Uwatec Smart Pro or Suunto Stinger???

[Pauline]

Thanks for the info!

I may even be able to get a really good deal on a Aladin Air Z Nitrox....

I did really think about the Stinger, becuase of it's size, but I've just heard to many stories now about it not being so nice when you dive with lots of different group (The Stinger giving you less bottom time than the rest, the more you dive).

 

[pt40fathoms]

Both computers will work, however consider the following.

The major complaint about the Suunto is the conservative nature of this computer, and the battery needing to be replaced by a dealer.

The major complaint I have heard about the Uwatec is about failure of the computer, and the poor service when it fails.

Both of these reports come from divers I know who own the computers. The Uwatec owner is not happy due to failure of the computer and subsequent troubles with repairs, the Suunto owner wishes it were not so conservative but has no problem with the battery replacement issue.

If I were in the market for a new recreational dive computer, I would not choose the one that has complaints about failure, over the one that has complaints about being too safe.

Buy the Suunto.

 

[Pauline]

The Uwatec owner is not happy due to failure of the computer and subsequent troubles with repairs, the Suunto owner wishes it were not so conservative but has no problem with the battery replacement issue.

If I were in the market for a new recreational dive computer, I would not choose the one that has complaints about failure, over the one that has complaints about being too safe.

Buy the Suunto.

:11: Brrr..it really is scary to hear stuff like that. No one wants to buy their doom. Most people I've spoken with told me they've been using theirs for years and have been completely satisfied.

I did like the suunto a lot. I do like safety! It's just that I'm not always diving with the same buddy. I'm hoping to become a DM soon, (so not only my own recreational diving anymore) and lots of people are telling me it will be a big pain in the a** if you're going to dive that much (multiple dives on multiple days).
Nobody likes to have to shorten their dives, because it's time for 'the guide' to go up like 20 minutes early..
And I don't want to spend that much money to leave it on the boat every time I dive with other-computer-people, or ignore it underwater, so it locks out.

Now what to do?

 

[pt40fathoms]

:11: Brrr..it really is scary to hear stuff like that. No one wants to buy their doom. Most people I've spoken with told me they've been using theirs for years and have been completely satisfied.

I did like the suunto a lot. I do like safety! It's just that I'm not always diving with the same buddy. I'm hoping to become a DM soon, (so not only my own recreational diving anymore) and lots of people are telling me it will be a big pain in the a** if you're going to dive that much (multiple dives on multiple days).
Nobody likes to have to shorten their dives, because it's time for 'the guide' to go up like 20 minutes early..
And I don't want to spend that much money to leave it on the boat every time I dive with other-computer-people, or ignore it underwater, so it locks out.

Now what to do?

Have you considered the Mares M1. Every review I have read has had nothing but praise for it. I have owned one for 2 years, and I personally know and dive with 7 other divers who own one as well. The computer is a very good for multiple dives, will do deep dives past 60 metres, and Nitrox from 21% to 50%. I have not met any diver who owns one and did not like it. The only complaint has been the PC interface, which can be a little tempermental at times, but works well.

For an unbiased review, read the following reviews of dive computers, which include the M1. http://www.underwaterbob.com/dive_computers.htm

 

[Pauline]

I'll look into that one too!
Thanks for the link!

 

[H2Andy]

hi pauline... i've just been going through getting a new computer, and this is how i did it.

first, i set out my criteria:

1. wrist unit
2. had to do nitrox
3. user-replaceable batteries
4. normal conservatism (this ruled out the Suuntos)
5. price under $400.00 (US)

with those criteria, i just went through a few online sites (such as leisurepro, scubastore, etc.) and narrowed my list to the following:

1. Aeris Atmos 2 ($300.00)
2. Aeris Elite ($420.00)
3. Nitek Duo ($400.00)

i went with the Nitek Duo because it has multi-gas planning and it had much more
bang for an extra $100.00.

this is an example of the process i went through. you may come out with a different result.

 

[pt40fathoms]

I have heard good things about the Dive Rite Nitek line as well.

 

[Pauline]

Thanks for the info again you all!
Definitely wrist, definitely Nitrox.

I've really talked through what I want with an instructor-friend, and I've ruled out the Suunto for the diving I want to do in the future.
He owns a Aladin Air Z Nitrox and is very happy with it.
I've played with it a bit and I definitely like the display and lay-out. And of course the being hoseless.

Since I can get a real good deal on this computer (new), I think I've made my choice...

 

[SuPrBuGmAn]

I'm pretty sure that ScubaPro honors the life-time battery replacement for all their current computer models.

I myself have the Pro-Ultra, while it isn't the most feature loaded computer around, it has more than enough for safe diving in the conditions I dive under. The display is wonderful and its fairly inexpensive. I have a bit over 30 dives on it since last October('03) and it still retains 98% battery life. Its Nitrox capable and the default settings aren't too conservative to keep you underwater any less than your buddies nor will they have you stopping constantly on the way up as long as you keep your ascent rate slow enough

 

[nwdiver2]

For that price buy two suunto Gekkos and you then have a backup. If you don't push NDLs then Suunto is fine. The conservative approach probably save 1000s of chamber rides a year and several dozen deaths per year.

Pick what you need then look at what you want.

User changeable batteries are good
Proper alarms rapid accent, max depth, safety ceiling
Nitrox, but not much come without it these days
Multiple gas
Wrist or console
Air integrated hose or transmitter; for the price your looking at paying it may be an option.