There is no doubt that the best console dive computers play a vital role in providing divers safety while diving. Besides, they also offer you numerous features such as a digital compass and air integration to make your exploration below the surface more fascinating.
For these above reasons, a console dive computer should be one of the first items purchased by any divers. It’s a worthwhile investment regardless of whether you regard diving as a new hobby or you are an experienced diver looking to improve your achievement.
To help you have the best choice, I reviewed the top 8 best console dive computers accompanied with an all-round summary in this article.
Table of Contents
My Top Picks
Each dive computer has its exclusive features. This poses challenges to you in choosing the most suitable model. That’s why I put the major functions of the top 8 best console dive computers in the short descriptions below.
- Best Overall: Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0
“Dual algorithm, air time remaining display, data retention, water or manual activation.” - Best Budget: Cressi Scuba Diving Mini Console PD2
“Compact design, pressure gauge, depth gauge, chromium-plated brass case.” - Best Air Integrated: SHERWOOD SCUBA Wisdom3
“2-3 times larger screen, seven different audible alarms, the adjustable unit of measure, expandable memory.” - Best Under $500: Suunto Cobra
“Three dive modes, three-button design for effortless navigation, customizable altitude, 36-hour logbook, automatic backlight display.” - Best Value for the Money: Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0
“22% bigger digits, adjust all the settings on the go, the newest Bluetooth technology.” - Best for Technical Diving: Aqua Lung i550
“User-updatable firmware, history mode, automatic altitude adjustment, single-button access.” - Best with Compass: Mares Puck Air
“Easy-to-read compass, a dot matrix screen, battery power indicator, plan mode.” - Best Quality: Oceanic Pro Plus X
“Four-button interface, thin-film transistor display, color-coded information, rechargeable battery.”
Comparison Chart
Now we move on to discovering technical details of the top 8 best console dive computers by looking at the following table.
The 8 Best Console Dive Computers Reviews
Everything has pros and cons, and the best console dive computers are no exception. Your preference depends on lots of factors.
Hence, it would be a good idea to know thoroughly about these models on my list. Join me to discover their features and see how they meet your expectations!
1. Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
The manufacturer of the Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0 gives priority to information display. Therefore, the dive computer is designed to provide divers a huge screen with the most oversized digits among other models on the market.
Besides, divers can take advantage of many interesting technological features. The Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0 displays air time remaining and dive time remaining that are calculated accurately through your personal data such as current depth, ascent rate, etc.
Also, you can optionally show this information in bar graphs or large numbers. For people new to sports, safety can take priority over anything else. Luckily, the Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0 is equipped with great user-customizable audible reminders.
Moreover, they are also combined with the flashing LED warning light for easy recognition. The dive computer features date and time stamps as well. I think this function will be useful in improving performance since it facilitates divers to find specific dives in a logbook.
Thanks to these marked dives, a diver can plan to practice effortlessly.
Key Features:
- Dual algorithm
- Air time remaining and dive time remaining display
- Customizable audible alarms
- Backlight
- Data retention
- Easy-to-read numbers
- Pre-planning mode
- Water or manual activation
Pros
- Provides divers accurate calculations of air time remaining and dive time remaining
- Be able to automatically activated by immersing in the water
- Easy-to-see alarms
- User-replaceable battery
- Divers can establish all the dive computer’s settings through their PC
Cons
- No digital compass
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Oceanic |
| Dimension | 13 x 5 x 3 inches |
| Dive Modes | Air/ Nitrox/ Gauge |
| Memory | 24 dives |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
The following video shows how to set up the Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0 Dive Computer before using it. Let’s check it out!
2. Cressi Scuba Diving Mini Console PD2
(Best Budget)
The Cressi Scuba Diving Mini Console PD2 might be the cheapest dive computer on my list today yet still ensuring a decent quality. It’s a piece of gear specially designed for measuring pressure and depth.
While the depth gauge at the top can show the maximum depth of 230 feet, the pressure gauge can read pressures up to 5000 psi. Both the instruments are made from chrome-plated brass composites, which are famous for superior durability.
Besides, the face of the two tools is color-coded, helping divers reading the information with great ease. Three different colored zones, including green, light blue, and red, will take you only a few seconds to get the crucial indicators.
