The Best Dive Computer: Our Top Picks for 2025

Garmin raises the bar once again with the Descent Mk3i, a premium dive computer smartwatch that blends cutting-edge dive technology with everyday wearability. Engineered for both recreational and technical diving, this high-end Garmin dive computer supports multiple gas mixes including air, Nitrox, Trimix, and CCR, making it a powerhouse for serious underwater exploration.

The Mk3i boasts a vibrant 1.4” AMOLED display with ultra-durable sapphire crystal and a titanium bezel for added strength at depth. With a maximum depth rating of 200 meters, this watch-style dive computer is built to thrive in demanding conditions. Full air integration is available when paired with the Garmin Descent T2 transmitter, allowing for real-time tank pressure tracking and SubWave sonar-based diver-to-diver communication — a standout feature among the best dive computers.

Smart dive modes include single-gas, multi-gas, gauge, apnea, and spearfishing modes, as well as advanced features like customizable dive screens, decompression and no-fly time tracking, dive planning, and surface GPS logging. The Mk3i also includes a 3-axis compass, depth and ascent rate alarms, and automatic dive log sync to the Garmin Dive app.

Outside the water, the Descent Mk3i transforms into a fully-featured smartwatch with multi-band GPS, heart rate monitoring, Pulse Ox, sleep tracking, smart notifications, music storage, contactless payments, and more. It offers up to 25 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 66 hours in dive mode, making it an ideal all-in-one companion for adventure travelers.

Often ranked among the best dive computers on the market today, the Descent Mk3i isn’t just a dive tool — it’s a complete smartwatch experience built for life above and below the surface. For those looking to consolidate gear and invest in top-tier performance, it’s easily one of the best budget dive computer alternatives in the premium category when factoring in its all-in-one value.

Best for: Technical divers, professional instructors, freedivers, and adventure travelers wanting a high-performance Mares dive computer alternative with full smartwatch functionality.

Key Features of the GArmin Descent Mk3i

• Advanced, watch-style dive computer features a stunning 1.2" AMOLED display, scratch-resistant sapphire lens and stainless steel bezel
• Dive-first design with 200-meter dive-rated case includes metal leakproof inductive buttons and multiple dive modes for recreational to technical scuba diving and freediving
• Enhanced SubWave sonar technology provides the ability to exchange preset diver-to-diver messages up to 30 meters
• DiveView maps offer bathymetric depth contours and more than 4,000 dive sites to help you find where to dive and get oriented
• Dive logs automatically sync with the Garmin Dive app downloaded to your compatible smartphone

If you're an outdoor enthusiast who also loves to dive, the Garmin Fenix 8 could be your perfect all-in-one solution. This premium multi-sport smartwatch now supports diving, and it packs in features like GPS surface tracking, customizable dive alarms, and a sleek AMOLED screen that’s easy to read in any conditions.

The Fenix 8 supports Air and Nitrox (up to 40%), and it uses the Bühlmann ZHL-16c algorithm, allowing for adjustable gradient factors — a big deal for divers looking for precise decompression profiles. While it doesn’t offer air integration, its ability to seamlessly transition from land to sea — tracking your trail runs, swims, bike rides, and dives — makes it a great pick for the active lifestyle.

With up to 27 hours in dive mode and 10+ days as a smartwatch, the battery life is impressive. While not a traditional dive computer in form, its dive mode is robust enough for recreational divers who want one watch for everything.

Best for: Divers who are also serious athletes and want one device for all activities.

Key Multisport Features

• AMOLED Display: Bright, easy-to-read display available in 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm sizes.
• Battery life: up to 29days on one change in Smartwatch mode
• Intergarded mic and speaker: For Voice controll and messaging
• Advanced Health Monitoring: Includes wrist-based heart rate, advanced sleep monitoring, and Pulse Ox.
• Multi-Band GPS: Superior positioning accuracy with SatIQ™ technology.
• Built-in LED Flashlight: Variable intensity light for dark environments, with red safety mode.
• Dive Capable: Rated to 40 meters and tested to engineering standard EN13319 for dive compliance.

