9 Dive Computers with Power-Packed Processors

When it comes to dive computers, you have lots of choices. Starting in the budget aisle and marching toward “money’s no object,” you can opt for a simple no- decompression-limits tracker for casual diving or a multi-gas computing powerhouse. You can wear a dive computer on your forearm, clip it to your BC or do the console thing; you can add a compass, lose a hose, or combine it all in an elegant wristwatch. In other words, the sky’s the limit in the world of dive-data crunchers. Following are nine of our favorites.

WRISTWATCH-STYLE COMPUTERS

SUUNTO D6i

›› Nitrox-capable to 100 percent, plus you can program up to two gas mixes

›› Four dive modes include a dedicated free-dive mode for going tankless

›› Full-tilt 3-D compass allows for navigation in virtually any swimming position

›› Optional hoseless air integration puts all critical data on one screen

The midrange model in Suunto’s “D” line, the full-featured D6i is a good choice for those who take their diving seriously but also want a nice wristwatch for topside use. CONTACT: aqualung.com MSRP: $1,100 to $1,595

SCUBAPRO MERIDIAN

›› Marine-grade 316 stainless-steel casing with two-toned brushed finish is rugged plus looks sharp

›› Full chrono functions for wet or dry use make it good for diving or jogging

›› Apnea mode for when you want to get serious about free diving

›› Optional wireless heart-rate monitor offers yet another data source to track your diving

As both a luxury watch and a muscular data cruncher, the Meridian offers state-of-the-art performance, both underwater and on the surface. CONTACT: scubapro.com MSRP: $649