Thanks to that, as a beginner, you can keep yourself safe in case you don’t find that your body is descending too quickly.
However, because of the modest price point, the Cressi Mini Console PD2 has some limitations compared to the others reviewed in this article. It’s obvious to lack a compass as well as air integration.
Read more about the Top 9 Best Budget Dive Computers here.
Key Features:
- Compact design
- Pressure gauge and analog depth gauge
- Maximum depth display of 230 feet
- Be able to show the pressure up to 5000 psi
- Chromium-plated brass case
- Rubber boot
- Two loops for attaching a clip or bungee
Pros
- Having an affordable price
- Both pressure gauge and depth gauge contain color-coded scale for ease of readability
- Easy to use
- Compact and lightweight dive computer
- The in-line design enables divers to read two indicators at the same time
- Ideal for divers of all levels
Cons
- No compass
- No air integration
- No USB port to connect with electronic devices
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Cressi |
| Dimension | 8.66 x 7.09 x 3.54 inches |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| Air Integrated | No |
| Warranty | 4 years |
3. SHERWOOD SCUBA Wisdom3
(Best Air Integrated)
The SHERWOOD SCUBA Wisdom3 comes with an intuitive interface and basic design, making it the best choice for anyone who prefers simplicity. It features a screen that is at least two times larger than most normal devices’ one.
Additionally, the dive computer also has a backlight system called HydroGlow that helps to illuminate the screen in the dark water. Thanks to that, the data displayed can always be clear for divers to read regardless of light conditions.
What interests me in the SHERWOOD SCUBA Wisdom3 is its expandable memory. The majority of equipment sold on the market now can accommodate a logbook of 50 dives, but the log mode of the SHERWOOD SCUBA Wisdom3 will allow you to store up to 110 dives.
In addition to a lot of appealing features, perhaps the only downside of the dive computer is that it doesn’t support Bluetooth connectivity as the latest version of the SHERWOOD does.
Key Features:
- Known as the simplest dive computer to learn for using
- 2-3 times larger screen
- Seven different audible alarms
- Adjustable unit of measure
- The quick disconnect design
- Expandable memory
Pros
- Air integrated dive computer
- Enormous screen
- Display air supply remaining
- Built-in a compass for better navigation underwater
- Provides three operating modes
- Smart design enables divers to bring the dive computer as a carry-on item
Cons
- Not supporting the battery saving mode
Product Specifications:
| Brand | SHERWOOD SCUBA |
| Dimension | 12.5 x 8 x 3 inches |
| Dive Modes | Air/ Nitrox/ Gauge |
| Memory | 110 dives |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
4. Suunto Cobra
(Best Under $500)
The Suunto Cobra is an incredible choice for anyone who wants to own a reliable and versatile dive computer. At a glance, you will love this gear because of its user-friendly interface with a three-button design.
Moreover, these buttons also are enlarged for easy to press even when you are wearing thick gloves. Besides, a backlight system is automatically activated whenever an audible alarm goes off, helping you easily feel potential dangers.
In addition, the Suunto Cobra also displays on-screen the information of divers’ air remaining time. It means that you can know how much your time below the surface is left and avoid putting yourself at the risk of running out of oxygen.
Additionally, the Suunto Cobra supports a USB cable to connect with your PC, enabling you to backup the dive data for later review. But it’s worth noticing that the dive computer’s logbook memory is quite modest with only 36 hours.
However, its compatibility with a wide range of other Suunto devices will provide you more flexibility in use.
Key Features
- Three dive modes
- Oxygen mixtures are adjustable from 21% to 50%
- Customizable altitude
- Maximum depth display of 492 feet
- 36-hour logbook
- Automatic backlight display
Pros
- Three-button design for easy navigation
- Effortless to read in low light conditions thanks to backlight display
- Available depth gauge
- Straightforward interface
- High compatibility
- Integrated with dive simulator and plan mode
Cons
- Limited memory capacity
Product Specifications:
| Brand | SUUNTO |
| Dimension | 7 x 3 x 2 inches |
| Dive Modes | Air/ Nitrox/ Gauge |
| Memory | 36 hours |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Here is a video review of the Suunto Cobra. Watch it and see how to use the dive computer effectively.
5. Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0
(Best Value for the Money)
The Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0 is a renewed dive computer from its previous version – the Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0. The latest edition features a massive display, while the digits are widened by 22% compared to its predecessor.