Key Diving Features

• Dive Rating: Rated to 40 meters and compliant with engineering standard EN13319 for dive equipment.
• Nitrox Support: Capable of supporting multiple gas mixes, up to 40% Oxygen.
• Underwater Compass: 3-axis underwater compass with easy-to-read graphics.
• Dive Modes: Multiple dive modes including single-gas, multi-gas, gauge, apnea, and apnea hunt modes.
• Automatic Dive Start: Automatically starts tracking when you begin your dive.

If you've been looking for a beautiful, smartwatch-style dive computer that doesn’t compromise on functionality, the Suunto Ocean is a top contender. Designed for the modern diver, it combines sport features like heart rate and activity tracking with serious dive capabilities.

The Ocean supports up to five gas mixes, including Nitrox up to 100%, and offers air integration via the Suunto Tank Pod. The screen is bright and crisp thanks to the 1.43" AMOLED display, and the watch automatically logs dive entry and exit points using built-in GPS. You can view 3D dive paths post-dive using Suunto’s mobile app — a great tool for trip logging or training.

The battery life is strong too, giving you around 60 hours of dive time. Suunto’s RGBM algorithm is reliable and well-known in the dive industry, and the interface is intuitive, especially for divers moving up from a Zoop or similar model.

Best for: Divers wanting a sleek, smart design with high-end air integration and post-dive analytics.

Main Features of the Suunto Ocean Dive Computer

• Certified Dive Computer: Scuba dive computer capable to 60 m with air, nitrox, multigas support
• Suunto Bühlmann 16 GF algorithm: User-configurable decompression profiles
• Wireless Air Integration: Suunto Tank Pod pairing to monitor tank pressure and buddy gas usage
• 3D Dive Mapping: Visualize dive route in 3D within Suunto App
• AMOLED Touchscreen: 1.43″ high‑contrast display readable underwater and in bright daylight
• Durable Build: Sapphire crystal, stainless steel bezel, polyamide case for rugged performance
• Dual-Band GNSS & Offline Maps: GPS, altimeter, barometer, compass, contour maps accessible off‑line
• 95+ Sport Modes & Health Tracking: From swimming to yoga; sleep, recovery, HRV, calorie tracking
• Smartwatch Functionality: Notifications, music control, phone locator, custom watch faces
• Extended Battery Life: Up to 60 hours of dive use, 50 hours GPS tracking, 26 days in daily mode
• Eco-Conscious Manufacturing: Carbon offset, renewable energy production in Finland

This classic from Suunto has stood the test of time — and for good reason. The Suunto Zoop is a no-frills, easy-to-use dive computer perfect for beginners or as a reliable backup. It supports both air and Nitrox (up to 50%), and the large digits on the high-contrast display are easy to read underwater.

The menu system is simple, which makes it ideal for students or divers who don’t want to scroll through endless options. It doesn’t offer Bluetooth or air integration, but it does everything you need to plan and track a safe recreational dive.

It uses the Suunto RGBM algorithm, trusted by many training agencies around the world. The computer is durable, and while the design may not win awards for sleekness, it delivers where it counts: performance, safety, and price.

Best for: Brand-new divers looking for a simple, dependable computer that won’t break the bank.

Key Features of the Suunto Zoop Novo Dive Computer

• Five dive modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Freedive, Off – versatile for recreational diving or freediving modes
• Suunto RGBM algorithm: Continuous decompression calculations with deep stops and CNS/OTU exposure tracking
• Large dot‑matrix display: 49 × 22 pixel matrix with electro‑luminescent backlight for excellent readability underwater
• Depth accuracy to 80 m: Complies with EN 13319 standard; resolution 0.1 m to 100 m
• Dive log memory: Stores ~140 hours of dive data (diving profile, temperature, depth, surface interval), lifetime log history
• User‑replaceable battery (CR2450): Rated for ~100 dives per year (1.5–2 years), low‑battery indicator warns in advance
• Altitude & user adjustments: Three levels of conservatism and altitude settings up to 3000 m .
• USB data transfer: Compatible with Suunto DM5 for dive logging and planning; cable sold separately
• Freedive and gauge modes: Timers for apnea, surface time, and all-basic mode for manual decompression tracking 

Mares delivers outstanding value with the Puck 4, a no-nonsense option in the world of dive computers. Designed with simplicity and reliability in mind, this Mares dive computer supports both air and Nitrox mixes (up to 99% O₂), making it an ideal choice for recreational divers and those progressing into more advanced profiles. With a maximum operating depth of 150 meters, it covers the needs of most non-technical diving scenarios with ease.

