best scuba dive
The Best Dive Computer on a Budget
Mares Puck Pro
Specs
- Buttons: 1
- Depth Rating: 492 Feet (150 Meters)
- Memory: 36 Hours
- Battery: User Changeable
- Operating Modes: Air, Nitrox, and Bottom Time
- Oxygen Blend: 2 Gasses, up to 99% O2
- Display: LCD Backlit
- Compatible Technology: PC
Features
- Oversized, Easy to Read Display
- Can Be Used As A Stopwatch
- Residual Nitrogen Reset for Use by Multiple Divers per Day
- Can Use Multiple Gas Blends in a Single Dive
BEST FOR: BEGINNERS
If you’re shopping on a budget and don’t mind an entry-level computer, the Mares Puck Pro is a great pick. This model has a large, easy-to-read screen and simple, intuitive menus, so it’s a very user-friendly option. Its three basic operating modes cover everything that you’ll need as a beginner or intermediate diver. And, it allows you to select a more conservative dive profile for added safety underwater.
The Puck Pro isn’t a very stylish option, and some divers joke that it was named for its “hockey puck” appearance. But, its durable rubber and plastic exterior is tough enough to withstand years of use and abuse. So, it’s perfect for newbies and divers who are hard on their gear. The Puck Pro also makes an excellent backup computer, so it’ll still come in handy once you’ve enhanced your diving skills.
Suunto Zoop
Specs
- Buttons: 3
- Depth Rating: 328 Feet (100 Meters)
- Memory: 50 Hours
- Battery: User Changeable
- Operating Modes: Air, Nitrox
- Oxygen Blend: 1 Gasses, up to 50% O2
- Display: LCD Backlit
- Compatible Technology: PC
Features
- Highly Conservative Dive Profile for the Safest Immersions Possible
- Rugged Exterior Can Withstand Intense Wear and Tear
- Cold Water Compatible
- Phosphor-Luminescent Display Retains a Glow After Shining a Dive Light on It
BEST FOR: JUST THE BASICS
It’s no surprise that the Suunto Zoop is one of the best selling dive computers of all time. This is one of the most basic models on the market, perfect for beginners. With three operating modes, an oversized easy-to-read display, and intuitive menus, it’s a dive computer so simple that anyone can use it. And, it’s a top pick for divers who wear prescription lenses, too.
The Zoop is preset with a super conservative dive profile, so it may feel limiting as you progress in diving. But, this added safety feature is perfect for newly certified divers and students. Someday, when you want to upgrade to a more liberal model, your Zoop will probably still be in excellent condition. This computer is one of the most rugged options around, with a hard rubber and plastic exterior built to take a beating.
Cressi Leonardo
Specs
- Buttons: 1
- Depth Rating: 393 Feet (120 Meters)
- Memory: 70 Hours
- Battery: User Changeable
- Operating Modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge
- Oxygen Blend: 2 Gasses, up to 50% O2
- Display: LCD Backlit
- Compatible Technology: PC and Mac
Features
- Adjustable Dive Profile for a More or Less Conservative Experience
- Residual Nitrogen Reset For Use By Multiple Divers Per Day
- More Compact Than Similar Models
- Sold in a Variety of Colors
BEST FOR: OVERALL VALUE
More bells and whistles don’t always make for a better dive computer. The Cressi Leonardo is an excellent, basic model that does everything you need and nothing you don’t. It uses a single button design, so its menus and settings are easy to navigate. And, this computer can be manually reset between uses. This extra feature makes it a popular choice for rental equipment and for divers who share gear.
For a budget-friendly model, the Leonardo is surprisingly stylish. Its low profile design looks more like a watch than a dive computer, and it comes in multiple colors. But, this computer’s smaller screen and shortened wristband are ideal for warm water use only.
The Best Dry Snorkels
Cressi Supernova
Specs
- Best Use: SCUBA Diving, Snorkeling, Spearfishing
- Mask Attachment: Single Position Quick Release
- Dry Mechanism: Water Activated Floating Valve
- Purge Valve: Yes
- Detachable Mouthpiece: Yes
Features
- Excellent Price
- Effective Sealing Mechanism Prevents Water Entry Into Snorkel
- Replaceable Mouthpiece
BEST FOR: ENTRY LEVEL DIVERS
The Cressi Supernova has a reputation as one of the most popular dry snorkels on the market, and it’s easy to see why. The float mechanism quickly and effectively seals the snorkel tube from water the instant you dive underwater. On the surface, the splash guard also keeps waves at bay, making for a very effective snorkel.
If water does happen to find its way into the tube, it will be immediately funneled to the lower reservoir directly in front of a one-way purge valve. One puff from you, and any accumulated water will be expelled.
Keep in mind that a select few users report that the sealing mechanism is susceptible to sand, and may get gummed up if exposed to too much debris. So, treat it well, and you’ll have the best dry snorkel for new divers and snorkelers.
Tusa Hyperdry Elite II
Specs
- Best Use: SCUBA Diving, Snorkeling
- Mask Attachment: Swivel Clip
- Dry Mechanism: Water Activated Gasket
- Purge Valve: Yes
- Detachable Mouthpiece: Yes
Features
- Swivel Attachment Allows For Greater Mounting Versatility
- Comfortable Mouthpiece Reduces Jaw Fatigue
- Durable Design Will Hold Up To Continuous Use
BEST FOR: OVERALL DRY SNORKEL QUALITY
The Hyperdry Elite II from Tusa has quickly won over many snorkelers and freedivers out there. We have a very effective sealing mechanism that stays dry when you’re both submerged or getting doused by waves along with a very innovative swiveling attachment for improved versatility.
This swiveling attachment allows you to rotate the snorkel to a horizontal position as you switch to a SCUBA regulator or reduce your drag as you plunge under the waves. The corrugated flex tube and specially designed mouthpiece both work together to reduce jaw fatigue, making this Elite II a very comfortable option for long days in the water.
The Elite II has excellent reviews across the board and a proven track record of reliability and comfort. That’s exactly why we consider this product to be the best dry snorkel for overall quality.
Phantom Aquatics Dry
Specs
- Best Use: SCUBA Diving, Snorkeling, Spearfishing
- Mask Attachment: Quick Release Buckle
- Dry Mechanism: Proprietary Valve Design
- Purge Valve: Yes
- Detachable Mouthpiece: Yes
Features
- Comfortable Mouthpiece
- Very Reasonable Price
- Effective Barrier Against Unwanted Water Entry Into The Snorkel
BEST FOR: LOW BUDGET SNORKELING
Effective dry snorkels don’t have to be significantly more expensive than standard snorkels, as Phantom Aquatics has proven with this product. The dry snorkel does an excellent job of preventing any water intrusion and includes a self-draining water reservoir to collect any incidental water buildup.
The quick-release buckle on the side of the snorkel lives up to its name and is very easy to detach with one hand whenever necessary. Take note, however, this buckle is almost too easy to release and several users report their snorkel detaching mid-dive.
But for such an accessible price, we get what we pay for. In this case, a solid snorkel that accomplishes its goal of keeping water out for a very small initial investment. It’s for that reason that we recommend this Phantom Aquatics snorkel as the best dry snorkel for divers on a tight budget.