Dive Computer

[Squirrel Girl]

I guess the predator is overkill?

Predators are AWESOME.

[ssmdive]

I found a VR3 for 500 bucks and it had everything but color (trimix, CC).

So, I'd look for a used one.

[FW]

If your predictive text replaces PERFECTION with OVERKILL, then yes! The Predator is overkill

If you can afford it, get it.

Cheers,
Jeff

I agree, I love mine. I can read it full tilt on a scooter, without having to move my hand closer, or shine a light on it. I don't dive He much, but I can if I want.

[skip]

predator if you want to spend the money and have a computer for many many years to come (it will grow with you right up to godlike). Nitek Duo or Trio for a nice two-gas (or three-gas) computer to take you through adv.nitrox and deco proc. then use the duo or trio in gauge mode as your bottom timer/depth for helium dives on tables or as backup for a he computer.

skp

[rongoodman]

I wouldn't consider one without an OLED display. It narrows the field, but they're beautiful, especially for older eyes. My X1 is practically a 3rd back-up light, and I like the large underwater font.

[Hammerhead Ferrari]

If you are going to buy a "career usable" computer, the best advise I can give is to do your research, then find a dealer (or friend) who will let you try them before you buy one. It may be a significant investment, so the more info you have, the better the deal is for you!

That said...here is my two cents;

The only thing I like better than my VR3 is my back-up VR3!!!
I have found them to be pretty much bulletproof.
I've had the first one over 5 years and over 200' many times, and just recently bought the second one used for $400. If I had to buy another dive computer it will be another VR3 (familiarity may be the primary reason, but I do like them).

My dive buddy uses a Predator and he likes it very much. He is a former VR3 user, & dealer of both, so he has tried to convince me to switch. I can tell you that the readability of his Predator is very good...I can read his while diving with him!

I was unaware of the Predator (may not have even been out yet) when I bought my first VR3.
Dive safe and enjoy it whatever decision you make...

[Superlyte27]

I tried them all before I decided which product line to sell for our technical lineup. It wasn't even close, the Predator was in my opinion the best of everything. It's a computer that will work perfectly at the recreational level and take you all the way to CCR. The battery lasts roughly 80 dives, is user replaceable and can be picked up at Radio Shack, or cheaper online. The OLED display can be seen from 10 yards away. It has blue tooth connectivity to your laptop and here's the real kicker. IT IS THE SIMPLEST COMPUTER I'VE EVER USED.

One button cycles through the menu, the second button selects. Menus are clearly laid out and simple to navigate.

I love it. I made the right decision.

[Holemaster]

Shearwater no doubt. Love my Predator.

[RETIRED 11]

And the final tally says (Drum roll)................ the predator is kinda ok? and might be capable of handling my complex intro dives???
Thanks for all the input

[mdax]

Really like our X1's. Really glad we never replace batteries, oled is really bright, simple to use and they're the right size!