Besides, the Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0 is able to support wireless Bluetooth connectivity as well. This means that you can directly adjust settings and options from the comfort of your smartphone. Moreover, you can save an amount of money spent on buying a USB cable.
Accordingly, the Bluetooth 4.0 technology enables you to use the DiverLog+ App downloaded freely from the app store. The app will provide divers pre and post-dive mode that allows them to set up safety alerts before any diving as well as synchronize their dive profiles for long-term storage.
Another selling point of the Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0 is its dual algorithm, allowing recreational divers to choose a more conservative or more liberal approach.
Key Features:
- The newest Bluetooth technology
- Pre and post-dive mode
- 22% bigger digits
- Dual algorithm
- Adjust all the settings on the go
Pros
- Provides air integration and digital compass
- Support wireless connectivity
- All the features are customizable remotely just by using your smartphone
- An available giant screen with larger font size
- The dual algorithm makes the dive computer more suitable for multi-level recreational diving
- User-replaceable battery
Cons
- No USB cable included in the purchase
- No history mode included
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Oceanic |
| Dimension | 12 x 5 x 3 inches |
| Dive Modes | Air/ Nitrox/ Gauge |
| Memory | 24 hours |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB/Bluetooth |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Wireless Bluetooth connectivity is a remarkable benefit that the Oceanic Pro Plus 4.0 can bring divers. Let’s watch the video below to see how to take advantage of this function.
6. Aqua Lung i550
(Best for Technical Diving)
The Aqua Lung i550 is everything that makes a console dive computer great for both first-time and seasoned divers. It uses a user-changeable battery, which gives you versatility in use.
In addition, its data retention system also enables divers to back up their information and settings between battery changes. Moreover, the Aqua Lung i550 is built-in gas integration, making you have more selection to dive with.
Additionally, the tank pressure is displayed clearly on the screen for you to read smoothly. Besides, the dive computer’s software is updatable, making you always accessible to the latest features needed when you become more advanced.
The Aqua Lung i550 contains some functions such as an optional quick disconnect, an integrated compass, history mode, etc., as the improved model does. But it’s not able to connect to smart devices through Bluetooth.
Key Features:
- User-changeable battery
- Gas time remaining algorithm
- User-updatable firmware
- Backlight
- Audible alarms with additional LED warning light
- History mode
- Automatic altitude adjustment
- Single-button access
Pros
- Various operating modes
- Easy-to-see display
- Gas integration
- Provides accurate gas time remaining
- High-visibility audible alarms
- Ideal for new and experienced divers
Cons
- Download cable is not included in the purchase
- No freediving mode
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Aqua Lung |
| Dimension | 12 x 5 x 3 inches |
| Dive Modes | Air/ Nitrox/ Gauge |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB/Bluetooth |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
7. Mares Puck Air
(Best with Compass)
Thanks to its ergonomic design and straightforward interface, the Mares Puck Air Dive Computer is a perfect gear for divers at any level of experience.
Despite having a reasonable price, the dive computer will impress you with a wonderful display that harmoniously combines sharpness and flexibility. Furthermore, it features air integration and a digital compass as well.
One fabulous feature that I think beginners will love is that the Mares Puck Air uses one-button control. Thanks to that, accessing all the functions is easy as a piece of cake.
See also: 15 Best Dive Computers for Beginners
Besides, the Mares Puck Air’s depth rating is so surprising with the ability to display up to 492 feet. This means that the equipment enables you to go deeper than most other models on the market today.
Key Features:
- Built-in pressure gauge
- Easy-to-read compass
- A dot-matrix screen
- Battery power indicator
- Plan mode
- Fresh and seawater settings
- One button design
Pros
- Simple to control thanks to single-button design
- High-quality display
- Always know your air consumption
- The battery power indicator lets you know when your diving computer is running low on battery
- Suitable for divers of all levels
Cons
- Limited memory capacity
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Mares |
| Dimension | 10 x 12 x 6 inches |
| Material | Nylon Reinforced Composite |
| Dive Modes | Air, Nitrox and Bottom Timer |
| Memory | 50 dives |
| Battery | User-changeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Check this video review of the Mares Puck Air Dive Computer and learn the way to replace the battery on your own.
