Dive Computer Life Expectancy: Am I being BS'ed?

[Dash]

Hi all, Im a new diver just recently certified. Ive been researching and shopping for dive equipment and was recently in a dive shop looking at dive computers with my wife (also recently certified)

My wife is not "gadgety" and I was explaining to her that a basic comp like the Oceanic VEO 180 would suffice for her. At this point a store employee came up and said the VEO 180 was a "nice entry-level computer" (negative accent on the entry-level) but that the higher end (Suuntos, scubapros, etc.) would be better because they would last longer. (oh and yes, the employee works on commission.)

He then goes on to say that the Oceanics are known for only lasting 3 years, maybe 3-5 years. Thats why we should get a comp that costs twice as much...

At this point my BS meter pegged into the red. You're telling me that one of the Top 5-ish scuba equipment manufacturers (along with Aeris, Oceanic's sister company) is going to make a product that only lasts 3 years at a cost of nearly $300 - $400??

Can anyone comment on this? What is your experience with dive comp longevity?

Thanks for your responses.

 

[sasscuba]

My dad had an old Beauchat that lasted him 15 years. I think he was just laying down a thick load of BS. I do however have a Suunto Stinger and love it! Had it for 3 years now......oh oh I might want to throw it away before it breaks....

By the way welcome to ScubaBoard!

 

[PerroneFord]

Run away from that fool...

 

[The Kraken]

Dash,

I'm not going to make a comment on the motives or character of the dive shop employee, but I had an Oceanic Data Max Pro Plus that I dove for over 6 years.

That same computer is now well into its first year with its new owner and performing admirably . . .

. . . if that gives you an insight to Oceanic's durability.

the K

 

[Tamas]

LOL! I love that tactic. Maybe he was getting a better commission on the other brands.

Let me put it this way, Oceanic makes great products and always stand behind them no matter how old.

 

[cerich]

Dive computers get to work in an environment that is bad for them. I've sold(at retail) and owned virtually ever brand of computer out there at one time or another.

Oceanic computers have equal or better longevity to anything out there.

One of those brands you mentioned can't even change a battery in their 3 year old computers so owners have to spend money for an upgrade, we can repair virtually all of ours if required and a new battery hasn't needed Oceanic involvement in over 13 years.

Every store and employee will have a favorite brand, it's normal. As others have said if that was the blanket advice you got I would expect you can't count on that salesperson for objectivity.

Best,

Chris

PS- a ex student of mine (11 years ago) who has become like a father to me still dives his Oceanic computer I sold him then, even when I GIVE him newer units...)

 

[Loneranger]

I have had issues with both the data 100, and data plus models (7+ years ago). Oceanic customer service has always been top notch. One was replaced under warranty and the other cost about $60 to have rebuilt. Both units had 100's of dives on them. I am currently using a datatrans plus for the last 6 years with over 400 dives on it. No failures yet but based on what you say it might be time for a new one. Take your dollars to a shop that wants to meet your needs and not just make commission.

 

[Dash]

Thanks everyone for the replies. I am always surprised at the things some salespeople say. They think that just because someone is new to a sport/hobby, that they are clueless. I am a hobbyist by nature, Ive been involved in alot of other activities and have researched, considered and studied many types of equipment.

I was tempted to just laugh at the guy, but decided not to in order to keep the peace.

 

[Charlie99]

If you want to find out what is cheap, rugged, and reliable, check out what is in the rental pool.

The most common reason for buyer's remorse seems to be getting an air only computer, and then later wishing they had bought a nitrox capable one. The VEO180 has nitrox capability and should serve you well for a long time.

 

[cerich]

If you want to find out what is cheap, rugged, and reliable, check out what is in the rental pool.

The most common reason for buyer's remorse seems to be getting an air only computer, and then later wishing they had bought a nitrox capable one. The VEO180 has nitrox capability and should serve you well for a long time.

All of our current computers are nitrox, as of this month, the Veo 100 has been replaced with the Veo 100NX.