Good starter computer

[DevilDogMech]

I'm looking for a good starter computer. I dont have one, and have to rely on my buddys for ascent rate, and the like.

Only realy looking for ease and simplicity of use, price, and lastly the number of functions/gadgets.

I would prefer to pay about $200.00

TIA

Bill

 

[nyresq]

do you want a dive computer that just records depth, temp, time and ascent rates?
or do you want a full deco capable computer?
are you going to dive air or nitrox?

if your looking for just a basic bottom timer without no deco- deco times, there are a bunch made by almost every scuba manufacturer that are all pretty much the same and can be had for about $80-$130.

if your looking for a full deco computer then $200 is a pretty small budget.

 

[Stingray81888]

My dad uses a Sherwood Profile with an SPG and compass. It's very simple and for a pretty good price. Can't remember but its easy too use, but kinda bulky.

 

[Lemonade]

get a Nitrox-capable one.

They start around $250 @ LeisurePro.

You'll be diving Nitrox sooner than you expect.

 

[TJisthe1]

I would up my budget a little and look into the Suunto Musquito, that is what I use, and I like it alot. Suunto also makes a cheaper one for about the price you are looking to spend, I believe it is called the Favor??? It does not have the backlit display and is not nitrox capable but it has almost everything else you would want in a computer IMHO.

 

[SeaFlea]

I've been very pleased with my Oceanic Prodigy for the last 6 yrs. No problems. Planning to upgrade to their Versa Pro. Uncomplicated and easy to read. Look at their new VEO line.

 

[HKRacing]

How about the Suunto Vyper? It's going for about 300 at LeisurePro. It is about the same as the Cobra but doesn't have the air integration. I'm using the Cobra and have been extremely satisfied with it since day one. I would love to have a Vyper as a backup computer but that will be awhile. If you can afford to take the plunge, its better than taking a step backward.

 

[dleiss]

I bought the Suunto Musquito about a year ago from Leasue Pro and like it very much. But if I did it again I would get the Vyper because the display is a bit larger. Both computers are about the same price.

I will eventually get a hoseless and use the Musquito as a backup.

 

[mleong]

How about Mares M1 or the Dacor Darwin for 225.00 to 250.00 at Leisure PRo

 

[ewillems]

Heard pretty negative comments about the M1. Don't buy (they all seem to come back in the shop with technical problems...)

edwin