Xen or Petrel?

[rongoodman]

It's an odd comparison--bottom timer vs. deco computer. Xeo vs Petrel would be a more reasonable contrast, in which case it would partially depend on which algorithm you want to run. The Petrel can run VPM, but the Xeo has full RGBM from a third party. Both come with Buhlmann GF. I like the Petrel interface better, but the Xeo/Xen is more compact.

 

[hongrace]

This is DIR forum. I guess the op is only using the gauge mode of Petrel?

 

[rongoodman]

This is DIR forum. I guess the op is only using the gauge mode of Petrel?

Good point--I didn't even notice.

 

[WhiteSands]

Does the Petrel log your dives when it's set in Gauge mode?

 

[Vegan Shark]

I like the bright screen and look of the Petrel, but don't get what justifies its high price tag. Especially if you're only using it as a bottom timer; at that point it's more Rolex-style bling bling.

 

[victorzamora]

Certainly an expensive gauge/BT.....but the Petrel's practicality is far beyond the screen and the look. The reliability, support, easy-to-source batteries, dive log capability, wealth of information, etc are all great reasons to get a Petrel over a Uwatec or Xen. Is it "worth" the money? It wouldn't be to me, but then again I don't dive BT/tables....so I wouldn't know. If it is to someone else, their money is buying a lot more than a good screen and rugged good looks.

 

[Taliena]

I own a Petrel, nice computer, I took it up to 130m. I have an ostc too, but that cannot be used deeper than 120m, so that was a risk when doing deeper dives. And if you want more than just a bt, you already have. I have dived with bt and pragmatised plans up to 112m (I had no computer then), but now I will always use my computer as backup. If you follow the plan, your computer will never give a problem.
I know more divers that use the Petrel as bt in a DIR-course, and use it as computer after it.

 

[Peter69_56]

Petrel, used both and find the Petrel much better for viewing in bright sunlight. Also bright enough to allow your buddy to easily read it from a distance. Can use any type of battery compared to special battery. Have one Petrel and will get another.