Best dive computer for older eyes?

[uncfnp]

On a slightly more serious note, any of the LED's will be infinitely better than a backlit screen for low viz and night diving. The Petrel 2 is easily read in daylight as well. Other features that may or may not compare or interest you is that it is Bluetooth so no cables needed but comes with an adaptor if your computer is not Bluetooth capable. The Petrel 2 has a recreational mode and a compass. I found it extremely easy to set up, especially for anyone with any experience with multi gas DC's.

On the down side, it is larger and a bit heavier than your current computer and I at least find the wrist straps secure but a bit difficult to manage. It can be threaded with bungees or even mounted to a slate if you prefer.

I looked at the A300 CS when it was first released and it is a beautiful and sleek DC and as I recall a little less bulky but at that time there just seemed to be a few too many issues with it and there was the planned Aeris/Oceanic merger. But it does offer AI, at an additional cost and its base price is higher than the Petrel 2

 

[triode12]

After a lifetime of eagle vision, I finally succumbed in my early 40's and need reading glasses (and can no longer read my Aeris Manta computer very easily). I've tried various mask solutions, but hated them so I'm now looking for a dive computer with a great, readable screen.

I'll read the reviews but can folks help me out by narrowing down my list of candidates?

Other info:
- recreational diver, but often in low vis and I like night diving, may one day try deep/trimix, but mostly just air and nitrox.
- don't care about air integration
- DO want wrist mount
- want a good wrist mount, easy to strap on and hard to lose
- ease of use is important
- care somewhat about logging and computer integration, but it's not super important. I log my dives on paper
- not quite ready to drop $1,000 on a computer

My default choice is Petrel but I'm open to other suggestions so I can consider some options. Not sure what the diff is between Petrel and Petrel 2, but I assume I should go for latest model. What are the closest substitutes? Are Petrels really indeed good for people who can't read small print gauges?

Thanks.
Steve

The only difference btw the Petrel and Petrel 2 is that the Petrel 2 has a compass. I have the Petrel 2.

Depending on how long your minimum focussing distance is (in my case it is long enough that even I find the Petrel 2 readout is a bit blurry when it sits next to the crook of my arm). The best solution IMO (and probably much cheaper) is still to get some bespoke prescription lenses or gauge readers done up for your mask (you won't have to change your DC and everything will be easier to see underwater). Or get both.

Ozbob Custom Prescription Scuba Masks

 

[buddhasummer]

My eyes too are dying, worryingly fast, colour is def the way to go. I was considering either a Petrel or Lynx. After reading too many reported issues with Liquivision and their apparent hit and miss customer service I went with a Petrel. Absolutely no complaints, easy to read, simple to use, AA batteries, Bluetooth, reliable and awesome customer service across the board. Unreservedly recommended.

---------- Post added May 18th, 2015 at 10:52 PM ----------

I'm a rec diver only FWIW.

 

[TSandM]

I love my Liquivision X1. I know where a lightly used one is for sale for $500 . . .

 

[DiveNav]

I am almost 60 .... I can't see small numbers anymore .... I use my iPad as a dive computer

 

[Tbar]

... I use my iPad as a dive computer

Wrist or console mount?

 

[buddhasummer]

Wrist or console mount?

Console of course, duh...

 

[Oldbear]

+1 for the Petrel

I also love my Atomic Cobalt. Atomic is working on a wrist DC. I have been waiting for it to come out. I have been in contact with Atomic's engineers and they were looking at a large font for tired eyes.

 

[Peter69_56]

Liquivision Xeo/Xen older units have had troubles with the display fading over time (my Xen faded out after two years); also they are more difficult to read at shallow depths than a basic Uwatec LCD Bottom Timer (i.e. 10m to the 6m O2 deco stop), in the high sun glare of the underwater ambient light at tropical latitudes.

I agree, I had a liquavision and I hated it. Sold it off and bought a Petrel and am soooooo happy now

 

[DiveNav]

Wrist or console mount?

Chest mount .... but I am working on a thigh mount accessory:cool2: