Purchasing your first dive computer. A non-technical approach.

[Lorenzoid]

I have deliberately not mentioned that. I don't want to promote anything and what works for me does not necessarily work for other people.

So, could you list what you found works for you? From that list of features, maybe we could figure out which computer you chose, which might be helpful to others who find this thread and are looking for a computer with similar features. I don't see that as promoting anything--I see it as helping others.

 

[Marie13]

I have deliberately not mentioned that. I don't want to promote anything and what works for me does not necessarily work for other people.

You're taking it to the other extreme...

 

[ronscuba]

Nothing wrong with the OP not wanting to say what they bought. They are just confirming that many dive computers can meet the needs of an OW recreational diver.

See if you can guess my dive computer. I will only list features that were important to me in my buying decision.

Easy to read color display
Wrist mount, watch sized
Nitrox capable, I think everything is now
Very easy to use/navigate
Mfr list price under $1,000

 

[dmaziuk]

I'll play:

puck-size wrist-mount
under $190 on a black friday package deal 4 years ago
not a zoop

 

[ronscuba]

I'll play:

puck-size wrist-mount
under $190 on a black friday package deal 4 years ago
not a zoop

Mares Puck or Genesis Resource ?

 

[stgcph]

I don't see that as promoting anything--I see it as helping others.

Please do not think that I don’t want to help others. As you well know, all recent dive computers in the segment I am talking about (recreational diving) have more or less the same features. There may be differences in ease of operation, screen layout, possibilities of individual settings, quality of documentation and the like.

The thing is that as you get to know it you get to love it despite whatever oddities it may have and whatever shortcomings it may have compared to more expensive computers.

I do not want to get involved in any discussions about pros and cons of different makes and models. I have seen too much of that already.

 

[dmaziuk]

Mares Puck or Genesis Resource ?

bzzt! better luck next time.


PS. Actually, I don't remember what the deal was with Puck: they were probably over $200 at the time and lost solely on the price tag. Genesis wasn't even in the running as I recall.

 

[2airishuman]

This sort of thing is a SB phenomenon that is not limited to dive computer discussions.

 

[CaptainCalamari]

I figured when I bought my first computer 3 months ago before I did my OW, that on a feature basis, they all did pretty much the same things at the cheaper end of the market.

I looked at comparative reviews, and looked at the major brands. My 2 criteria were price and external download capability. I chose a puck pro in red for myself and blue fur my son, so we wouldn't mix them up. Landed to Australia for Aud$220ea, plus Data cable for Aud$50.

IF I need/want to do tech diving in a couple of years, I can look at upgrading then on a needs/requirements basis, and I will be able to justify the investment at that point.

My personal advice, don't spend money now on functions YOU THINK you might need in 1-2 years time, buy for your immediate requirements (plus a little scope creep). This goes for computers, bcds/wings, regs, exposure protection, fins, masks, etc

Yes, you MAY but things twice, but if that happens, you are buying the second time with a true reason I'm mind of a capability you require.

Go and have FUN, that is what the F in BWRAF means

 

[ronscuba]

This sort of thing is a SB phenomenon that is not limited to dive computer discussions.

I know how the OP feels. Kind of annoying how BCD discussions always go towards BP/W, computer discussions towards Shearwater, fins discussions towards stiff paddle fins and frog kicking.

Some people get so focused on their gear, it's features, "coolness", the use and purpose of the gear is almost secondary. I have a bunch of friends that love their gear and diving in the local quarry. No animal life to see there. They just like being underwater and diving with their gear.