Scotty
Guest
If you were to buy a computer today for under $450, what would you choose??? I just want some input on why and any other info you would like to pass on. Thanks.
If you were to buy a computer today for under $450, what would you choose???
- Thread starter Scotty
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leadweight
Contributor
Aladin Pro Ultra (list for $500, but most dealers will discount 10% or $350 at leisure pro). I like it because it is just like my Aladin Pro Nitrox and not insanely conservative like most newer designs. The display is easy to read, there are very few settings to mess up, these units are very reliable. The battery, which must be replaced by the manufacturer, will last for over 500 dives. Be warned, it is really short on features which is why a lot of folks don't like it.
I might also look at the Nitek Duo/Tusa IQ-700/Apeks Quantum, the last one being the non-us version of this $400 full featured two gas computer with a very readable display and all the latest bells and whistles. While shopping around, the best deal seems to be on the IQ-700 for $389 with a screen guard thrown in. Try Google.
Due to its propensity to produce very short bottom times when surface intervals are less than 90 minutes, the very popular Suunto Vyper, and other Suunto computers, do not interest me. They are, however, very well made and reliable.
I am not wild about any of the wqtch sized units as they are too hard to read.
The various Oceanic/Aeris units are OK provided you plan to never rely on them for any dive which exceeds the "no stop" limits. Recently subject to a price cut and available for about $260.
Your price range precludes integrated units, which is fine with me. I prefer wrist mount non-integrated computers.
I might also look at the Nitek Duo/Tusa IQ-700/Apeks Quantum, the last one being the non-us version of this $400 full featured two gas computer with a very readable display and all the latest bells and whistles. While shopping around, the best deal seems to be on the IQ-700 for $389 with a screen guard thrown in. Try Google.
Due to its propensity to produce very short bottom times when surface intervals are less than 90 minutes, the very popular Suunto Vyper, and other Suunto computers, do not interest me. They are, however, very well made and reliable.
I am not wild about any of the wqtch sized units as they are too hard to read.
The various Oceanic/Aeris units are OK provided you plan to never rely on them for any dive which exceeds the "no stop" limits. Recently subject to a price cut and available for about $260.
Your price range precludes integrated units, which is fine with me. I prefer wrist mount non-integrated computers.
AevnsGrandpa
Contributor
Just got in a new Atmos 2 - (Under $275 shipped!)
Next dive in a couple of weeks, can't wait to try it.
Jeff
Next dive in a couple of weeks, can't wait to try it.
Jeff
love2godeep
Contributor
They retail for $450 at Leisure, but I got mine on ebay for less than that, and it included a compass and quick-disconnect.
I decided on the Wisdom after doing a lot of research here on Scubaboard. I haven't regretted my purchase!
Why do I like it?
1. It tells me everything I need to know (and a bunch of stuff I don't know yet I need to know). This includes maximum depth, elapsed dive time, current depth, no deco dive time remaining, cylinder pressure, temperature, time of day, oxygen status, ascent rate, and decompression status.
2. It's easy to read and easy to use.
3. You can set the parameters.
4. It can be used with different gas mixes.
5. It keeps track of your last 50 dives.
6. It makes it easier to dive safely.
I clip it on a retractable line and attach it to a D-ring on my right shoulder, so it doesn't drag but is totally accessible at any time.
I'd recommend getting the quick disconnect. That way you can shield your precious computer from the diveboat demons.
You can check it out at http://www.sherwoodscuba.com/wisdom.html
Good luck!
I decided on the Wisdom after doing a lot of research here on Scubaboard. I haven't regretted my purchase!
Why do I like it?
1. It tells me everything I need to know (and a bunch of stuff I don't know yet I need to know). This includes maximum depth, elapsed dive time, current depth, no deco dive time remaining, cylinder pressure, temperature, time of day, oxygen status, ascent rate, and decompression status.
2. It's easy to read and easy to use.
3. You can set the parameters.
4. It can be used with different gas mixes.
5. It keeps track of your last 50 dives.
6. It makes it easier to dive safely.
I clip it on a retractable line and attach it to a D-ring on my right shoulder, so it doesn't drag but is totally accessible at any time.
I'd recommend getting the quick disconnect. That way you can shield your precious computer from the diveboat demons.
You can check it out at http://www.sherwoodscuba.com/wisdom.html
Good luck!
Boat
Registered
I opted for the Suunto Mosquito which I got for $301 at the LDS. It has "free, air, nitrox" functions, as well as being a fully operational wrist watch. The user can replace the battery and you can download your dives on your computer via Suuno's free dive manager software. If I lost mine today, I'd get another one to replace it without even looking at anything else. I love mine. Good luck.
cdennyb
Contributor
Starting out and wanting the latest gadget would put my vote in for the uwatec line of air integrated units. They are easy to use, The Nitrox Pro version (Obtainable on e-bay for under 200$) will run nitrox fopr you very conservatively but if you're really into diving and want to evolve intot he next level of educated diver, go with a bottom timer and a good watch. Use a quality tested and "cutting edge" software like V-Planner and then decide for yourself how deep you're going and how long you're staying and stick with the plan, you'll dive better and be more educated than looking at a fancy depth gauge and tank watcher.
just my humble opinion on a very contraversial subject.
db
just my humble opinion on a very contraversial subject.
db
AtomicWalrus
Contributor
Based on my experience with my Vytec, I'd go for the Suunto Vyper. It's reliable, easy to use, and has got some good features such as the dive simulator and personal preference settings. It's more conservative than some other computers out there, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
DeepTrip
Contributor
Absolutely Vyper, US$330 in my LDS. The feature I love is basically the same as said by others here. Another consideration maybe Uwatec Aladin Pro Nitrox, can't remember the price. Uwatec has extra long battery live, which reduce the frequency of battery change and hence, reduce the risk of leaking. On the other hand, Vyper has a confortable button, inteand of contact switch of Uwatec.
I still think that LDS is a good place to buy, if you value warranty more than slight price difference.
I still think that LDS is a good place to buy, if you value warranty more than slight price difference.
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