The Puck 4 features a high-contrast, segmented LCD display with a strong backlight for low-visibility conditions, and its single-button interface ensures intuitive menu navigation — even with gloves on. It uses the proven Mares RGBM (Reduced Gradient Bubble Model) algorithm to calculate safe ascent profiles, and includes audible and visual alarms for depth, ascent rate, deco stops, and gas mix limits. The updated design now supports firmware updates via USB, and logs up to 100 dive hours with a detailed logbook and profile function.

This model also includes a plan mode, fresh/saltwater settings, altitude adjustment, and a user-replaceable CR2450 battery — rated to last up to 300 dives or two years under normal use. Its slim profile and lightweight build make it a comfortable fit for everyday diving without adding bulk to your wrist.

Often recommended as one of the best budget dive computer options available, the Mares Puck 4 proves that affordability doesn’t have to come at the expense of performance or reliability. It’s a solid contender among entry-level dive computers, and is frequently listed as one of the best dive computers for those who want essential functionality without a steep learning curve.

Best for: Recreational divers, beginners, dive schools, and anyone looking for the best value in a dependable, easy-to-use Mares dive computer.

Key Features of the Mares Puck 4 Dive Computer

• Display: 800 segments, chip-on-glass technology
• Battery: User-replaceable CR 2450 battery that lasts for up to 100 dives
• Modes: Air, nitrox, bottom timer
• Multigas capability: Up to three gases
• decompression: Adjustable decompression with user-adjustable surface interval
• Logbook: Tracks up to 100 dives, including graphs via the Mares app
• Bluetooth: Integrated Bluetooth for direct connection to a smart device with the Mares or SSI app
• Single-button control: Intuitive use
• Straps: Adaptable straps with a bungee for added comfort and flexibility

Garmin continues to impress in the dive market, and the Descent G2 is their most advanced model yet. With support for air, Nitrox, Trimix, and closed-circuit rebreather (CCR) diving, the G2 is made for serious exploration.

This model offers full air integration (with the G2i version), a bright AMOLED display, and GPS tracking for both dive sites and post-dive logs. It also includes features for freediving, apnea hunting, and technical dive planning. The customizable dive screens and color-coded safety prompts are standout features, especially when diving in unfamiliar environments.

As with all Garmin watches, you get full smartwatch functionality — think music controls, notifications, sleep tracking, heart rate, and maps. If you're traveling with limited luggage space, it replaces your smartwatch and dive computer in one go.

Best for: Tech divers, instructors, and travelers who want top-end dive features with full smartwatch power.

Key Features of the Garmin Descent G2 Dive Watch

• 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen (390 × 390 px) 

• Water-rated to 100 m / 330 ft, depth gauge and 3-axis compass for precise undersea navigation 

• Multi-gas support — handles single gas, nitrox, trimix, CCR, gauge, and freediving modes

• Surface GPS tracking & dive site waypoints 

• Battery life: up to 27 h in dive mode; ~10 days smartwatch; power-save extends to ~12 days; GPS-only ~20 h 

• Eco‑friendly build — case, bezel & buttons made from recycled ocean-bound plastic

• Health & wellness sensors — HR, HRV, Pulse Ox, stress, sleep, respiration, hydration, women’s cycle tracking 

• Multi-sport tracking — preloaded apps for cycling, swimming, hiking, strength training, surfing, golf, yoga, etc., with surfline widget 

• Smartwatch capabilities — notifications, Garmin Pay™, music control, safety/incident messaging, inReach Mini 2 pairing

• Dive log + Garmin Dive app sync — stores dives on-device with real-time depth & temp; view dive history on watch or app 

Garmin continues to impress in the dive market, and the Descent G2 is their most advanced model yet. With support for air, Nitrox, Trimix, and closed-circuit rebreather (CCR) diving, the G2 is made for serious exploration.

This model offers full air integration (with the G2i version), a bright AMOLED display, and GPS tracking for both dive sites and post-dive logs. It also includes features for freediving, apnea hunting, and technical dive planning. The customizable dive screens and color-coded safety prompts are standout features, especially when diving in unfamiliar environments.

