What Are The Best Dive Computer Watch?

Not to be confused with a dive watch, which is essentially a depth-rated timepiece whose main function is to tell time.  Dive computer watches are full-featured watch-sized dive computers that can make real-time decompression calculations.

They also provide the perfect mix of style and functionally and have quickly become the new icon of the serious scuba diver, similarly to what dive watches were to the early scuba divers.

With so many dive computer watches to choose from these days, we’ve created this guide to make it easy to find one that matches your personal style as well as your diving preferences and budget.

Let’s get started…

Below you will find our pick of the best dive computer watches available on the market today. Each has been chosen from a different price point and feature set to ensure there is a dive computer to match your budget and dive level. You can also use the table below to quickly compare their main features. 

Reviews of Some of the Best Dive Computer Watch

Any of the following watch-sized dive computers would be a great buy. The one that’s best for you basically come down to your personal preference and budget.

Just like anything else, you can get a really nice dive computer with all the features if you’re willing to spend a little bit more, but there are great products at every price point.

Best Budget-Friendly Dive Computer Watch Under $500

Watch-sized dive computers around this price range are great if you’re a beginner diver or if you prefer a more simplified dive computer. They generally have only the key diving features with a logbook to keep the cost a the bare minimum. 

Best Advanced Dive Computer Watch  Under $800

These dive computers are great for intermediate to advanced diving. They are more robust than their entry-level counterparts and generally have more advanced diving features, these may include air integration, digital compass, or the ability to handle multiple gases.

Technical Dive Computer Watch : Above $800

In this price range, you will find more high-end dive computers designed for more advanced diving and divers who simply want the best for all diving. They may include features such as a color screen, rechargeable battery, and features and display customization.

What Is A Dive Computer Watch?

Not to be confused with dive watches, which are basically depth rated timepieces whose main function is to tell time.  Dive computer watches are full-featured watch-sized dive computers that can make real-time decompression calculations.

Don’t let their small size fool you, thou. These small devices pack as big a punch and can have all the same features and capabilities as their larger counterparts. Including advanced features such as air integration, Nitrox capabilities, gas switching, and digital compasses.

Why Should I Consider Owning A Dive Computer Watch?

If you’re a scuba diver who’s serious about the sport, a watch-sized dive computer delivers the perfect combination of functionality and Style. Not only are they perfect for all your underwater adventures, but also looks great for a night out on the town, special event, or everyday wear.

Their small size also makes them a great travel companion for your next dive trip,  where reducing weight and saving space in your luggage is a major concern. Especially, with the rates, airlines are charging for checked-in luggage these days.

Many models are also equipped with a digital compass. Have you ever unpacked your dive bag only to notice that you forgot to pack your compass? This has happened to me once or twice before. But with a digital compass, you can simply set your computer to compass mode and you’re ready to go. The compass can be a little slow at times but get the job done. What makes them great thou, is many of the compasses can also be activated on the surface for land navigation.

Even if you already have the perfect dive computer, a dive computer watch also makes a great backup computer for fail-safe diving in the event your primary dive computer fails or malfunctions. Some models even have the capability to change its algorithm to closely match those of your primary computer

And, because you’re always wearing it, you will never forget to pack or lose your dive computer.

Did I forget to mention that they just look cool? Honestly, the first thing that comes to mind when you see someone walk in the dive center with a dive computer watch on is, this person is a serious diver.

What Should I Know Before Buying?

These types of dive computers aren’t for everyone thou. There are still a few things you should know about dive computer watches before you make the decision to buy.

If you are visually impaired or dive in low visibility conditions the smaller screen and digit might make them harder to read. The small buttons can also be harder to press when wearing thick gloves.

Also, because they are made to be worn on your bare wrist, the straps on many models are not long enough to go over a dry suit or thick wetsuit.

Changing batteries can sometimes be a pain as well. Because of their intricate construction, many do not have user changeable batteries and require an authorized service technician to change the batteries. So while you’re waiting for your batteries to be changed you’ll be out a dive computer.

The Bottom Line

Dive computer watches provide the perfect mix of style and functionally and has quickly become the new icon of the serious scuba diver, similarly to what dive watches were to the early scuba divers.

With so many dive computer watches to choose from these days, it is easy to find one that matches your personal style as well as your diving preferences and budget.