Considering a new computer

[Fireman Tom]

Hi Everyone,

I am considering buying a new dive computer. I talked with my local shop and they have recommended that I either go with the

Cressi Console Giotto 3 or the Cressi Console Leonardo 3

Just wondering if anyone has either of these units and what you like or dislike about them

Thanks in advance,

Tom

 

[Norwegian Cave Diver]

Buy a Shearwater Petral or Perdix

 

[Jonny Wishbone]

Let me guess.....your LDS sells Cressi computers

 

[tridacna]

Both are fine computers. The Giotto is a 3 button computer and slightly easier to use than the 1 button Leonardo. They use a RGBM algorithm which is conservative but fine for recreational diving. I’m not sure why he is recommending a console. Personally, I would get a wrist based computer and separate SPG. Gives you more flexibility as you advance.

Ignore the “your LDS sells Cressi” comments. Every LDS sells Cressi. It’s a good starter computer and has excellent customer service from the manufacturer.

 

[dmaziuk]

Hi Everyone,

I am considering buying a new dive computer. I talked with my local shop and they have recommended that I either go with the

Cressi Console Giotto 3 or the Cressi Console Leonardo 3

Just wondering if anyone has either of these units and what you like or dislike about them

Thanks in advance,

Tom

Other than 3 buttons, Giotto has 2 gasses with up to 100% O2, i.e. it supports accelerated decompression. You may want to consider how much extra you're willing to pay for that feature (or how much you'll save by not having it). I think about every current "recreational" computer in the $300 range has 2 gasses w/ pure O2 so now Giotto tends to be overpriced for what it is.

 

[Neilwood]

I have a Giotto and its a great computer.

I preferred the 3 button layout as it was slightly easier to use. One thing though is that I would always prefer to have a wrist mounted computer - so much easier to refer to during a dive.

 

[tridacna]

Other than 3 buttons, Giotto has 2 gasses with up to 100% O2, i.e. it supports accelerated decompression. You may want to consider how much extra you're willing to pay for that feature (or how much you'll save by not having it). I think about every current "recreational" computer in the $300 range has 2 gasses w/ pure O2 so now Giotto tends to be overpriced for what it is.

Giotto is sub $300. Why is it overpriced? I’d pay the premium just for the extra buttons. Changing mixes with one button between dives is a PITA chore. I doubt that the OP cares much about accelerated deco.

 

[rabe]

Giotto!
I had the Giotto (and now my gf uses it), and it's a great computer: easy to use, easy to read and set up, and very robust.
The Giotto also allows you to use different gasses, in case you need/want it.
Also, the 3 buttons allow you an easier use compared to the Leonardo.
One consideration: set the Safety Factor to 0.

 

[Trace Malinowski]

I am considering buying a new dive computer.

I know you specifically asked about two different Cressi computers. But, I really need to add my opinion that you really cannot do better than a Shearwater. I learned to dive using a gauge and tables in 1981. I bought my first computer in 1990 and owned several over the years such as Aladins and Dive Rites. As a dive pro, I've had to help people figure out their dive computers for a quarter century. When I became involved with DIR diving, I went back to just a gauge/timer with computer generated tables and ratio deco. Then, I was given a Shearwater for my birthday.

THE SHEARWATER IS A GAME CHANGER!

I have the Perdix (also has an air integrated model) and Petrel 2. Both do Air, Nitrox, Trimix, Rec, Tech, Cave mode. Amazing features including downloadable logs, custom screens, personal displays, two compasses, tissue graph, every detail you want to know, gradient factors, bubble model upgrade, Wow!

Just sent my Perdix back for a bad depth sensor that's covered under warranty. Diving my Petrel 2. Can't say enough for the performance and customer support.

I apologize for not answering the question asked, but the Shearwaters are such amazing computers that anyone thinking of getting a new computer should look into them before buiying something else. They have just released the new Teric. Rec, Tech, Freediving, Air Integrated, & Watch.

 

[broncobowsher]

Avoid any single button computer, I don't care the brand or the deal.

Shearwater is the standard in dive computers. If you can get one, that is the way to go.

And any dive shop will suggest what they have in stock over ordering anything in. They want to turn inventory and not sit on it.