As with all Garmin watches, you get full smartwatch functionality — think music controls, notifications, sleep tracking, heart rate, and maps. If you're traveling with limited luggage space, it replaces your smartwatch and dive computer in one go.

Best for: Tech divers, instructors, and travelers who want top-end dive features with full smartwatch power.

Key Features of the Garmin Descent G2 Dive Watch

• 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen (390 × 390 px) 

• Water-rated to 100 m / 330 ft, depth gauge and 3-axis compass for precise undersea navigation 

• Multi-gas support — handles single gas, nitrox, trimix, CCR, gauge, and freediving modes

• Surface GPS tracking & dive site waypoints 

• Battery life: up to 27 h in dive mode; ~10 days smartwatch; power-save extends to ~12 days; GPS-only ~20 h 

• Eco‑friendly build — case, bezel & buttons made from recycled ocean-bound plastic

• Health & wellness sensors — HR, HRV, Pulse Ox, stress, sleep, respiration, hydration, women’s cycle tracking 

• Multi-sport tracking — preloaded apps for cycling, swimming, hiking, strength training, surfing, golf, yoga, etc., with surfline widget 

• Smartwatch capabilities — notifications, Garmin Pay™, music control, safety/incident messaging, inReach Mini 2 pairing

• Dive log + Garmin Dive app sync — stores dives on-device with real-time depth & temp; view dive history on watch or app 

Cressi continues its legacy of innovative gear with the Raffaello, a sleek yet powerful wrist-mounted dive computer designed to cater to both recreational and tech-savvy divers. With four dive modes—Air, Nitrox, Gauge, and Free/Apnea—and support for three Nitrox gas mixes, it brings serious flexibility to your wrist.

This device boasts a large, flat, high-contrast color display protected by mineral borosilicate glass, ensuring your dive data is crystal-clear even in low visibility. Easily readable metrics include depth, temperature, dive time, ascent/desaturation status, CNS oxygen toxicity, surface/no-fly time, and more. 

Under the hood, the Raffaello runs the Cressi RGBM algorithm with configurable PPO₂ settings (1.2–1.6 bar) and adaptive decompression planning, offering both ceiling and deep-stop options. Audible/visual ascent-rate, decompression, and PPO₂ warnings ensure enhanced safety. 

Built tough yet remarkably light, it features a reinforced, nano‑strengthened body, robust metal buttons, and a silicone wrist strap designed for comfort—even over drysuit gloves. A long-lasting, user-replaceable battery lasts up to 4 years, perfect for extended trips or rental fleets Cressi.

Bonus features include built-in digital compass, automatic altitude adjustment, deep-stop alerts, free-dive and gauge modes, and optional Bluetooth connectivity for syncing dives to the Cressi app. 

Best for: Recreational to advanced divers, dive schools, and travel divers looking for a robust, readable, and feature-rich dive computer without smartwatch extras.

Key Features of the Cressi Raffaello

• 4 Dive Modes: Air, Nitrox (up to 3 mixes), Gauge, and Freediving/Apnea

• Cressi RGBM Algorithm: Adjustable settings for PPO₂ (1.2–1.6 bar), deep stops, and decompression

• Large Color Display: High-contrast flat screen with mineral borosilicate glass

• Clear Readability: Displays depth, temperature, dive time, ascent rate, CNS oxygen toxicity, surface/no-fly time 

• Safety Alerts: Audible and visual warnings for ascent rate, decompression, and PPO₂ thresholds

• Digital Compass: Built-in for easy underwater navigation

• Automatic Altitude Adjustment: Adapts decompression calculations to elevation

• User-Replaceable Battery: Long life — up to 4 years with standard use

• Durable Build: Reinforced nano-polymer casing, metal buttons, and comfortable silicone strap

• Bluetooth Connectivity (optional): Sync dives via the Cressi app

• Dive Log: Stores over 100 dives; downloadable with app or PC interface

• Apnea-Specific Features: Includes configurable alarms and surface recovery timer

Garmin continues to impress in the dive market, and the Descent G2 is their most advanced model yet. With support for air, Nitrox, Trimix, and closed-circuit rebreather (CCR) diving, the G2 is made for serious exploration.

