Exploring Shearwater Research Diving Computers: A Comprehensive Guide
Shearwater Research is renowned for producing high-quality dive computers that cater to a wide range of divers, from recreational enthusiasts to technical professionals. Their lineup includes models such as the Peregrine, Peregrine TX, Tern, Tern TX, Teric, Perdix 2, and Petrel 3, each offering unique features to suit different diving needs. Shearwater dive computers leverage the proven Buhlmann ZHL-16C algorithm for precise decompression planning, ensuring reliable and accurate calculations during dives. This algorithm, combined with user-configurable gradient factors, allows divers to fine-tune their decompression profiles to suit their specific needs and preferences, making Shearwater computers a trusted choice for safety and adaptability in all diving environments. Let’s dive into the differences between their lineup and find the best one for you.
Editor’s Choice: Perdix 2
The Perdix 2 stands out as a versatile and robust dive computer capable of handling virtually any diving scenario. Its user-replaceable battery, easily changed with the included key, ensures that divers can maintain power without hassle, making it a reliable companion for extended diving adventures. The computer can actually take several different battery types in the AA size. We highly recommend going for the SAFT 14500 as you will get approx 150 hours dive time out of it before needing a change. It has Air Integration functionality when paired with one of the Swift Transmitters and can handle up 4 transmitters at a time. Another one of the features we love is the ability to customise the user interface to display the information you want, even including changing the colour of the text on the screen. The addition of a vibration function from its predecessor, the Perdix AI, is a nice touch and I can confirm it is strong enough to be felt through a Scuba Force Expedition SE drysuit with the Scuba Force X-Pure Undersuit underneath. It’s also fully capable for almost any dive scenario with Air, 3 Gas Nitrox, Trimix (OC Tec Mode) and even including basic Closed Circuit Rebreather (CCR) support through its fixed PPO2, CCR/BO Mode. Its only drawback is that it does come with a substantial price tag, with an RRP of £1059.99 at the time of writing. However, given the level of functionality and quality, I believe it is worth the investment for the serious diver.
Comparing Shearwater Dive Computers
Peregrine
An entry-level dive computer ideal for recreational divers. The Peregrine offers an easy-to-navigate menu system on its bright, full colour display, making it highly intuitive even for new divers. It supports both Air and 3 Gas Nitrox modes (meaning it can be used for more advanced diving) along with simple Gauge mode. It features a simple USB rechargeable battery with a long lifespan, and has a dive planner and logbook. While it does not offer air integration or a digital compass, it remains a reliable and affordable option for those entering the world of diving
Peregrine TX
An enhanced version of the Peregrine, the Peregrine TX includes air integration capability, allowing connection to up to four transmitters for real-time gas monitoring. It also features a tilt-compensated digital compass, providing added convenience and functionality for divers seeking more advanced features.
Tern
The Tern is a compact dive computer designed for divers who prefer a smaller device without compromising on essential features. It boasts a bright, full-colour display and supports multiple dive modes, including Air 3 Gas Nitrox and Gauge Mode. Also of note is the addition of a Freediving Mode in the Tern series of computers. With its lightweight design and intuitive user interface, it’s perfect for recreational divers seeking simplicity and reliability. However, it does not include air integration or a digital compass, keeping its focus on delivering core functionalities at an accessible price point.
Tern TX
Building upon the Tern, the Tern TX adds air integration capability and a tilt-compensated digital compass. Its ultra-compact design, combined with advanced features, makes it suitable for divers seeking a high-performance, space-saving dive computer. Plus it comes in a sleek all black design.
Teric
A wristwatch-sized dive computer that combines style with advanced functionality. The Teric features an AMOLED display, full air integration, multiple dive modes, and a tilt-compensated digital compass. In addition to its sleek design, it supports advanced features like Multi-gas, trimix decompression support and even closed-circuit fixed PPO2 and bailout modes for rebreather divers. All these features make it a great choice for technical divers. it also has a Freediving mode with customisable sampling rates rounding out the full suite of modes. Its versatile range of diving capabilities ensures it meets the needs of both recreational, professional and technical divers, while its compact size makes it ideal for everyday wear and demanding underwater adventures.
Petrel 3
The Petrel 3 from Shearwater is their most connected and immersive dive computer yet, featuring a 2.6” AMOLED display that delivers stunning visibility while offering rugged durability with a toughened glass lens, titanium bezel, and responsive piezo touch buttons for optimal usability in any diving conditions. This versatile device supports full air integration with up to four Shearwater transmitters, making it suitable for open circuit, rebreather, and bailout gas pressure monitoring. Equipped with a strong vibration alert system (you can actually feel it through a drysuit) and powered by a user-replaceable AA battery (will also accept a SAFT 14500), the PETREL 3 ensures extended dive times and easy maintenance for divers in demanding environments. This particular computer also comes with hard wired connection options for various rebreathers for real time PPO2 display and decompression calculation integration.
Shearwater Swift Transmitter
The Swift is an advanced air integration accessory designed to provide divers with real-time tank pressure data. Its smart AI technology includes an advanced collision avoidance system, ensuring reliable communication when multiple transmitters are in use. The Swift is compatible with all air-integrated Shearwater dive computers, including the Teric, Perdix 2, Perdix AI, Petrel 3, and NERD 2. It features a user-replaceable CR2 3V lithium battery, offering up to 300 dive hours of operation. The Swift’s compact design and easy installation make it a valuable addition to any diver's gear.
Conclusion
Shearwater Research offers an exceptional range of dive computers, meticulously designed to meet the diverse needs of divers at all levels. Among them, the Perdix 2 stands out as the Editor’s Choice, renowned for its rugged construction, advanced functionality, and convenient user-replaceable battery, making it a reliable choice for virtually any diving scenario. When selecting a dive computer, it’s crucial to evaluate your specific diving objectives and preferences to ensure you choose the model that will best meet your underwater adventure needs.
For detailed specifications or to purchase one of these outstanding dive computers, visit oceanautsdiving.com.
Explore the Underwater World
Dain McParland
Director & Diving Instructor, Oceanauts Diving