Ease of use Atom 2.0 vs 3.0 vs OC1 vs VT4

[Aquanut2]

I have an Atom 2.0 & have used it for about 15 dives and just hate the interface no matter how much I read the manual I just can't get it to do what I want. So I'm looking at a new wireless PDC tried the Atom 3, OC1 and the VT 4.0 in my LDS but really need to spend more time with each to make a better judgement call.
Looking for some guidance.
Not keen on another Atom didn't see much improvement, OC1 has real menus not sure about the VT 4 but like bigger display
Thanks for any advise.
BTW Atom 2 Is my 1st PDC and will be selling it.

 

[USVet96]

Since you sound like you prefer the Oceanic lineup I would say to check out the VT3 as well.

Does not have a compass and is not Dual algorithm like the VT4 but from what I have read and heard it is a pretty good computer.

 

[Shftrdog]

The Atom 3.0 is much easier to use than the 2.0. The OC1 and VT4 are going to be much easier to use than the Atom line due to the dot matrix display. If you have the money I would highly recomend the OC1 it is an amazing computer.

 

[AndyDragon]

I had the VT3, awesome computer, interface was easy once you learned the tricks, but navigation meant a combination of press and press and hold and press and hold two buttons. Plus the non-dot matrix was a bit unclear at times, but awesome workhorse...over 300 dives on mine and never a hiccup.

Today is my bday and I got a shiny new VT 4.0...and I did what any diver does when given a new piece of dive equipment...I got it wet. Had a great dive with both computers wrist to wrist to see how they performed. So far the VT 4.0 looks as rock solid and worked like a charm, love the dot matrix and the new features.

And best of all, the new interface is dead simple. What I thought was good enough on the VT3 now seems archaic. I'm in love with my new VT 4.0, the setup is much easier and quicker to move around and get things done.

One thing I can suggest no matter which computer you end up with, check divecomputertraining.com to see if they have a class for your computer. I hate manuals - hey, i'm a guy! I took the class for my VT3 (and am now a PADI Oceanic VT3 (and VEO 3.0) Dive Computer Specialist Instructor). Several times I was watching and went 'holy cow, that makes sense, I was wondering about that'. Alberto's video make empowering yourself to use your computer fun and easy...let's see, I love reading...5-12 novels a month, but do I want to read a manual or watch a video and see the buttons and screens in action? Duh...no brainer there.

 

[UncleJoes]

I picked up the VT4 back in June when they first came out and have logged about 40 dives or so on it. Absolutely love it! Very easy to read and understand and best of all the compass actually works almost like an analog (in some ways better). The VT4 compass is built on a 3-axis system as opposed to most digital compasses inc the OC1 which only use 2-axis. This means that you can hold the compass nearly 90deg off level and still get an acurate reading! Another great feature is that the compass stays on screen for a full 2 minutes and even gives you a warning countdown to let you know it's going back to the default screen. Very user friendly thanks to the 3 button interface and dot-matrix display. Another cool feature is the in-line menu options. This lets you change the personal settings without having to move to a different screen. Saves a lot of time esp with nitrox settings!

Overall, I can't reccomend this PDC highly enough. Definitely second the DiveComputerTraining.com reccomendation. Makes learning the ins and outs so much easier. Plus I think Oceanic includes a promo code in the box, so it's free.

-Jeff

 

[HIGHwing]

Own a VT3, Atom 2.0, Atom 3.0, and VT4 and there is no doubt the VT4 is the superior computer - for the reasons listed above.

 

[Aquanut2]

Thanks everyone you have help immensely! Reason to stay with Oceanic is I have a buddy transmitter for my son. I purchased the Atom 3.0 from my LDS to replace the atom 2.0 (for a NJ wreck trip I am on now) but will not get it wet use the 2.0 and return for the VT4 when I'm home.

 

[USVet96]

I know the VT4 has MORE features - Dual Algorithm, Compass, Screen Res, and Interface - but are those worth the difference in price to the users that have them?

I'm speaking from what I have read and heard when I say "I know"

VT3 (with transmitter and cable) NEW - $550 (total cost to me)

VT4 (with transmitter) NEW - $850 plus TAX

Which is the better way to go now?

Thanks

 

[Scott L]

I have been considering the new Geo model. Any feedback? Thanks!

 

[DiveNav]

...... I took the class for my VT3 (and am now a PADI Oceanic VT3 (and VEO 3.0) Dive Computer Specialist Instructor). ....

The PADI Distinctive Specialty Outline for the VT 4.0 is now available on PADI Pro site (My PADI Pros)

Alberto (aka eDiver)