This model offers full air integration (with the G2i version), a bright AMOLED display, and GPS tracking for both dive sites and post-dive logs. It also includes features for freediving, apnea hunting, and technical dive planning. The customizable dive screens and color-coded safety prompts are standout features, especially when diving in unfamiliar environments.

As with all Garmin watches, you get full smartwatch functionality — think music controls, notifications, sleep tracking, heart rate, and maps. If you're traveling with limited luggage space, it replaces your smartwatch and dive computer in one go.

Best for: Tech divers, instructors, and travelers who want top-end dive features with full smartwatch power.

Key Features of the Garmin Descent G2 Dive Watch

• 1.2″ AMOLED touchscreen (390 × 390 px) 

• Water-rated to 100 m / 330 ft, depth gauge and 3-axis compass for precise undersea navigation 

• Multi-gas support — handles single gas, nitrox, trimix, CCR, gauge, and freediving modes

• Surface GPS tracking & dive site waypoints 

• Battery life: up to 27 h in dive mode; ~10 days smartwatch; power-save extends to ~12 days; GPS-only ~20 h 

• Eco‑friendly build — case, bezel & buttons made from recycled ocean-bound plastic

• Health & wellness sensors — HR, HRV, Pulse Ox, stress, sleep, respiration, hydration, women’s cycle tracking 

• Multi-sport tracking — preloaded apps for cycling, swimming, hiking, strength training, surfing, golf, yoga, etc., with surfline widget 

• Smartwatch capabilities — notifications, Garmin Pay™, music control, safety/incident messaging, inReach Mini 2 pairing

• Dive log + Garmin Dive app sync — stores dives on-device with real-time depth & temp; view dive history on watch or app 

The Shearwater Teric is a high-end technical dive computer in a sleek wristwatch form, widely regarded as one of the best dive computers for serious divers. It supports multiple gas mixes including air, Nitrox, Trimix (up to 5 gases OC) and even closed-circuit with bailout (CC/BO), plus dedicated gauge, freediving, and recreational modes.

At its core is a sharp 1.39″ full‑colour AMOLED display (400 × 400 px), protected by rugged sapphire crystal and housed in stainless steel — perfect for low‑light diving and everyday wear. Four intuitive buttons and situation‑adaptive logic menus streamline navigation, even with gloves Dive Gear Express.

Additional features include Bluetooth connectivity for dive log sync, audible/vibration alarms (depth, ascent rate, gas alerts), timers and stopwatch functions, configurable sampling rates, and customizable display colors/straps. It also offers Bühlmann ZHL‑16C with GF decompression, optional VPM and DCIEM models, and Avelo Mode buoyancy guidance for advanced divers.

Best for: Tech divers, rebreather users, freedivers, and advanced recreational divers seeking a top-tier mares dive computer alternative that merges professional-grade functionality with everyday smartwatch-style wearability.

Key Features of the Garmin Descent G2 Dive Watch


• Depth rating: 200 m / 660 ft

• Battery: rechargeable Li‑ion (factory replaceable), up to 30 h in dive mode and 50 h in watch mode (wireless charging) dive SAGA+15Shearwater Research Inc.+15Scubadelphia DiveSeekers.com+15

• Dive log: stores ~500 h of 10‑sec sampling profiles Scuba Fusion Dive Center+15Shearwater Research Inc.+15Paragon Dive Group+15

• Air integration: connects to up to 2 (or optionally 4) transmitters for real‑time tank pressure and programmable gas switching en.wikipedia.org+4divers-supply.com+4Bluewater Photo Store+4

• Compass: integrated 3‑axis, tilt‑compensated for underwater navigation en.wikipedia.org+9Dive Gear Express+9Bluewater Photo Store+9

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Elma Tarr is the Scuba Gear Brand Manager at Bluewater Photo and an IDC Staff Instructor with over 3,500 dives to her name. Her passion for the underwater world began over 21 years ago, and she has since turned that passion into a thriving profession.

Elma’s interest in dive gear was sparked by a key insight early in her teaching career: one of the biggest obstacles for new divers was often improperly fitting equipment. This realization drove her to deepen her expertise in gear selection, fit, and performance, making her a trusted resource for divers of all levels.

An avid traveler and underwater photographer, Elma has explored dive sites across the globe, with a special love for macro photography. Her blend of field experience, technical knowledge, and customer-first mindset makes her an invaluable part of the Bluewater Photo team.