With so many Shearwater dive computer models on the market, it can be tough to determine which one is the best choice for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the key features and differences between Shearwater’s most popular dive computer models to help you select the right dive computer for you.
Shearwater Perdix AI
The Shearwater Perdix AI is one of Shearwater’s newest and most advanced dive computers. Released in 2020, the Perdix AI builds upon the successful Perdix and Perdix 2 models with added air integration capabilities and enhanced artificial intelligence features.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Shearwater Perdix AI:
- Full air integration – wireless connectivity with up to 4 transmitters to monitor tank pressure
- AI tissue loading model – continually monitors your dive profile and makes adjustments to reduce conservatism
- Vibrant full color 2.2″ display
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- 4 operating modes – Air, Nitrox, 3 GasNx, and OC Tec
- CCR (closed circuit rebreather) mode available
- Wireless charging dock included
- Depth rated to 150 meters
- MSRP: $999
With air integration, adaptive tissue loading, and a full color touchscreen, the Perdix AI is packed with premium features. It’s an excellent choice for tech divers or those who simply want access to Shearwater’s latest cutting edge dive computer technology.
Shearwater Teric
The Shearwater Teric was released in 2019 as Shearwater’s premium wristwatch style dive computer. It’s designed to deliver high-end functionality in a compact and sleek package.
Here are the key features and specifications of the Shearwater Teric:
- Full color 1.39” OLED display
- 5 operating modes – Air, Nitrox, 3 GasNx, OC Tec, and Gauge modes
- Optional air integration – up to 3 transmitters
- Vibrate alerts and auditory alarms
- Depth rated to 150 meters
- 44 hour dive log memory
- MSRP: $849
With a lightweight and low profile design, the Teric offers the functionality of Shearwater’s larger dive computers in a compact package. The vibrant OLED display provides excellent visibility even in low light. The Teric is a great choice if you want a advanced wristwatch style dive computer.
Shearwater Petrel 3
The Shearwater Petrel 3 is one of Shearwater’s most popular models, combining powerful tech capabilities with ease of use. It replaced the Petrel 2 in 2021 with several upgrades.
Here are some key specs and features of the Shearwater Petrel 3:
- 2.2” full color display
- 4 operating modes – Air, Nitrox, 3 GasNx, and OC Tec
- Optional wireless air integration
- Vibrate alerts
- Intuitive menu system
- 3 dive gas mixes (21/00, 50/00, 02/00)
- Depth rated to 150 meters
- MSRP: $749
With its large screen, expandable functionality, and intuitive interface, the Petrel 3 is an excellent choice for recreational divers looking to upgrade to a more advanced dive computer. It’s also a great value when compared to Shearwater’s higher-end models.
Shearwater Perdix
The Shearwater Perdix was released in 2017 as an upgrade over the venerable Shearwater Petrel. It adds a full color display and improved interface while retaining the Petrel’s key capabilities.
Here are some key specs for the Shearwater Perdix:
- 2.2” full color display
- 4 operating modes – Air, Nitrox, 3 GasNx, OC Tec
- Optional air integration
- User upgradable via firmware updates
- Intuitive menu system
- Depth rated to 150 meters
- MSRP: $850
With its vibrant full color screen and intuitive menu system, the Perdix offers improved usability and aesthetics over the Petrel. It’s a great option for intermediate and advanced divers looking for a feature-rich dive computer.
Shearwater Predator
The Shearwater Predator is a unique model that’s designed specifically for advanced technical divers. Released in 2021, it includes specialized features tailored towards tech divers.
Here are some key specs and capabilities of the Predator:
- Full color 2.2” display
- 5 operating modes optimized for technical diving
- Massive gas storage – stores up to 16 mixes with up to 21% O2
- Adjustable gradient factors
- CCR mode and BO Gases for bailout
- Deep stop and safety stop tracking
- MSRP: $1599
With its unparalleled gas storage capacity, customizable conservatism, and dedicated tech modes, the Predator stands in a class of its own. It’s purpose-built for technical divers doing advanced mixed gas diving.
Shearwater Swift
The Shearwater Swift is Shearwater’s most compact and streamlined dive computer. Launched in 2021, it’s designed as an affordable and user-friendly option.
Here are the key details on the Swift:
- Single button control
- Monochrome display
- Air and Nitrox modes
- No decompression limits (NDL) tracking
- Depth rated to 100 meters
- MSRP: $299
With its simplified design and operation, the Swift is best suited for recreational divers who want a high quality dive computer without advanced functionality. It’s Shearwater’s most affordable model.
Comparison of Key Features
To summarize the differences between the models, here is a comparison table showing the key features and capabilities of each Shearwater computer:
| Model | Display | Air Integration | Operating Modes | Conservatism | Depth Rating | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perdix AI | Full color touchscreen | Up to 4 transmitters | 4 modes + Gauge & CCR | AI adjustable | 150m | $999 |
| Teric | Full color OLED | Up to 3 transmitters (optional) | 5 modes | Fixed | 150m | $849 |
| Petrel 3 | Full color LCD | Optional add-on | 4 modes | Fixed | 150m | $749 |
| Perdix | Full color LCD | Optional add-on | 4 modes | Fixed | 150m | $850 |
| Predator | Full color LCD | No | 5 technical modes | Adjustable GF | 100m | $1599 |
| Swift | Monochrome | No | Air & Nitrox | Fixed | 100m | $299 |
Conclusion
Shearwater makes an extensive lineup of excellent dive computers, but choosing the right model depends on your needs. Here are some quick recommendations based on diver profiles:
Recreational divers
The Shearwater Swift or Petrel 3 provide a great feature set for recreational diving.
Intermediate divers
The Perdix is a strong choice for intermediate nitrox divers who want air integration and a full color display.
Advanced and technical divers
The Perdix AI or Predator include specialized tech features like customizable conservatism and dedicated technical diving modes.
Divers who want a compact wristwatch computer
The svelte Shearwater Teric packs advanced functionality into a lightweight wristwatch design.
No matter what your experience level, there’s a Shearwater dive computer that’s just right for you. Analyze your personal preferences and diving needs, and match them up with the model that best fits.
With Shearwater’s reputation for quality and innovation, you can trust that whichever model you choose will be a reliable diving companion for years to come. Be sure to pair your new Shearwater dive computer with a set of quality regulators, dive accessories, and well-fitted scuba gear for an amazing underwater experience.
