS740052, Cressi Leonardo FBA_KS770050, Mares Puck Pro, Mares Puck 414117 |
These dynamic and precise diving devices continuously track and calculate your nitrogen uptake and its elimination based on the profile of your sessions, taking pressure decrease into account as you ascend. This is only one of the highlights of the product and one of the many reasons why you need it if you practice scuba diving either as a hobby or if you have taken it up at a more professional level. Find out more regarding the advantages of diving with it by your side after reading the following lines, and you will surely have an easier time understanding why it is a must-have.
-
Continuous Decompression Status Tracking
The main purpose is to help you avoid decompression sickness, an uneasy feeling that makes some people stay away from underwater diving for long periods of time as it scares them. Tracking your theoretical in-gassing and out-gassing of nitrogen based on your body, they track all the important parameters throughout the changing depth of the diving session to prevent the sickness which accompanies decompression.
-
Accurate Recordings of Depth and Time Parameters
One of the biggest challenges you are confronted with is accurately calculating the maximum depth and bottom time. Unfortunately, as you do the table calculations a lot of inaccuracies can occur. As you use it, this concern is eliminated as the device constantly and accurately records maximum depth and diving time, faulty info not existing anymore and your experience underwater becoming safer.
-
Easy to Understand Ascent Rate Indicators
The ascend rate varies from one situation to another, divers being instructed to ascend slowly as the table prescribes for maximum safety. Usually, the ascension rates range from 30 to 60 feet per minute, being mandatory for you to stick to them in order to avoid decompression sickness. Alas, the table is not dependable from this point of view as it does not provide accuracy, and it cannot predict the profile of the diving session. However, computers feature ascent rate monitors and warning devices which enable a smooth ascend each and every time you descend, thus enhancing safety.
-
Elimination of Errors
Errors can easily occur when you are using the table as you might tend to forget how to use it and do the proper calculations. Seeing how with the calculator you are not performing the calculations yourself as the device tends to this operation, automatically taking into consideration the decompression status as well, errors will no longer exist and you will have more fun when diving.
Making the right pick is not as easy as it seems. In theory, the wearable might have the role of making your life easier by eliminating the need for you to do any calculations, and it might considerably enhance the safety of your diving sessions, but this does not mean that all devices are alike and that their performance is equally impressive. Obviously, you would not want to take chances and end up with a decompression computer which does not perform as expected, reason why we put together a comprehensive buying guide for you to follow. As long as you answer these questions before you go shopping and keep your answers in mind when you make the ultimate pick, you will be pleased with your option for sure.
-
What Is My Diving Level?
Clearly, the first question you must ask yourself and answer to truthfully is what diving level you are at as the entire design of the device depends on this question. If you are a beginner or a hobbyist, a simple device is the right choice as you will not have to waste time underwater figuring out what the abbreviations on the screen stand for. On the other hand, if you are an experienced diver, it must come with more advanced features like trimix capabilities, for example, enhancing your experience when you are underwater.
-
Is It Easy to Use?
Regardless of your diving experience, one thing is for sure – you do not want to end up with a device too hard to use and that will have you waste time switching between settings and operational modes. Thus, you must be on the lookout for a user-friendly design and interface. One of the main highlights of a simplistic device is a big display which does not use intricate abbreviations, and easy to press buttons which allow you to toggle between selections even when wearing thick gloves.
-
Can It Operate When There Are Harsh Temperature Conditions?
Sometimes the water will be quite friendly temperature-wise, while at other times it will feel like it is freezing. Make sure that the model you do pick can withstand colder temperatures as well as normal temperatures, as you surely do not want to have to cut your diving session short because of this circumstance.
-
Is It Easy to Read the Displayed Info Underwater?
Seeing how the environment underwater is completely different than it is above ground, you have to take into consideration the fact that there will likely not be the best lighting conditions at all times. Thus, you will not have an easy time reading the data off of a small screen. To make sure you will be satisfied with your purchase, you should go for a model with a wide-size screen onto which information is clearly displayed.
-
How Much Am I Willing to Spend On It?
Of course, you must set a budget before you start browsing to make your life a bit easier. This way, you will eliminate products that are way above your pay grade, and you will have a more realistic look at what models you can and cannot buy. While these devices are more than important for scuba divers, this does not mean you have to sacrifice too much when purchasing one as a cheaper product could be just as great performance-wise as a more expensive one. Just take your time, do the proper research, and you are sure to find the right one for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
?How does water resistance factor in the overall performance of the product?
Water resistance is actually one of the first specs you should check out when making the purchase as it basically tells you under what circumstances you can and cannot use the device. If the water resistance rating of the product is 120 meters, for example, this shows that you should not exceed this depth limit when you are underwater as the device will not be able to support it and might receive irreparable damage.
?What is the average life of the device?
On average, the device lasts for 1-2 years, or from 300 to 500 diving sessions. Obviously, the lifespan differs from one model to another as well as from one user to another. The amount of times you use it basically influences its lifespan, regardless of the model in question. Thus, if you are a passionate scuba diver and you take up this activity often, expect for it to last about 2 years.
?How should I proceed if it stops working during a diving session?
Unfortunately, as all devices, these computers can malfunction or have an array of issues appear while you are using them, underwater. When this occurrence arises, you should bail out immediately and not take any chances as you will not be aware of the nitrogen level anymore and risk an unfortunate accident happening.
As now you are well aware of the importance of wearing the diving computer when you go on your underwater expeditions, it should be more than clear that you cannot afford to go underwater without it. Seeing how we put your safety and convenience on top of everything else, we took our time and tested each product to deliver a truthful depiction of the best products in this niche. The Suunto Zoop Novo undoubtedly shines brightest as it allows you to store up to 140 hours of diving sessions in its log book and it can operate in harsh temperature conditions without a problem. Furthermore, it is designed to be easy to use and its display is clean, allowing you to effortlessly view the info it provides.
Our second pick is just as reliable in its operation, the Cressi Giotto KS740052 providing you with important diving info up to 120 meters underwater. When it comes to budget-friendly options, know that while the Mares Puck Pro and the Mares Puck 414117 are indeed cheap, they provide accuracy and an array of information which come as a surprise considering the low asking price.