8. Oceanic Pro Plus X
(Best Quality)
The modern design combined with significant delightful features are two main benefits that make the Oceanic Pro Plus X become the most outstanding dive computer among any items trending in the market now.
The Oceanic Pro Plus X won’t let you waste time reading the essential information because it delivers the most legible digits of any console model. Moreover, the data is coded in various colors for reading as quickly as possible.
Additionally, the dive computer provides a thin film transistor display with high brightness to enhance your visibility even in sunlight or night conditions.
Read more about the Top 12 Best Scuba Lights here.
Technical functions are something that divers probably should spend most consideration. Luckily, they are the strength of the Oceanic Pro Plus X. The dive computer supports a dual algorithm which is ideal for diving with groups.
That’s because you are effortless to customize your decompression algorithm to make it fit perfectly with other companions. There is no problem even when your buddies use another brand’s dive computer.
Key Features:
- Four-button interface
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Thin film transistor display
- Color-coded information
- Dual algorithm
- Rechargeable battery
- Digital compass
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Wireless transferring data to your smartphone
- Intuitive interface
- Be able to see even in the strong sunlight
- Get the important information quickly, thanks to a color-coded system
- Multiple buttons
Cons
- Lacks more advanced technical functions
Product Specifications:
| Brand | Oceanic |
| Dimension | 7 x 4 x 4 inches |
| Dive Modes | Air/ Nitrox/ Gauge |
| Memory | 99 dives |
| Battery | User-rechargeable |
| PC Interface Compatible | USB/Bluetooth |
| Air Integrated | Yes |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Related Reviews:
Console vs. Wrist Dive Computer
Nowadays, wrist-dive computers are gaining popularity among divers. However, console models with notable features are also the preferred choice for some people. Therefore, this part is about the advantages and disadvantages of two mounting options.
1. Console Dive Computer PROS:
Easy to get all the information at a glance
You are accessible to your personal data such as current depth, dive time, air time remaining, ascent rate, etc., just with a brief look if using a console dive computer. A wrist-style one can do that as well.
But you will have to pay an extra amount because most inexpensive items of this type don’t support air integration or a digital compass. Besides, the wrist dive computer doesn’t show all the information in one view, so you will need to navigate through its menu.
Price
A console dive computer is usually cheaper than its counterpart-wrist-mounted model but still guarantees to provide you with adequate functions. For divers on a budget, the console computers should be your top priority.
Convenience
It’s uncomplicated to find that you are more likely to forget to bring your wrist dive computer than your console one when you travel. That’s because the console items are always attached to your regulator, making the risk of leaving it at home rarely happen.
In addition, you are also easy to lose the wrist one since it can slide off your wrist effortlessly.
2. Console Dive Computer CONS:
Not easy to see
As a beginner, you can find it harder to read the information in a console dive computer than a wrist one because it’s not the same as checking the time on a wristwatch.
Design
The console dive computer often is more cumbersome than the wrist one. Hence, divers might face being trapped as the console computer can get accidentally entangled with an object underwater. However, this is a theory if you attach your console item to the BCD properly.
| Criteria | Console Dive Computer | Wrist Dive Computer |
| Information | Get data in one view | Need to navigate through the menu |
| Price | Console dive computers are cheaper | |
| The frequency of forgetting | Hardly happen | Easy to happen |
| Interface | Wrist dive computers are easier to see | |
| Design | Bulkier | More compact |
Final Thoughts
If you seek supporting gear for your diving, you shouldn’t skip the console dive computer because of its premium features such as air integration, digital compass, etc.
And in case you have no idea of your model, I hope that my article will equip you with helpful knowledge in making a better decision.
For the best overall console dive computer, I’d highly recommend the Oceanic Pro Plus 3.0. This item comes with countless technical functions, including adjustable audible alarms, air time remaining display, and pre-planning mode, which will help divers improve their performance.
If you have a tight budget while still wanting to experience a model with full standard features, you should try the Cressi Scuba Diving Mini Console PD2. It is affordable but is identified as a piece of top-quality equipment measuring pressure and depth.
Feel free to let me know if you have any thoughts on this review. Or, if you know any other good console dive computers, let me know in the comment box. Plus, if you find this article useful, don’t forget to share it with your relatives and friends using the share button below.
