Wondering which watch/dive computer is right for you? Here is an overview that may indicate the right model for your use.
NB: Our range can vary and you can also find watches/dive computers in our range that are not mentioned in this article.
BEGINNER
The two most important functions of a freediving computer are surface time and dive time, and you must be able to see this on the screen when you are lying on the surface. Double time in the surface vs. time under water is one of the most important safety rules for freediving and apnea.
When this is in place, functionality such as depth , clock , temperature and log enter the picture. All this functionality is included in the dive computers we are considering in this article.
ENTRY MODELS
The budget models have the basic functionality mentioned above. Log is stored on the dive computer (not app or bluetooth) and they have normal replaceable batteries. If you have a tight budget, you will get a long way with the Salvimar models, if you choose the Omer Mistral, you will get a more solid dive computer with similar functionality to the first-mentioned models.
FOR THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN FREEDIVING FOR A WHILE
When you have been freediving for a while, the time in the sea will be longer and the desire for more functionality will show itself. More expensive dive computers often have better screens (resolution/brightness) and the option to set several types of alarms and warnings. The log of these dive computers is stored on the device and can be transferred to mac/pc via cable, additional accessories or app.
Cressi Nepto is particularly suitable for apnea practitioners as you can choose between settings for fresh water and salt water, and it has an indication for maximum speed when diving and ascent. The dive computer has an algorithm developed by Cressi which, among other things, has been developed to protect the freediver against the risk of Taravana (diving sickness) and pulmonary oedema. Cressi Nepto requires additional accessories to transfer the log to mac/pc, you can find it here . Nepto can be locked so as not to go into freediver mode if you are going snorkelling or swimming. Read about it here.
The Cressi King is a more or less identical watch to the Cressi Nepto. The difference is that King is even sexier in design, and has an upgraded heavy duty casing. It also has robust mineral glass and stainless steel buttons. Read about it here.
DIVE COMPUTERS FOR FREE DIVING WITH AIR DIVING FUNCTIONALITY
The dive computers in this category have full-fledged free diving functions and several diving functions. They have bluetooth transmission and apps.
Cressi Donatello is a good and affordable dive computer for both freediving and Apnea, and air/nitrox. It can log up to 50 dives per category, and the log can be transferred to the app with additional equipment (not included). The dive computer has a large, clear screen and a number of functions. Read about it here.
Garmin Descent™ G1 comes in 2 editions. A standard and a solar version, with solar panels that extend battery life. Descent™ G1 is the first watch from Garmin that is in a price range where you normally find other dive computers on the market, but here you get, as usual, a full-featured compact watch with lots of functions for use both underwater and on land!
Garmin Descent MK2 series : When a dive computer costs what the Descent MK2 series does, you expect nothing less than the absolute best, which you get. Besides being a good smartwatch with rich functionality, the Descent series gives you everything you need, and it works in a simple and good way. All of the diving modes are in place. As the only player in the market, you get here a freediver's log compiled into a graph/array. This is beautifully presented in the app. Solid, good and reliable!
The Descent dive computer supports diving with one or more gases including nitrox and trimix, and has an option for many safety alarms for freediving/apnea and diving. With the new Garmin T1 wireless transmitter (additional product) you can get the bottle pressure of up to five bottles directly on the dive computer. The Descent series has a wide selection of training modes, so for those of you who have a varied, active lifestyle, these are worth what they cost. We have tested the Descent Mk1 and Mk2 for freediving for a long time, and can strongly recommend them.