For divers who demand reliability and advanced features in their dive gear, the Shearwater Perdix 2 dive computer with air integration is an absolute powerhouse. Whether you’re diving recreationally or pursuing technical dives, the Perdix 2 provides everything you need to enhance your underwater experience. Known for its durability, user-friendly interface, and excellent performance, it’s no wonder that the Perdix 2 stands out as one of the best dive computers in 2024. Let’s dive into the key features that make this computer so remarkable, and explore why Shearwater’s customer service sets them apart from the competition.
Key Features of the Shearwater Perdix 2
Air Integration for Seamless Tank Management
A defining feature of the Shearwater Perdix 2 is its air integration, which allows divers to monitor their tank pressure in real-time using the Shearwater Swift transmitter. This feature is invaluable for managing gas consumption, providing a safer and more efficient dive. As someone who uses multiple tanks and transmitters, I can attest to how effortlessly the Perdix 2 switches between them. The air integration streamlines your dive by eliminating the need to check traditional gauges, allowing you to focus on the underwater environment.
Crystal Clear Display
The Perdix 2 boasts a large 2.2-inch color LCD screen, which is one of the most readable displays available on any dive computer. Whether you’re diving in clear tropical waters or in murky, low-visibility conditions, the screen ensures all critical information is visible at a glance. I especially love how customizable the display is—you can adjust the layout to fit your diving style and preferences. And, for that extra personal touch, Shearwater lets you upload your own start-up screen, which adds a unique flair to your dive computer.
Durability You Can Rely On
Built with a titanium bezel and a strengthened aluminosilicate glass screen, the Perdix 2 is designed to endure the toughest underwater environments. Whether you’re navigating a deep wreck or exploring caves, the Perdix 2 is engineered to last. In my experience, it has handled a variety of dive conditions without a hitch, and the screen remains scratch-free even after many dives. For additional protection, Shearwater offers a range of accessories like screen protectors and silicon skins. While these add-ons are a bit pricey, they offer peace of mind for divers looking to prolong their investment.
Easy Battery Replacement
The Perdix 2 uses a single Lithium AA battery, which provides between 40 and 100 hours of diving, depending on your settings. This long battery life is ideal for extended dive trips where charging options may be limited. One of my favorite features is the simplicity of battery replacement—you don’t need specialized equipment or tools, and it only takes a minute to swap out. The fact that Shearwater opted for user-replaceable batteries, rather than proprietary rechargeable ones, speaks to their commitment to making this computer both practical and reliable.
Advanced Technical Capabilities
For tech divers, the Perdix 2 is an exceptional tool. It supports a wide range of dive modes, including Nitrox, Trimix, and CCR, making it versatile for any dive scenario. You can use up to five different gas mixes, and the customizable gradient factors allow you to adjust your decompression models to suit your diving profile. The Perdix 2 uses the highly regarded Bühlmann ZHL16-C with Gradient Factors algorithm, ensuring that you have complete control over your ascent and safety stops.
Vibration Alerts and Custom Conservatism
In addition to visual cues, the Perdix 2 now offers vibration alerts for critical dive warnings, ensuring that you never miss important information underwater. The customizable conservatism settings allow divers to select from preset low, medium, and high levels, or input their own gradient factors for personalized dive profiles.
How the Shearwater Perdix 2 Compares to the Competition
Shearwater Peregrine
For recreational divers, the Shearwater Peregrine is a more budget-friendly option, offering many of the same user-friendly features but without air integration. While the Peregrine’s price point makes it attractive for new divers, the lack of real-time gas monitoring can be a drawback for those diving more advanced profiles. If air integration is crucial to your dive routine, the Perdix 2 is worth the extra investment.
Garmin Descent Mk2i
The Garmin Descent Mk2i is another leading competitor, known for its smartwatch capabilities like GPS and fitness tracking. However, the Garmin’s larger size and heavier profile make it less comfortable as an everyday wear compared to a specialized dive computer like the Perdix 2. While the Garmin offers some smart features, if you’re looking for a device that excels in diving performance and technical capabilities, the Perdix 2 outshines it in underwater practicality.
Apeks DSX
The Apeks DSX, a newer competitor in the tech diving space, features GPS and wireless charging, but it doesn’t match the user-friendly interface and proven reliability of the Shearwater Perdix 2. While the DSX has potential, Shearwater’s long-standing reputation and excellent post-purchase support give the Perdix 2 a clear edge in terms of customer satisfaction and usability.
Shearwater’s Superior Customer Service
One of the key reasons Shearwater stands out in the dive computer market is their outstanding customer service. While I personally haven’t needed to use their support, many of my dive buddies have been over the moon with Shearwater’s responsiveness and commitment to keeping divers in the water. Whether it’s addressing technical issues, replacing faulty parts, or providing updates, Shearwater is renowned for going above and beyond to resolve any problems quickly and efficiently.
In one case, a friend of mine experienced an issue with their Shearwater dive computer just days before a scheduled dive trip. Shearwater’s customer support team immediately sent a replacement, ensuring they didn’t miss a single dive. The company’s commitment to their customers is unparalleled in the diving industry. It’s clear that Shearwater isn’t just about selling dive computers—they’re dedicated to providing divers with the tools and support they need for safe and enjoyable underwater experiences.
Why I Love the Shearwater Perdix 2
The Shearwater Perdix 2 has truly transformed my diving experience. Its air integration system is seamless, and setting up multiple transmitters for different tanks is incredibly simple. The large, customizable display makes it easy to keep track of vital dive data, and the battery life has never let me down, even on long dive trips. I also appreciate the ability to personalize the screen, giving my dive computer a unique touch.
I’ve taken the Perdix 2 on dives in a variety of environments—from warm tropical waters to cold, murky lakes—and it has performed flawlessly every time. Knowing that Shearwater’s stellar customer service is there if I ever need it adds another layer of confidence to using this computer. The fact that so many of my dive buddies have had positive experiences with Shearwater’s support team only reinforces how great the company is at keeping divers happy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highly readable, large customizable display.
- Reliable air integration for real-time gas monitoring.
- Durable construction with titanium bezel and reinforced glass.
- Easy-to-replace AA battery with long life.
- Supports multiple gases, including Trimix and CCR.
- Vibration alerts and customizable conservatism settings.
- Option to upload a personalized start-up screen.
- Superior customer service with fast, reliable support.
Cons
- High price, especially when factoring in accessories.
- Larger size may not be ideal for non-dive use.
- Accessories, like screen protectors, can be expensive.
Conclusion: The Best Dive Computer in 2024
The Shearwater Perdix 2 with air integration is a top-tier dive computer designed for both recreational and technical divers. With its robust feature set, durable design, and Shearwater’s renowned customer service, it’s an investment well worth making. Whether you’re a tech diver or simply want a reliable dive computer that won’t let you down, the Perdix 2 is the clear choice. For those looking to upgrade their dive gear in 2024, there’s no better option than the Shearwater Perdix 2.
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