I want to buy a computer. I know the RDP table, bottom timer and depth gauge could also be enough to make recreational diving safe. But... I somehow feel safer with a computer (I could make calculation errors). I also seems interesting to me to know my ascending rates and so on. My fiance feels that a dive computer is not something you need first hand. But I actually just want to have one. First of all because usually it is not so easy to just rent one (well, at least it seems to me).
Thanks, Arwen. This makes perfect sense to me. I am concerned that new divers seem to always be pushed toward purchasing a computer early in their gear purchases for recreational diving, but are never actually told that they do not absolutely *need* a computer. It's clear you understand that a computer is an optional, rather than a required, purchase--an optional, rather than a required, piece of gear.
Good luck (and have fun) with your gear purchasing!
Safe Diving,
rx7diver